I'm actively applying for jobs, mostly Senior Recruiter (IC) roles.

9 Comments

1. lyn johnsonMarch 16,2026 at 5:36PM UTC

   not crazy , its the reality they want your experience but they don't want to pay you for it

2. Rebecca BoschertMarch 17,2026 at 1:05PM UTC

   Yes, your current title can absolutely be working against you, even when the role fit is strong.

   When hiring managers and recruiters scan resumes quickly, titles act as shortcuts. Unfortunately, Senior Recruiting Manager sends a very different signal than Senior Recruiter (IC), even if your actual work overlaps heavily. When they see “Manager” they think why would they want to go back to IC work, you will get bored, you will expect a higher salary, etc
   You can adjust your title ethically. Resume titles do not have to match HRIS titles word-for-word. If your role includes significant hands-on recruiting (which most recruiting managers still do), you can use Senior Recruiter / Recruiting Manager, Senior Recruiter (IC Lead), or Senior Recruiter – High-Volume & Strategic Hiring
   Make sure your top bullets scream reqs owned, deal closing, hiring manager partnership, output, not oversight
   Address the “why IC” before they ask. “I’ve done both people leadership and IC work, and I’m very clear that what energizes me most — and where I do my best work — is recruiting end to end. I’m intentionally targeting senior IC roles.” That signals intentionality, not fallback.
   Make your salary positioning clear. Another hidden objection: “We can’t afford her.” You can neutralize that by applying to roles whose posted range clearly overlaps your target and stating, “I’m targeting senior IC roles and compensation aligned to that scope.”
   As a fellow TA realist, companies do not hesitate to hire managers as ICs. They hesitate when they think a person actually wants something else. Your job is simply to remove doubt.

3. Dr. Patty GrossMarch 17,2026 at 1:57PM UTC

   Not crazy, because it happens. What is the salary difference in your area between the two roles? Many companies do not want to hire you for less than you are currently making. "Senior Recruiting Manager" could be interpreted as a VP or Director-level role, so going back to an IC role can easily be viewed as a bigger jump than it is in your company.

   This is where a well-worded cover letter could help to explain why you want to do the 180 pivot. If you do IC duties in your role, make sure you list them in the job bullets. Companies often think (incorrectly) that a 180 pivot from management is a knee-jerk situation that you will regret in six months or a year due to lack of responsibility/power and the financial issues involved in going from a bottom or mid-level within a salary band for the "Senior level" to the top of a band for an IC, if they provide you with the same salary you are receiving now.

4. AnonymousMarch 17,2026 at 3:44PM UTC

   Nope you are not. Having been in TA myself for many years titles as we both k now matter. For the moment remove the title and show the hands-on work and perhaps some metrics in your resume to show how many roles you have filled and the type as well. Good luck.

5. Krystin MorganMarch 17,2026 at 7:29PM UTC

   I don't think you're crazy! I would make sure your resume reflects as much IC work - and interest in IC work - as possible. So while your title is what it is, you can have fewer bullets focused on management work and most of them focus instead on actual recruiting achievements.

   I also recommend adding something to your summary like "Seeking Senior Recruiter opportunities" so it's clear you actively *want* an IC role and aren't just applying to anything you can.

6. Tami CannizzaroMarch 17,2026 at 8:30PM UTC

   I agree with others: You're not crazy. It's definitely possible for your title to work against you. People are lazy and don't want to wait to ask you "why" you are interested in this position. As much as I dislike cover letters, this is a good case for one. It gives you a chance to address the elephant in the room, being overqualified. Are you interested because of your passion for the work? Are you trying to pivot to a new industry? Does it have to do with a life situation, i.e. a move or are you seeking work/life balance with a position that allows you to deliver high-quality work without being in a leadership role?

7. Mikiala WilliamsMarch 18,2026 at 3:10AM UTC

   The job market is favorable what I mean by that is if your not connected or know "the right people" it's a challenge. I'm in it with you I have lots of I completely understand your situation. I have extensive experience, holding two degrees, and possess a strong work ethic, dedication, eagerness, and a genuine desire to contribute to a company. Despite my qualifications, I find myself in a challenging job market, constantly submitting applications without success. 2 degrees, hardworking, dedicated, eager, and would be a great asset to a company but yet here I am in this job market putting in app after app.

8. AnonymousMarch 18,2026 at 9:24PM UTC

   She is looking for senior recruiting roles, not scam remote assistant roles. I have a really hard time believing you are legit given the number of different posts you have made this comment on.

9. Natalie PiskorMarch 19,2026 at 2:08PM UTC

   I could have written your post verbatim. The job market is tough, I'm a couple of months into my search. I started my own HR consulting business a few years ago and I'm looking to get back into a full-time role because clients are hard to find too and I'm relocating. I not only feel like I'm being overlooked due to my seniority, but also because I've been independently consulting, hiring managers think I will come in an want to "fix" everything. Solidarity girl!