A recruiter is someone whose job is finding and hiring the right people for specific positions. When a company needs a new software engineer, teacher, or sales manager, they often work with a recruiter who searches for qualified candidates, reviews applications, conducts interviews, and helps match the best person to the job.

Recruiters work a bit like matchmakers, but instead of pairing up friends, they connect talented people with organizations that need their skills. A college recruiter might travel to high schools explaining why students should apply to their university. A sports recruiter scouts talented athletes who might join a team. A military recruiter talks to people interested in joining the armed forces.

When you recruit your friends to help with a school fundraiser, you're convincing them to join your effort. A recruiter does this professionally, often spending their days reviewing résumés, making phone calls, and meeting with both employers and job seekers to find the right fit. Good recruiters understand what makes someone right for a particular role and can spot talent that others might overlook.