How to React When a Recruiter Sends You a Message on LinkedIn?

 

Responding to a recruiter on LinkedIn: our practical guide

You weren't even actively looking for a job (and you're quite satisfied with your current position), but unexpectedly, a recruiter has sent you a message on LinkedIn to discuss a job opportunity with you.

A profile that attracts recruiters' attention can be explained by three main reasons. First, you may have indicated on your profile that you are open to new opportunities with the #OpenToWork badge. Second, the skills and experiences on your profile rank you among the suitable candidates for the vacant position.

Third, you have been active on the social network by sharing content and interacting with other LinkedIn members. Active LinkedIn community members who share relevant news and information are more likely to be noticed by recruiters and other professionals looking to expand their network.

In the message you received, the recruiter has likely asked if you would like to discuss this job offer in more detail, whether by phone or in person. They would like to provide you with additional information about this opportunity and also to get to know you better, where you are in your career, how open you are to professional opportunities currently, and if you would be a good candidate for the available position. The question is: what should you do when a recruiter contacts you?

Step 1: Respond to the recruiter

The first thing to do is to respond to the recruiter. How you respond will depend on your current situation. If you want to learn more (and there's nothing wrong with wanting to learn more about a professional opportunity), you can confidentially engage with the recruiter. Remember that you are under no obligation to share anything with the recruiter until you are ready. On the other hand, you may feel fulfilled in your current position and therefore, you may not be interested in discussing new opportunities. Whatever the scenario, here's how to respond:

How to respond if you are not interested in this opportunity

Thank the recruiter for contacting you and suggest a date for them to reach out again in case your situation changes. If you are open to new opportunities but this position does not suit you, explain to the recruiter what you are looking for so they can contact you only for jobs that match your criteria. You may also want to send the recruiter your updated CV. Even if you are not currently looking for professional opportunities, you may need their help later, so it's best to avoid breaking all contact.

If the recruiter has sent you an InMail, take the time to write a tailored response and thus create a better relationship with the recruiter: think about your long-term career.

How to respond if you are interested in this opportunity

If you are interested in this job offer, respond to the recruiter's message as soon as possible. You can either ask them to send you more information about the position via email or propose a first phone call to discuss the job. Remember that this conversation is simply to learn more about the position. This discussion does not commit you to apply or move to the next step. If you opt for a phone interview, then before your call:

• Research the consultant and the sectors they recruit for by looking at their LinkedIn profile and recommendations. You will get a better insight into their area of expertise and other positions they might offer you.
• Choose a place where you can discuss confidentially and take notes on this offer.
• Keep a copy of your CV handy and be ready to present your background, highlighting your key skills and experiences.
• Prepare some questions about the position and the company, focusing on your career priorities. For example: Does the company offer training and development opportunities? How would the company describe its corporate culture?

Step 2: Do you want to move to the next step?

At the end of the conversation, the recruiter will ask if you are still interested in the position.

If you need more information or time to think

If you need time to think about this proposal, say so. If you haven't received the job description yet, ask the recruiter to send it to you by email. Then make a list of the pros and cons, considering what this position could bring you while comparing it with your current job. Also see how this position could match your professional ambitions. You could also take this time to research the company by browsing its website and employee reviews.

If you are interested in the position

If the offer is interesting to you, let the recruiter know. If they haven't already, they will send you the details of the position. You will also need to send them your CV. Read the job description carefully, identify key words and phrases, and adapt your CV accordingly, so that your recruiter can forward it to their client for a job interview. The recruiter will also propose a meeting to get to know you better and learn more about your professional goals, as well as to discuss other potential job offers.

If this position does not suit you

If you feel that this job offer does not suit you, tell the recruiter. Thank them for contacting you and explain why this position is not right for you. However, don't stop there. You could add them to your LinkedIn network and send them an updated CV so they think of you if new opportunities that match your search arise. After all, the positions they will be working on when you are ready to explore your options in the job market may interest you. The fact that a recruiter contacts you on LinkedIn is a good sign. It means that your profile is strong and relevant, and that your skills are employable. Whether you are interested in this proposal or not, keeping the dialogue open will help you build your professional network, learn about current opportunities, and mark the beginning of a promising new professional partnership.