I have been seeing some posts about good and bad Recruiters lately.  It reminded me of a story that happened to me. 

 A few years ago I was asked to participate in a panel discussion on job searching.  It was myself and 2 other Recruiters, and 3 active job seekers.  Some of my coworkers and TA leadership were in the audience.  We go down the panel introducing ourselves, I was second to last in the line.  The person next to me introduces himself, then says, “I also know Sheridan, he rejected me for a job a couple of months ago.” 

Caught me off guard.  On the one hand, I try really hard to provide a good candidate experience, and when I have to reject someone, I treat them with respect and dignity.  On the other hand, I am not perfect…did I treat this person that way? 

I turned to him, smiled and said hello, and shook his hand.  At this point, I was ready for whatever feedback he had.  He went on to say that he had a good experience with me and the company,  but was still bummed he didn’t get the job. 

When I hear stories about bad Recruiters I cringe.  I think, “hasn’t that recruiter been a candidate before?  Don’t they know how to treat someone?”  As a candidate, I have had some crazy experiences and bad Recruiters (other posts).  It still surprises me. 

To my fellow Recruiters:  Do good.  Do better.  Candidates deserve your best.