A Steep Learning Curve, But One Worth Taking

Like many new recruiters, both Cade and Ashleigh quickly discovered that recruitment involves much more than they initially expected.

When asked about their biggest learning curve, Ashleigh reflected on the challenge of balancing multiple priorities at once. "I think for me it's been managing such a different workload and working with clients. It's just been a big learning curve for me."

Cade highlighted the diversity of people and experiences the role has exposed him to. "Meeting a different variety of people that you wouldn't normally meet. It's been a great experience."

The early stages of recruitment often require new consultants to absorb large amounts of information, learn new systems, understand industries, and build confidence speaking with both clients and candidates. While the pace can be demanding, it also creates opportunities for rapid personal and professional growth.

The Reality of Your First Few Months

When Georgia asked the pair to describe their first three months in recruitment, both shared a similar perspective.

Ashleigh summed it up saying "I'd say it's definitely been a rollercoaster, but the good kind of rollercoaster where you're learning so much."

Cade agreed adding, "I would say ebbs and flows through all the training and everything, but I'm finally finding my feet now."

This is a common experience for new recruiters. Every day presents different challenges, conversations, and opportunities. Learning to navigate those highs and lows is part of developing confidence and resilience in the role.

What Nobody Tells You About Recruitment

One of the biggest surprises for both Associate Recruiters was discovering just how much happens behind the scenes.

When asked what no one tells you about recruitment, Ashleigh explained, "I think for me it was learning how much goes on behind the scenes and how much work everyone else does to get someone onboarded and get someone started on time."

Cade shared a similar insight. "I knew how much talking would be involved with the role, especially with candidates, but I didn't realise how closely we work with the client side of things with organisations to make sure everything runs smoothly."

While candidates often see the final outcome, successful recruitment involves extensive coordination, communication, compliance, onboarding support, and relationship management behind the scenes.

It is this attention to detail that helps create positive experiences for both employers and job seekers.

Celebrating Early Wins

Despite being only three months into their careers, both Cade and Ashleigh have already achieved significant milestones.

When Georgia asked about their proudest moments so far, Cade shared, "I think it would have to be that we're both now over 10 placements within our first three months."

For Ashleigh, success has been about growing confidence in her abilities. "I'd say for me it's just having the confidence to be able to do the role well and just be thriving as a consultant."

These achievements highlight an important aspect of recruitment. Success isn't only measured by placements. It's also measured by personal growth, confidence, resilience, and the ability to build meaningful relationships.

Advice for Anyone Starting in Recruitment

Perhaps the most valuable insights came when Georgia asked what advice they would give themselves on day one.

Ashleigh's advice was simple but powerful. "Just be kind to yourself and realise that it's just a learning process and that you'll get there in the end."

Cade's recommendation focused on organisation. "Write everything down. I know people told me that in the beginning, but I'm only realising how important that actually was."

For anyone considering a career in recruitment, these lessons are invaluable. Success doesn't happen overnight. It comes from staying curious, remaining organised, learning from every interaction, and giving yourself time to develop.

Why Recruitment Is Such a Rewarding Career

As the interview concluded, Georgia asked a final question, “Why should someone start a career in recruitment?”

The answer reflected exactly why so many people build long-term careers in the industry.

"I think for me, it's just a super rewarding career, just helping people and clients" Ashleigh said.

The variety of the role was another standout theme. "No days are the same."

Combined with a strong team culture, continuous learning, and the opportunity to make a genuine impact on people's lives and businesses, it's easy to see why recruitment continues to attract ambitious professionals.

As Cade summed up, "The culture is amazing as well."

Looking Ahead

Three months may only be the beginning of the journey, but Cade Winter and Ashleigh Ruddenklau have already demonstrated the mindset, adaptability, and commitment needed to succeed in recruitment.

Their experience is a reminder that while recruitment can be challenging, it is also incredibly rewarding. Every conversation, placement, and client partnership contributes to something bigger – helping people find opportunities and helping businesses secure the talent they need to grow.

For those considering a career in recruitment, their advice is simple, embrace the learning curve, stay organised, back yourself, and enjoy the journey.