subject: Recruitment Agency Tricks [print this page] Recruitment agencies can be necessary to progress within your chosen career. There are many reputable ones, and maybe you personally will never experience any problems, but it is best to know as much information about dealing with recruitment agencies as possible, especially if you are new to using them. It's true that the grass isn't always greener, and there are negatives when it comes to starting elsewhere and leaving the job you have now. How can you honestly describe your present company and job situation when recruitment agencies often use their potential recruits to make new contacts for their own business?
There are various techniques and ploys that recruitment agencies can use that you need to avoid.
It's possible that detailed employer information and references will be asked for but in some cases this will be to find other potential clients. Similarly, they may ask you where else you have sent your CV, so they will know of more companies who are searching for contractors, and they can put some of their candidates up for the same vacancies that you have applied for. Do not divulge any concrete details of who you have worked for until you have had an interview for a real job. If the job is genuine, they will submit your application asap since they will not want to lose that commission to other agencies.
Reputable agencies and retained search firms won't ask you for referee details upfront and if you are asked these questions, then you need to politely side-step them, not only before you get a job, but during too. Recruitment agencies will keep in touch with you about your current work situation, once you have a job from them, and will want to know if you are considering leaving. This maybe so they can offer you a new position, but similarly it could be because they want to have another vacancy that they can offer to someone else for more commission.
When they ask you for your current rate or salary, do not give it to them. Instead always tell them the rate you are looking for. By telling them what you want and how much your salary is currently, the recruitment agency clock what they can offer you. It is unlikely that they would offer you more than a minimal increase on top of this and it will be very tricky to try to get a higher rate from them in the future.
Be wary of admitting that this is the first time you have used a recruitment agency. And always ask for the minimum amount of commission first, norms stand at 10-20%. If the agent cannot get you the rate that you asked for, they will tell you before your interview. Don't believe an agent who suggests this to you because they are lying and hoping to keep the remaining cash in the company. To get the interview in the first place, the agency has to tell the contractor your rate, and the contractor must have accepted it. Always read your contract with them carefully, and make sure your contract has a notice period clause from them, and not just from you.
Underhanded, or manipulative behavior like this helps recruitment agencies survive. Ignoring contacts that their recruits could provide them with means ignoring a valuable source of information and business. Instead, protect yourself. Educate yourself about what could possible go wrong and take steps against it. Picking a recruitment agency with a good reputation can keep you safe from these ploys. Ask people you trust for recommendations.
Being forewarned means that you will not be taken advantage of and is the best way to stop these types of ruses. Whether you are recruiting or want to be recruited, teaming up with a top executive search firm will give you the right foundations in your search.
by: Terry Philips
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