Max - Australia Based Recruiter
What attracted you to a career in recruitment?
I had friends that were working in the industry and they sold it to me from the fact that you get a lot of autonomy, work hard play hard. Being a sales role there is a real opportunity to see your hard work pay off, the harder you work the higher your bonus and the more money you earn.
How would you describe the beginning of your career in recruitment? What did you do in the first few weeks?
The first few weeks are tough, its a steep learning curve and there are times when you're going to get frustrated. There is so much to learn and you are in a fast paced sales environment and can see everyone around you doing the job well and billing and you just want to get to that point as soon as you can. I learnt the candidate side first, shortlisting, interviewing, candidate care before moving on to the client side once I was confident at that.
What do you enjoy about your recruitment job?
The variety and the interaction with people is great, I enjoy the opportunity to meet with managers, CFOs and CIOs. Once you have built yourself a client base and a reputation you become a trusted advisor and an integral part of their recruitment strategy.
What has been your biggest success to date in recruitment?
I wouldn't say I have anything that stands out as 1 major event. I do feel good when I get referrals though either from candidates or clients - its a sign that you are doing your job well. You will only succeed in this business with repeat customers.
How would you describe your working environment?
Boisterous, fun, focused. There are times when the office is flying and times when you need some big characters to get everything going again. Recruitment is all about momentum and motivation. You need to be self motivated and have no fear. You have to pick up the phone and make the calls because no one is going to do it for you.
What advice would you give to a graduate who is considering a career in recruitment?
You must be determined. Recruitment can be like a rollercoaster, it sounds corny but it's true. There are times when you have the Midas touch and times when you have to bust a gut to find new work or candidates. Give it a fair go and LISTEN to your experienced colleagues. Recruitment is not a difficult job, it is relatively simple to become an average consultant for most educated people. The difference between good recruiters and great recruiters is the drive, passion and self determination. You have to instil this in your daily routines and push yourself.
