My move into recruitment in Vietnam

Phuc Pham started his career at Robert Walters Vietnam as an associate consultant in 2014. Since then he has worked his way up to manager of the sales and marketing division. He talks about his career switch into recruitment, what he enjoys most about his new role and how his career has progressed since he made the move.

What interested you in recruitment?

“I’d been working in the insurance industry for two years when I was approached by Robert Walters with the opportunity to make the move into recruitment. They had a great reputation in Vietnam as an international firm so I was quite excited by the opportunity. I’m passionate about meeting new people and knew recruitment would be a very client-focused position, so felt that it would be a great next step. After speaking to my consultant and finding out more about the job, I decided to accept the role and haven’t looked back since.

What do you enjoy about your new role?

I really enjoy working with some of the best professionals in the industry and helping them find their next role. At Robert Walters we’re very lucky to have a great database of candidates and clients. It’s always fantastic to place someone in a role and get a call a year down the line from the client to update me on their progress. At the end of the day, it gives me great satisfaction to know that I’ve placed the right candidate with the right client.

What are some of the best things about working for Robert Walters?

You get the opportunity to work in an extremely dynamic team. In the Vietnam office, I have colleagues from all over the world so it’s great to work in such an international environment. It’s a meritocratic culture where you are rewarded for your hard work and where there’s clear career progression in place.

How would you describe the culture in the Vietnam office?

We work together very closely as a team to ensure we meet the needs of our clients and candidates. As we operate a team-based bonus structure, rather than working for individual commission, there’s a really strong focus on team work. We believe in working and playing hard. Outside of the office, we get together regularly for lunches and dinners too.

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

Last year, I was one of the team’s top billers and as a result, qualified for the global incentive trip to Thailand. I am also very proud to have been recognised for my achievements by my boss with my promotion to manager in April 2017.

What does it take to be a successful recruiter?

It helps if you enjoy meeting new people because this is a highly people-facing role - building relationships with clients and candidates is a huge part of the job. As a recruiter, you need to be resilient because recruitment can be unpredictable at times. However, if you’re patient and hardworking, this is a great role with fantastic rewards, and unlimited earning potential.”

It’s a meritocratic culture where you are rewarded for your hard work and where there’s clear career progression in place.

Want to know more about our current opportunities? Send your updated CV through to seainternalrecruitment@robertwalters.com.