4 Habits of the Most Successful Recruiters

Published on 11/19/2019 by Jimmy Hurff
Last Updated on 12/2/2022


What’s it take to be a successful recruiter today? At first glance, it may seem like an easy question, but dig a little deeper and it’s not so simple. 

Technology has simplified recruiting on one hand, while the marketplace, increased demands, and even that same technology have also made it seemingly more complicated. Recruiters are overworked and burned out, and many organizations are suffering from recruiter turnover. 

So what does it take to stand out from the pack? What is fueling the success of those recruiters who are thriving? 

Every day, the BrightMove team is talking to our clients. We’re answering questions and answering them, gaining important insight into what’s working for them (and what could be improved). Those clients whose recruiters are thriving overwhelmingly demonstrate these four important habits: 

1. They treat candidates like people, not resumes.

Recruiting is such an inherently human endeavor. Yet, so many recruiters are understandably focused on sending resumes and filling openings that taking care of people falls by the wayside. 

We mention this quite a bit, but it bears repeating. Today’s talent is smart. They are demanding. And they don’t want to be treated like numbers or resumes. The recruiters who not only understand this, but embrace it, are thriving. 

2. They care.

To that end, the most successful recruiters today are going above and beyond. They’re recruiters because they enjoy helping connect people with their dream jobs. They care. Talent today notices. And they are loyal to those recruiters who show a real interest in their success. 

What does that entail? Listening to candidates when they talk about their goals, their interests, their families and other important details. Remembering them, and taking them into consideration when suggesting potential roles or following up on an assignment or job. 

3. They use technology wisely.

With hundreds or even thousands of candidates in your database, knowing all those details and remembering them at the appropriate times can seem near-impossible. That’s completely understandable! 

Successful recruiters today are putting forth the human effort to hear, listen and recall important details. And they’re using technology to help them store that information and easily recall it when needed. 

When used properly (and when you’ve chosen the right recruiting technology), technology doesn’t replace or hurt real relationships, it augments them. Facilitates them. Empowers them. 

4. They are super organized.

Reviewing hundreds of resumes. Crafting dozens of job postings. Responding to voicemails, emails and texts...who can keep track?! 

It is absolutely a LOT. Recruiters today sink or swim based on their organization skills. From the papers on their desk (yes, many of us still have some papers on our desks!) to inboxes, calendars, and to-do lists, organization is essential to be a successful recruiter today. 

The right recruiting technology (specifically your ATS)  can also make a major impact here. For example, BrightMove integrates with your email, calendar, and texting providers, so that an update in one place is an update in every relevant spot. It allows you to tag records to help you easily sort and search to find exactly what you need when you need it. And so much more. 

Are you giving your recruiters what they need to be successful? 

The right ATS can dramatically impact the success of your recruiters, leading to happier clients, less turnover and improved productivity. BrightMove was built for recruiters — we are constantly listening and improving our platform to help you succeed. To see firsthand how BrightMove can help your recruiters be more successful, schedule a call with our team today. 


About the Author, Jimmy Hurff

Jimmy is a seasoned technology executive & entrepreneur noted for leading business transformations. Over his 25+ year career, Jimmy has developed multi-platform expertise in the domains of engineering, data analytics, security, compliance & business transformation. Starting in 1995, Jimmy worked with his best friend, David Webb, to develop one of the world's first Internet job board and resume bank applications. From then to now, Jimmy has been consistently helping his customers to build great teams, using best practices and world-class technology.

Try It Now


Make a BrightMove: Sign up for a free applicant tracking system trial

Start Now