Help me understand recruitment consultants

[Coffeeinthepark]

I am looking to change job after 12 years with the same employer. I am reasonably senior with management responsibility. My CV is well laid out. I have contacted 2 recruitment consultants in the last month or so, in relation to advertised vacancies but hoping to be contacted for other things. The first barely acknowledged me, another has not called me after I emailed my CV yesterday.

How do recruitment consultants work? Is 12 years at one place a deal breaker or could it be that I've come clean that I work less than full time (looking for 3.5 or 4 days a week)?

[GingerSkin]

Recruitment consultants will receive masses of cv's each day. Personally, you need to contact one (or two), arrange to meet with them and work closely with them, rather than applying via email.

So rather than applying for jobs vacant, they go out to clients to find you work that suits your skill set.

You need to pester them and make yourself known to the agency.

Working for a company for 12 years won't be a deal breaker. You need to really work closely with the agency who will get to know you and your reasons for wanting to leave so they can 'sell' you to their clients.

There will also be specific recruitment consultants who will deal with your industry, or sector.

[Coffeeinthepark]

That is really helpful, thank you.

[madamemuddle]

Yes, this is how it is now. Don't be surprised to have to chase the outcome of interviews as well. Some can't even be bothered to tell you that.

[maggiethemagpie]

I emailed my CV twice to a recruitment consultant, both times I was told I'd get a call back and didn't - eventually I asked the receptionist for the name of the manager of that branch, and emailed him saying I was unhappy. Recruitment consultant called back, apologised, put me forward for two jobs straight away and I got one of them.
So don't assume it is all about you - they are busy people, you can slip under the radar.