A Day In The Life Of: Tom Rankin

What was your first job?

When I was 16 I worked at the local golf club and hotel as a waiter during Christmas parties and I managed to buy myself an iPod touch.

How did you get into recruitment?

When I left college, I wanted to get a job instead of going to Uni. I never really liked education that much but wasn’t looking at recruitment before I found an apprentice recruiter job here in St. Albans. When I first started I didn’t have a clue what recruitment was!

What do you love most about your job?

The best thing about recruitment is the opportunity it gave me at such a young age to make a life changing amount of money and manage a team.

What’s your top job to fill?

One of my long-term clients, who are one of the biggest charities in the UK, are looking for a new Director of Change to build a brand new 5-year strategy.

Who’s your role model – in life or in recruitment?

I don’t really have a role model as such. I look up to my dad because he did well for himself. I also work closely with Dale, one of the founders of Understanding Recruitment, so he’s someone I look up to and he’s taught me everything I know about recruitment now.

What’s your favourite meal?

It has to be when my mum makes chicken fajitas. It’s a bit too much washing up to do when I’m by myself!

What’s been your most memorable experience with a candidate?

Because I work in a specialist market, I sometimes work with candidates for years. One of them kept narrowly missing out on roles for about 2 years. Just when he thought he wouldn’t get a new role, he got the job and he was probably one of the happiest people to ever get a job. I was really happy for him because we had a really good relationship and it was a step up in his career.

What would be your theme tune?

Guns N’ Roses – Sweet child of mine

What is your top tip for candidates?

If you think you’re a good fit for the job, follow up with the recruiter with a phone call and make sure to mention the right type of stuff on your CV. Tailoring your CV to each position is really important.