Computerworld — Technology hiring may be gradually gaining momentum, but many skilled IT professionals are still finding that jobs are hard to come by . By partnering with a specialized recruiter, you can improve your chances of securing a rewarding new position even before the recovery is in full swing.

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Working with a recruiter need not interfere with your own job search efforts -- it effectively doubles them. A recruiter's network of contacts and knowledge of the job market can give you access to a range of opportunities beyond the popular job boards, including some openings that haven't even been announced. A recruiter can also save you time by screening opportunities and helping you target only the most promising leads.

Experienced recruiters bring more than their connections, however. They can help you revise your application materials and point out ways to enhance your skills to attract more attention from potential employers. You may also get access to free training and even certification testing , helping to increase your marketability and keep your career moving forward.

Establishing an effective partnership with a recruiter isn't difficult, but it does require some effort. Here's how to get the most out of the relationship:

Choose carefully. Start by asking friends and colleagues for referrals to recruiting professionals, or by contacting a few recruiters in your area. Your goal should be to find someone who inspires both comfort and confidence. Does the recruiter seem to have your best interests in mind, as well as sufficient bandwidth to devote attention to your search? How long has the recruiter been in business? The most effective recruiters draw upon long-standing relationships with local hiring managers.

A recruiter who specializes in technology will be much better able to understand your needs and the expectations of potential employers. Your recruiter should have a firm grasp on the skills and experience IT hiring managers are looking for right now and thus be able to help you market yourself most effectively.

Keep in mind that you should receive a recruiter's assistance free of charge; recruiters are paid by companies to find qualified candidates. Any recruiter who asks you to pay for job search services should be viewed with suspicion.

Speak freely. Some IT professionals approach their initial meeting with a recruiter like a test, trying to impress the person and provide the "right" answers to his or her questions. That's understandable, but focusing on what you think the person wants to hear instead of articulating your actual interests and skills can hinder the recruiter's efforts. When you're open about your expectations, background and experience, you give the recruiter the best chance of connecting you to a job opportunity that's right for you.

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