Although getting headhunted will still require some effort from you, it won’t take up nearly as much of your time as the traditional job-hunting approach, obviously it doesn’t guarantee when it is going to happen, but it means that opportunity arrives, you’ll be considered and approached about it.

An advantage of the recruiter coming directly to you is that they know the job they’re offering has to be better than your existing one. Otherwise, how are they going to tempt you out of your current role? You have the upper hand in negotiations, which puts you in a great position to ask for a better package and maybe even include a pay rise.

However, to get headhunted, you need to stand out by a mile; and this can be difficult in today’s competitive job market. Therefore, the best approach is to continue your job search, but also work on improving your chances of being found by recruiters at the same time.

There’s no harm in having all bases covered, right? To increase your chances of a recruiter headhunting you, check out the top tips below.

Market Your Personal Brand

One of the best ways to raise your profile and get recognised as a top performer in your field is to regularly participate in any activity within the industry. This doesn’t have to just be on social media. In fact, some of the old-fashioned methods are the most effective.

You can speak at industry events, seminars or get your articles published in relevant publications. You could even act as a speaker internally for your company’s events. Don’t be afraid of public speaking and always seize the opportunity to get involved.  For example, if you’re looking to get headhunted for an IT job, try get involved with company webinars or create a portfolio with some of your best work. The more regularly that you contribute to these events, the more your thoughts will be heard. And hopefully, the quicker you’ll be known in your field as an outgoing, knowledgeable and passionate person (and one that employers will want to headhunt).

Use Social Media 

If you’d rather opt for a more convenient method of raising your profile, then using social media may be your preferred option. A strong LinkedIn profile is essential for displaying your skills, achievements, experience and personal information.

Furthermore, it’s a great tool for connecting with past and present colleagues, as well as gaining endorsements from these individuals. And the more you can gain of these, the better!  After all, they can vouch for your skills and help to expand your network and ultimately, your chances of getting headhunted. Ideally, you should try to ask senior members of staff to recommend you, based on any successful projects you were able to deliver for them. In doing so, you’ll give head-hunters instant proof of your abilities; which should speed up the initial stages of the hiring process.

Expand Your Network 

Effective networking will significantly increase your chances of getting headhunted. This means staying consistently active across your industry to gradually increase your presence, rather than diving in headfirst whenever you need a job. Make an effort to reconnect with influential people you’ve met throughout the industry; but not just when you need them. Networking is a two-way effort. So, be willing to put in a good word for others and proactively offer to help when you can. Networking events can give you a great head–start for meeting lots of industry figureheads, but consistent contact over time will see the greatest rewards. Genuine connections are the most valuable in the long run, but these relationships need maintaining.

Key Points to Remember

Take a long-term approach to building strong, mutually-beneficial relationships both internally and externally. Recruitment is very relationship driven at senior levels.

Stay visible and ensure that your key skills and achievements are in the public domain.

Pick the key recruiters in your market and engage with them. An upfront investment with a small group of well chosen recruiters will pay big dividends.

Do not leave this activity until you are actively looking – these approaches all take time.