I was asked the other day. “What’s it like working in recruitment? Don’t you just send a few CVs over and charge a load of money?”
Yeah, right, it’s that simple. I mean, everyone seems to know someone who works in recruitment or has tried recruitment and given up.
1. You can often feel ignored
A lot of effort can go into conversations that lead nowhere. Candidates can disappear mid-process. Hiring managers stop replying after urgent requests. Emails can be ignored.
You learn to never take it personally, because it happens. Less so the more experienced you become, thankfully.
2. Unrealistic Expectations (sometimes)
You sit between the client and the candidate, who can have completely different priorities:
Clients can want the “perfect candidate” ASAP, sometimes for unrealistic salaries.
Candidates may expect higher pay, remote work, fast progression, and better work-life balance
You’re expected to make both sides happy simultaneously — even when the expectations differ.
3. You must be prepared to give people bad news
It’s never nice to tell someone they didn’t get the job they wanted. Most take it well (it’s one step closer to a YES), others not so
4. It’s a career based on success.
Even if you’re doing good work, if the placements don’t happen, does it matter?
The stress of targets can also feel relentless, especially during slow hiring periods or downturns. (It’s why at Jump IT Recruitment Solutions Limited, we don’t set targets. Hire the right people and targets arent needed)
5. Your Mood Depends on Other People’s Life Choices
Candidate accepts? You’re a genius. Well done.
Candidate declines? You question your entire career and briefly consider opening a donkey sanctuary…
6. You’re Often Seen as “Just a Recruiter”
Despite the skills involved — sales, psychology, negotiation, consulting — recruiters often face negative stereotypes, only motivated by commission
This perception can be frustrating, but luckily for us at Jump IT Recruitment Solutions Limited, we have some great clients who value us.
7. Like any sales-related role, it can be tough
Long hours, rejection, pressure, and emotional ups and downs create a perfect storm for leaving the sector. You need a thick skin.
8. Your success is out of your control (mostly)
At the end of the day, you cannot control:
* Whether a candidate accepts
* Whether a company hires your candidate
* Whether someone stays long enough to pass probation
But your success depends on it.
That lack of control – despite doing everything right – can be one of the most stressful parts of the job.
I’m sure I’ve missed some things on the list?
That said, it is rewarding – You can truly change someones life.
The small email or message of thanks for a job well done also makes it worthwhile.
But it’s also a career that demands resilience. Character building, so my message is
Be Kind to your recruiter😊
#recruitment #recruiterlife #work #jobs