Trading Partners and the First 3 Stages of a Networker

This week, in the “Planning Your Network Success” series, I’ll be tackling the topic of trading partners, specifically how they relate to The 5 Stages of a Networker.

What are recruiters’ attitudes and philosophies regarding trading partners in each of these stages? Well, I have the answer!

However, I’ll be addressing the first three stages this week and the fourth and fifth stages in the near future. That’s because the fourth and fifth stages are where the real money is made in Top Echelon’s recruiter network and deserve a bit more attention.

My analysis includes descriptions of each stage of being a networker and the three groups of recruiters involved in the process of networking—the Outer Group Size, the Inner Circle Size, and the Core Group Size. That analysis is below.

Stage 1 Networker

They often view other recruiters as competitors.

Outer Circle Size: Actual count is the current size of TE Network. A Stage 1 Networker is initially intimidated by the size of the Network. Anticipated placement billings = $0 to $5,000.

Inner Circle Size: Zero recruiters. Anticipated placement billings = $0.

Core Group Size: Zero recruiters. Anticipated placement billings = $0.

Stage 2 Networker

They’ve had contact with many TE Network members. Although most of these contacts have been pleasant, they have contacted enough people to have a few “not so good” experiences, as well.

Outer Circle Size: Actual count is the current size of TE Network. A Stage 2 Networker has begun learning how to maneuver. Anticipated placement billings = $0 to $5,000.

Inner Circle Size: Zero to five recruiters. A Stage 2 Networker has been working with between zero and five recruiters more than once and feels somewhat comfortable with them. Anticipated placement billings = $0 to $5,000.

Core Group Size: Zero recruiters. A Stage 2 Networker has not yet developed a close bond with any recruiters. Anticipated placement billings = $0.

Stage 3 Networker

They’ve had contact with a great many agencies, recognize that every agency does things differently, and are willing to “roll with the punches.”

Outer Circle Size: Actual count is the current size of TE Network. A Stage 3 Networker is beginning to realize that the larger this group, the higher the probability that somebody will place their candidates and provide them with good candidates. Anticipated placement billings = $5,000 to $10,000.

Inner Circle Size: Five to 15 recruiters. A Stage 3 Networker feels pretty comfortable with between five and 15 recruiters, even though they may not share the exact same work styles. Anticipated placement billings = $0 to $5,000.

Core Group Size: One to two recruiters. A Stage 3 Networker has begun to bond very closely with one or two recruiters. This is the type of relationship where there is ultimate trust and respect for each other. Anticipated placement billings = $5,000 to $10,000.

In my next blog post in this series, I’ll examine trading partners in regards to the fourth and fifth stages of a networker.

If you have any questions in the meantime—about this blog post, about The 5 Stages of a Networker, or about your split recruiting membership in TE Network—please contact me.

You can do so by calling 330.595.1742 or by sending an email to drea@topechelon.com.