How to Work with a Recruiter Without Losing Control of Your Job Search
Partnering with a recruiter can open doors you didn’t even know existed — but only if you approach the relationship the right way.
Some job seekers hesitate to work with a staffing agency because they fear losing control of the process. At Dunhill Staffing Systems, we believe the best recruiter-candidate relationships are collaborative, not transactional.
Here’s how to work with a recruiter effectively while staying in control of your job search and career goals.
1. Know What You Want — and Be Honest About It
Before engaging with a recruiter, take the time to clarify your goals. What kind of role are you targeting? What’s your preferred industry? What are your deal-breakers? The more specific you are, the better your recruiter can help.
At Dunhill, we take a personalized approach. We want to know what success looks like for you — not just your résumé. When candidates share their priorities openly, we’re able to tailor opportunities and avoid mismatches.
Pro Tip: Be honest about your salary expectations, work environment preferences, and long-term goals up front.
Want to understand current industry trends and what employers are paying? Check out this helpful resource from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
2. Don’t Just Submit and Wait — Stay Engaged
Some candidates submit a résumé and expect magic to happen. While we do the heavy lifting, the best results come from candidates who stay responsive and engaged.
A weekly check-in or status update helps keep your profile top of mind. At Dunhill, we value communication and transparency. We’ll keep you informed — but your engagement helps move things faster.
3. Treat Recruiters Like Career Advisors — Not Just Gatekeepers
A great recruiter isn’t just trying to place you in a job — they’re working to position you for long-term success. At Dunhill, we coach candidates on résumé improvement, interview preparation, and how to best present technical experience.
“Dunhill helped me understand how to present my skills more effectively. I had been underselling my leadership experience, and their advice helped me land interviews I wasn’t even getting before.”
– Travis H., Mechanical Engineer
4. Ask for Transparency — and Expect It in Return
If you’re worried about recruiters submitting your résumé without consent — that shouldn’t happen. Dunhill always asks before submitting you for a role, and we answer your questions clearly.
- What company is this role with?
- Where are they in the hiring process?
- What’s the compensation range?
- Why is the position open?
You deserve clear, respectful communication. We make that standard practice.
5. Keep the Momentum Going (Even After You Land)
Your relationship with a recruiter shouldn’t end when you get hired. At Dunhill, we continue supporting you through onboarding, feedback, and future growth opportunities.
By staying connected, you’ll always have a trusted partner when it’s time to take the next step in your career.
Final Thoughts
Working with a recruiter should feel empowering — not like giving up control. At Dunhill Staffing Systems, we work alongside you, not in front of you.
Our recruiters speak your language, respect your goals, and provide market insight that sharpens your strategy and leads to real results.
With the right approach and the right recruiter, your next opportunity won’t just be another job — it’ll be the right move forward.
