For many recruiters, the natural next step after agency life is a transition into Talent Acquisition (TA). The first move into TA is often a stepping-stone role, and in many cases, it doesn’t last long. Average tenure in that first TA position tends to be around 12–18 months before people move on.

That makes it important to approach the transition strategically.

Think “Growth Opportunity” First

When taking a first TA role, it’s easy to focus on the brand name or job title. Instead, consider what the opportunity offers in terms of growth and learning. 

Ask questions such as:

• Will I own the process end-to-end, or am I just a small cog in a large machine?
• Am I joining a structured, mature TA function with established processes, or an emerging TA practice where I can contribute to building and shaping?

Structured vs Emerging TA Functions

Structured TA teams in large MNCs or established brands provide stability, frameworks, and resources. They are very different from the emerging TA functions in growth companies, scale-ups, or new markets.

For many ex-agency recruiters, emerging environments can feel like a stronger fit. Agility, problem-solving, and managing multiple priorities are skills developed in agency life, and they transfer well into less rigid TA functions. These environments may feel like organised chaos, but they create opportunities to go beyond “just recruiting” and get involved in employer branding, workforce planning, or process design.

Leverage Your Sales Skills

One of the most valuable assets agency recruiters bring into TA is their sales capability. In growth-stage companies, this is especially important. You’re not only filling roles, you’re building and communicating the company value proposition to candidates, often in situations where brand awareness is still developing.

Strong influencing skills with hiring managers and the ability to create compelling candidate experiences are areas where agency recruiters can stand out.

Be Strategic With Your First Move

The temptation is often to aim straight for the big-name brands. But the best first move is usually the one that offers the chance to make an impact, learn quickly, and build a broad set of skills.

That first TA role doesn’t have to be permanent. The company and team you choose can significantly shape your long-term career path.

Market Insights

The TA landscape is shifting:

• Many corporates are operating with leaner TA teams than they had two years ago.
• In APAC, particularly Singapore, growth opportunities exist in tech, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and consumer markets, where TA functions are still evolving.
• Recruiters who can balance hands-on hiring with strategic initiatives (such as EVP development, diversity programs, or market mapping) are becoming highly sought after.

Moving from agency into TA is less about chasing the biggest brand or title and more about positioning yourself in an environment where you can grow, add value, and develop new skills.

Approach the transition with a strategic mindset, and even if that first role is temporary, it can be the foundation for a strong career in Talent Acquisition.