Is it Time Recruitment Had Its Own Qualification?

The recruitment industry is constantly evolving, and with the advent of new technologies and changing market dynamics, the demand for specialised skills and knowledge has increased. As a result, there has been a growing call for a degree program in recruitment that can equip professionals with the necessary education and training to meet the challenges of the industry, while promoting it as a great industry to work in.

Recruitment is a highly sought-after career path that requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. It is not just about screening resumes and conducting interviews; it is about building relationships, understanding industry-specific requirements, and staying up to date with the latest trends and technologies. A degree in recruitment can also serve as a valuable tool in promoting the industry to individuals who may not yet be familiar with the lucrative and rewarding career opportunities it offers. By providing individuals with comprehensive education and training in the field of recruitment, a degree program can help them gain a deep understanding of the complexities, challenges, and opportunities without feeling like they are entering the industry blind.

It’s surprising that there is no qualification program for recruiters, given the critical role they play in facilitating one of the most important facets within an organisation – hiring the right talent. While there are degrees in everything from Circus Arts, Surf Science and Viking Studies, recruiters typically are left to learn on the job. A degree in recruitment could cover soft skills such as communication and problem-solving, as well as in-depth knowledge of industry-specific requirements and the latest technologies and trends. A degree in recruitment could inspire more individuals to pursue careers in this dynamic and rewarding field and help promote the industry to those who may not yet be aware of its vast potential.

In more recent years, various short recruitment courses have been available to provide professionals in the industry with opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills. However, for those who are new to recruitment or interested in pursuing a degree in the field, there is still no direct pathway available. This can create a knowledge gap that can hinder progress and growth within the recruitment industry. While there are alternative options, it is becoming increasingly important for individuals to have access to structured learning opportunities that provide comprehensive knowledge and skills. Addressing this gap in education could result in a more informed and skilled workforce, leading to enhanced recruitment practices and better outcomes for both candidates and employers.



But What Is Actually Involved In Recruitment?

It’s both an art and a science, requiring a combination of attributes and skills. On the scientific side, recruiters must be well-versed in behavioural-based interviewing, negotiating, presentation, and analytics. However, successful recruitment also requires the art of effective communication, building rapport, and persuading top performers to join your organisation.

To excel in recruitment, individuals must possess certain behavioural competencies, such as a positive attitude, sound judgment, idea generation, and sales orientation. Additionally, they must develop skills such as proactive sourcing, understanding monetary and non-monetary motivations, candidate assessment, technology, and interviewing.

While there are no specific degree programs in recruitment, there are a range of degrees that can provide transferable skills to set individuals up for success in this field. The key is to focus on developing a broad range of soft and hard skills that will be valuable in the recruitment industry.

These can include:

Communication: A communication degree is ideal for a career in recruitment as recruiters require excellent verbal and written communication skills to build relationships with clients and candidates, articulate job requirements, and deliver bad news with empathy.

Business: Another important part of recruitment is all about sales, and business degree graduates, particularly those with a sales-oriented master’s. The ability to close deals and negotiate effectively is a vital skill for a successful recruiter, and an online degree in business can equip individuals with these essential skills. With a business degree, graduates learn the ins and outs of sales, marketing, and negotiation, making them well-equipped to thrive in a recruiting role.

Psychology: The study of Psychology provides a wealth of knowledge and skills that can be applied in the field of recruitment. As Psychology students learn about the intricacies of human behaviour and thought processes, they become equipped with the tools to identify the motivations behind an individual’s actions, making them adept at finding the right fit for a particular job or position.

Human Resources (HR): It is no secret that Recruiting is a vital aspect of human resource management, as it deals with hiring and managing employees. A good recruiter must be organised, methodical, and knowledgeable about hiring laws and employee benefits. A degree in Human Resources provides valuable skills in these areas and can set a graduate up for a successful career in recruiting.

Sociology: Sociology graduates are equipped with skills that can translate to a career in recruitment. Understanding how and why people work can help Recruiters offer the best employee experience to potential candidates. Sociology majors are familiar with cultural and behavioural patterns and can analyse data and develop creative solutions to problems.

Economics: An Economics degree is a great choice for those interested in becoming a Recruiter. Candidates with quantitative skills are highly sought after in today’s job market. A Recruiter with an Economics degree can effectively review resumes, assess qualifications, and provide valuable insight into job descriptions, salary ranges, and qualifications. Understanding complex mathematics is an important skill for recruiters, and an Economics degree provides the necessary background to excel in this field.

And we are just scratching the surface. Recruiting requires a unique blend of skills that span across multiple disciplines. While degrees in communications, business, psychology, sociology, and economics can all provide valuable skills for a career in recruitment, it can be challenging for individuals to know which path to pursue.

Recruitment is a multidisciplinary field that requires a diverse range of skills and knowledge. Having a degree specifically designed for recruitment would help individuals better prepare for the industry by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge they need. It would also allow them to gain a deeper understanding of how the industry works, the various roles within recruitment, and the strategies that are most effective in attracting and retaining talent.

With a specialised degree in recruitment, individuals would be better equipped to enter the industry and excel in their careers. They would have a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of recruitment, as well as the necessary practical skills to succeed in the field. Ultimately, having a specialised degree in recruitment would benefit both individuals and the industry.