A Belated Article...A Tempting of FATE?!

The other week started off with a flying start — the kind where everything seems to be falling into place, candidates are responsive, and clients are happy. But as the week progressed, things took a bit of a dive. Placements that felt like a sure thing fell through, and the dreaded radio silence from candidates set in. It’s a reminder that even in recruitment, things can change in a heartbeat.

Recruitment really is a rollercoaster ?? — full of highs and lows, twists and turns that can catch you off guard. One minute you’re celebrating a great match, and the next, you’re back to square one. But that’s what makes this industry so dynamic and rewarding. It's all about riding out the dips, knowing that the next high could be just around the corner!

With 20 years in the property industry, I’ve seen my fair share of ups and downs. But last week? Well, that one was tougher than most.?

Keeping It Real

I’ve found it difficult to put together this article without sounding, well, a bit "fed up". It’s easy to feel disheartened when things don’t go according to plan, especially when we pour our heart and soul into finding the perfect match?for both candidates and clients. But I’ve had to remind myself of a few things and actually re read my article about the rocket exploding to cheer myself up.?

In fact, this wasn’t even going to be my original article! I had planned to share some light-hearted stories or success tips, but the reality is that it can’t always be good news, funny moments, or easy wins. That just isn’t how life really is, and it’s important to acknowledge that. We all experience weeks like this — where things don’t go to plan. It’s part of the journey, and sometimes sharing the struggles is just as valuable as celebrating the victories.

Keep Talking To Us! Please! We Genuinely Will Do All We Can To Help!

As recruiters, all we really want is feedback. Whether it's good news, bad news, or anything in between, we won’t shout or scream — we just need to know where we stand. It’s not about placing blame or making things difficult; it’s about understanding how we can improve and support both candidates and clients better.

When we don’t hear back, it leaves us in the dark and makes it impossible to help. Open communication is key to finding the right fit and keeping things moving smoothly. So, if something’s not working or plans have changed, just let us know — we're here to listen, support, and make things easier for everyone involved

So here are my key takeaways from last week!?

1. It's OK to Feel Frustrated???

Recruitment is a people-centric business, and with people come unpredictability. Feeling frustrated is natural when things fall apart despite your best efforts. The key is to acknowledge those feelings without letting them dominate your mindset. I took a few minutes to reset - ate a lot of carbs (then felt the pain of having eaten white bread for the first time in a long time - not because I am self righteous about it, but as you may recall I am back in the gym and trying to eat better so that my leg has what it needs to stay strong)!

2. There Are Lessons in Every Setback???

Placements fall through, candidates ghost, and it’s tempting to focus on the negatives. But each setback provides an opportunity to reflect. Could something have been done differently? Was there a warning sign we missed? In many cases, the answer is no — but asking these questions still makes us better at what we do.?

3. Celebrate the Small Wins???

Even on tough weeks, there are small wins that deserve to be acknowledged. Maybe it’s reconnecting with a candidate who’s re-entering the market or getting positive feedback from a client — these moments matter! Celebrating them helps keep the bigger picture in focus. Even celebrating other people's wins can help you remember that it's a bad moment, not a disaster and that it will all come good.?

4. Self-Care is a Must???♀?

When things don’t go to plan, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of frustration. That's when it’s more important than ever to take a step back and recharge. Whether it’s taking time out for a walk, catching up with family, or simply putting your feet up for a bit, self-care can help reset your energy and perspective. I also have an awesome Rayner team on my side who despite the fact that we are all self employed that took time out to help me, tell me it was ok and help me shake the blues. #TeamRayner really is a team.?

5. Tomorrow is a New Day???

In recruitment, you’re always just one call away from turning things around. This week could bring a perfect placement, a breakthrough candidate, or an exciting new opportunity. The beauty of this business is that no two days are the same.

So, to anyone feeling the same way, remember: it’s okay to have tough weeks. It’s how we bounce back that really counts. ??

Here’s to a better week ahead!???

#RecruitmentLife #PropertyRecruitment #UpsAndDowns #LessonsLearned #KeepGoing