The Resilient Recruiter: How I Learned to Turn “No” into My Greatest Asset

Shifting from Recruiter to Matchmaker

Early on, I thought recruitment was about matching keywords on resumes to job descriptions. I was wrong. The best hires happen when you look beyond the CV and focus on connection. For instance, I once placed a Financial Controller who didn’t tick every technical box but was a perfect cultural fit. Three years later, he’s became the Chief Financial Officer. How? Because I prioritized his values, work style, and long-term ambitions over a checklist of skills.

Now, I approach every role like a matchmaker:

• I dig into motivations: What truly makes a candidate excited to start Monday?
• I manage client expectations with honesty: If the salary is below market, I say so.
• I focus on long-term success, not just quick placements.

This mindset shift didn’t just improve my placement rate — it made my work more meaningful.

The Power of Polite Persistence

I used to think following up too much would annoy people. Then I realized: the right candidates and clients appreciate our tenacity — when it’s done right. I once spent three months nurturing a relationship with a passive candidate. I’ve sent festive greetings, randomly ask how he is doing and what is he up to lately.

That conversation led to one of my most successful placements which is the Financial Controller and now has become the company’s CFO

Now, I embrace persistence with purpose:

• I never take “no” personally. Instead, I ask: “Is this a ‘not now’ or a ‘not ever’?”
• I stay top-of-mind without being pushy. It’s about adding value, not just asking for something.

Building Resilience — One “No” at a Time

Resilience isn’t something we’re born with—it’s something we build. After a rejection, I give myself 10 minutes to feel frustrated. Then, I shift gears and focus on learning. Why did the candidate say no? Was it the salary? The commute? The company culture? Each piece of feedback is a clue that helps me improve.

I also celebrate small wins. Scheduling a final-round interview? That’s a win. Getting positive feedback from a hiring manager? Another win. These moments keep me motivated when the big victories feel few and far between.

And I never underestimate the power of community / support group whether is within the Company or ex-colleagues. Whether it’s venting about a last-minute dropout or sharing tips on negotiating offers, having a support network makes all the difference.

Adapting to Change — Without Losing Sight of What Matters

The recruitment landscape is constantly changing and transforming. With AI tools, shifting candidate expectations, remote work, Work from Home, Hybrid work arrangements, Flexi working space — it’s a lot to keep up with. But I’ve learned that versatility isn’t about chasing every new trend; it’s about knowing which ones matter.

For instance, I now use AI to streamline sourcing, but I never let it replace genuine human connection. I’ve also adapted my communication style: Gen Z candidates prefer quick, authentic chats, while senior executives often value detailed conversations.

The goal isn’t to be everywhere at once — it’s to be intentional about where you invest your energy.

Never Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

I learned this lesson the hard way. Early in my career, I relied too heavily on one client. When they suddenly froze hiring, my pipeline dried up overnight. Now, I diversify everything:

• I maintain a backup list of candidates for every role.
• I work with clients across different industries and sizes.
• I balance my time between active sourcing and long-term relationship building.

Diversification isn’t just a strategy — it’s what keeps my goal sustainable during uncertain times.

Final Thoughts: Your Journey, Your Rules

Recruitment is tough. There will be days when you question your choices. But there will also be days when you place the perfect candidate and they still remembers you till today, and some will reach out to you when they are ready to look for better opportunities, help you to spread the words out to reach out to potential candidates, provide you with referrals etc

Those moments make everything worth it.

So, the next time when you face rejection, remember: it’s not a setback. It’s a step forward in disguise. Keep learning, stay connected, and never stop believing in the impact you make — one placement at a time.