You’re not looking for a new opportunity; in fact, you’re quite content where you are. However, an executive headhunter in Northern, CA has recently reached out to you with a position they think might be a good fit for you.

While it’s certainly flattering, do you turn them down politely, or pursue the opportunity?

Before you make a decision, it’s important to ask the right questions to evaluate whether the position is worth pursuing. To help you do that, below are five questions to ask when a headhunter comes knocking at your door:

#1: Tell me more about the job.

The headhunter may have given you some quick details about the title and the duties that come with it. But now’s the time to dig a little deeper and find out mission critical information about the position. If it doesn’t sound like something that’s right for you, you can walk away with peace of mind. If, however, you’re intrigued, continue on with the questions below.

#2: What are the top three requirements your client is looking for?

Most employers have a laundry list of requirements for the job. However, usually there are a handful of absolute must-have essentials. It’s up to you to find those out so you can assess whether the job is right for you.

#3: How long have you been working to fill this position?

If a headhunter has been working an exceptionally long time to fill the position, this could be a red flag that a) they don’t have the experience or skills to fill the job or b) the employer is searching for the perfect candidate. Neither are good situations to walk into.

However, don’t write the headhunter off completely until you ask why it’s taken so long to fill the position. It could simply be because a past candidate was selected and offered the job, but backed out at the last minute due to a counteroffer.

#4: Tell me about compensation.

Obviously, compensation is going to play a critical role in your decision whether to halt conversations with the headhunter or keep moving ahead. Don’t feel awkward or uncomfortable asking about salary and benefits. If the job is paying far less than what you’d expect, then you don’t want to waste anyone’s time – including your own – pursuing the opportunity further. Find out now about pay, bonuses, and other important perks, such as flex-time, the ability to telecommute, and on-site childcare.

#5: What do you know about the company?

If a headhunter has been working with the company for a while, they should have a good sense of the culture and the benefits of working there. They’ll be able to offer you some insider information that can help you make a decision as to whether it’s an opportunity worth pursuing.

If you’re interested in using a headhunter to find a new job that could boost your career, call Pacific ExecSearch. As leading executive headhunters in Northern, CA, we can help you uncover opportunities no one else knows about and guide you toward achieving your career goals. To learn more about how we can help you advance your career, please contact us today.