Burnout is an unfortunate, all-too-common reality in our line of work, and knowing how to identify and address it is crucial for your wellbeing and success.

You might be surprised to hear that recruitment ranks up there with police work as one of the most stressful professions. Whether or not those stats are entirely accurate, it sure feels that way sometimes, doesn’t it? Particularly when you’re just starting out, the weight of the job can feel overwhelming. If you don’t learn how to manage that stress, it can not only affect your performance but bleed into your personal life. So, how do you know if you’re burning out?

Here are a few telltale signs:

• Eye Twitching: That annoying twitch might be more than just a nuisance; it’s a sign your body is under too much stress.
• Decision Paralysis: Struggling to make even simple decisions? That could be burnout talking.
• Mood Swings: Feeling unusually angry, sad, or just generally down? You might be carrying more stress than you realise.
• Morning Fatigue: Are you waking up tired, unmotivated, or struggling to get out of bed? That’s a red flag.
• Spontaneous Crying: If tears are coming out of nowhere, your stress levels might be through the roof.
• Skin Breakouts: Your skin is often a mirror to your gut health and stress levels. Breakouts could indicate an internal imbalance due to stress.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it might be time to hit the pause button and reassess your workload.

Managing Mental Load: Six Tips for Recruiters

Just like physical exercise, mental stress needs to be managed carefully. You wouldn’t hit the gym every day without giving your muscles a chance to recover, and your brain needs the same treatment. Here are six practical tips to help you manage your mental load:

1. Set Calendar Boundaries: Take control of your time. Don’t let others dictate your schedule, whether it’s clients, candidates, or even your boss. Also, draw a clear line between work and home life. Recruitment is a 24/7 job if you let it be, but you need downtime to recharge.
2. Know What’s Best for Your Mental State: You know yourself better than anyone. Whether it’s a walk, a nap, or something else, make sure you’re incorporating activities that boost your mental health into your routine.
3. Separate Exercise from Recovery: Don’t underestimate the importance of recovery. Balance your high-intensity workouts with stretches, massages, or even just some quiet time. Your nervous system—and your mental health—will thank you.
4. Nervous System Resets: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take some time to reset your nervous system. Ice baths, floats, yoga, and breathing exercises can work wonders. A few hours of self-care can turn your stress levels around.
5. Eat Clean, Stay Hydrated: It’s simple but effective. Swap out the junk food for something healthier, like a salad or an apple, and drink plenty of water. Your body—and your mind—will feel the difference.
6. Practice Being in the Moment: Stress often comes from dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Focus on the here and now. Whether it’s a conversation, a task, or just enjoying your coffee, being present can significantly reduce your stress levels.

These are just a few ways to manage the mental load that comes with recruitment. The key is to incorporate these habits into your daily routine so that you’re always one step ahead of burnout.

Wrapping It Up

Burnout doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of your recruitment career. By managing your expectations, setting boundaries, and weaving in healthy habits, you can maintain your mental health and enjoy a long, successful career.