Switching recruitment industry: Why it could be the best career move you'll make

As a recruiter you may know your industry and network like the back of your hand. This can be a great feeling, but it can leave you longing for a challenge. If this sounds familiar to you, a recruitment industry switch might be the right next step.

Research shows that the sectors that are looking likely to boom over the next few years are the Engineering sector, Healthcare and Renewable Energy. At QCS Staffing our consultants source roles for Life Sciences – a high percentage are engineers, Renewable Energy and Data Centres – another fast-growing industry. 

Due to the challenges faced by many employed people over the last 15 months, career and industry switches have increased and occupational switching rose to 6.1% in Q1 – Q2 of 2020. With this level of uncertainty, recession-proof industries are becoming increasingly popular when considering a new job.

Alongside job security there’s many benefits to switching industries, including; personal development, broadened career horizons and future opportunities.  

We spoke to Adam who moved to QCS Staffing with recruitment experience from the automotive sector. Adam is now the Divisional Head of our Data Centre & IT team.

How long have you been with QCS Staffing?

Adam:  I have been with QCS Staffing for 7 months and joined with 7 years recruitment experience.  

Were you nervous about switching industry?

Adam: No, because one of my main drivers for looking for a new role was a new challenge and to broaden my experience in contract and international recruitment. However, learning something new and being out of your comfort zone makes anyone nervous but I was reassured by knowing that my expertise is recruitment.

Did you research your new industry before staring your role?

Adam: When entering into the recruitment process I had done some research because the Data Centre recruitment market wasn’t something I was familiar with at all and on confirming I would be starting with QCS Staffing I did read a few articles online but my learning really started during my induction. There is a lot of knowledge in QCS Staffing which has been great and like in any recruitment position I have learnt the most by engaging and talking to candidates and clients in the market, still a lot to learn 7 months in! 

How has QCS Staffing supported you in your industry switch?

Adam: The induction process QCS Staffing puts all new starters through is excellent! Not only does it provide you with internal processes and procedures you are encouraged to learn new ways of working and given time to learn your industry whilst being supported by others across the business. My induction and working life at QCS Staffing has been completely remotely based, until this month when I spent my first full day in the office. But if you have a question there is always someone to turn to and everyone is more than happy to help!

If you would like to make the industry switch and join us at QCS Staffing, find out more about our recruitment opportunities in our life changing industries.