If you look back at your success in life, it rarely happens by chance, but rather as the result of intentional actions and good planning. Maybe mum was right when she used to tell me failing to plan is planning to fail before each of my exam blocks at school. Let’s explore why planning is the linchpin of success in the dynamic world of recruitment as both a recruiter and job seeker.

Recruiters

1. Talent Sourcing

Get a clear and clarified brief from the client before commencing your search. Know what skill sets, background and fit they are looking for. Don’t waste your time casting a wide net and hoping for the best when you can be targeted in your approach.

2. Client Management

Know your client and know what is important to them. If they value weekly updates, provide them. If they respond better to calls, call them. Get to know them on a personal level and you will be able to create a long-lasting relationship.

3. Candidate Relationships

Take time to prepare for your interviews. Read the CV and then read it again. Plan out what kind of questions you will ask the candidate and interview. By doing this you will get the most out of both their time and yours.

Job-Seekers

1. Clear and Targeted Applications

There is no point in spamming your resume out to hundreds of job ads in the hope of getting a response, without taking the time to consider your application, the job on offer and whether the two align. Take time to make sure your cover letter and resume address the points the application is looking for and you will receive more positive responses.

2. Interview Preparation and Confidence

There is no argument – preparation is the key to successful interviews, and successful interviews lead to job offers. Make sure you plan for your interview, whether that’s with a recruiter or the organisation. Do your research on the company and the interviewer, and have some questions ready.

3. Industry Research and Networking

If you are passionate about building a career in a certain industry, make sure you do your research and if possible, build professional networks in that space. While it may not help you straight away, having a strong network can assist you with career opportunities in the future.

It’s clear that in the world of recruitment, planning isn’t just best practice – it’s the secret sauce for success. For recruitment consultants it will help you build better relationships with your candidates and clients and for job seekers it streamlines your chance of success. Embrace the power of planning and you will reap the rewards.

Rutherford Kennedy
Consultant

Rutherford joined the team at Optimum in September 2022 with a background in law and customer service. His strength lies in being able to listen, identify and fully understand his client’s needs, and then deliver a timely and effective solution. Rutherford loves talking to people, understanding what drives them and is passionate about finding the right role that they will not only enjoy, but thrive in.