The Moving In-House Job Hunting Roadmap

As a Recruitment Consultant, you understand the Recruitment process well. However, finding a new role for yourself can be a unique challenge.

Stage One: Preparation

As the saying goes, "Fail to prepare, prepare to fail." This is especially true for job hunting.

The preparation stage is all about getting your materials in place.

LinkedIn Profile: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is fully updated, with accurate information and a professional cover photo. Avoid using the "Open to Work" feature as your boss will probably see it as they will be on LinkedIn as much as you are..

Career Successes: Write down all your career successes over the years. Having this information readily available will help you tailor your applications.

CV Update: Update your CV to ensure it is current and well-organized. Ask a friend in Recruitment (not at your current employer) to review it.

Stage Two: Defining Your Parameters

Defining your job search parameters is crucial to optimizing your applications and targeting roles that fit your criteria.

Salary: Determine the minimum salary you are willing to accept, taking into account commuting costs and other financial considerations.

Benefits: Identify the benefits you require or would like, such as health insurance, a company car, or an enhanced pension contribution.

Distance: Set the maximum distance or commute time you are willing to travel for work.

Relocation: Decide if you are open to relocating, and specify any preferred or non-preferred locations.

Job Titles: Clarify the job titles you are looking for and whether the title itself is a critical factor.

Industries: Identify the industries or sectors you are interested in or want to avoid.

Working Location: Decide if you prefer a remote, hybrid, or full office role.

Team Size: Determine the size of the team you want to work with, whether a small, tight-knit group or a larger team.

Company Size: Specify if you prefer working for a small, medium, or large company.

Company Culture: Define the type of company culture you are looking for, such as 9-5 or a "work hard, play hard" environment.

Travel Opportunities: Decide if you want the option to travel in your new role.

Responsibilities: Determine if you want to manage people and budgets, or if you want to focus solely on recruiting candidates.

Stage Three: Finding

Automate the job-finding process as much as possible to make efficient use of your time.

Job Alerts: Set up job alerts on platforms like Indeed, Google for Jobs, LinkedIn, Simply Hired, and local job boards such as Monster or Reed.co.uk. Use Boolean strings to refine your search.

Approach Agencies: Contact Rec2Rec and HR Recruiters, clearly stating your job search criteria.

Join Newsletters: Subscribe to industry groups and job board newsletters.

Join Groups: Participate in HR and Recruitment-related groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, Reddit, Discord, etc. These groups can provide valuable insights and job leads.

Stage Four: Applying

Dedicate a specific time each week for job applications.

Weekly Schedule: Set aside time each week (e.g., Sunday) for job applications. Spend 90 minutes on quick applications, followed by a break, and then 60 minutes on more in-depth applications.

Avoid LinkedIn During Work Hours: Do not apply or network for jobs on LinkedIn during work hours. Also, avoid changing your status to “I am looking.”

Stage Five: Accepting & Resigning

When you reach the stage of accepting an offer and resigning, remember the following:

Do Not Accept a Counteroffer: Reject any counteroffer from your current employer. It is likely that you will be job hunting again within a few months.

Professionalism: Maintain professionalism and do not speak negatively about your current employer after resigning.

Gardening Leave: If possible, negotiate for gardening leave. This break can provide a useful transition period between jobs.

Write a Great Handover: Ensure you complete a thorough handover of your responsibilities.

Be Nice to Clients: Maintain good relationships with clients, as you may encounter them again in your career.

Avoid Bragging: Do not brag about your new job to colleagues. Be gracious and respectful.

Conclusion

Transitioning from an Agency Recruiter role to an In-House Recruitment position involves careful planning and a strategic approach. By preparing thoroughly, defining your job search parameters, automating your job search, and applying thoughtfully, you can successfully navigate this important career transition. 

Remember to maintain professionalism throughout the process to ensure a smooth and positive change.