It’s no secret recruitment is stressful. We work in an industry where you’re only as good as your last month, and the pressure to hit targets is relentless. But here’s the thing: mental health in recruitment matters just as much as commission - there, I said it! Yet, mental health is often the first thing to slip when things get tough. In fact, 82% of recruiters report feeling high levels of stress daily, and while the pressure to perform is real, so is the need to look after yourself.
Mental Health: A Skill You Need to Master
Mental health isn’t something that just happens, it's a skill that requires regular practice. In the same way you invested time into learning how to close deals, mastering mental health takes self-awareness and effort. You need to figure out what works for you, what stresses you out, and what your warning signs are. You wouldn’t let a candidate go through the recruitment process without feedback, so don’t ignore the feedback your mind and body are giving you.
The Workaholic Trap: Recognising Burnout Before It Hits
We've all been there. You start by putting in a few extra hours here and there, maybe to meet demand, maybe just to keep up. And before you know it, the ‘temporary grind’ becomes your everyday life. Sound familiar? The problem with constantly pushing is that it can lead to burnout, where you’re mentally and physically exhausted. And here’s the kicker: nearly 50% of recruiters have experienced burnout, with many citing unrealistic expectations and unmanageable workloads. It’s time to break the cycle.
Pro Tip: It’s okay to say "Not today, Satan!" whether that’s booking a holiday or just taking an afternoon off. Trust me, your inbox will still be there.
Recognising the Signs of Stress (And Stop Ignoring Them)
Stress looks different for everyone. For some, it’s anxiety or indecisiveness; for others, it’s feeling overwhelmed by small tasks or snapping at colleagues. If you notice any of these signs creeping in, it’s time to take a step back. Ignoring stress won’t make it go away, it just kicks the can down the road.
Practical Tips to Stop Burnout Before It Stops You
1. Master Time Management Like a Boss
Time management isn’t just crucial for improving efficiency - it’s key to protecting your mental health too. Plan for tomorrow by creating a to-do list before leaving the office and mentally clock out, knowing everything will be handled. There’s nothing worse than waking up at 3 a.m. stressing over that one thing you forgot. You’ve got a plan - stick to it.
2. KPI Yourself (Yes, Seriously)
I know, I know - KPIs are no friend of ours. But flip the script by setting your own personal KPIs and track three things that will directly make you money. Forget the fluff, ignore the noise, and focus on what moves the needle. Hit those and you’ll start to see real progress.
3. Spoiler Alert: Work Hard, Play Hard Doesn’t Actually Work
Sure, a wild night out might seem like the cure for a stressful week, but that feeling soon fades when "beer fear" and a pounding headache hit you like a tonne of bricks the next day. Instead, focus on what really works: downtime that recharges you. Whether it’s exercise (which, nerd alert, burns off stress hormones and replaces them with feel-good chemicals like dopamine and endorphins), spending time with family, walking the dog, or getting lost in a good book, find what works for you. And don’t pull the "I’m too busy" card, if Obama could fit in a 30-minute workout every day while in office, so can you!
4. Learn to Switch Off (And Mean It!)
Switching off isn’t easy, but it’s essential. Whether it’s using a separate work phone, setting your devices to "Do Not Disturb," or physically putting them in a drawer, you need to disconnect and mentally detach. Give yourself the permission to shut down.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Asking for help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. Whether you need to talk to a friend, a colleague, or a doctor, reaching out is a sign of strength. And trust me, your mental health is worth the investment. You're no good to anyone, least of all yourself, if you're running on empty.
Final Thoughts: It’s OK to Not Be OK
The life of a recruiter might be a high-stress rollercoaster, but you don’t have to ride it solo. Remember, your mental health matters just as much as hitting your next target. Take a breather, switch off, and don’t be afraid to say "no" when you need to.
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