Navigating a Career Transition in Talent Acquisition (2025)
Hello everyone,
I have nearly a decade of experience in Talent Acquisition, with a focus on Clinical Research, IT, and Data. My career has primarily been based in India and the APAC region, particularly the Philippines, Australia, and Singapore. Since relocating to London in late 2022, I’ve been actively seeking employment throughout 2024. I’ve submitted my CV on platforms like Indeed, Reed, and Hays, and have applied for numerous positions in Talent Acquisition.
Despite my efforts, I haven’t successfully landed a role yet, and I’ve had limited interview opportunities, with no positive outcomes thus far.
I would greatly appreciate any advice on what additional steps I could take. How can I encourage agencies to connect with potential employers on my behalf? Additionally, I’ve heard suggestions about visiting offices in person; could this be an effective approach, and if so, why?
Thank you for your insights!
RCadmin
Hi there,
Breaking into talent acquisition in a new market can be challenging, but your experience in clinical research, IT, and data can work to your advantage. Here are some strategies you can consider for 2025:
Network Strategically: Attend industry-specific events, meetups, and conferences in London. Building connections can open doors and lead to referrals. Consider joining professional organizations like the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).
Leverage LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your expertise and experiences. Engage with posts related to talent acquisition and participate in discussions. You might also want to connect with recruiters and hiring managers directly.
Seek Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired roles and ask for informational interviews. This approach can provide insights into the local market and potentially lead to job opportunities.
Consider Recruitment Agencies: While applying online, try to work closely with specialized recruitment agencies that focus on talent acquisition roles. Build relationships with recruiters—they can advocate for you and present your profile to potential employers.
Brushing Up Skills: Consider taking courses or obtaining certifications relevant to talent acquisition. Staying updated on recruitment trends or mastering tools commonly used in the UK job market can make you a more appealing candidate.
Direct Outreach: Walking into companies or reaching out directly can sometimes be effective, especially if you demonstrate genuine interest and can show how your skills align with their needs. Research companies you’d like to work for and tailor your approach to reflect that.
Feedback on Interviews: If you haven’t already, ask for feedback from the interviews you attended. Constructive feedback can help identify areas for improvement and make you a stronger candidate in the future.
Tailor Your Applications: Ensure your CV and cover letter are tailored for each role you apply to. Highlight the aspects of your experience that are most relevant to the specific positions.
Be Open to Different Roles: If landing a direct talent acquisition role proves challenging, consider interim or related positions that could allow you to get a foot in the door.
Stay Persistent and Positive: The job market can be unpredictable, and it may take time to secure a role. Keep refining your approach and maintain a positive outlook.
Best of luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your network for support—sometimes, a simple conversation can lead to unexpected opportunities!
Cheers!