Published March 2023 and kept as a record. The figures and the law have moved on since it was written. For the current position see Agency Membership. Note added 21 October 2026.
Based on industry research and insights, here are the top 5 things a client looks for from a recruitment agency to give them work:
- Industry Knowledge and Expertise: Clients expect recruitment agencies to have a deep understanding of their industry and the roles they are hiring for. A strong knowledge of the industry allows the agency to source the right candidates and provide valuable insights to clients.
- Recruitment Experience: Clients want to work with recruitment agencies that have a proven track record of success in placing candidates in their industry. Experience shows that the agency has the skills and resources to effectively fill open positions.
- Candidate Quality: Clients expect recruitment agencies to provide high-quality candidates that meet their specific job requirements. Agencies should have a rigorous screening process that includes skill assessments, reference checks, and in-depth interviews to ensure the candidates are the best fit for the role.
- Communication and Responsiveness: Clients want to work with recruitment agencies that are responsive, transparent, and communicative throughout the hiring process. This includes regular updates on candidate progress and feedback on the recruitment process.
- Competitive Fees: Clients are looking for recruitment agencies that offer competitive fees that provide value for their money. They want to work with agencies that offer fair and transparent pricing, and that provide quality services at reasonable rates.
Note that these are not the only factors that clients consider when choosing a recruitment agency, and the importance of each factor can vary depending on the client's specific needs and preferences.