What does a headhunter do? – Tasks and work environment
A headhunter works to identify, contact, and recruit qualified candidates for senior or specialized positions within companies and organizations. The work is often commissioned by employers seeking skills outside traditional application channels. Typical tasks include mapping industry profiles, conducting interviews, evaluating candidates' backgrounds, and presenting the most suitable persons for the assignment. The work environment is mainly office-based, with elements of digital work and many external meetings. The role requires high integrity, discretion, and the ability to build long-term relationships with both candidates and clients.
Salary development over time
The salary for a headhunter has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 47 600 SEK, representing a salary increase of about 3.5%. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 49 900 SEK, which is an increase of approximately 4.8% compared to the previous year. This positive trend reflects a growing demand for specialized recruitment skills and the industry's valuation of experience and networking. Market developments and the need to attract the right talent have clearly influenced the upward salary trend.
Headhunter salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 300 SEK
- Women: 49 100 SEK/month
- Men: 52 900 SEK/month
- Women earn: 93% of what men do
Education and qualifications
To work as a headhunter, a post-secondary education is usually required, often in human resources, economics, law, or behavioral sciences. Industry experience and a strong network are highly valuable, and many headhunters have previously worked in HR, sales, or consulting. Certifications in recruitment or selection techniques can be advantageous, as well as good knowledge of business English and digital tools.
- Post-secondary education: 3 years or more (e.g., HR, economist, lawyer)
- Certifications: Recruitment and interview techniques
- Industry experience: Previous work in HR, sales, or consulting roles
- Prerequisites: Good communication and analytical skills
- Tips: Build a strong network through internships, trainee programs, or industry activities
Many headhunters work on international assignments and therefore need to be comfortable working in English and understanding different corporate cultures. The ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new industries and roles is crucial for success in the profession.
Common benefits and compensations
Headhunters are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, and the possibility of flexible working hours. Other common benefits include mobile phones, computers, and sometimes company cars, depending on the employer and assignment level.
Competition and challenges
The competition within headhunting is significant, especially in major cities and in industries with high demand for specialists. The profession demands discretion, sensitivity, and the ability to quickly build trust with both clients and candidates. A major challenge is finding the right competence in a rapidly changing job market where candidates are often already employed. Additionally, staying updated on legislation, trends, and digital tools that transform the recruitment process is essential. The ability to handle multiple assignments simultaneously and deliver results under time pressure is crucial.
Tips for aspiring headhunters
To succeed as a headhunter, it is beneficial to cultivate a strong curiosity and interest in people, as the role relies on understanding both candidates' and employers' needs. Being communicative and attentive aids in network building and contact with various industries. Develop analytical skills to assess competencies and potential objectively. It is also important to be persistent and resilient, as the process often involves rapid changes and high demands for delivery. A proactive attitude, where you seek out and contact interesting profiles, is key to success. Build industry knowledge through internships, trainee programs, or working in HR, and aim to create a broad and relevant contact network. Finally, integrity and discretion are vital, as the work often involves handling confidential information.
Key facts about headhunters
- Educational level: Post-secondary degree (3 years or more)
- Work environment: Office-based, often with digital tools and external meetings
- Work form: Full-time, sometimes consulting or project-based
- Demand: Moderate opportunities, approximately 758 job openings in the profession
- Special skills: Networking and interview techniques
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a headhunter, there are good opportunities to advance to senior recruiter, consulting manager, or partner within a recruitment firm. Some choose to specialize within a certain industry, such as IT, finance, or manufacturing, while others move into internal HR departments or start their own consulting business. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the opportunities for employment in the HR and personnel specialist group are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The market is characterized by a balance between applicants and available positions, meaning competition is stable, but specialization and experience can provide advantages in the job market.
Frequently asked questions about headhunters
- What is the average salary of a headhunter?
- A headhunter has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month.
- How has the salary development for headhunters been?
- Salaries have increased from 46,000 SEK in 2022 to 49 900 SEK in 2024, representing an increase of about 8.5% over three years.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn an average of 49 100 SEK and men 52 900 SEK, meaning women earn 93% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a headhunter?
- A post-secondary education, often in human resources, economics, or law, as well as experience from HR or consulting industries.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- Job opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a headhunter?
- The highest salary is 58,600 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education), and the lowest is 40,500 SEK (female, public sector, high school education).
- What benefits are common?
- Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, bonuses, and flexible working hours.
