Recruitment Consultant Review

I found the entire placement year extremely enjoyable, the level of responsibility I was given equalled that of the permanent employees. There were always incentives to work towards, social events, dress down days, networking events, so although the hours are long, the days and weeks are varied. Although there were just a couple of interns in each office, we had quarterly meetings and drinks with all interns across the North West, which was nice to discuss our feedback on the placement year, and also have a conversation with individuals on the same level.

Extremely valued. I held the same position as my permanent colleagues, and all successes were really recognised across the office throughout the month and also at month end 'wrap-up'. I felt when I succeeded I was really contributing to a wider team, and didn't feel as though I was treated any different to my colleagues.

On a daily basis I was given support and guidance, both as a result of asking for it and it being offered based on my managers observation of my work. Working directly alongside my manager, I would ask for support of guidance, and this was always given back to me, however nearing the end of my placement year, there were times when I would be asked to use my experience and knowledge to suggest an answer myself, helping me to think as an individual rather than relying on others.

Given the nature of the job, there are some weeks that are extremely busy and others that are more quiet, however there is always work to be getting on with. On the quieter weeks it is important to work proactively, so that the busier periods are therefore more successful. There was a period of time where my work load was very light, and I felt I wasn't making much progress, however following this I was given a an opportunity to change my role slightly, where the workload then increased.

I feel the level of responsibility I was given was much higher than i had originally anticipated, which was definitely a positive thing for me personally, it may not be for others. I was solely responsible for the placement of candidates into both permanent and temporary positions, I managed clients and their expectations from start to finish, and negotiated fees and rates with senior level clients. At times it could be overwhelming however it hugely developed my confidence, business development, and communication skills.

I think this placement year will benefit me massively in future studies and professional environments. I think I will approach my final year of studies with a much more proactive nature and consequentially be more successful in these. I believe I will adapt in new working environments much more quickly, and also show confidence and credibility in future roles and interviews.

General atmosphere was really positive, it was a sales environment and there was a buzz around the office, particularly during successful periods. However saying that, this could mean that the pressure was felt in less successful times, though this was much less often. The people in the office were extremely sociable and friendly, and I felt I could chat to anyone from across the office.

The entire process from initial application to on boarding to process throughout the 12 month placement was extremely well organised and explained. The time between initial application to each stage of interview, and interview feedback was extremely quick, and I was always aware of upcoming dates and events I needed to attend and what was expected of me.

One of the best parts of this role is the training I was provided with. Before commencing the placement I embarked on a 5 day 'Hays Academy' which was a week of training, before actually going into office, this helped to ease any initial nerves and increase confidence for that first day. This week was also spent with other individuals who were due to start at the same time as me, which was especially nice to feel I was part of a wider group experiencing the same situation. 2 months into the placement I was then sent to Birmingham for 3 days of further training, all expenses paid, and throughout the year there were a multitude of training days/mornings/afternoons within my office and others across the NW. All of which showed a huge investment into me as am individual by the company

Future employment is very appealing, I see day to day the successes of my peers, and the incentives that individuals have to work towards. There is also a clear progression path within Hays, and promotions are clearly laid out to work towards, with constant assistance and progression checks with managers. Though it is also clear the times when this role can be very stressful and challenging, the successes are very well rewarded.

The social scene across the whole office was very good, all individuals across the office are quite like minded. Each Friday there are drinks nearby, there is a NW Christmas party, an office Christmas party, office incentive trip to the races, end of year 'wrap up', and a national summer conference down in London. In my office, there are only 3 interns, we get on well and socialise together however usually with the wider office as well. We meet quarterly for drinks with all interns across the NW.

Liverpool city centre isn't overly expensive in comparison to being down south for example, however more expensive than the areas that i would socialise whilst at university. I would be keen to live in a similar area to where i work once i have graduated, as the working social scene is great.

The nightlife is good, there are a lot of nice bars and restaurants immediately surrounding my workplace. Busier 'clubbing' areas are in a different part of town but not far away at all. The immediate surrounding are good since they are usually busy with similar working individuals from other nearby companies.

There aren't a huge amount of activities to get involved in outside of work, there have been a few charity events such as fun runs, and we have decided as an office to do a trip down to the lakes in June, however no sporting activities that many of my colleagues get involved with.