As a recruitment agency that works closely with employers who need skilled, motivated candidates, and with individuals who want opportunities that truly align with their experience and aspirations, we see both sides of the recruitment process at OpTalent.
In 2025, recruiter outreach has become routine. LinkedIn is full of it, but not all of them deserve your attention. Some aren’t even coming from real recruiters.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Canadians lost over $47 million to employment scams last year. That’s more than six times the amount lost the year before.
Most recruiters out there are legitimate. Still, it’s smart to stay cautious. LinkedIn is a valuable tool for job seekers, but with scams on the rise, it’s worth learning how to protect yourself, without shutting down real opportunities in the process.
Is This Recruiter Legit?
If you receive a message from a recruiter you’ve never heard of, and it sounds a little too good to be true, it is wise to be cautious.
Take a look at the sender’s LinkedIn profile. Are they connected to a legitimate organization? Do they have a professional history and relevant activity? These checks take seconds and help you avoid wasting time on anything questionable.
How to Respond to a Recruiter on LinkedIn to Put Your Best Foot Forward
Start by reviewing the job title and job description. If the opportunity aligns with your skills or aspirations, take a moment to reflect on what stands out.
When a recruiter reaches out on LinkedIn with a job opening that genuinely piques your interest or even sounds like the role you’ve been waiting for, it’s important to respond thoughtfully. This is your chance to make a strong first impression, and in today’s job market, those initial exchanges matter. Even if you’re not actively searching, responding professionally can build connections that support your long-term career goals.
Respond with a professional tone, acknowledge the message, and reference something specific that caught your eye. No need for a full breakdown; just enough to show genuine interest and that you’ve read the details.
Ask a couple of smart questions. Even with a thorough job posting, you rarely get the full picture. Learning more about the hiring manager’s expectations, team dynamics, or company culture helps you determine whether the role fits into your path for professional growth.
You don’t need to rehash your entire CV and LinkedIn profile. Focus on one or two strengths relevant to the role. If your profile is up to date and includes a professional photo, that also goes a long way in reinforcing your credibility. If you’re open to an initial interview, mention your availability to respect the recruiter’s time and keep things moving.
What if You’re Not Interested? How to Decline Without Burning a Bridge
Sometimes, the timing isn’t right or the role just doesn’t match your career goals. That’s completely fine. The key is to politely decline in a way that maintains a positive tone. Thank the recruiter for reaching out and let them know you’ve reviewed the opportunity. A short, professional explanation is all that’s needed.
If you’re actively seeking something different or see yourself better suited to another type of position, feel free to share that. It gives the recruiter insight into future openings that might be a better fit.
Should You Reply If You’re Not Actively Looking?
Yes, you should. Even if you’re not actively seeking new roles, responding professionally leaves the door open. It signals that you’re engaged with your professional network and open to exploring opportunities in the future. A short message, gracious and respectful, can leave a lasting impression and set the tone for future interactions.
Let’s Make Your Next Move Count
At OpTalent, we work with potential candidates to ensure every job opportunity we present is in line with both your career goals and relevant skills. We don’t rush the process or hide details.
If you’re ready to engage more intentionally with your career advancement, contact us. We’re here to help you move forward.
