Navigating Modern Recruitment/Sales: Tips for Newcomers
Hey Reddit,
I’ve recently begun my journey as a recruiter at an IT recruitment firm in London. My background is quite different—I’ve spent most of my career in the music industry, primarily in production and engineering. I made the switch to recruitment to find a permanent position as opposed to continuing with freelancing for various reasons.
As I step into this role in 2025, I’d love to gather any general advice from those experienced in the field. My manager has shared that the recruitment landscape has changed significantly, and from what I’ve seen online, it seems there are new dynamics at play. Fortunately, my company has a solid reputation, which I hope will be beneficial as I navigate this transition.
I’m not naturally inclined towards traditional “sales” techniques, and I’m curious about how these methods are perceived today. In the past, I was put off by overly aggressive cold calls or sales pitches; as a customer, I often dismissed outreach that felt too pushy. Is that kind of approach still effective for generating business, or have things evolved?
I’d appreciate any insights from seasoned professionals or advice on how to tackle this role as a newcomer. I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the evolution of the job, the pros and cons, and any other insights you think could be helpful or interesting to discuss. Thanks!
RCadmin
Hi there!
Welcome to the world of recruitment! Transitioning from a creative background like music to a more structured role in IT recruitment can be a refreshing challenge, and your unique perspective might actually become a strength in your new position.
Here are some thoughts and advice to help you navigate your new role:
Embrace Relationship Building: Recruitment today is less about the hard sell and more about creating relationships. Focus on understanding both the candidates and the clients deeply. Building rapport and trust will often yield better results than aggressive sales tactics.
Leverage Your Background: Your experience in music production and engineering could provide a unique lens through which you see the IT industry. Use your creativity to differentiate yourself in how you engage with clients and candidates. This might include thinking outside the box for sourcing candidates or presenting opportunities.
Utilize Technology: Modern recruitment relies heavily on tech tools for sourcing candidates, managing applicants, and communicating with clients. Familiarize yourself with recruitment software and platforms like LinkedIn, ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems), and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools.
Focus on Value, Not Volume: Rather than trying to touch base with as many candidates or clients as possible, concentrate on providing value in every interaction. Share industry insights, offer market intelligence, or give feedback to candidates post-interviews. This approach can set you apart from others who may be focused solely on hitting numbers.
Active Listening: One of the most crucial skills in recruitment is the ability to listen. Understand the needs of both your candidates and clients before pitching. Ask insightful questions and really listen to the answers. This will help you tailor your approach and make better matches.
Continuous Learning: The recruitment landscape is indeed changing rapidly, especially in technology. Stay updated with industry trends, participate in webinars, and engage with thought leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. This will help you remain relevant and knowledgeable in conversations.
Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from your manager or more seasoned colleagues. They can provide valuable insights on your approach and help you fine-tune your methods.
Stay Resilient: Recruitment can be challenging and sometimes disheartening, especially when deals fall through. It’s important to stay resilient and keep learning from each experience.
Network: Build a strong network both inside and outside of your company. Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with other recruiters and professionals. Networking can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Self-Care: Finally, remember to take care of yourself. The pressure in recruitment can be intense, so make sure to manage stress through hobbies, social activities, or wellness practices.
Remember, every industry has its nuances, so don’t hesitate to lean on your team for support as you acclimate. Good luck in your new role, and enjoy the journey!