Want to Receive Text Messages From Recruiters?

Are you an active job seeker? Do you like to stay in-the-know with hiring trends in your industry? One of the best ways to be successful in your job search is to be accessible to recruiters. Text messaging is just one more way to do that.

Interested in receiving SMS text messages from the Cleared Network? In order to opt-in, you need to have your mobile number listed under the ‘contact information’ section of your profile. Underneath your mobile number, there’s a checkbox you can click to indicate you agree to receive text messages.

When you click to manage preferences, you can select what you want to receive a text message about.

Texting Rules for Candidates

Currently, a majority of recruiters surveyed indicate texting is a part of that recruiting strategy. But it doesn’t come without new guidelines for how to use it effectively. In December a recruiter outlined his ‘texting rules for recruiters.’ What guidelines should candidates follow? Here are a few:

1. Set parameters.

Texting can be a great way for recruiters to reach passive candidates ‘after hours.’ But if you don’t want to receive text messages from recruiters during the evening, let them know right away. It’s not impolite to say ‘evenings are my time with family – I’ll reply at 7 AM tomorrow.’ It’s better for both you an the recruiter to establish expectations for when you’ll respond – and when you won’t.

2. Be yourself.

I use punctuation in my text messages. I know, I know – I’m a loser. Don’t feel like you need to make your texts like formal emails – that’s not what they’re for. They’re meant to be notifications and status updates. You can be more informal when texting a recruiter. Or if punctuation is your thing, go for it. Bottom line – be yourself. Just don’t start signing off your messages with ‘Cash me ousside’ and you’ll be fine.

3. Don’t send confidential or classified information.

You may have a recruiter asking to confirm your Social Security Number for JPAS through text. I wouldn’t advise it. What seems expedient now may seem foolish later, if you’re flippantly replying with a host of personal information via text. Step outside of your office and make the phone call for sensitive information. And never share classified information with a recruiter, no matter what the forum.

Texting is just one more way for you to manage your career. Follow the rules, put it to use, and watch your career network grow.