How to Become a Head Hunter

Head hunters often have a background in human resources or extensive experience in their industry niche.

Head hunters provide a valuable service to both job seekers and employers. Utilizing networking and cold calling, a head hunter helps match candidates with open positions, ensuring that both parties mutually benefit from the arrangement. Most companies enlist the help of a head hunter for difficult-to-fill positions that require specialized experience or expertise. The head hunter helps negotiate the job offer and assists with the newly hired employee's transition into the client's company. Many paths can lead a person to becoming a head hunter. Most successful head hunters have a background in sales, human resources or a proven career in a niche industry.

Instructions

1. Work in a sales or staffing environment to gain experience with closing sales. One of the most difficult aspects of being a head hunter is convincing qualified and currently employed professionals to consider an employment opportunity with your client. Working as a salesperson will help you learn to overcome objections.

2. Contact staffing agencies and recruiting firms in your area. Ask to speak with a manager and express your interest in working in the field; inquire about internships or entry-level opportunities.

3. Earn a degree in marketing or human resources. While you do not need a college education for most head hunter positions, a solid background in marketing or employment law will help you advance your career.

4. Join your local staffing association and attend meetings to network with other head hunters and recruiting firm managers. These meetings will provide a wealth of training opportunities and may give you the chance to find a mentor.

5. Network with anyone you meet who specializes within the niche industry you plan to recruit. The key to succeeding as a head hunter is knowing who to call when a client offers an open position. Take detailed notes on everyone you meet so you can jog your memory when you need to make contact.

6. Earn your certification through the National Association of Personnel Services or the American Staffing Association. These professional certifications will help set you apart from other head hunters and give you a distinct advantage in regards to obtaining new clients.

Tips & Warnings

• Many successful head hunters obtained their positions by simply selling themselves and their strengths to recruiting firms. Often, you need only a strong personality and the ability to negotiate to get a foot in the door.

• Most head hunters make a commission-based pay. Always read your employment contract carefully and consider the commission rate and the non-compete agreement carefully before accepting a position.

References

• Recruiting Life: The National Association of Personnel Services
• The American Staffing Association: Education and Certification
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics: Human Resources, Training, and Labor Relations Managers and Specialists