Finding a job in today’s economy can be quite challenging for many individuals. The difficulties often arise from not knowing where to search for job opportunities and lacking the necessary resources to do so effectively. Fortunately, there exists a solution in the form of recruitment agencies that possess the tools and resources required for successful job placement.
These agencies serve as vital connectors between job seekers and employers, essentially acting as bridges to bring the two parties together. Traditionally, employers would handle the task of sourcing candidates themselves. However, with increasing workloads and demands, many employers now entrust this responsibility to recruitment agencies.
These agencies come in various types
All Recruitment Agencies cater to sourcing talent and filling either generalist roles across all professions or concentrate on specific industries. They may provide a mix of permanent and temporary placement services. There are varying types of recruitment agencies around the world but the following models are the most common in New Zealand.
Traditional Recruitment Agencies – also known as Contingency Agencies:
Contingency recruiting is when an organisation asks one or more agencies to find candidates for an open position. The company may also advertise the role directly. The recruitment agency only gets paid a fee by the company if the candidate they put forward is hired. The fee is normally calculated as a percentage between 10-25% (depending on the agency/profession/location etc) and is based on the successful candidates’ salary package. This does NOT come off the candidates’ salary and should not affect the offer made, as it is an extra price that has been budgeted for by the company using the recruitment agency’s services.
Recruitment Outsourcer – also known as Contractor Agencies:
These agencies provide differing levels of services to assist the hiring company. Some just cover basic jobsite marketing and database management at a fixed price. Others like One21 Recruitment work as outsourced contractors engaged exclusively by the hiring company to provide the full recruitment process from marketing through to onboarding. This is done at an agreed fixed price that does not fluctuate with a candidate’s job offer and also ensures a tailored and often more thorough hiring process. As the only agency engaged to recruit for the role they can invest more time in doing their due diligence and with a deposit covering marketing costs they can advertise the role extensively plus the client benefits from company-branded marketing that results in quality applicants who know who they are applying to. The final fee to the employer is considerably less than traditional contingency fees, as there is less risk of not making a placement.
Job Seekers, please note the following misconceptions:
- In New Zealand, you will NEVER be required to pay a Recruitment Agency for placing you in a Job. The hiring company pays the Recruiter not you!
- The fee DOES NOT come off your first year’s salary. If you think it does then try asking for that amount in a pay rise next year and you will soon see that’s not how it works! If a contingency fee is charged it is simply calculated on the percentage of your salary package, but should not affect what you earn at all. If a hiring company wants to claw back the amount it cost them to hire you, then you really don’t want to be working for them.
So, why should you consider collaborating with a recruitment agency? Let’s delve into the reasons:
Firstly, recruitment agencies specialize in finding the right people for specific job roles. As a job seeker, you might face constraints in terms of resources and awareness of the evolving job landscape. Recruitment agencies are well-connected across industries, making them adept at matching candidates to suitable positions.
For instance, imagine you’re a seasoned banker looking to switch careers after 15 years. While you could attempt to secure a job independently, the dynamic nature of the job market might have left you unaware of recent changes. Recruitment agencies are well-versed in industry shifts, ensuring they find the best fit for you. They take the time to understand your career aspirations, not just related to job titles, but also encompassing personal preferences. By articulating your desires clearly, you empower them to use their tools effectively.
These agencies are committed to guiding individuals in the right direction, considering their job isn’t done until they’re content with their new role. Your satisfaction marks their success.
Advantages of Partnering with a Recruitment Agency
The advantages of partnering with a reputable recruitment agency, such as One21 Recruitment, extend beyond mere job connections. They possess extensive industry expertise, facilitating a faster and more efficient hiring process. With a deep understanding of company policies and hiring systems, recruiters recognize the skills crucial for different roles. This translates to businesses having access to superior candidates. Moreover, these agencies are well-informed about the job market trends, offering valuable insights and advice.
Recruiters also play an active role in crafting job advertisements, ensuring an accurate representation of the job and its requirements. This collaborative effort enhances the recruitment process, benefiting both candidates and employers.
Selecting the right recruitment agency requires careful consideration. Here are some steps to help you make the right choice:
- Research: Investigate the agency’s background through platforms like LinkedIn and gather feedback from individuals who’ve been placed by them.
- Interview: Engage in a dialogue with the recruiter to assess their understanding of your needs and expectations, as well as the anticipated timeline.
- Experience: Inquire about their experience and grasp of the challenges job seekers encounter.
- Terms: Understand the agency’s terms and processes, ensuring alignment with your preferences and requirements.
- Track Record: Evaluate the agency’s recent successes and strategies.
To initiate contact with a recruitment agency, identify potential recruiters through personal recommendations or online searches. Once you’ve identified suitable options, reach out to them to initiate a conversation. When communicating with recruiters, it’s crucial to be clear and expressive about your job aspirations, while also showcasing your research efforts. Keeping your communication concise yet respectful establishes a solid foundation for collaboration.
When registering with a recruitment agency, tailor your preferences and non-negotiables, such as salary, location, company size, and job role. Interact with recruiters to discuss your expectations and learn about available opportunities. Email correspondence plays a pivotal role, aiding in updates and document sharing. Filling out necessary forms grants you access to the agency’s database, initiating the process of finding your ideal role.
Leveraging a Recruitment Agency
Leveraging a recruitment agency streamlines your job search in several ways:
- Time Efficiency: The agency expedites the job search process, saving you significant time compared to searching independently.
- Networking: Recruiters possess extensive networks, connecting you with industry professionals and job openings.
- Guidance: Throughout the complex recruitment process, recruiters provide invaluable guidance and insights.
- Access: They have access to positions not always advertised online, broadening your options.
- Persistence: Even if you’re not selected for one role, recruiters keep you in their database for future opportunities.
Conclusion
Recruitment agencies serve as invaluable intermediaries between job seekers and employers, benefiting both parties. These agencies possess the expertise, connections, and insights to enhance your job search experience. To choose the right agency, research their track record and terms, and establish a clear rapport with your chosen recruiter. By utilizing a recruitment agency’s services, you not only save time but also tap into a network that can significantly amplify your job search efforts.
This article was originally published on TNZ Web Solutions