Not Instead Of—Alongside: The Case for Modern Recruitment Partnerships
Last year I celebrated 25 years with Sacco Mann – I’ve lost count of the number of candidates I’ve placed in that time, from NQs to partners, GC’s and Co Sec’s…………but it’s a lot! Moreover, the number of conversations, meetings and discussions regarding market intelligence, salary, market trends and all the “nearly’s” can make one feel quite ancient - if I let it…….
In this period, I’ve also experienced such a variety of market conditions which have had a direct influence on how welcome/affordable/useful/essential our services are viewed by our clients. What has been consistent, is the unwavering desire to recruit directly where possible, for obvious and understandable reasons.
So why this bubble-gum nostalgia – and where am I going with this?
These days, internal Talent Acquisition teams are increasingly sophisticated and growing in terms of team size and influence. Software, AI, a slight contraction of new vacancies and a change in candidate habits towards advertising all play their part in this latest evolution. As has always been the case, there are some schools of thought which suggest that the days are numbered for external recruiters. Having experienced so many cycles over the years I absolutely believe that we as can co-exist and work in synergy with internal recruitment teams for the wider benefit of the employer in recruiting the best.
Perhaps predictably, I feel employing an expert and instructing a good, specialist recruiter is without risk and commonly free of charge (until the point of placement.) Our networks are far reaching and our market knowledge extensive.
Has our role changed – of course. Aside being viewed as an essential source by long established clients, we’re increasingly used in harmony with direct campaigns, ensuring maximum impact of an advert/post. We’re also very much regarded by a high volume of clients as “first reserve”, should direct response prove unsuitable. Recruitment has never been an exact science – thankfully!
Our insight to perspective employees, into the benefits of a specific employer and our ability to present a vision on behalf of our clients, will always prove invaluable in attracting and securing the best talent available.
Instead of simply skimming from the top, a knowledgeable and connected recruiter has intel on those candidates under the surface, whose interest in the market is extremely selective and seemingly passive from afar……..In speaking to us and tapping into our networks, there is a more comprehensive and accurate sweep of the market, ensuring maximum impact; free of charge – without obligation - and no hard feelings if a direct response secures the role.
For us, hopefully a relationship has been enhanced for the next time, and the right lawyer sits in post.
I’ve not another 25 years in me, but I’m of the firm belief that when I do exit this rather quirky career, there will still be a part to play for my contemporaries…..
To quote a common misquote (and skewed slightly for the benefit of this conclusion) “The reports of our demise have been greatly exaggerated”
If you’d like a confidential conversation at any point about how we might help work alongside your existing internal teams, or are interested in a snapshot of the market/candidate trends etc, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line.
Contact Steve Shakespeare