It is funny sometimes when I read through my favorite blogs every week.  I hear a lot about how great recruiting is, and how many "big billers" there are, and how everyone in recruiting is a rockstar (at least in in their own mind).  I shake my head and laugh.  Come on people, let's not always look at this profession through rose-colored glasses!

 

There are a lot of aspects about our job that really bite the big one.  I am part of a discussion forum where certain individuals actually publicly post that they hate recruiters.  Hate is a strong word, but wow!  I know my dad always told me you can't make everyone happy, but geez, I can't think of a profession I "hate".  We get abused by sales reps, candidates, and clients.  People outside of our industry don't understand what we do.  And then there is the whole "human element" that we deal with - it can be fun and make work interesting, but at the same time make me want to open my window and hurl myself out of it.  Ever feel like you just got hit by a hundred fastballs when you leave work at night?  And don't give me that "no, never, I love 100% of my job" crap, because if that is the case, it's time to wake up!

 

Sure, don't get me wrong, I love my job.  I love it enough to get up every morning and perform at the best of my ability.  We get compensated well, and let's face it, there is no better feeling than closing a deal.

 

I got burned twice this week on two deals that were suppose to close, can you tell?  Am I bitter?  Today perhaps, but tomorrow will be better.  Is recruiting my career?  For now, but not forever, I know that much.  Is it my job?  Yes, to pay the bills, help my firm grow, and hopefully (when the stars align correctly) place some very talented people in great positions that will improve their skills and increase their self-satisfaction...

 

Robert Stanke