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Here are some questions you can ask recruiters to see if you want to work with them.

How did you find me?

This helps you understand how the recruiter found you. Was it through LinkedIn? Twitter? The company's directory or website? Were your details already in their database? Or did you respond to a job advertisement they posted?

Are you contacting me about a particular job or just general interest?

This question tells us if the recruiter is looking for immediate opportunities or building a network. It sets the goal of your interaction with them. I call these types "proactive" or "reactive" recruiters. If they have a specific job, you might not hear from them again after your talk, especially if you aren't a fit for the role. Your data will be stored, and they might contact you if a new job comes up. But if the recruiter is proactive, they'll spend more time understanding what you want and try to find those jobs for you. It's better to have a recruiter who thinks ahead and wants to build a relationship, rather than just filling a current job opening.

What industries do you currently recruit for? What would you say your niche is?

This determines if they are knowledgeable in their field. If they recruit for many industries, they might not fully grasp the specific details and challenges of your particular industry.

What and when were your last 3 successful searches?

It's important to know that the recruiter can do a good job. You want to be sure they can find a position for you.

When/How often should I expect to hear updates from you?

After sending your resume, you might wait for weeks. Recruiters are known for not always following up. Set rules for cooperation! Ensure they get back to you as promised.

Are you working directly with the client, or is someone at your firm the client's contact?

It's best to work with a recruiter who has a direct relationship with the client. They often have the most knowledge about the client and can answer your questions in detail. Working otherwise can cause delays and chances for misunderstandings.

How long have you worked with this particular client?

Connected to the previous topic, you need to ensure the recruiter knows the client, their goals, and their characteristics. This knowledge helps you make smart choices.

I require approval of any resume revisions before you submit it anywhere. Is that ok?

Recruiters sometimes revise resumes, but it's important to ensure you grant approval before they do. Misrepresentations on your resume could backfire, so it's necessary to discuss any changes beforehand.

I usually wait to provide references until a client requests them, typically closer to the offer stage. Is that something you're comfortable with?

Recruiters, particularly in large agencies, often request references at the beginning of the job search. They may agree to contact the references later in the search, but sometimes they call these references as leads. This could be for job/client leads or candidate leads. Recruiters are trained to call the references with the aim of acquiring them as clients. Especially if the candidate is likely to accept a new job, this provides a potential opportunity for the recruiter. They know there will be an opening soon, and attempt to establish a relationship. Alternatively, they might directly try to recruit the reference.

Do you agree to obtain my consent before submitting my resume to a company?

If they say no, move on. Simple as that.

If you submit my resume to a firm without my knowledge, do you agree to relinquish the rights to my resume if I (or another recruiter) submits a resume to the same company?

If they say no, simply move on. If they obtain your consent but then send your resume without your permission, ensure they do not represent you. This is important as they could claim a fee, potentially hindering your candidacy with the company.

Not sure which recruiter to use? Use a checklist and consider their responses. If you're uncomfortable with any of their answers, move on. You don't have to settle or agree to their terms. After all, it's your career.

About the Author

I’m James, Cofounder of Final Draft Resumes. I’ve been in the career consulting space for 13 years, and before that, I was a recruiter for AECOM.

I’ve helped thousands of job seekers, from industries like software engineering, IT, sales, marketing, manufacturing, and more generate job opportunities through well-written resumes that translate unique backgrounds into coherent narratives.

If you’re struggling with your resume for whatever reason, reach out - I just might be able to help!

If you’re more of a DIY person, then check out Resumatic, my free-to-try resume builder.