HR recruiters typically earn their income by charging companies for their recruitment services, which can be structured in different ways. The most common method is a contingency fee, where the recruiter receives a percentage of the candidate's first-year salary once the candidate is successfully hired. This percentage usually ranges from 15% to 25%, depending on the industry and the level of the position. Alternatively, some recruiters work on a retained basis, where they receive an upfront fee to conduct the search, regardless of whether a candidate is hired. In some cases, recruiters may also charge flat fees for specific services or ongoing recruitment support. Overall, their compensation is directly linked to successful placements, incentivizing them to find the best candidates efficiently.