What does a recruiter do?
Recruiters search for qualified and skilled job applicants for job openings within their company or organization. They gain a solid understanding of a specific position and the required skills and qualifications the company is looking for to pursue their search for applicants. They often travel to postsecondary institutions to interview promising students. They also hold job fairs, contact people within the community, and choose applicants from resumes. They are responsible for screening, interviewing, and testing potential employees and checking references. They assess an applicant’s education, experience, work history, technical skills, personality, and salary requirements. Sometimes recruiters extend employment offers and discuss benefits. They also discuss compensation, working conditions, and advancement opportunities with potential applicants.
What kind of training does a recruiter need?
Recruiters typically need at least a bachelor degree in human resources, business, or other related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a master degree. Prospective recruiters typically complete courses in business, human resources, business law, industrial relations, economics, psychology, and sociology. Many aspiring recruiters complete internships while pursuing their education to gain practical experience in the field. Most employers provide on the job training for new recruiters to learn the policies and procedures of the company. Recruiters must stay up to date with the current advancements in the field and the current labor laws. They often complete continuing education and additional training throughout their careers.
What are the prospects for a career as a recruiter?
Employment of recruiters is expected to grow faster than average for all professions, increasing 16% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The increased demand for highly qualified employees for many different companies and organizations will drive job growth.
Job prospects are expected to be good especially for recruiters with advanced education and extensive experience. Many job openings will arise from the need to replace recruiters that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do recruiters make?
As of December 2009, the middle 50% of recruiters earn annual salaries between $37,379 and $48,243. The top 10% earn annual salaries of more than $53,505 (2).
A career as a recruiter is a great choice for people with a strong interest in finding qualified applicants for a variety of positions within their company or organization. Recruiters must have a solid understanding of the human resources and employment policies of their employer. Patience, motivation, good judgment of character, and good decision-making are necessary characteristics. Recruiters must enjoy working with a variety of people on a daily basis and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must know the needs, programs, management structure, benefits, and advancement procedures of their company.
