GUEST COMMENT: The six species of headhunting candidate
...and how to handle them (to be carefully cross referenced with The Six Species of Obnoxious Investment Banker in order to avoid confusion, and for additional information where necessary).
1) The One Who Knows It All
This banker thinks they are doing recruiters a favour by merely being in your office. Their 'Master of The Universe' presence should be enough to make any recruiter's toes curl and ensure jobs are thrown at their feet like rose petals. Extremely resistant to answering any questions, this Banker will give recruiters 24 hours to get them a board position on seven figures, or will start using four letter words behind their backs (at best).
How to handle them: with a rich internal monologue belied by a calm exterior. Stock up on stress balls.
2) Mr Unrealistic Expectations
Believes that a phone call from a recruiter is the same as an MD-level contract with a significant salary. Struggles to understand the, not especially complicated, process of meeting Headhunter, then meeting client (possibly several times) and can't imagine any circumstances under which they might not be offered the job.
How to handle them: using small words and short sentences to begin with, then from a increasing distance if they start to go wobbly.
3) The One Who may be Stretching the Truth
Generally very shiny with terrifyingly white teeth. Has done everything and been everywhere at the right time, with the largest client base and a P&L you could take your eye out with if you're not careful. No faults they can think of but may admit to being 'extremely driven'.
How to handle them: Rigorous CV checks. Covert telephone calls to people who have had the misfortune to work with them in the past.
4) The Regular
At home in any recruitment firm's reception where he will make abundant use of the free boiled sweets and water dispenser. Generally managing to jump before being pushed, The Regular moves around the City starting well and failing to live up to ever reducing expectations.
How to handle them: with pity but kindness, for they are a regular source of fees.
5) The 'It's all over but I can't see it yet'
With a sparkling career some way behind them, this Banker should be considering their options. Instead they are filling recruiters' in-boxes with everything from threats and abuse to outright pleading. These guys have either priced themselves out of the market or refuse to consider other options because they are "beneath me." Be warned, inflexible and desperate is a dangerous combination.
How to handle them: with care. Good candidates for a referral to a colleague who either owes you a favour or forgot your coffee.
6) The Name Dropper
Has worked with, for, over and under everyone who is anyone (and many who aren't) in Investment Banking. Any question is answered with "When I was working with/at/for..." and contains little other information.
How to handle them: Ask for the names of two people to provide a personal reference and watch them squirm.
