Legal consultant finds her true passion in recruitment

After several years as a legal consultant, Eveline unexpectedly discovered her true passion: recruitment. What started as a new challenge soon became her calling.

Can you tell us about your education and the start of your career?

I studied Legal Practice at college and did an internship at a Big4 firm during my studies. It was there that I also started my career as a Legal Consultant. After three years, I decided to move to a smaller consultancy firm, where I started working as a Project Consultant. During this period, I successfully completed three projects and followed a bridging programme to obtain my Master's degree in Law.

By chance, a temporary vacancy as a recruiter became available within the consultancy firm. I decided to take up the challenge and soon discovered that recruitment really suited me. After six months in legal recruitment, I knew for sure: this is my passion. I quit my studies and started looking for a permanent role in recruitment. 

How did you end up at Robert Walters?

I considered several recruitment agencies, but Robert Walters stood out for me because of its professional image and ideal balance between large and small. Having gained experience at both a Big4 firm and a small agency, I was looking for a working environment that combined the best of both worlds. Robert Walters offered just that: part of a large, international group, but with a close-knit and friendly atmosphere in the office.

In addition, I wanted to broaden my horizons. Although a move into legal recruitment seemed the obvious choice, I actually felt like exploring a completely new market. So, I joined Robert Walters' Interim Management division, where I specialize in recruitment of finance professionals.

Did you find what you were looking for in recruitment - and specifically at Robert Walters? 

Absolutely! In my previous role as a legal consultant, I already had an advisory role, but the relationship you build with clients as a recruitment consultant is much more personal and in-depth. This allows me to build a qualitative and loyal network.

The interaction with candidates also gives me great satisfaction. I am in close contact with many interim managers, so I get to know their career paths well and can guide them in their search for new assignments in a more targeted way. My own experience as an external project consultant is a big help: I understand their challenges and can give both candidates and clients specific advice, for instance on smooth onboarding.

How were your first two years as a recruitment consultant - and what does the future hold?  

Over the past two years, I have learnt a great deal. From day one, I was coached by my manager and taught all the tricks of the trade. This on-the-job training is essential, because recruitment is not something you learn from books - you learn by doing. 

What I really appreciate at Robert Walters is the clear growth path everyone gets.

Earlier this year, I was promoted to Senior Consultant and I know exactly what goals I need to work on to take the next step in my career. I look forward to developing myself further and reaching new milestones!

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