I am in the process of beginning a job search. I have worked with recruiters in the past and have been given the cold shoulder. Is there anything that I can do to make this time different?


You are not alone in your frustration with recruiters and their lack of courtesy. Recruiters are notorious for not following up and there is little, if anything, that any of us can do to change the behavior of the recruiting community.
The vast majority of search firms do not acknowledge receipt of resumes as a matter of routine. Once a recruiter has contacted you to discuss your qualifications for a position, don't hesitate to follow up with a call, e-mail or a note expressing your interest and inquiring about the status of the search.
You may not get a response but as long as you remain professional and courteous a follow-up contact will not be detrimental to your cause. Every contact with a recruiter is a networking opportunity. Good networking is all about giving. Ask the recruiter what industry or function is his or her area of specialization. How can you be of help to the recruiter in order to establish a relationship that will be mutually supportive?