How to become a headhunter ?

You have an eye for spotting talent, you want to contribute to the success of a company and challenge doesn't scare you? Why not become a headhunter ? What does this job consist of ? What are the training programs to become a headhunter ? We’re going to answer all your questions about this job.

What does the job of a headhunter consist of?

The headhunter is a recruitment professional. They specialize in the careful search and selection of profiles that are difficult to find, in order to propose them to a company for potential recruitment.

The main role of a headhunter is to identify and contact potential candidates for specific, often key positions. An excellent knowledge of professions and required qualifications is therefore essential.

To find profiles, headhunters use different search methods, such as professional databases, CV banks, social networks and recommendations.

Once the candidates are selected, they assess their suitability for the position: skills, experience, personal qualities, etc. Then, they present the most qualified candidates to the client company for them to be potentially hired.

Headhunters can work in consulting firms, large companies/groups, or as independent professionals.

What education is required to become a headhunter?

There are several educational paths to become a headhunter.

However, it is necessary to have at least a master's degree.

• A degree from a business school is one of the best options, knowing that many offer a specialization in human resources. The IPAG's 5-year Grande Ecole Program is recognized as a Master's level degree and will prepare you to be operational in the job market. The specialization modules offered in the 4th and 5th years allow students to familiarize themselves with all aspects of human resources, especially through the Human Resources Management specialization.
• At IPAG, we also offer a Master's in Human Resources Management and CSR. The program includes management prospects, HR management and diversity, corporate challenges, HR legal practices... Everything to understand the jobs in the HR function, including that of a headhunter.
• You also have the option of pursuing a training program in IEP (Institut d'Etudes Politiques) with a focus on social law, law, or management.
• Some master's degree in psychology can also lead to a career as a headhunter, particularly those with a track in "psychology and occupational health."

However, note that your level of education is not the only key to becoming a headhunter. Practical experience, maturity and professional culture are also essential. Do not hesitate to gain practical experience through internships or work-study programs. You can do your such at IPAG, regardless of the path you choose.

 

Career prospects

 

The job of a headhunter can evolve into roles such as consultant, HR director - which is quite similar, career counselor, sourcing manager...

Furthermore, the job of a headhunter offers interesting career prospects. With experience and in-depth expertise, a headhunter can evolve into roles such as recruitment consultant, HR manager, career counselor or sourcing manager. These roles allow for expanded responsibilities and have an even greater impact on recruitment and talent management processes.

The missions of a headhunter

The missions of a headhunter are very diverse and follow a logical sequence.

First, they must identify the recruitment needs of the company they work for and define the profiles that the company needs. Such research requires a deep understanding of the job requirements as well as the skills and qualities desired in candidates.

Once the criteria are established, the headhunter actively searches for candidates. Their search methods are broad; they can use professional databases, CV banks, recommendations, and social networks (primarily LinkedIn and Twitter). They often directly search for the best candidates by participating in job fairs, professional conferences, etc.

Once the candidates are identified, the headhunter conducts a thorough evaluation of their skills, experience, and personal qualities. They ensure that these candidates perfectly match the established criteria and have the potential to succeed in the position to be filled.

When the selection is made, the headhunter has yet to present the candidates they have identified to the client company. They provide detailed information about each candidate, explaining why they would be ideal for the position. They also facilitate contact between these candidates and the company by following up on interviews.

What is the salary of a headhunter?

According to CIDJ, a junior headhunter can expect to earn an average gross salary of €4,000 per month. A confirmed headhunter, on the other hand, can earn up to €7,000 gross per month.

What qualifications are required?

• Having good knowledge of the business world, its challenges and stakes
• Mastering interview techniques and competence evaluations
• Having a good level of English to be able to recruit all types of profiles
• Being persuasive and knowing how to sell a company

Check out our other job descriptions and contact us to learn more about our professional training programs.