You nail the call with a recruiter. They are impressed with your experience. Then you hear, “I don’t have anything for you right now.” It feels like a rejection, but it isn’t.

In the current hiring market, companies are embracing technology specialists with niche skills. When a recruiter says they don’t have anything for you right now, don’t sit and wait for a call.

Understand How Most Staffing Agencies Work

• Jobs come first. Companies hire agencies to fill specific roles. Agencies find the right person for each job.
• It is uncommon for agencies to shop for jobs around you. A strong resume doesn’t create an opening out of thin air – the right req does.
• It’s all about timing. New roles open every day. Being ready when one lands is how you get the placement.

Stay Top of Mind

• Check in every 2-3 weeks. Out of sight = out of mind. Inform your recruiter of any new skills, certifications, availability changes, or roles you are pursuing.
• Provide relevant updates. Share changes; including target roles, job titles, salary ranges, and location preferences.
• Response speed matters. Most companies expect to review candidate resumes within 48 hours of providing a new job to a company. You need to respond to your recruiter same-day if you’re interested in the role.

Be Ready

• Your resume is a living document. Keep it updated with new, impactful projects.
• Build a profile or GitHub with a few pinned projects.
• Secure three references ahead of time.
• Manage potential roadblocks– work authorizations, availability, holidays, salary changes, etc.
• Earn a targeted certification and share those credentials with your network.
• Practice interviews; dive deep – including live coding or explaining how AI impacts your work.
• Contribute or consult. Open-source commitments and short freelance gigs fill gaps and add proof of experience.

Widen your options

• Accept contract or contract-to-hire positions. You may open a door to convert to full-time.
• Stay flexible on adjacent title, industries, or hybrid schedules.
• Keep your LinkedIn current and open-to-work for recruiters only.

Remember that not now often means not yet.  If you’re recruiter is positive about your experience – stay ready, stay in touch, and answer the call when the next role comes in. Let’s talk.