When you’re working with a recruiter, especially one at an agency or recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) firm, you gain a valuable partner in your job search. Recruiters often have access to opportunities you won’t find publicly, insights into the employer’s hiring process, and the ability to advocate for you directly with decision-makers.

But to get the most from this partnership, it’s important to understand how to work effectively with your recruiter. Here’s what job seekers should keep in mind when collaborating with a recruiting firm:

• Communicate Promptly and Professionally
  Time is often a critical factor in recruiting. Respond in a timely manner if a recruiter reaches out to you with a role, responds to your application, or requests additional information. Delays can mean missed opportunities, especially if the client is moving fast to fill the role.

Even a quick message like “Thanks for reaching out; I’ll review and respond later today” shows respect and keeps the process moving.

• Be Honest About Your Intentions
  Transparency goes a long way. Let your recruiter know if you’re exploring multiple opportunities, need time to think about a role, or aren’t truly interested in the job.

Recruiters want to help you land a role that’s the right fit, not push you into something that doesn’t align. Honest communication also builds trust and helps the recruiter tailor opportunities to your goals.

• Let the Recruiter Handle the Submission
  Once your recruiter has shared the name of the client company, avoid applying directly on the company’s website or through other channels. Doing so can create confusion and even disqualify you from the process.

Why? Most companies using RPO recruiters have agreements in place to track candidates. If you apply separately, the employer may no longer allow your recruiter to represent you, and that could hurt your chances.

Best practice: Let your recruiter submit your resume and advocate on your behalf.

• Respect the Recruiter’s Relationship with the Client
  RPO recruiters often work closely with the client company and may even serve as an extension of the internal HR team. That means they understand the client’s culture, hiring process, and priorities better than most.

Take advantage of that insight! Ask questions like:

• What should I expect in the interview?
• What’s the team dynamic like?
• Are there specific qualities the client values?

This information can help you better prepare and stand out.

• Keep Your Recruiter Updated
  If your availability changes, you’ve received another offer, or your preferences shift, keep your recruiter in the loop. Recruiters are juggling multiple candidates and roles; knowing where you stand helps them manage the process and maintain a positive relationship with the employer.

Even after a job is filled, staying in touch can lead to future opportunities.

• Understand the Recruiter’s Role
  Recruiters are here to help, but they’re not career counselors, resume writers, or hiring managers. They can give guidance, offer insights, and advocate for you, but ultimately, you own your job search.

Come prepared, ask for feedback, and treat your recruiter like a professional partner.

In Summary
Working with a recruiter through an agency or RPO company is a great opportunity to gain inside access to top employers and streamline your job search. But the key to success is building a strong, respectful relationship grounded in communication and trust.

If you follow these best practices, your recruiter will not only work harder for you now, but likely keep you in mind for future roles as well.