3 Things I've Learned Working in the Recruitment Industry

Hannah Nielson • April 30, 2021

Recruitment isn’t exactly what I thought it would be, but then again, I didn’t really know what to expect when I moved from a legal support role into consulting. Having only worked in recruitment for a short time, I know I have many more things to learn and improve, however, I thought I’d share what I have learned on my journey so far.

Learn something new every day

I knew the bare minimum about the industry when I started. I can honestly say, in the time that I have been here I have learned something new, every single day. Not only have I learned new systems and procedures, but I have also developed my people skills and how I interact with others. I have learned how to conduct an interview - what questions to ask and what not to ask, I have learned to listen to other people’s experiences and stories.

Always pick up the phone

Yes, everyone searching for a new role has a CV that lists all their previous employment history. And yes, a lot of the time you can tell that they could be right for the role based on their experience. However, one thing I have come to learn is to always pick up the phone and speak with the candidate.

You cannot judge how someone would communicate or present in person based on a piece of paper.

Speak to the candidate, understand what’s important and what exactly they are looking for. Gain a better understanding so you can see if they are right for the current position or future roles.

‘This job is rewarding’ is an understatement

From the moment you make contact with a candidate, through the interview process to when the offer is made and the contract is signed. Of course, it is not always easy and unfortunately, you cannot help everyone. One of the reasons I chose recruitment as a career is because I wanted to do something where I can help people in their life. Changing your job or career is a huge decision. There’s no greater feeling than being a part of someone’s journey.

I am hoping my three pointers can help you if you are thinking of making a career change and stepping into the recruitment industry , I would highly recommend and I haven’t looked back.

Find the job you love I Find the right talent
Get in touch with people2people

Australia
   I    United Kingdom

In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.

Recent articles

By people2people UK December 15, 2025
Skills-first hiring is gaining momentum, with 85% of organisations now using it in some form. However, challenges around assessment, training and leadership alignment continue to limit consistent adoption. Explore what’s driving the shift and how employers can make skills-based hiring work in practice.
By people2people UK December 8, 2025
As job hopping becomes more common, organisations can take practical steps to reduce unnecessary turnover while supporting a modern, flexible workforce.
By people2people UK November 30, 2025
More UK workers are requesting salary advances and calling for flexible pay options as financial pressures intensify. Discover the latest trends shaping employee pay preferences across the UK.
By people2people UK November 23, 2025
Discover why communication gaps between generations are increasing in UK workplaces and how HR can bridge these divides through shared experiences, team activities, and stronger human connection.
By people2people UK November 18, 2025
A clear guide for UK employers on conducting fair, transparent and legally compliant redundancies during rising unemployment and economic uncertainty.

Latest Media Features


Get in touch

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us