Job Search FAQ

People looking for jobs may find help by using the services of a recruiter. Also known as headhunters, recruiters act as independent contractors to clients. They work on a per head or retainer basis. They aim to identify and successfully recruit job candidates. The candidate is not responsible for paying the recruiter. It is the hiring company’s responsibility. If you are looking for a job, it is a good idea that you work with a few recruiters that cover your industry. It is especially a good idea for job seekers who are still employed and do not have the time to keep up with their job search themselves. In general, five types of recruiters exist:

 

Employment agencies: The focus of these firms is to fill lower, non-managerial positions. They usually collect a fixed fee for every successful job placement.

 

Temp services: These recruitment agencies fill temporary staffing needs. Concerning payment, their fee is usually based on a percent of the hourly rate and usually varies. Some temp agencies provides temp-to-permanent placement. This allows the hiring company and the candidate to test each other before making a commitment. Temp services usually focus on clerical and blue-collar placements.

 

Outplacement firms: Companies faced with downsizing issues make use outplacement firms to find new positions for their outbound senior management. They are paid a fixed fee.

 

Retained executive search recruiters: These professionals try to fill specific positions at the executive level. Hiring companies retain them. When it comes to payment, the recruiter receives part of the fee upfront, and the remaining upon hiring. Usually, the fee is about one-third of the job’s first-year total compensation. The focus of retained executive search recruiters is to work with top-level executives that make six-figure salaries and more.

 

Contingency search firms: Unlike retained firms, contingency search firms are only paid if they successfully fill a position. Therefore, they are very competitive. Because of this, they spend a great deal of time developing a ready pool of candidates. Their fee is typically 20 percent to 25 percent of annual total compensation. These firms usually focus on jobs for middle management.

 

When a recruiting agency has gathered candidates for a position, it will typically conduct interviews and professional assessments. The recruiter will select the best candidates for the position and send the resumes along to the hiring company, which will then interview the candidates. Generally, no recruiter should request that a candidate work with him or her exclusively. Further, a candidate should never be asked to pay a fee. Also, it is unethical for recruiters to recruit from within a client’s rank or to work closely with the main competitor of the client.

 

If you are interested in working with a recruiter, make sure that you are prepared to do so. Check the recruiter’s website or call in for more information. You will be asked to submit a resume; therefore, make sure that your resume is in great shape. When you visit the recruiter, act like you are going in for a job interview. Make that fabulous first impression!