Recruiters aren't all bad. There is an unfortunate stigma that has stuck the recruitment industry which have developed from agencies that are poorly run who bombard candidates and clients with irrelevant jobs and pointless calls. There are however many consultancies that pride themselves on being different, always pushing to achieve the very best for their clients and candidates, and this is how to spot them:
How to spot a bad recruiter.…
Advertising jobs that don’t exist. Some recruiters have been known to post job ads that don’t really exist to build a database of candidates who they might call on in the future. While it may entice a candidate at first, when they find out there is no job to be had, it usually back fires and has a negative impact on the agency and the industry in general.
Calling candidates at work. Bombarding candidates during work hours is a real no, no, for recruiters. Candidates often want to keep their job hunt confidential, especially from current employers. A good recruiter should always try to schedule calls with candidates and if they do need to call urgently, check it is a good time to talk before perusing the call. A recruitment consultancy that cares about their candidates will be available both before and after the usual 9-5 work day, to ensure the candidates can talk at time that suits them.
Misrepresentation of jobs. Many candidates have been put into an awkward situation when they are told to prepare for an interview with a client, and that they’re exactly what client is looking for. But when the candidate actually meets them – they find they are actually not qualified for the role and it has been a total waste of time. A good recruiter understands exactly what their clients’ needs are, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the candidates experience and portfolio, meaning every candidate is handpicked for each role.
Acting excited about a candidate but then dropping out of contact. It is very frustrating be told what a great match you’d be for a position and how excited the recruiter is to have found you, and then be dropped with no explanation or follow-up. A good recruiter will be honest with you from the start, and be confident in their knowledge of their clients’ requirements to know exactly what they need for each position.
Here at Purple we pride ourselves in knowing our clients and candidates inside out. Recruitment is a bit like match making and if you’re looking for work in the creative industry we can pair you up with your perfect role. We build and maintain relationships with the leading global brands, the UK’s top agencies and the best candidates, so if you want a recruitment consultancy with a difference, get in touch.
