What to expect in recruitment

Recruitment consultants aren’t bothered about where they place people, just that they place them!

That might be true of some agencies but not the more professional consultancies.Sales skills are important, however the most successful recruiters build long-standing relationships with their clients. It is not about the ‘quick win’ or short term gain. Relationships are built on a clear understanding of the needs of both the candidates and the clients. Placing inappropriate candidates in roles quite simply isn’t a good long-term business decision. Additionally a large proportion of agencies’ client databases are built on recommendations from those already working with them, proof of their dedication to finding candidates the right role.

Can you recruit as your first job?

Knowing the market you recruit for is very important but you will develop this over time. It doesn’t mean you have to know the nitty gritty of every role you recruit for - what you do need however, are exemplary communication skills to act as an intermediary between your clients and candidates.

Behaviours are just as important as sales skills. Badenoch & Clark conducted extensive research in partnership with business psychologists, to identify the critical competencies of their top performers. The resulting key competencies for a successful career in recruitment include:



Planning & Organisation
Attitude & Drive
Creative Thinking
Commerciality
Relationships
Teamwork
Self Awareness & Ability to Learn


Consultancies are likely to rely on competency benchmarking to find out if you have the potential on which to build to become a full consultant. They would then train and equip you with the rounded skills to be an astute consultant. Expect to benefit from theory, applied experience and project work to develop your consulting skills. Graduate training schemes are increasingly available whatever your degree subject, and offer a structured platform from which to enter recruitment if you have little commercial experience.

What can you expect to earn?

Whilst basic salaries vary between £15-20k, your earnings won’t stop there. Commission makes up a large proportion of the remuneration package, making earning potential high and uncapped. Commission can depend on the sector, the market conditions or simply the success of the individual. Badenoch & Clark operate a team commission pool, which all consultants contribute to and then receive an equal monthly share of.

Your actual earnings will therefore depend on your performance and potentially that of your team. Beware of over inflated On Target Earnings (OTE) promises – they will want a lot from you in return.