Let’s be real – recruitment is not for the faint-hearted. It’s fast-paced, competitive, and can feel relentless at times. As recruitment consultants, we’re often juggling demanding clients, candidate responsibilities, tight deadlines, and the pressure to hit targets. It’s a job that requires stamina, thick skin, and a whole lot of resilience. But even the toughest of us need to take care of our mental health, and with World Mental Health Day coming up on 10th October, it’s the perfect time to reflect on workplace wellbeing.
The theme for this year is workplace wellbeing, which couldn’t be more relevant for those of us in recruitment. So, let’s dive into some practical ways you can protect your mental health and maintain a healthy balance in such a demanding job.
1. Set boundaries (yes, really)
In recruitment, it’s easy to feel like you need to be “always on” – whether it’s answering emails after hours or feeling the pressure to work through lunch to get that last placement done. But this constant availability can take a serious toll on your mental health.
Tip: Set boundaries with candidates, clients and yourself. For instance, try not to respond to non-urgent emails or calls outside of work hours. It’s okay to switch off. No job should consume your entire life.
2. Don’t skip breaks - they’re essential
It might feel like you’re being productive when you power through your lunch break or skip that walk to meet a deadline. But in reality, taking breaks boosts your productivity and helps you stay mentally sharp.
Tip: Step away from your desk, even if it’s just for ten minutes. Stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and reset your brain. You’ll come back more focused and less stressed.
3. Talk about it
Recruitment can be a lonely game, especially if you’re working remotely or in a highly competitive environment. The truth is, we all have good days and bad days, and sometimes just talking about it can make all the difference.
Tip: Open up to a colleague, mentor, or friend if you’re feeling overwhelmed. It can be as simple as saying, “I’m having a tough day, can we grab a coffee?” You don’t have to suffer in silence.
If you feel like you need more support, you can reach out to organisations like Mind (mind.org.uk) or the Samaritans (samaritans.org) for confidential help.
4. Set realistic targets - stop chasing perfection
Recruitment is all about targets, but when we set goals that are too high or unrealistic, it can lead to burnout and anxiety. Striving for perfection can be a mental trap, making you feel like you’re constantly falling short.
Tip: Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate the small wins, like scheduling that meeting or securing a solid lead. Every step counts, and progress is more important than perfection.
5. Learn to say no
We all want to impress clients and be seen as the go-to consultant, but saying “yes” to everything can stretch you too thin. Recruitment already has enough stress – don’t add unnecessary pressure by taking on more than you can handle.
Tip: Be honest with yourself and your clients. If your plate is full, it’s okay to say no or negotiate deadlines. It’s better to deliver high-quality work than to overpromise and underdeliver.
6. Exercise and sleep: your secret weapons
Yes, you’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating. Regular exercise and proper sleep are game-changers for mental health. A brisk walk, a gym session, or even a bit of yoga can help clear your head and release those feel-good endorphins. And we all know that nothing beats a good night’s sleep.
Tip: Prioritise exercise and sleep as much as you do hitting your targets. Schedule in time to move, even if it’s just a quick stretch between meetings, and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep. You’ll thank yourself later.
7. Embrace flexible working
If there’s one thing we’ve all learned from the pandemic, it’s the value of flexibility. Remote and hybrid working has become more common, and this can be a massive boost to your wellbeing. Being able to create a work routine that fits your lifestyle – whether that’s spending more time with family, avoiding a stressful commute, or taking breaks when you need them- can reduce stress significantly.
Tip: If your workplace offers flexible hours or remote working options, take advantage of it! And if they don’t, don’t be afraid to ask. Many companies are open to creating a more supportive work environment but may need a nudge to do so.
8. Seek professional support if you need it
Sometimes, stress can become overwhelming, and no amount of self-care seems to help. That’s okay – it happens. If you find yourself feeling consistently anxious, low, or burnt out, it might be time to seek professional help.
Tip: Don’t wait until things reach crisis point. There are fantastic resources available in the UK for mental health support, like Mental Health UK (mentalhealth-uk.org) or The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (bacp.co.uk) to find a therapist.
Final thoughts...
As recruitment consultants, we’re driven, ambitious, and passionate about what we do – but that can also make us more susceptible to burnout and stress. Taking care of your mental health isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an essential part of being at the top of your game.
On this World Mental Health Day, take a moment to check in with yourself. Prioritise your wellbeing, set those boundaries, and remember that you’re not alone. Whether it’s through talking to a colleague, reaching out to a helpline, or just taking a break, small steps can make a big difference.
Your mental health matters, and it's okay to put it first
If you need support, here are some helpful UK resources:
Mind: mind.org.uk | Call: 0300 123 3393
Samaritans: samaritans.org | Call: 116 123
Mental Health UK: mentalhealth-uk.org
Shout (Crisis text line): Text SHOUT to 85258
