How to succeed in recruitment
Successful recruiters aren’t just born with the right skills - they develop them over time. Recruitment is a career where skills are built through experience, persistence, and a willingness to learn, and the most successful recruiters develop habits that help them stay ahead.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your performance to the next level, the best insights often come from those who’ve already been there. Here are our tips for how to succeed in recruitment.
Mindset matters
Recruitment comes with highs and lows, and how you handle both will have an impact on your success. Candidates back out, clients change their minds, and deals fall through - it’s all part of the job. Make sure to focus on what you can control; follow up, learn from mistakes, and stay proactive.
Adaptability is another key skill. If a sourcing method isn’t working, or a client’s needs shift, successful recruiters pivot quickly rather than getting stuck in frustration.
Practical tip: Track your wins and losses. If something doesn’t work out, review what happened and what you can do differently next time. Over time, you’ll start spotting patterns and improving your approach.
Build relationships
The best recruiters don’t just place candidates - they build long-term relationships. Candidates remember how they were treated, and even if they don’t land a job through you today, they might come back later or refer someone else.
Clients, too, want recruiters who understand their business, who listen, follow up, and provide value beyond job placements.
Practical Tip: Keep a simple tracking system for staying in touch with candidates and clients. Set reminders to check in with past placements, congratulate people on promotions, and offer insights on hiring trends.
Always be learning
Recruitment is constantly changing, and those who succeed long-term are the ones who keep improving. That could mean mastering LinkedIn sourcing techniques, getting better at handling objections, or staying informed about industry shifts.
Berry Recruitment Group Training Manager, Victoria Bari, advises that regular on-the-job training can be a huge benefit to both companies and individuals;
“The reason consistent training is important is it helps employees develop and enhance their skills, providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to perform their jobs effectively leading to improved performance and productivity.”
Practical Tip: Make learning a habit. Follow top recruiters on LinkedIn, set up regular meetings with senior colleagues to get advice, or sign up for practical training sessions or courses.
Great recruiters don’t rely on luck or quick wins. They focus on long-term success by building strong relationships, staying consistent, and continuously improving their skills. The ones who excel see recruitment as more than just filling roles; they take the time to understand people, solve hiring challenges, and add real value to both candidates and clients.
Start your career in recruitment with Wild Recruitment; get in touch today to learn more about Wild and how we can support you.