What do you do when the recruiter calls and you're happy with your current job?

The phone rings, you pick it up, and the individual introduces himself as a recruiter. He then outlines a career opportunity, but can't name the company. He wants to know if you've any interest or can you advocate anyone for the position. What do you do?

If you are unhappy in your current position and the prospective job sounds attractive, you're going to give a positive answer. What do you say if you're happy where you're?

There's a right way and a wrong way to respond. Either choice will have a definite impact on your career. If you cut him off and indicate you're happy with your present position this is the wrong way to respond. Think long term. Now let's look at the situation.

In any career it's important to know what's happening in your industry, who is hiring, who is expanding, and who is leaving. Job opportunities in the hidden job market could potentially leverage your career. So your first choice is not to limit your options.

If your decision to say “no thanks” to the recruiter you just limited your options. And in taking this action you denied yourself access to potentially important career information.

Give the recruiter your home phone and make an appointment for him to call you when you've more time to speak. Listen to what he has to say. Ask questions. It's difficult for the recruiter not to give you information that you can make an informed guess on the employer.

If you're still not interested, perhaps you can advocate someone who might fit the position. If the recruiter lives in your area, take him to lunch. Or call him periodically to discuss events occurring in your industry. Develop an ongoing relationship with the recruiter to keep yourself informed and in control when and if you do need his services. And if not there will be occasions you can recommend friends.

This will just be another facet of your career where you’ll be in control rather than the company. Corporate buyouts and restructuring, layoffs and downsizing are taking place every day.

Recently the whole division staff of a huge company was let go although they were the most profitable division in the company. Two months ago the company founder died suddenly, there was an immediate lack of leadership and to keep the corporation afloat the profitable division was sold. No one saw it coming, and as recently as two months ago, everyone on the division staff thought they'd a bright career with the company.

So if it can happen this swiftly, don't you think it could happen to you. Having a support network to fall back on could pay off down the road. The relationships developed with recruiters and others mean you are in command of your career at exactly the times it isn't completely necessary. And isn't this the proper definition of managing your career?

John Groth is a career coach. Find valuable Career Development Ideas, in-depth articles and a free seven day career planning guide at his web site. Discover up to date recruitment and Job Hunting strategies; all to assist you in developing and advancing your career.

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