Job market: What to do when a recruiter ‘submarines’ you

When navigating the job market, dealing with recruiters is often a necessary step. However, not all recruiter interactions are smooth sailing. One frustrating experience job seekers may encounter is being "submarined" by a recruiter. This term refers to a situation where a recruiter suddenly disappears after initially showing interest, leaving the candidate in limbo. Here’s how to handle it effectively.

Being submarined by a recruiter can be disheartening. It often happens when a recruiter reaches out, expresses interest, and then goes silent without explanation. Caroline Ceniza-Levine, a career expert, explains, “It’s frustrating when you’ve invested time and effort into the process, only to be left hanging”. This lack of communication can leave candidates feeling confused and undervalued.

Stay Professional and Patient

The first step in dealing with a submarining recruiter is to remain professional. It’s easy to feel slighted, but maintaining a calm and composed demeanor is crucial. Remember, the job market is unpredictable, and recruiters juggle multiple candidates and clients. Give them the benefit of the doubt initially.

Follow Up Strategically

If a recruiter has submarined you, it’s essential to follow up strategically. Send a polite email or message to check in. For instance, you could say, “Hi, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on our previous conversation regarding the [Position] role. Looking forward to hearing from you”. This shows persistence without coming across as desperate.

Utilize Multiple Channels

Don’t rely solely on one form of communication. If you’ve been emailing, try calling or sending a LinkedIn message. Sometimes, recruiters may miss emails or get overwhelmed with their inbox. Diversifying your communication channels can increase your chances of getting a response.

Set Clear Expectations

At the beginning of your interaction with a recruiter, set clear expectations. Ask about their typical response times and the process they follow. This can help manage your expectations and reduce frustration if they go silent. “Setting the rules straight from the start can prevent misunderstandings,” advises a career expert.

Network with Other Recruiters

If you’re repeatedly submarined by the same recruiter, it might be time to expand your network. Engage with multiple recruiters to increase your chances of landing a job. Building relationships with several recruiters can provide a safety net if one goes silent.

Document Your Interactions

Keep a record of all your interactions with recruiters. This documentation can be useful if you need to escalate the issue or if you decide to file a complaint. It also helps you track your job search progress and follow up appropriately.

Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms like LinkedIn can be powerful tools in your job search. Engage with recruiters by commenting on their posts, sharing industry news, and staying active. This keeps you on their radar and demonstrates your industry knowledge and enthusiasm.

Seek Feedback

If a recruiter resurfaces after submarining you, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback. Understanding why they went silent can provide valuable insights. It might be due to internal changes, client decisions, or other factors beyond their control. This feedback can help you manage future interactions better.

Consider Escalating the Issue

If a recruiter’s behavior is particularly unprofessional, consider escalating the issue. You can write a complaint to their agency or use platforms like LinkedIn to reach higher-ups in the company. However, be cautious as this might affect your chances with that agency in the future.

Focus on Responsive Recruiters

Shift your focus to recruiters who are responsive and professional. As one career expert notes, “Don’t keep going back to a dry well to drink. Go find a new well!”. Investing your time with recruiters who value communication can lead to better job opportunities.

Stay Positive and Persistent

Job searching can be a long and arduous process. Staying positive and persistent is key. Remember that being submarined by a recruiter is not a reflection of your worth or capabilities. Keep applying, networking, and honing your skills. Your persistence will pay off eventually.