2013 is poised to be a breakthrough year in the job market. With the fiscal cliff behind us and the recession abating there are tons of encouraging signs. Large corporations are beginning to hire again, and even small-to-mid-sized businesses are starting to replenish their ranks. If you aren’t particularly enamored with any career choice, but want to be a part of this exciting movement you might consider becoming a recruiter. Recruiters essentially work either independently or within a corporation to find attractive candidates for a wide range of positions and get them placed into the most perfect fit. It’s a great way to make a difference, as you’ll literally help someone earn a paycheck. At the same time solid recruiters are in huge demand with large companies, as it is always less expensive to find the right person and keep them in a job long-term than continually seeking out replacements. Although recruiting jobs are plentiful, there is no one perfect path to nailing that kind of position. Here are a few tips to help you find a job in recruiting.

As with most careers it starts with the right education. And that means obtaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. No one goes to school for recruiting, and there isn’t any one major that fits perfectly. But there are subjects you should focus on over others. Anything in the business world is a good start, as are human resources and public relations. Just remember that recruiting is an administrative position, so a business administration degree will probably be more targeted than a degree in accounting or finance.

Once you get your degree you’ll have to go out into the job market yourself. Recruiting is a strange career, in that most people don’t start out as recruiters. Your best bet is to work in an administration or human resources department for a large company. Do your job, but on top of that look for opportunities to recruit friends and associates into the company. Start small, but keep your goals in mind. If you can build up a casual track record or a reputation for helping connect the dots with corporate hiring, you’ll become an attractive candidate for a recruiting position.

When you’re ready to look for a recruiting job, get out there and network as much as you can. Join industry organizations and take advantage of social events with your peers. You need to get to know the major players in your niche, and to find out which companies are doing the hiring. A major aspect of recruiting is knowing how to match people to opportunities. A database of contacts is an absolute requirement. Some time spent networking will also help you decide if your best next step is to apply for a recruiting job or to start your own company.

Chances are with little experience you’ll start out working for someone else. That means now is the time to get your resume together. Take your time with this, just as you’ll eventually suggest to others. Create resumes that are targeted for each company you apply with, and follow up in a timely manner. Learn the schedule and flow of any recruiter software you use, so you are the first one to jump on the best jobs. Take advantage of online recruiting sites, and don’t be shy about calling in favors from your network. With a diligent and consistent approach you’ll land the right job for you.