What's it like working in the recruitment industry?

[Needanewadventure2021]

Hiya

Albeit on the support side, acting as the first point of contact, but what is it like working in the industry?

I've heard some things about the culture and partying lifestyle that if I am honest puts me off as I just want to do a good job, earn a decent wage and then spend my time with my son. However the opportunity is great. I just dont want to jump into something where you are expected to be involved in the social partying side as it doesn't interest me

I've been in exactly the role you describe, I must warn you that more often than not, the support staff aren't included in plans -actually they are treated like dirt-

I was married with young children and very rarely got involved in the social aspect

Oh really. In one sense that's a relief as I'm not into partying and value my time with my son.

On the other hand, really? Are you in the same role now or have you moved on? Was it hard work? Were you able to earn well? Or did the way you were treated really make you dislike the job?

I think it depends what sectors, type of firm and what level. I work in exec search and beyond the odd client lunch, there is no socialising and certainly not a party culture.

Something like IT recruitment, at a relatively junior level with young employee population, in a big city, would be a totally different vibe.

Busy, manic, take 1 day off and end up with 5 days worth of work. Things change by the hour. But keeps you on your toes and its nice offering people a job they want.
No real social side here, guess it depends where you work, live and who you are recruiting.

Thanks for your responses.

I feel more comfortable now seeing what the opportunity involves.

Can you earn well?

Also is it enjoyable?

I loved it in my early 20s, but I certainly wouldn't want to do it now.
I worked in IT recruitment, it was all partying, celebrations when targets were hit, really pushing people to live a champagne lifestyle which they couldn't afford to keep them selling, cocaine deliveries to the office, lots of sex, drugs and rock and roll.
But this was a big firm in a big city. I doubt very much it happens it Office Angels or suchlike.

@Gardenwalldilema well that was the story my friend told me and it put me right off. Not be at all and never has been. And I would hate that culture.

Its the exec level, legal and financial services.

Yes I'm probably generalising but the legal and financial divisions are usually renowned for that kind of behaviour IME

I personally found the selling side pretty grim. Just picking up the phone over and over trying to sell something you thought was pretty crap half the time. Also it was very micromanaged. Felt like I was in school again at times. That was the selling though not support.

It really depends on the company. I worked for a big recruiter in central London and it was awful for me, although I worked with some awesome people. It suits people who are good at selling and not so much about people who like the human aspects. But smaller niche agencies can be lovely.

Cringing in a way lol

Would this still be the case on a flexible working from home basis?

Honestly the culture is a real put off for me. Im drawn to the potential of the job long term but I really like my time with my son

If its an admin / customer service type role I'd look for another industry, you're not going to make big money in recruitment unless you're selling.

It's basically a business development coordinator role.
I've done this role before within another industry which is why I have been approached. We had to network and socialise but nothing on the level I am hearing in recruitment.

I'm also drawn to the flexibility and working from home. My current job is ok. Been there 6 years but no flexibility and quite a negative attitude towards my life as a single parent. There is also absolutely no progression and pay is poor

IME unpleasant sector to work in both from a support and recruiter side. Where I worked they insisted the support role involved no sales then suddenly we were targeted to sell.

Environment wise it was very much working you to the bone. They partied heavily and even gave everyone alcoholic drinks on a Friday before they left for the day!

Oh it really doesn't sound like my type of thing

I'd also add that it's very cut throat, always trying to save/grab money wherever the bosses can, staff turnover is extremely high

Is it contingent or retained agency OP? They will have very different environments. If it's a search firm for financial services there will be next to no partying and more of a professional services environment. You can make a good salary in this type of place.

Works on retainers.

It's also business consultancy too

Then you'll be absolutely fine OP, they look and feel more like law firms and usually have a very professional environment and they pay well also.

Well that sounds more reassuring.

Early to mid 20s I worked in business development and was successful. After been made redundant and not being able to find similar work I had to pick up any job to pay the mortgage. This was a significant salary drop down to minimum wage. I then fell pregnant and I guess I have felt like I've fitted a stereotype that I need to accept easy, low paid jobs to fit around my child. Especially being a single parent.

I dont hate my current job. I've been there over 6 years. But it's way too easy. No progression. No fulfilment. I'm bored. And now there is no company loyalty to their staff. My boss' attitude has never been pleasant with regards to me being a lone parent as everything falls on me. However I've grinned and bared it as I've been able to fit my job around my child to a degree. However doing this has meant I will not be considered for progression in the company.

However now after 6 years, the lack of loyalty to employees and the continued poor attitude towards my life I feel I need to address feeling unfulfilled and stop accepting the safe option.

I do really value my time with my son. I dont mind working hard but I will not partake in partying and drug taking and I dont want to feel sidelined because I wont be part of it. Its important my son gets plenty of my time too. I currently work 8 to 3 but would be happy to work more within reason.

This is a flexible working from home role but I imagine on some occasions it will be office based. It's also been mentioned that incentives include team holidays and also the opportunity to earn a bonus. So I feel there must be an element of selling. However I wouldn't be finding candidates their roles, I would be their point of contact and liasing with various parties involved in the placement.

Although I want more from my work life I don't want to throw myself into a cut throat environment. I dont want to play safe and stay where I am. I have plenty of reasons to move, however I cant ignore the fact that although I struggle massively financially (each month is is so hard) and am unhappy, I feel secure there. Though I cant see this lasting forever due to changes in the business.

It's so hard

Depends on sector but I have a lot of experience with tech recruitment. It's hard work, relentless, competitive and very long hours. Can't ever really enjoy holidays without having to do some work. But lots of jobs and opportunities. Very highly paid.

Others may have different experience

Big difference between agency and in house should say.

I'm an Executive Search Researcher for a financial services institution (so in-house) and work 9-5 and get a decent salary, I'm also a single parent and it works really well. You should go for it!

I've worked in a recruitment agency....there was lots of socialising...lots of banter. A few idiots but it was mostly fun.