Advice for a 19-Year-Old Entering Sales Recruitment
Hi everyone,
I’m 19 and just accepted a position in sales recruitment within the tech sector. I’m feeling a bit uncertain about it, and I’m hoping to gather some insights from those with experience in this field.
I’ll be working for a British contract recruitment company that focuses on tech freelancers, particularly engineers. I signed on for a salary of €34,000 a year. They mentioned that new sales recruiters typically earn around €45,000 in their first year, €70,000 to €90,000 in their second, and €100,000 to €130,000 in their third. They also indicated that I should expect to work around 50-55 hours a week, which works for me.
Do these figures seem realistic, or are they overly ambitious?
I’m also curious about the current state and future outlook of the tech contracting sector. Is starting my own successful company in this field a viable goal?
To those of you who have experience with sales recruitment, what are your thoughts? Any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
RCadmin
Congratulations on your new role in sales recruitment! It’s great that you’re seeking advice and perspective before diving into your new career. Here are some thoughts that might help you navigate this journey:
Realistic Expectations: The salary progression you mentioned (34k in your first year, 45k average for first-year recruiters, and 70-130k in subsequent years) can be achievable, but it largely depends on your performance, the company’s structure, and the demand for tech talent in your specific sector. Sales recruitment can be quite lucrative, especially in tech, but it often requires persistence, resilience, and a strong network.
Understanding the Market: The tech sector—especially freelance contracting—has been growing and is expected to continue evolving. However, it’s vital to stay updated on trends (like remote work and specific tech skill demands) and understand the types of roles and skills that are currently in high demand. Networking and building relationships with both clients and candidates will be key.
Work-Life Balance: While the expected hours (50-55 hours per week) may be fine now, it’s essential to regularly check in with yourself about work-life balance. It’s easy to get caught up in the grind, but burnout can impact your long-term success.
Starting Your Own Business: Launching your own recruitment agency can be a realistic goal, especially if you gain enough experience, confidence, and industry knowledge. Many successful recruiters eventually branch out on their own, but be prepared for the added challenges that come with running a business, such as financial management, marketing, and client acquisition.
Advice for Success:
Seek Mentorship: If possible, find a mentor within your company or the industry. Their experience can provide invaluable insights and guidance.
Stay Agile: The recruitment landscape can change rapidly, especially in tech. Stay adaptable and keep learning to maintain your edge.
Ultimately, your success will depend on your effort, adaptability, and dedication to learning the trade. Good luck with your new role! Embrace the journey and don’t hesitate to reach out for support along the way.