Troubling Experience with a Recruiter
Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice.
Last year, I accepted a 6-month customer service contract through a recruiting agency. Before taking this role, I was working as an analyst and training to transition into tech. During the interview, I mentioned my interest in the temporary nature of the role and expressed my desire to move into tech. My recruiter told me I would need to complete the contract before I could apply for any tech positions they had available.
Two months into the contract, the company expressed interest in converting me to a full-time position, to which I always replied, “I’m glad you like me.”
In December, seven months into my contract, I reached out to my recruiter about a tech role that caught my eye. She had a very strong negative reaction, claiming she couldn’t assist me because I was currently on an active contract that was transitioning to full-time. Her response was quite intense; she stated that it wasn’t in her best interest to help me.
When I sought clarification about why my contract was extended (it was originally set to end in November), she told me that the extension was already in place and there was nothing that could be done. When I probed further about not being consulted on the extension, she turned the conversation hostile and began questioning me aggressively, asking if I planned to quit and warning that doing so would mark my status as job abandonment, which would prevent future rehire. The conversation ended abruptly as I was taken aback by her demeanor.
Yesterday, I received a job offer from the company with a start date of tomorrow, and I’m at a crossroads about what to do.
I’m interested in other tech roles that this recruiting firm has, but I’m concerned that this situation might impact my chances. I don’t want to accept the job offer only to need to give a two-weeks notice right after, but I also don’t want to reject the offer and miss out on potential tech opportunities.
For the record, I haven’t spoken to my recruiter since our December conversation. Any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated.
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a really tricky situation, and it’s understandable that you feel uncertain about your next steps. Here are a few things to consider:
Evaluate the Job Offer: Consider how the job you’ve been offered aligns with your career goals in tech. If it’s a solid opportunity that could help you in the long run, it might be worth taking, even if it means putting in your two weeks’ notice.
Clarify the Contract Status: You mentioned your contract was supposed to end in November but was extended without your input. You might want to check your contract or speak with HR to understand your rights and how this impacts your eligibility for other positions.
Reach Out to the Recruiter or HR: Given the aggressive conversation you had with your recruiter, it might be beneficial to speak directly with someone in HR regarding your situation. They can provide clarity on your contract, the job abandonment issue, and your ability to apply for other roles.
Consider the Long Term: If you think the tech roles you’re interested in would be a better fit for your career, weigh the pros and cons of taking the current offer versus waiting for something better. Remember, if you choose to reject the current offer to look for tech roles, make sure you do it professionally to keep the door open.
Prepare for Both Outcomes: If you accept the offer, be prepared to explain your situation if recruiters reach out. Transparency can go a long way, and you can always keep an eye out for tech roles in the meantime.
Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, you know your situation best. If you feel uncomfortable with the recruiter, it could be a sign to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Good luck! It sounds like you have some exciting prospects ahead, and whatever you decide, make sure it aligns with your long-term career goals.