Is becoming a recruiter right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
Still unsure if becoming a recruiter is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a recruiter or another similar career!
Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.
How to become a Recruiter
To become a recruiter, you generally need a combination of education, skills, and experience. Here are the general steps:
- Earn a degree: While there is no specific degree required to become a recruiter, having a degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field can be helpful. A degree in psychology or communications can also be relevant, as recruiting often involves communication skills and understanding human behavior.
- Gain experience: Many recruiters start their careers in entry-level positions in HR departments or related fields, such as customer service or sales. This can provide valuable experience in communication, customer service, and working with people.
- Develop skills: Recruiters need a variety of skills to be successful, including communication, organizational, and analytical skills. They should be comfortable working with technology, such as applicant tracking systems and other recruiting software.
- Pursue certification: While not required, some recruiters pursue professional certification, such as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or the Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certifications. These certifications can demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field of human resources.
- Network and build relationships: Recruiters need to be skilled at building relationships and networking, both with potential candidates and with hiring managers or clients. Joining professional organizations and attending industry events can help you build your network and gain knowledge about the field.
- Apply for jobs: Once you have gained the necessary skills and experience, you can start applying for jobs as a recruiter. Look for opportunities in your desired industry or field, and be prepared to demonstrate your skills and experience during the interview process.
The specific requirements and qualifications for becoming a recruiter can vary depending on the employer and industry. It's important to research the specific requirements and job duties for the type of recruiting role you are interested in pursuing.