A day in the life…

Where perhaps a decade ago, recruitment consultancy was something that people ‘fell’ into, the sector has evolved so much that today, it is a professional career option for many graduates and the one that I chose after graduating! So here is a brief rundown of a ‘day in the life’ at CBSbutler.

When asked what a typical day for me was, I couldn’t really describe one as my role is so diverse – and that’s what I love about it. One day I could be looking for a rocket scientist with a PhD and the next I could be searching for a qualified medical engineer to support front line forces in war zones. Other times I’ll be out of the office meeting and advising clients on their recruitment strategies. Regardless of the state of the British economy, engineers are in high demand and our clients are always commenting on there being a lack of good quality candidates – I like the challenge of trying to find them!

I joined the company shortly after graduating as a trainee consultant and had both a formal induction programme and mentoring from a more senior colleague. I had no previous experience of recruitment, so the 20 module training course was excellent for me – it really got me started. My training was very much one to one which worked really well for me as I was able to go at my own pace and then this was backed up by refresher and feedback sessions.

But my training didn’t stop there – working here you really feel like you’re valued and are invested in as there are constant opportunities for development. I’ve been lucky enough to be selected for a leadership and talent management programme to address succession planning – and you have to earn your place! There is a set of criteria which staff must meet in order to be accepted on the programme linked to performance and behaviours. I attend client specific training programmes to ensure an expert understanding of technologies and work processes and from time to time I’ll attend briefing sessions given by industry specialists.

In my role, as well as being rewarded for the achievement of sales targets, I am also rewarded on competencies such as problem solving, teamwork, customer service and organisational skills. It’s a true meritocracy – an individual’s progression is limited only by their own performance and ambition. The company offers eight grades each with its own specific promotion criteria as well as five clear career paths designed to offer variety and to meet individual preferences. On target earnings at the end of my first year were around £30k which accelerates as your career develops.

A career in recruitment won’t suit everyone, however working at CBSbutler has given me early responsibility, high earnings potential – and the satisfaction of helping to shape peoples careers. Not only that, I’ve met some great people, get to work in a nice environment and really feel like a part of a close team. And in my book you can’t get better than that!

John