You’re ready for a change. Whether you’re burned out, looking for better hours, or hoping to grow your career, you’ve decided to team up with a recruiter to help you land your next healthcare job. But what happens when the person you trust to guide your career only makes things more stressful?
Unfortunately, not every recruiter has your best interests in mind. A bad recruiter can lead you into poorly matched, underpaid, or misrepresented roles that leave you stuck, frustrated, or even questioning your career path. If you’ve ever been ghosted, misled, or pressured into a job that didn’t feel right, you’re not alone. Here’s how to spot the warning signs early and protect your career.
Vague or Unclear Job Descriptions
If a recruiter avoids giving clear job details—or changes the story each time—you should take that as a warning. You have the right to know where you’re going, what the role includes, and what others expect from you before you commit. When they say things like “we’ll figure it out later” or “the details aren’t finalized,” they’re likely hiding key information.
Dodging Pay Questions
Compensation is one of the first things a reliable recruiter will address. If you’re getting vague responses like “competitive pay” or “we’ll discuss after the interview,” consider that a red flag. You have a right to know the pay range, shift differentials, and if the job includes travel costs or bonuses. According to a 2022 McKinsey survey, 45% of frontline nurses say better compensation would make them more likely to stay in their current role.
Being Pressured to Take a Job
A trustworthy recruiter supports your goals—they don’t push their own agenda. If you’re feeling rushed or guilted into accepting a position without enough time to think it through, hit pause. High-pressure tactics are a sign the recruiter is more focused on filling a spot (and earning a commission) than helping you find the right fit.
Contracts that Don’t Match Your Goals
You should never feel trapped by a contract that doesn’t align with your needs. If the agreement has unclear terms, heavy penalties for leaving early, or doesn’t match the recruiter’s promise, you should take that seriously. Make sure your recruiter is willing to walk you through the details and advocate for your best interests. Beware of the recruiter that doesn’t ask upfront what your goals are; it’s a crucial question if they’re trying to find the right fit for you and their client.
Poor Communication
Are you always the one following up? Are your calls going unanswered after you’ve accepted an assignment? That’s a clear sign the recruiter isn’t reliable. A professional recruiter keeps you updated and treats your time with respect.
Partner with a Recruiter Who Puts You First
At Bluebird Staffing, we know what it’s like to be on your side of the table. That’s why we prioritize your goals, listen closely to what you need, and guide you into roles supporting your career and lifestyle. You deserve more than a recruiter who vanishes after placement—you deserve a partner who shows up for you every step of the way.
Let’s find the right job together. Connect with Bluebird Staffing and take the next step toward a career that works for you. Check out our hot jobs and give us a call.
