July and August are traditionally when recruiters take a well-earned break, whether it’s a staycation in the UK or a trip abroad, to recharge and reflect on their careers. For many, this downtime becomes a period of clarity and decision-making, and it’s often when the idea of launching their own recruitment agency starts to take shape.
Over the years, MAYACHI has spoken to countless recruiters during this season who have decided that now is the right time to plan their next move. It’s the perfect opportunity to sketch out a business plan, prepare a smooth exit from their current employer, and use the following months to set up their new venture in time to hit the ground running in the new year.
Of course, running your own recruitment agency isn’t for everyone, even if you’re a top biller. But for some recruiters, stepping out on their own is the natural next step. Here are a few types of recruiters who should seriously consider starting their own agency as the holiday season winds down:
RECRUITERS WHO HAVE BUILT THEIR OWN DESK FROM SCRATCH
If you’ve built a desk without relying on existing clients or candidates, you’re already equipped with one of the most valuable skills needed for launching a new agency. Most employment contracts include restrictions around working with previous clients or candidates after leaving, so being able to generate business from a cold start is a huge advantage and reduces the risk of breaching any post-employment covenants.
RECRUITERS WHO ARE BILLING AND MANAGING A TEAM
Running a successful recruitment agency isn’t just about billing; it’s about managing operations and delegating responsibilities effectively. If you’ve already managed a team, you’re likely familiar with other business functions like accounting, marketing, IT, and sourcing funding. These transferable skills are essential for agency owners, especially if you plan to grow the business and hire staff in the future.
RECRUITERS WHO HAVE FUNDS BEHIND THEM TO SUPPORT A NEW VENTURE
It’s rare for a new recruitment agency to start billing from day one. That’s why it’s crucial to have at least 3–6 months of personal financial support in place. Even if you make a placement early on, cash won’t hit your account immediately. Having a financial buffer gives you the breathing space needed to build your pipeline without unnecessary pressure.
RECRUITERS WHO HAVE THE AMBITION AND DRIVE TO SUCCEED
Launching a business takes more than just industry knowledge; it requires resilience, ambition, and relentless drive. The first year is often the toughest, with long hours, high stress, and constant decision-making. If you’re highly motivated and ready to embrace the challenge, starting your own agency could be your best move yet.
September and October are ideal months to start setting up a recruitment agency. It gives you just enough time to get the infrastructure in place, secure your first few clients, and build momentum before the busy new year hiring season begins in January.
MAYACHI has helped many recruiters take the leap after coming back from their summer holidays with a renewed sense of purpose. We provide expert advice and practical support to ensure you have everything in place for a strong and successful start to your recruitment business.
