getting into the recruiting business

[Unregistered]

I'm looking into switching careers and getting into the recruiting business, but not sure yet if it's the right fit for me. Can you tell me: 1. what is the most challenging aspect of your job as a recruiter? 2. what are the most time consuming tasks/activities you do on a daily or weekly basis? (whether they are good, bad, or ugly, I'm looking for candid answers here! 3. what is it about Recruiting that you enjoy the most (why does it get you up in the morning to go to work)?

Thanks for any pearls of wisdom you can give me!

[David Sandusky]

1. what is the most challenging aspect of your job as a recruiter?
Depends on your skills. Some struggle being on the phone enough. Others are not good interviewers or do not understand the discipline or business they are recruiting for.

2. what are the most time consuming tasks/activities you do on a daily or weekly basis?

Excellent reports to the client on industry information including compensation and detailed write-up on final candidates. This is an important service many don't take the time to do.

3. What is it about Recruiting that you enjoy the most (why does it get you up in the morning to go to work)?

Building great teams based on the culture brand and shared vision.

[johnnieb_73]

very helpful -- a couple of my friends are thinking of getting into recruiting after they finish college (they were telling me that a typical recruiter salary is what motivated them the most, although I said that it ultimately will have to come to more than just money to motivate them). what do you suggest for their majors/subjects to study and/or perfect? thanks for your help in advance

[David Sandusky]

what do you suggest for their majors/subjects to study and/or perfect? thanks for your help in advance

Most schools do not have coursework around the recruiting discipline (or sales) and there is a relationship. For the record, that is a mistake. Schools can make a big impact on a young professional by developing experience in sales and recruiting.

That said, very few student consider recruiting as a career while in school unless they have been exposed to it by someone. Recruiting is a great career as many find when the opportunity presents.

While in school, students with outgoing/people personalities should study business to get terminology down. Outside of school they should work in customer service - restaurant or retail is great. When pursuing a career in recruiting with any one of the firms mentioned in your salary survey, find those who will train on interviewing skills and sales disciplines on the phone, online and in networking settings.

I hope this helps.

[Unregistered]

Why on earth would you want to get involved in such a sleazy occupation? Recruiters are the used car salesmen of corporate America. Go out and create a real product and/or service that will free you from the cubicle slavery that exists in America today.