How to find legit recruiters

Hi everyone!

I'm a web designer with basic front-end dev skills looking for my next role. Does anyone have advice on how to find legitimate recruiters or talent agencies? I'm feeling discouraged by all the scammers on LinkedIn. Also, if anyone knows of any resrouces for career coaches that could also be super helpful. I have 2+ years experience, but still fall into entry level for most tech roles.

Morgan·Aug 31

I'd submit my resume to places like Cybercoders / RobertHalf / TekSystems - That was Recruiters can find you. when they reach out, put their email in your address book and respond whenever you complete a new project.You can expand that to putting your resume on places like Indeed - I suggest using a VOIP number (Google Voice is what I use) and not your main phone number. The more people who reach out, the more addresses you collect to touch base with.

SusanGoodwin·Sep 04

I've got one on RobertHalf, but I haven't heard of Cybercoders or TekSystems. I'll check those out. Thanks!

Iynna·Aug 31

Honestly given you're still fairly early in your career (in tech at least), I'd deprioritise recruiters who from experience (someone correct me if I'm wrong) are going to invest a bit more on mid career to exec level. As for a career coach that could be a good idea at either point of career! There's a lot here on Elpha, any particular focus you are looking for?

SusanGoodwin·Sep 04

That makes sense, and seems to be what I'm finding. As for focus, I think that's one of the things I need help with 😂. I'm not sure where to put my eggs in terms of titles to go after/how to package my skillset and my background is varied (design and front-end skills).

Hermina164·Sep 04

I found this guide like last week and it shows a good way to find recruiters at any company (while also utilizing keywords); https://blog.careerflo.co/job-search/search-and-outreach#finding-outreach-contacts

SusanGoodwin·Sep 25

What a great resource, thank you!

kendraneipp·Sep 06

Hi Susan, I echo the advice here in that in terms of finding recruiters, doing LinkedIn searches for recruiters at specific companies might be a start. Just as you're getting a lot of messages, recruiters are too, so doing something that stands out a little can sometimes be helpful. I've been playing around with the idea of a short Loom video introduction to show that YOU are indeed a real person, and highlight why you're interested in the company, etc. You can also consider showing up to in-person meetups related to your field - that can sometimes be a path in via peers. I'm a career coach, happy to talk more if it's helpful, or refer you to coach friends!

SusanGoodwin·Sep 25

I think the problem is that I'm not even at the point of researching companies b/c I don't even know what titles I'm qualified for at this stage. I think I need to find a mentor close to my field that could help me even figure out what types of jobs to apply to, or what additional training I need to add to be relevant. The Loom video is a great idea! I use that for lots of other things and love it. Thanks Kendra!

kendraneipp·Oct 20

Sounds like a great step - good luck!