Becoming a freelance recruiter offers incredible flexibility and the potential for high earnings. But how much can you really make? The truth is: your income depends heavily on your business model, expertise, niche, and client relationships.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down how freelance recruiters are paid, current UK market benchmarks, and practical strategies to maximise your income. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your freelance recruiting business, this guide will help you set realistic financial goals and build a sustainable career.
Freelance recruiters typically earn through one or more of these models:
The most common model. You get paid a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary once they are successfully placed.
Ideal for senior or niche roles. You charge an upfront fee (or percentage of the expected placement) to secure your services. The balance is paid once the hire is made.
Some recruiters work on hourly, daily, or project-based rates, especially for tasks like screening, headhunting, or recruitment process outsourcing.
Cons: Limited upside compared to commission models
Typical rates: £20–£50/hour, depending on experience and niche
Pros: Predictable income
Income varies by location, experience, and niche. Here’s the latest 2025 data:
| Role / Location | Average Earnings |
|---|---|
| UK Freelance Recruitment Consultant | ~£33,900/year (Glassdoor UK) |
| London Freelance Recruiter | ~£46,839/year or ~£23/hour (Glassdoor UK) |
| Top 10% Earners | £70,000+ per year |
| Typical Placement Commission | 15–25% of the candidate’s first-year salary (IPSE) |
| Freelance Consultant (Generic UK Benchmark) | ~£49,967/year (Salary.com) |
Tip: Specialising in high-demand niches (tech, finance, executive search) can significantly increase your earning potential.
Several key factors affect how much you make as a freelance recruiter:
Workload & Efficiency: Using recruitment software like Giig Hire can help manage multiple roles and save time, increasing overall earnings.
Experience & Reputation: Seasoned recruiters with strong networks can command higher fees.
Niche & Specialisation: Specialised roles typically yield higher commissions.
Client Base & Demand: The number and quality of clients directly impact income.
Geography: London-based recruiters often earn more due to higher salaries and demand.
Here are practical ways freelance recruiters can increase earnings in 2025:
6 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Recruitment Agency
Q: Do freelance recruiters get a base salary?
A: Typically no; most income comes from placement fees or retainer agreements.
Q: What percentage do freelance recruiters charge?
A: Usually 15–25% of the candidate’s first-year salary.
Q: Is freelance recruiting more profitable than agency recruiting?
A: It can be, especially for niche or experienced recruiters, but income is more variable.
Q: What tools help maximise earnings?
A: Recruitment software like Giig Hire improves efficiency, candidate management, and client tracking.
Freelance recruiting can be a highly rewarding career, both financially and professionally. Earnings depend on your experience, niche, and ability to build relationships—but with the right strategies and tools, you can grow a steady and lucrative freelance recruitment business.
Want to manage your freelance recruiting pipeline more efficiently? Check out Giig Hire’s recruitment software to streamline candidate sourcing, track placements, and maximise your income.
Wondering how to become a freelance recruiter or considering working as an independent recruiter? Here are a few blogs that should help you on your way:
