Who’s Hunting for Your Head? Why Every Job Seeker Needs a Recruiter in Their Corner

by Trevor Calton

Who’s Hunting for Your Head?

When most people think about networking, they focus on the obvious:

• Hiring managers
• People working in companies they admire
• Industry events and alumni lists

And that’s all great.

But here’s a strategic advantage most people overlook:

Network with the people who are literally paid to find you a job.

I’m talking about recruiters, also known as headhunters.

These folks don’t just post jobs. They get paid by employers to go find the right person for the role.

You want that person looking for you.

Why Recruiters Matter More Than You Think

Most people don’t realize how recruiters actually work.

Let me break it down:

• Recruiters are paid by companies, not job seekers
• They earn a commission only if you get hired and stay in the role
• If you quit early, they lose money (yes, seriously)
• So their incentive is to find you something you’ll love and stick with

That means they want to find you a role that fits your skills, your personality, and your long-term goals.

Your win = their win.

It Costs You Nothing, And Could Be Everything

Working with a recruiter doesn’t cost you a dime. But it could completely change your career trajectory.

Some of the best jobs never get posted publicly. They’re filled quietly, through recruiters.

In fact, my second job after the bond market crash? A senior analyst position at a Fortune 500 company. I never saw it listed. I didn’t know it existed. A recruiter found it, pitched me for it, and helped me land it.

That job changed everything for me.

Make Recruiters Part of Your Strategy

You don’t need to chase down every recruiter on LinkedIn. But you do need to be intentional.

Do your research

Look for recruiters who specialize in your industry or job function.

Reach out with purpose

Introduce yourself. Send your resume. Ask for a short call.

“I’m exploring my next move and wanted to connect in case you’re ever sourcing for someone with my background.”

Keep it professional. Keep it simple.

Build relationships, not transactions

Check in now and then. Update them when your status changes. Share wins and insights. Become someone they want to place.

Recruiters aren’t just a backup plan. They can be your biggest shortcut into a job you never knew existed.

The Bottom Line

You can’t control what jobs get posted. But you can make sure someone’s out there looking for you.

So the question isn’t just: “Who are you hunting?”

It’s also: “Who’s hunting for you?”

Want to Build a Career Strategy That Attracts Opportunities?

Career Building from the Inside Out teaches you how to connect with decision-makers, recruiters, and allies who open doors, so you’re not just reacting to job boards. Explore the program

Want me to teach this in person or at your organization? Book a workshop or keynote