Working with Recruiters
Finding Jobs
External recruiters reach out to candidates proactively on LinkedIn, and try to convince them to interview with the company they're recruiting for. They mostly focus on finding senior-level candidates with specialized skill sets, and can help open a lot of doors. That said, you probably won't hear from them much during your first couple years.
Internal recruiters are your first point of contact within most companies, and decide whether your resume is worth sending to the engineering manager. You'll be speaking to them a lot (or very little, if your resume doesn't capture their attention).
These people want to see you succeed. Don't hesitate to ask for feedback on your resume, and tips on how you can crush it during the rest of your interview process.
I don't have enough fingers to count how many times a recruiter scheduled a 30min "prep" call right before my actual interview, where they walked me through each person I was scheduled to talk to, and what makes their personality tick. It never hurts to ask.
Initial Phone Interview
Recruiters are not just assessing your technical qualifications. They're evaluating your overall fit for the company. One of the first things they'll gauge is your enthusiasm and passion for the role and the company. Make sure you come prepared with knowledge about the company’s mission, values, and recent projects or achievements. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but are specifically interested in what they have to offer.
While it's important to be open and honest with recruiters, there are certain topics that are best avoided during your conversations. One such topic is salary expectations during the early stages of the interview process. It can make it seem like you’re more interested in the paycheck than the job itself. Instead, focus on demonstrating your skills while trying to figure out if it's a good fit.
Another sensitive topic is criticizing past employers and colleagues. Even if you left a previous job under less-than-ideal circumstances, speaking negatively about former workplaces will reflect poorly on you. Recruiters might question your professionalism and how you handle workplace conflicts. Instead, frame your past experiences in a positive light, focusing on what you learned and how those experiences have prepared you for new opportunities.
Lastly, don't be surprised if recruiters ask about your career goals and aspirations. They want to ensure that the role aligns with your long-term plans and that you’re likely to stay and grow with the company. Be honest but strategic in your responses. Express your eagerness to learn and develop within the company, and highlight how the position fits into your career trajectory. This will help reassure them that you’re a good investment for the long term.
