It’s no secret that recruitment agencies often get bad press and plenty of negativity, however, the advantages of working with an agent, particularly in an industry where we have a skills shortage, can add huge value and be a really positive experience IF a partnership can be created. So how can clients get the best from the agencies they work with?

1. Communication – Recruitment is a really personal thing, for the hiring manager and the candidate, therefore, it is vital that the lines of communication between the agent and the hiring manager/recruitment team are open at all stages. The use of recruitment portals should never be a barrier and remove the vital need to personalise the process for those involved. It’s important the agent gets a real sense of the culture, understands the requirement and the process so they are able to present your vacancies effectively and manage the applicant’s expectations. Every role is different, as is every person applying, the recruitment process should reflect this.
2. Timescales – Gone are days of long open application periods, not reviewing CV’s until after closing dates and then another couple of weeks before any interviews are arranged. Today’s market moves quickly and agents are all too aware of this, they need their recruitment partners to set clear and realistic timescales on reviewing CV’s, providing feedback, arranging interviews etc and be consistent in meeting these expectations. It’s incredibly frustrating for everybody to miss out on talent because the process was too slow.
3. Preferred Partners – Most agents expect their larger client’s to have a Preferred Supply List in place. Of course, we would love exclusivity on all accounts but realistically, it’s not possible for the majority of clients with the sheer number and variety of roles that need to be filled. What is important, is that the PSL’s are managed fairly, are monitored regularly and communicated effectively. Any set KPI’s should be adhered to by both parties. PSL’s just cannot be effective if they are too big and therefore, a meaningful recruitment partnership is impossible to create.
4. Mutual Respect – For a mutually beneficial business relationship to exist, there must be mutual respect. Agents are keen to support their clients, they aren’t competition for internal recruitment teams and shouldn’t be viewed as such. If partnered correctly, they are an important part of the supply chain, often delivering on challenging and difficult to fill roles. Taking time to talk and understand each other will go a long way in forming a really productive recruitment offering for both the client and the agent.
5. Feedback – One of the main reasons recruitment partnerships break down is lack of feedback or the time it takes to get it. Radio silence following a CV submittal or interview is detrimental to the whole process and image of the company. It’s vital that clients and agents work together to provide each applicant with a positive candidate experience and view of the company. Again, it’s a partnership!

Our recommendation would be to meet with agents you are interested in working with to ensure your values align. Use qualified agents that are able to provide references/testimonials and those that are willing to work with you and tailor a service to suit your needs. Thereafter, work together, you are a team!