How to Become a Corporate Recruiter?
Steps to Become a Corporate Recruiter
Before pursuing a career as a corporate recruiter you should understand what the role entails and commit to developing the necessary skills. While a quality education is an absolute must, corporate recruiters need to possess skills you can't learn in the classroom. Successful corporate recruiters excel at communication, problem-solving, and time management. Remember, as a corporate recruiter, you'll come in contact with dozens of recruits daily in person, on the phone, or through video calls, so it helps if you enjoy meeting and conversing with all sorts of people. Here are the steps to take to become a corporate recruiter.Earn a relevant degree.
Typically, employers prefer a corporate recruiter candidate with at least a bachelor's degree. Most recruiters have a degree in human resources, sociology, or psychology. A master's degree in one of these fields will make you stand out among potential hires and give you more opportunities for promotions and salary increases. Plus, with a master's degree, you can expand your knowledge of subjects like employment law, talent management, and strategic planning, giving you more versatility in the field.
What type of degree should you pursue to become a Corporate Recruiter?
87% of people working as a Corporate Recruiter earned a Bachelor's Degree
What skills do you need to be a Corporate Recruiter?
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Applicant Tracking System
- Interpersonal and Communication
- Onboarding
- Written Communication
- Excellent Communication
- Outlook
- Attention To Detail
Gain relevant work experience.
Even with a degree, you may not land a recruiting job without relevant work experience. Most recruiters work in sales, operations, or administrative positions before working in corporate recruitment. While you're in college, you may want to consider a part-time job in one of those positions to gain some experience.
Apply for recruiter internships.
Another way to get your foot in the door is to apply for available recruiter internships. Recruiter interns typically review applications and job resumes, manage applicants, and develop recruiting materials. An internship gives you practical experience and helps you expand your professional network. Plus, it isn't uncommon for an internship to become a permanent position.
Apply for recruiter jobs.
After completing your degree and gaining relevant work experience, it's time to start applying for recruiter jobs. Depending on your level of experience, you may only qualify for junior or assistant positions. Don't let this discourage you because an entry-level position is a great way to hone your skills and work your way up to a senior role.
Continue to develop your career skills.
No matter where you are in your career as a corporate recruiter, you should continually develop your skills. Consider earning a certification from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or the National Association of Personnel Services. Employers appreciate team members who are willing to learn and keep up with advancements in the field and consider them first when senior roles become available. A certification can come in handy if you're considering moving on to another company or becoming a freelance recruiter. You'll also want to join a professional organization so you can attend events and grow your professional network.
Corporate Recruiter Career Path
Corporate Recruiter
Senior Corporate Recruiter
Lead Corporate Recruiter
Total Pay Trajectory
Corporate Recruiter Career Path
Related Careers in the Human Resources Industry
Interested in other Human Resources careers? Below are occupations that have high affinity with Corporate Recruiter skills. Discover some of the most common Corporate Recruiter career transitions, along with skills overlap.