A recruitment consultant is a sort of middle man (or woman!) that works between an organisation wishing to recruit (the client) and the individual seeking a career move or temporary assignment (the candidate). There is an element of sales in the role of a recruitment consultant, and Consultancies or agencies come in all shapes and sizes, from small local businesses to national and international enterprises. Many recruitment agencies are industry-specific or are subdivided into industry-specific sections, so the consultant will be recruiting similar posts for different clients. For example, one consultant might only take on clients in the manufacturing sector.
In short, the key responsibilities of a Recruitment Consultant is to pair up candidates with positions that need to be filled. A candidate trusts their consultant to put them forward for roles to which they are well suited. Companies trust their consultant to find the best individuals for the roles they need to fill. All communication related to interview dates, salary, employment terms, start date and the like go through the recruitment consultant.
The steps we take –
1. Identify and develop client business relationships in a competitive environment/industry.
2. Contribute to the attraction of candidates and the integrity of the details held on them.
3. Assess and respond to the needs of each particular client or assignment, providing relevant solutions.
4. Advertise vacancies.
5. Headhunt (find and approach candidates who aren’t actively looking for a job).
6. Source suitable candidates, brief them on the opportunities offered by the client, and prepare them for interview.
7. Negotiate contracts and employment terms.
8. Manage the application process through interviews to offer stage and beyond.
9. Offer CV, interview and general career advice.
Recruitment is not for the faint-hearted. It is a competitive world where those that do well get rewarded and those that don’t, don’t last very long.
A recruitment consultant needs to be compelling and persuasive to secure continued business from clients (employers) and to excite candidates with roles open for application.
For those who thrive in a sales environment, recruitment is a good fit. It offers a fast-paced and exhilarating working environment and rewards success with good commission and benefits!
