As a recruiter, whether you’re working solo, running a small agency, or managing a full team, clients are the lifeblood of your business. The more clients you have, the more placements you can make—and that means more revenue. But how can you consistently bring in new clients, especially when starting out or during difficult market conditions?
In this blog post, we’ll cover five proven methods to land new recruiting clients within seven days, all based on the experience of a successful recruiter.
Let’s dive in!
1. Email Outreach: The Power of a Great Email
Email is still one of the most effective ways to reach potential clients in the recruiting industry. The key is not just sending emails but crafting personalized, targeted messages that demonstrate your expertise and solve a problem for the client.
How to Nail Email Outreach
- Research your target companies: Before hitting send, do your homework. Identify companies actively hiring and find the right decision-makers. LinkedIn and company websites are great for gathering this information.
- Personalization is key: A generic email won’t cut it. You need to showcase what makes your recruiting agency different. Whether you specialize in a particular niche or offer unique benefits, your value proposition should stand out.
- Focus on your niche: Are you a recruiting expert in software development, healthcare, or marketing? Highlight that expertise. Even if you’re new, speak confidently about your niche—clients are looking for specialists who understand their unique hiring needs.
Use the MPC Strategy
One pro tip that successful recruiter recommends is using an MPC, or Most Placeable Candidate, in your outreach. Instead of just offering your services, you can introduce a candidate who fits exactly what the client is looking for.
For example, instead of saying, “I specialize in marketing roles,” try:
“I see you’re hiring for a digital marketing manager with SEO experience. I have a candidate who matches your requirements exactly—would you like to connect?”
This approach adds immediate value and increases your chances of getting a response.
Consistency Is Key
Remember, email outreach isn’t a one-time activity. Consistency is crucial. If you’re sending 10 emails a day, keep it steady. Don’t burn out by sending 50 emails one day and then nothing for the rest of the week. Regular, targeted outreach will yield better results over time.
Call to Action (CTA): Every email should have a clear call to action. Do you want them to schedule a call? Meet for coffee? Set up a Zoom meeting? Make it clear and easy for the client to take the next step.
2. Cold Calling: Conquer the Fear
Cold calling may feel old school, but it still works, especially in certain industries. Many recruiters shy away from this method because of the fear of rejection, but cold calling can help you build resilience, improve your communication skills, and land clients faster than you might think.
Why Cold Calling Is Still Effective
- Instant connection: Unlike emails, where clients can delay their response, cold calls put you in direct contact with decision-makers, giving you a chance to make an immediate impression.
- Refine your pitch: Cold calling forces you to hone your message. You only have a few seconds to capture attention, so get to the point. What’s your value proposition? Why are you calling? Who are you representing? Be clear and concise.
Overcoming Rejection
Cold calling helps build a thick skin. Rejection is part of the process. The more you do it, the better you’ll get. Just remember that each “no” brings you closer to a “yes.”
MPC Strategy on Calls: When you’re on a call, use the MPC strategy as well. If you can present a candidate who perfectly fits their needs, you’re much more likely to get a favorable response.
3. LinkedIn Messaging: The Social Professional Network
In today’s digital world, LinkedIn is an indispensable tool for recruiters. Whether you’re looking for white-collar professionals, tech talent, or finance experts, chances are your next client is on LinkedIn.
Why LinkedIn Messaging Works
LinkedIn is unique because it adds a personal touch to your outreach. Clients can see your profile, check your credentials, and get a better sense of who you are. This makes LinkedIn messaging more intimate than email, but still professional.
Crafting the Perfect LinkedIn Message
Like emails, your LinkedIn messages should be concise and to the point, but even shorter. Here’s a structure to follow:
- Intro: Quickly introduce yourself and your agency.
- Value Prop: Highlight how you can solve their hiring problems.
- Call to Action: Keep it simple. Invite them for a call or suggest connecting over a virtual coffee.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and professional. Clients will often check your profile before deciding whether or not to respond.
4. In-Person Networking: The Power of Offline
In today’s world of digital communication, it’s easy to forget the value of in-person networking. However, some of the best client relationships are still formed at networking events, industry conferences, and social gatherings.
Why In-Person Still Matters
- Human connection: Nothing beats face-to-face interaction. It’s easier to build rapport, trust, and a lasting impression when you meet someone in person.
- Networking events: Look for relevant industry events, job fairs, and seminars where hiring managers are likely to be. Arm yourself with business cards, a friendly attitude, and a clear value proposition.
Pro Tips for Networking Events
- Be memorable: When you introduce yourself, smile, make eye contact, and show good energy. You want to leave a positive impression.
- Ask for a call to action: Whether it’s a business card exchange or a scheduled follow-up meeting, always have a plan for what happens next.
5. Referrals: The Power of Word of Mouth
One of the most effective ways to land new clients is through referrals. Whether it’s from past clients, candidates, or even your professional network, referrals come with a built-in level of trust, making them highly valuable leads.
How to Get Referrals
- Ask for them: Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals at the end of a successful placement. If a client is happy with your work, they’re more likely to refer you to others in their network.
- Network referrals: If you’re connected with someone on LinkedIn who works with a potential client, don’t hesitate to ask for an introduction.
- Candidates as referrals: Happy candidates can also become great sources for referrals. They often know other professionals in their industry who might need your services.
Referrals turn cold leads into warm leads, making it easier to build a relationship and close deals
