Natalie Winterton: My Experience of the Level 3 CertRP

Natalie Winterton is an apprentice at BPS World, and recently completed her Level 3 Certificate in Recruitment Practice. We asked Natalie what that was like, and about her career so far in recruitment.

 

Why did you choose the Level 3 Certificate in Recruitment Practice?

I’ve always enjoyed being able to progress my education. My current company, BPS World, have been really supportive in helping me achieve higher education through the IRP/REC qualifications during my apprenticeship. After taking my Level 2 qualification, I knew that I wanted to do more. So as soon as I could I signed myself up for the Level 3, as not only will I be able to build my professional knowledge, but I can also challenge myself

What was the most challenging part of the qualification?

The legal requirements module most definitely!! It’s a lot of reading to go through, and it can be tricky as you don’t know what will be on the test, so I was sure to read everything in order to gain as much knowledge as possible.

What was the most useful unit of the Level 3?

I would personally say the sales unit as it is so versatile. You can apply the techniques learned to not just new business development, but also to marketing and gaining new candidates for positions. It also taught me a lot of new skills and tips that I am already actively using in my day-to-day working life.

How did you find studying for the Level 3 while working full time?

With BPS World being so supportive, it made it a lot easier to accommodate my study time. I set aside one hour a day outside of my lunch hour to complete mock exams, read the PDF documents, and attend webinars. At times it could be tricky, for example if I was working on a high volume of positions at one time, but I always ensured to take at least 30 minutes, if not an hour per day to focus on my studies.

How will you use the Level 3 day-to-day?

Primarily when speaking with candidates, I feel my knowledge and expertise growing, therefore giving me more confidence when speaking to and advising them on various matters. Secondly, I feel that the knowledge I have gained will help me to promote myself within the business.

Would you recommend the Level 3 to others?

Most definitely! It is an experience unlike any other, you find out so much about yourself and at the same time, get the opportunity to learn so much more about recruitment and its inner workings.

How has 2017 been for you so far?

2017 has been a great year so far! It’s been a year of global growth for BPS World, with our most recent office opening in Belgrade. Not only is this great for BPS, but it’s also created fantastic opportunities for the staff, giving us the chance to travel to and work in the global offices. I’ve also been involved in some amazing activities including Tough Mudder with my colleagues, in which I raised over £100 for Women’s Aid, and being part of our GOOD Giving initiative, making donations to local charities.

What’s the best thing about working in recruitment? What’s the most challenging part?

The best thing about working in recruitment for me is the opportunity that it provides. These opportunities aren’t just localised in one area, it’s all over the business, for example, at BPS World I have been given the opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship, work international roles, take two qualifications and be considered for various internal promotions. On the other side, the most challenging part can be time management. The days can be hectic and sometimes you’ll be asked to work an urgent role with a short deadline! What you would need to remember in this situation is that there are people with a wealth of knowledge, who can help you find your best time management style.

What’s the best experience you’ve had with a candidate?

I try to make every experience that a candidate has with me and my company a positive one. My most memorable would have to be a candidate I spoke to about a Senior Global Mobility Consultant position. She had taken a short sabbatical after working for over 10 years in the Global Mobility Industry.

I was able to learn so much about Global Mobility from her, and reintroduce her to the industry, whilst providing her with tips on the best position for her. She went through the interview process confidently and was offered a full time position. Before she started, she very kindly left me a glowing review on LinkedIn, and reminded me that when I see a candidate truly happy, it makes my role worthwhile!

What would you tell yourself on your very first day in recruitment?

Don't worry if you are unsure, ask questions and don’t be afraid of what the answers may be. There are so many people around you who are rooting for you to go far and succeed, so you can rely on them to help you when you need an answer.

Are you interested in joining Natalie as a qualified recruiter? There's still one more fast track course available in 2017. Find out more and enrol now to start 2018 CertRP qualified.

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