The first thing that you will want to do before applying for these types of jobs is to get recruiting knowledge. It is important to make sure that you are getting some sort of training as a recruiter. While a knowledge of how to be a successful salesperson is important, it is no where near as important as proper working knowledge of the human resources jobs out there. The principals found within those jobs are what you need to apply to your career as a freelance recruiter in order to make sure that you are a success.
The next thing that you will want to do in order to prepare for this type of job is to think about the various types of candidates you would like to be responsible for placement. The freelancers that are paid the most are those who recruit for marketing, advertising, technology, and accounting companies. Before you even begin to get clients, you want to put together a collection of resumes that are suitable for your desired field so that you are all set and ready to go. You want to be able to show that you already have a jump start on their needs.
Something that is important to this type of employment is the amount of money that you will be making. Recruiters are generally paid through a retainer, which means they are paid a set amount up front) or they are paid on a case-by-case basis with a percentage of the first year's salary earnings of the hired individual. Pay is only made if the applicant accepts the position.
Once you have a good supply of resumes in the field that you are specializing in, it is time to build your network of clients. You will want to make sure that you are developing a reputation in your field in order to make sure that you are getting as many high-paying clients as possible. The more you are able to work, the more money you are going to make. And the more your reputation is valued, the more money you can expect to earn as well for this job.
The job can be a stressful one, and it is one that can have its ups and downs. This is especially true for those who work on a commission basis. If the companies are simply not interested in hiring because of the economy, or for any other reason, the recruiter misses out on a chance to earn some income. Then again, when times are great, they are truly great. A lot of money can be earned with these jobs, but a person must have dedication and focus in order to make a success of it. Without excellent people skills and the ability to manage your own work life, you would not be able to earn enough to live off of. Employment in this field without any prior experience is a risky one, but it is something that could very well pay off big time.
Make sure that you have your resume put together. Read it over and have a close friend or business associate read it over as well. You need to look at your resume and proposal letter as if you were looking to hire someone for a job as a recruiter. Would you be convinced to hire yourself for a job? If not, then you need to take a little time out of your day and focus on correcting your resume and cover letter until you are convinced that it simply cannot get any better and it will land you many jobs.
It is also a good idea to make sure that you are making connections with others in the same field. By doing that, you will be sure to be handed some additional work when you are in need. Even though it can be a competitive field, the contacts you make through your jobs are priceless. Just make sure that you are keeping yourself focused and try to stay up to date with what is happening in the industry. By keeping yourself well informed you will be sure to do your best with all of the jobs that you have from the various clients you will be working with. In the end you will see that all of your hard work for the jobs has paid off, as you will be reaping many rewards and benefits from it.