Welcome to Hire IQ Consulting

Based on beautiful Vancouver Island, we specialize in tailored recruitment solutions designed to help employers find, attract, and hire the right talent.

We understand that hiring can feel complex and time-consuming. That's why our flexible approach offers expert support exactly when you need it - making the process simpler, smoother, and more efficient.

Alongside recruitment, we also provide practical career development support for job seekers, helping individuals present their best selves and fostering better matches for employers and employees alike.

Whether you're an employer looking to build a great team or a job seeker ready for your next move, Hire IQ Consulting is here to offer thoughtful, experienced guidance every step of the way.

Young female candidate walking into a office, holding a CV, ready to have a job interview

We provide flexible, on-demand recruitment expertise - giving you the support you need to hire great people, without the overhead of a full-time recruitment specialist or the limitations of a traditional agency model.

Getting to know your business. We take the time to understand your company, your team, and your values. This helps us identify candidates who not only have the right skills, but who genuinely fit your culture - leading to stronger, longer-term hires.

Support, when and how you need it. Whether you're hiring for a key role, growing your team, or simply need extra support during a busy period, we're here to step in with the support you need.

A great experience for candidates. We believe every candidate deserves a respectful, transparent hiring process. Our approach reflects well on your brand through clear communication, professionalism, and fairness at every stage - for both candidates and your internal team.

Simple, effective processes. Our proven, straightforward methods are designed to save time, reduce friction, and deliver better results. Every step is intentional and built around best practices.

Our Approach to Recruitment

Recruitment Services

Full-Cycle Recruitment

End-to-end hiring support - from job posting to offer negotiation. We lead the entire recruitment process on your behalf while keeping you involved at the right moments. From crafting compelling job descriptions to coordinating interviews and guiding offer negotiations, we ensure a seamless and efficient experience for your team and your candidates.

Targeted Recruitment Support

Strategic support where (and when) you need it. Need help screening candidates, creating an interview template, or checking references? Our on-demand support model lets you tap into recruitment expertise for specific stages of the hiring process - giving you flexibility without compromising on quality.

Recruitment Process Development

Stronger hiring starts with the right systems. We audit your current recruitment processes, practices, and policies to identify gaps, inefficiencies, or risks. Then we provide tailored recommendations to help you streamline hiring, ensure fairness, and align best practices with your business goals.

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Don't see what you're looking for?

Let's talk. Our services are flexible and can be tailored to your needs. If you're not sure whether your hiring challenge fits into one of these options, we're happy to explore a custom solution.

Contact us for a free consultation.

Looking for flexible expert recruitment support without the overhead? Email karen@hireiconsulting.ca to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can support your next hire or optimize your hiring process.

We empower clients with the tools, strategies, and confidence to take their next career step - without the guesswork or overwhelm.

Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time or a seasoned professional considering your next move, job searching can feel daunting. That's why we focus on demystifying the hiring process and helping you show up with clarity and purpose.

With real-world recruitment expertise on your side, you'll gain an inside look at what hiring managers and recruiters are really looking for. From identifying the right opportunities to crafting targeted resumes, writing standout cover letters, and preparing for interviews - we'll help you show up as your best, most authentic self.

We meet you where you are. Our approach is collaborative, practical, and centred around your goals. With support grounded in both hands-on recruitment knowledge and the Hope-Action Theory, you'll move forward with a plan that truly fits.

Our Approach to Career Development

Career Development Services

Cover Letter and Resume Writing

Communicate your value. Your resume and cover letter should tell a clear, compelling story about who are you and what you bring to the table. We help you craft documents that highlight your strengths, align with the roles you're targeting, and speak to what employers are looking for.

Business people job interview by HR officer shaking hands in office smiling face with happ

Interview Coaching

Show up prepared. We guide you through a comprehensive preparation process, including practice questions, real-time feedback, and personalized strategies to help you communicate clearly and confidently.

Career Clarity and Action Planning

Explore what's next. If you're feeling stuck, uncertain about your next move, or seeking more alignment in your work life, we can help you move forward with confidence. Grounded in the Hope-Action Theory - an evidence-based approach to career development - we guide you through self-reflection, goal-setting, and practical action planning exercises. Together, we'll identify your strengths, values, and motivators, clarify your career direction, and map out the next steps to get you there.

Need career guidance? Email karen@hireiqconsulting.ca to learn how we can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Contact us for a free consultation

Meet Karen Borthistle
Founder, Hire IQ Consulting

With over 12 years of recruitment experience across small businesses, not-for-profits, and large multi-union organizations, Karen brings a deep understanding of the hiring landscape - and what it takes to make great hires!

She founded Hire IQ Consulting to provide flexible, expert recruitment support to organizations that need a strategic partner - without the overhead of a full-time recruitment specialist. Her approach is people-focused, efficient, and grounded in both best practice and real-world insight.

Karen also works with individuals navigating career transitions, offering practical career development services including resume support, interview coaching, and clarity-focused career planning. As a certified Advanced Hope-Action Theory Practitioner, she brings insight and intention to career conversations - without overpromising or overcomplicating the process.

Whether you're building a team or considering your next move, Karen’s calm, collaborative style helps clients feel confident and supported as they move forward.

You can reach Karen at karen@hireiqconsulting.ca.