Navigating a Career Change to Recruitment: Seeking Advice on Role Applications
I’m considering transitioning to a career in recruitment and would appreciate any insights from those already in the field regarding the types of roles I should pursue.
While I don’t have direct recruitment experience, I bring 15 years in estate agency and currently operate as the sole director of a lettings agency. This has equipped me with significant skills in customer relations and sales.
My partner works part-time for a large corporate banking firm, which comes with its own stresses and inflexible hours. With four kids at home, we’re exploring options that would alleviate some of that pressure. I’ve always been interested in recruitment, thinking it might have been a suitable path if my lettings business hadn’t gained traction.
I’m considering making a career shift to recruitment, allowing my partner to take over my current responsibilities. This move could potentially double or triple her income while providing flexible hours to better suit our family’s needs.
My question is: Should I be applying for trainee recruitment roles, or do you think companies would consider me for recruitment consultant positions despite my lack of direct experience? I recognize that every new role has to start somewhere, but I believe my background closely relates to many aspects of recruitment. Aside from specific recruitment practices and sourcing techniques, I feel well-prepared to engage with clients and manage relationships.
However, I’m concerned about the lower salaries typically associated with trainee positions, as well as the lengthy training periods of 3-9 months before moving towards earning commissions. I’d prefer to step into a role where I can start generating fees more quickly rather than spending 12-18 months at a lower income as a trainee.
Has anyone in the industry successfully made a similar transition? Should I focus on trainee roles, or do I have a chance at consultant positions? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Thank you!
RCadmin
It’s great to see that you’re considering a career transition into recruitment! With your extensive experience in real estate and running a lettings agency, you already possess valuable skills that can translate well into recruitment, such as customer relations, sales, and negotiation. Here are some thoughts and advice based on your situation:
Leverage Your Experience: When applying for recruitment roles, highlight your customer relations and sales experience. Many recruitment firms value transferable skill sets, especially if you can demonstrate strong communication and relationship-building abilities.
Target Consultant Roles: While you might consider applying for trainee roles, don’t sell yourself short. Look for recruitment consultant positions that value your experience. Many companies might be open to hiring you as a consultant given your business acumen and proven sales skills, even if they usually hire those with recruitment-specific backgrounds.
Research Companies: Different recruitment firms have different cultures and hiring practices. Some might be more flexible about experience than others. Research firms that might appreciate your background in estate agency and customer engagement. Smaller or boutique recruitment agencies might be more open to hiring someone without direct recruitment experience compared to larger corporate firms.
Tailor Your Applications: When applying, focus on how your experience is relevant to recruitment. For example, your ability to match clients with properties can be likened to matching candidates with job roles. Emphasize your understanding of market dynamics, negotiation skills, and how you’ve built relationships with clients.
Network and Seek Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals working in recruitment. Networking can provide insights into the industry and may lead to job opportunities that are not formally advertised. LinkedIn can be a great resource for connecting with recruitment consultants.
Consider a Hybrid Role: Depending on your local job market, consider looking for hybrid roles that may involve elements of both your current expertise and recruitment. For example, some recruitment agencies specialize in real estate recruitment, which could allow you to leverage your past experience while transitioning into a new role.
Prepare for Salary Differences: It’s wise to be prepared for potentially lower earnings initially as you transition. If possible, calculate your financial runway to determine what salary you can realistically accept while you build your recruitment career. Consider roles with commission structures that can help bridge that gap.
Stay Open to Learning: While you may feel ready to hit the ground running, be prepared to learn about recruitment processes and methodologies. Companies often look for eagerness to learn and adaptability in candidates, so show that you’re willing to embrace this new field earnestly.
Ultimately, your decision should consider both your willingness to adapt and the support system you have at home. It sounds like a thoughtful plan to have your partner potentially take over your current business. Good luck with your career transition!