Meeting with a recruiter when you’re not looking to change career paths might seem counter-intuitive. However, there are several reasons why those looking to get the most out of their careers continue to meet with recruiters. Insider knowledge and making informed decisions about your career progression are some of the reasons it's in your interest.

Most people don’t believe they are in their perfect job and yet if their perfect job was out there, how would they know? Even if you're not looking to change career paths, there might be something out there that you would prefer.

Meeting with a recruiter keeps you informed about the possibilities and is a pathway to a career move you didn't know was possible.

You cannot make the best decision when you do not know what the options are. Choosing not to stay informed about other options actually reflects a choice to stay, whether that’s best for you or not. So why not decide to know what is out there? Then you can make an educated decision about whether you would prefer to stay.

Maybe, your dream job does exist. To choose not to be open means you are missing out on a happier career and a happier life.

Have you ever wondered what salaries other people in your position earn? A recruiter can give you an objective opinion on where you sit compared to others at your level across the market and advise you about what salary you should be on. Coming into salary negotiations from an educated standpoint is vital whether or not you decide to leave your current workplace.

Chances are you will not stay in your current job for the rest of your life. If you do decide to move, having an established relationship with a recruiter you can trust is invaluable. By meeting with recruiters when it's not urgent, you have the luxury of being able to get to know them and decide if they are right for you. There are no contracts or payments for meeting with a recruiter; if you don’t like them find someone else. This does not mean you need to meet as many recruiters as possible. It means doing what is right for you so you know you can trust your recruiter.

While you might not currently be looking to change career paths, you might know colleagues, friends or family who are. By staying informed you may help your career or help someone else's career by knowing what positions are available.

Even if you’ve found your dream job and you’re in it for the long-haul, meeting with a recruiter can still be beneficial. Recruiters can provide educated, objective advice on where your practice sits from a brand point of view on the market. If you have worked at a practice for a long period, you might not know what differences there are between practices and other organisations.

Know your career options and research for future planning. For more information, contact us on 03 9946 7333 or info@practicemanagersaustralia.com.au and follow our LinkedIn and Facebook pages.