Case studies: Recruitment consultant: Adele

Adele graduated with a degree in English from the University of Sheffield and now works in Leicester as a recruitment consultant for Hays Engineering.

I work for Hays, the recruiting expert, and specialise in placing candidates within the engineering sector. We recruit professionals into roles within civil, mechanical, electrical, marine and structural engineering for companies, contractors and the public sector across the UK.

I joined Hays once I graduated as I really liked the idea of helping people get into a career they wanted to progress in and helping businesses to find the right people who could really make a difference. I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and knew that recruitment would offer this.

As an English graduate, my first day in the civil and structural engineering team was eye opening, but since joining I have already learnt a huge amount about the sector. I learn something new every day from talking to my colleagues, clients and candidates.

My favourite aspect of the job is taking responsibility for my success, with my own targets to meet. You are expected to work very hard, but with the potential for excellent rewards. Senior managers provide guidance and mentoring but you are given the freedom to develop your business using your own skills and contacts, with the support of a strong company and well-respected brand behind you.

I enjoy the thrill of filling a vacancy and exceeding my clients’ expectations. I also enjoy getting out of the office to meet with clients and showing them that I care about finding the right person for the role.

Working in recruitment has helped me to develop the skills I gained during my degree, in particular time management. Working for Hays has allowed me to develop my personal skills to the fullest in a challenging but rewarding environment.

I would recommend a career in recruitment to ambitious graduates who are eager to learn and succeed, and who are willing to work very hard for the rewards available.