... It is true that they may find you the job of your life. However it is also true that, without you, their hands and feet are bound. For this reason, they are expected to have a correct attitude. Even if only not to let their prize escape ... The Ideal is for there to be “a mature relationship on both sides. The candidate should demand to be well treated and accompanied throughout the process”, defends José Caetano da Silva, Managing Partner at Talent Search, one of the headhunting companies operating in Portugal. 

WHEN THE PHONE RINGS ... and on the other end of the line is an executive search consultant, to ignore the phone call would be really stupid. “It is basic intelligence to listen to any opportunity. Even when not interested, professionals can become known, which is also important”, observes José Caetano da Silva.

... Before advancing, do your homework. “Ask for references about the company and the people representing it. Use your network of contacts”, advises José Caetano da Silva. When arranging a meeting, suggest a time and day that is best for you. “A good executive search company should respect the schedules of candidates who are generally busy professionals”, says the Managing Partner at Talent Search.

FACE TO FACE

Imagine that, by coincidence, you meet a friend of your boss's in the waiting-room of the executive search company! A situation that is both embarrassing and serious. “A candidate should have the guarantee that he or she is not compromising anything, at any stage of the process”, says José Caetano da Silva. In this case, the best thing to do it to leave and hope that the next company behaves more correctly. At Talent Search, for example, there are two different rooms and two exits to avoid possible close encounters.

From you, the consultant expects a “clean and polite” attitude, an up-to-date and accurate curriculum vitae and a professional and uninhibited attitude. During the interview the headhunter will try to obtain as much information as possible about your personality, behaviour and character. Show him the best in yourself. But ask which company is interested and what position is open. You must also find out whether you are interested.

The process continues and they want to present you to the mysterious client. Only go ahead if you are sure that you are interested in the proposal. Otherwise, you run the risk of ending up on the recruiter's black list. “If you don't want to go to the interview, say so clearly and explain your reasons. The whys are important in a mature relationship”, explains José Caetano da Silva.