Recruitment: Why you sometimes feel like a superhero in this job

Lisa Johnson • November 13, 2018

Who doesn’t love Iron Man or Wolverine?

Let’s be honest, Stan Lee had the BEST superhero characters. It’s the depth and complexity of his Marvel comic characters that ensure they remain, and will probably always remain, fan favourites across the world.

Recruiters don’t have a lot of super powers.

And most of us don’t have Wolverine’s abs and Black Widow’s legs. But there are days when the universe seems to come together, and we feel like superheroes. Like the lives of the Marvel characters Stan Lee created, a day in the life of a Recruiter is filled with ups, downs, dramas and sometimes, the most glorious outcomes.

It’s a great feeling when you meet a job seeker, who with your guidance and support, goes on to land the job of their dreams. Their elation is palpable, and we love knowing that we made a real difference in their lives. Just maybe we have set them on the first step of their path to greatness! In that small moment, we feel like a superhero.

Then there are the challenges, and sometimes overwhelming odds, that we must overcome to achieve a good result. Whether it’s job seekers not showing up for an interview, or not making it through their first week on the job, or line managers who disappear into the ether and don’t return calls – no day is without its challenges. When you work through all of this and assist a job seeker across the line and into a job, you definitely feel like a superhero.

Like all superheroes, we make mistakes.

Our reputation is sometimes only as good as the last ‘placement’ and there are times when no matter what we do, we are let down by job seekers or hiring managers. On those days when everything goes wrong, when people don’t show up for work, or get drunk and stab someone in the eye (don’t laugh, one of my temps did this!), we are superheroes for not giving up. Honestly, you have to have a hide like The Hulk some days.

But when you meet a target, when sometimes it feels like achieving a target is as easy as climbing Mount Everest blindfolded and in the nude – when you make that magic number, you absolutely feel like a superhero. A great recruitment consultant will always take pride in meeting and exceeding targets. It’s their superpower!

Whilst I am so glad that we don’t have to wear lycra or capes, I can tell you this, every successful recruiter has moments of greatness. Where they save the day, uplift those around them and deserve every accolade that they get!

Vale Stan Lee.

May your characters live on to battle evil, champion the poor, the needy, the lonely and the disenfranchised. Thank you for reminding us that true heroes don’t always come from outer space or are born into limitless wealth. Heroes can be working class kids brought up by elderly relatives, and jaded scientists who are searching for the truth and doctors with broken hands who change their selfish ways to become protectors of the earth. It doesn’t surprise me that there isn’t a recruiter in the Marvel warehouse of heroes, but this doesn’t matter – some days we just feel like we can be heroes!

Find the job you love I Find the right talent
Get in touch with people2people

Australia
   I    United Kingdom

In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.

Recent articles

By Liz Jones April 16, 2025
Over half of UK employees would consider quitting if they discovered their employer was monitoring them, according to recent research. With 85% of businesses admitting to tracking screen activity and website usage, employee trust is at risk. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones explores the impact of surveillance on workplace culture, stress, and retention. Learn how to strike the right balance between oversight and autonomy, with practical strategies to build a trust-first culture that supports both performance and wellbeing. Is your business protecting productivity—or pushing your top talent away? Read more to find out.
By Liz Jones April 15, 2025
With the new financial year underway, UK businesses are reassessing hiring strategies and tax planning to maximise savings and ensure compliance. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones speaks with Senior Consultant Maddy Laing about smarter workforce planning, contractor compliance, and aligning staffing with business goals. We also explore practical tax tips to avoid an EOFY hangover—covering recordkeeping, deductions, and super contributions. Learn how to get ahead with a proactive approach that reduces costs, avoids risk, and drives growth from day one. Are you setting your business up for a smarter, more strategic year ahead? Read more to find out.
A woman in a suit is giving a plaque to another woman
By Hannah Slee March 19, 2025
Employee recognition is no longer just a ‘nice to have’—it’s a strategic necessity. In the UK, 54% of organisations now prioritise regular appreciation, with recognised employees 8x more likely to feel a sense of belonging and 5x more likely to stay. Businesses with strong recognition cultures see 87% lower burnout rates, improving morale and retention. Simple, consistent praise—whether through team meetings, milestones, or digital platforms—can boost engagement. Are you doing enough to recognise your employees and keep them motivated? Read our latest blog to find out how to build a culture of appreciation.
A woman is sitting at a desk working on a computer.
By Hannah Slee March 17, 2025
In 2025, graphic design interviews are about more than creativity—employers want problem-solvers, strong communicators, and adaptable professionals. A standout portfolio should showcase process, not just final designs, with 4-6 high-quality projects. Candidates must be ready to explain their design decisions, handle client feedback, and demonstrate technical skills in Adobe Suite, AutoCAD, and Revit. Soft skills like communication and collaboration are just as vital as software proficiency. Want to know how to structure your portfolio and answer key interview questions to land your dream design job? Read our latest blog for expert insights and tips.
An application form with a pen on top of it
By Hannah Slee March 12, 2025
Job seekers are under increasing pressure to stand out, leading many to exaggerate their CVs. However, with AI-driven background checks, dishonesty can ruin career prospects. Instead of taking shortcuts, focus on tailoring your CV, highlighting skills, and leveraging networking to secure roles authentically. Employers value transparency, and a strategic approach to job searching will always outweigh the risks of deception. Want to know the best ways to strengthen your job application while staying honest? Read on to discover expert insights and actionable tips to help you land your next opportunity with integrity!

Latest Media Features


Get in touch

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us