Melissa Karatjas of Real Estate Career Developers examines the value of recruitment agencies.
From both a company and candidate perspective, the common question often asked is why should I use an agency?
First of all let me get one thing clear, there is a difference between an agency who flicks CVs around the industry without meeting/ interviewing (or even speaking to the candidate about the position, yes this is happening and yes you are right it is against the Privacy Act), and an agency who build relationships with both parties to genuinely aim for a long term and successful placement. The first scenario is what we are experiencing more and more in our recruiting space.
It is imperative to get to know your recruiter. Have you researched online testimonials? Do they work with a reputable business and qualified candidates? How did you hear about them, were you referred or did they contact you? Did your recruiter offer to meet you? This is essential for them to make a successful placement. How can you possibly refer someone to a job, or a job to a candidate if you do not fully understand what the party is looking for?
As a candidate, a quality recruiter should meet with you to gain an in depth understand of your career goals and personality. As a result of this they can match, suggest and explain ideal positions, ensuring your resume is a strong representation of your skill set and submit your applications. From there we go to the market and really sell your skills and goals to secure you the interview. Then we negotiate your salary and employment terms. We have many of the hard conversations for you, think of us as your advocate and trusted advisor with your best interests at heart.
If you are a real estate agency thinking about reaching out to a recruiter, I suggest the same to you. Do your research. Do not accept a resume from any Tom, Dick or Harry. Get to know a quality recruiter and they will work blood, sweat and tears to find you a quality candidate. A good recruiter is worth their weight in gold and are an extension of your business/ brand. Recruiters are in the market place selling your brand much the same as you, so it is crucial you are happy for them to do so. Make sure they have a process, check references and the more information you give them about your business the better the candidates presented will be.
It is worth keeping in mind that recruiters are incentivised to guarantee a result, so it is important that the recruiter you choose wants to work with you for the long term by taking an active approach to properly represent your brand. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Many companies now do not recruit independently, so by choosing to use a recruiter they will open many doors which are not on job boards. We are dealing with many candidates, who we have built relationships with over the years who will not go anywhere near job boards. They want their search to remain confidential and trust we will recommend the best opportunity. We will also provide honest feedback to you to continue to refine the process for both.
Is your recruiter a specialist in the field they are recruiting for? At RECD we have been in the Melbourne real estate market since 2002, we have seen plenty of businesses come and go throughout the years and watched entry level candidates become Directors! We understand our clients and the market. If we don’t already, we would love to understand yours.
Please ask us for a tea, latte, soy chai or almond hot choc and we will discuss your options in confidence.
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