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Build a better account research routine.

Practical guidance and specialist examples for turning hiring activity into a useful conversation.

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A five-question account qualification checklist

  1. Is the source still current? Open the company’s listing and confirm the vacancy remains available.
  2. Is the role a real fit? Match the function, seniority, and location to your network.
  3. What does the hiring pattern actually show? Separate listed roles from assumptions about growth or urgency.
  4. Who should own the conversation? Identify the relevant hiring team and coordinate ownership internally.
  5. What useful contribution can you make? Be specific about your expertise before asking for a call.

Use a signal to inform your introduction

Reference a vacancy or hiring pattern you checked yourself. Explain why your specialist experience is relevant, then ask whether recruiting support would be useful. Avoid assuming the company has an urgent problem or wants agency help.

A useful structure is: observed hiring activity, relevant expertise, a concise question. Adapt it to the company and keep your claims supported by the source.

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