Recruitment consultants play the role of searching for job hunters and sending them to temporary or permanent vacancies with client companies. Recruitment vacancies can vary from entry-level positions to directors or executives.

Recruitment consultants work for client companies, developing and growing relationships to better understand their recruitment needs and requirements. They attract candidates by composing vacancy advertising which is published through a range of media. Jobseekers can also be found by networking, headhunting or through referral.

Consultants usually screen initial potential candidates, interview them, arrange background checks where applicable, then match the applicants to jobs. Consultants also advise clients and candidates on salary expectations, training and career opportunities. If you have an interest in pursuing recruitment vacancies, read here to see more about what the job entails.

Recruitment consultant jobs involve the following tasks:

• use sales and networking methods to get business from client companies
• building relationships with your client companies
• build an understanding of your client companies, their industry and their work culture
• advertise jobs by writing and placing advertisements in media, such as newspapers, websites and magazines
• head-hunting candidates by identifying and approaching suitable candidates
• search CV databases to find appropriate matches for vacancies
• review applications, organise interviews and short-list candidates
• ask for references and ascertain the suitability of applicants
• inform candidates on the role, salary and benefits of the vacancy
• ready CV’s and correspondence to send to clients with regards to suitable applications
• set interviews for candidates with the client
• inform candidates about the outcome of their interviews
• negotiate a salary and final arrangements between clients and candidates
• advising clients and candidates on salary levels, training or career opportunities
• updating recruitment policies for running an effective selection plan and recruitment program