Those that know me will know I spent over twenty years playing rugby league, eventually retiring as club captain for my hometown club. I played at a decent level, but unfortunately never breaking the pro ranks, whist it would have been nice, it is safe to say my career earnings within recruitment have far outweighed my earning potential in the lower divisions of pro rugby!!
At first glance, rugby league and IT recruitment might seem worlds apart. One involves fierce physical contests on a muddy field (it was a winter game for most of my career!), while the other is a high-stakes game of matching technical talent with organisational needs. Yet, dig a little deeper, and you’ll find surprising similarities between the two pursuits. Here’s how playing rugby league mirrors the challenges and triumphs of being an IT recruiter.
Teamwork Wins the Day
In rugby league, every player has a role, whether it’s creating space for a winger or driving forward as a prop. Likewise, in IT recruitment, success hinges on collaboration. Account managers, recruiters, and sourcers must align to match the perfect candidate with the right client. Without a cohesive team effort, the results fall flat.
It’s All About Adaptability
On the field, plays don’t always go as planned. A quick-thinking player can turn a loose ball into a game-changing moment. Similarly, IT recruiters must adapt to unforeseen changes—candidates dropping out, shifting client requirements, or new technologies disrupting the talent pool. Staying agile is the key to success in both arenas.
The Competition is Fierce
Whether you’re sprinting for the try line or closing a deal with a top-tier developer, competition is ever-present. Just as rugby league players must outmaneuver their opponents, recruiters constantly compete against other agencies and internal hiring teams. Quick thinking, strategic moves, and a bit of grit are essential to come out on top.
The Highs and Lows
In rugby league, the thrill of scoring a try is unmatched, thanks to the team I had around me I scored a lot, but it’s balanced by the heartbreak of a missed tackle. Recruitment is no different. Securing a dream role for a candidate or closing a big contract feels incredible, but setbacks like client rejections or unexpected resignations can sting just as much.
Resilience is Key
Rugby league players dust themselves off after every tackle. IT recruiters face their own version of this: bouncing back from rejections, ghosting, and tight deadlines. The ability to keep going, no matter the obstacle, is what separates the good from the great.
Final Thoughts
Both rugby league and IT recruitment are about playing the long game. Success comes from understanding the bigger picture, staying committed to the goal, and leveraging the strengths of your team. So, whether you’re chasing a ball or a candidate, remember: perseverance and strategy make all the difference.
What other parallels can you think of? Let us know in the comments!
