A–Z reference
Reverse Recruiting Glossary
Clear definitions for the language of managed job searches.
- Applicant tracking system (ATS)
- Software employers use to organize applications and hiring workflows. Clear formatting helps readers and systems interpret a resume.
- Application support
- A service that prepares or submits applications on your behalf; it may not include coaching, outreach, or full search strategy.
- Candidate approval
- Your review of a target job, application, or message before a provider sends it in your name.
- Career coaching
- Advisory support for career decisions, interview skills, and accountability. The candidate generally executes the search.
- Cover letter
- A role-specific letter connecting your experience and motivation to an employer’s needs.
- Executive search
- Recruitment for senior leadership positions. Employer-paid executive search differs from candidate-paid representation.
- Hiring manager
- The person responsible for a role and usually involved in evaluating candidates and making a hiring decision.
- Interview guarantee
- A contractual promise tied to an interview outcome or a defined remedy. Conditions and the definition of an interview matter.
- Job-search pipeline
- The collection of targeted roles and conversations at different stages, from research to interviews and offers.
- Networking outreach
- Messages and conversations intended to build professional relationships or introduce a candidate to relevant contacts.
- Outplacement
- Career-transition support usually purchased by an employer for departing employees.
- Recruitment agency
- An employer-engaged business that identifies candidates to fill the employer’s vacancies.
- Retainer
- An upfront or recurring fee for an agreed scope of professional services.
- Reverse recruiting
- A candidate-paid service that manages parts of a job search on the professional’s behalf, such as applications or employer outreach.
- Success fee
- A payment triggered by a defined outcome, often accepting an offer. The salary basis and payment timing should be explicit.
- Target-company list
- An agreed list of employers selected around your role, industry, location, and compensation goals.
Make an informed choice