Outsourcing your recruitment to a consultancy or agency is a great way to reduce the direct and indirect cost implications of Recruitment and Selection. However, it is essential to choose your recruitment partner wisely. Here are few things you should consider:
Expect REC Corporate Membership (Recruitment and Employment Confederation) This professional body offers training through Industry recognised qualifications and also enforces a strict code of conduct for Consultants to abide by. Look out for the REC Corporate logo (above right) on their Web Site and Business Stationery and that their consultants have AREC, MREC or FREC after their name.
- Expect honesty. A good consultant will give you feedback on all aspects of your current Recruitment/Selection techniques, the current job market, advice on salaries and how best to market your vacancies.
- Make sure they are asking to meet with you. A consultative approach significantly increases the likelihood of the right candidates being submitted to you as it improves their knowledge of your recruitment requirements, environment and company culture.
- They will be the face of your business. Will they market your organisation as an Employer of Choice?
A few other things to think about….
- Today’s employment market is candidate driven – this is especially so in certain skills shortage areas eg Sales, Administration/Secretarial and HR. A good rule to work by is a 2 week window of opportunity ie a talented candidate will be snapped up within this time. Allocate time at Recruitment stage to process potential candidates as quickly as possible.
- Be certain that your Recruitment Partner has met any submitted candidates face to face. Only this way will they be able to truly shortlist suitable candidates for your organisation’s culture and values.
- At first interview stage, it is vital that you sell your business to a potential new employee. They will be evaluating you and much as you are evaluating them.
- Expect an average CV to Placement ratio of 3:1.
- Expect an ongoing relationship with your Recruitment Partner. A professional Recruiter will be continually working behind the scenes to pre-empt any recruitment needs by generating ongoing interest in your organisation.
