Companies use particular recruiters for a variety of reasons that may vary from one organization to another and even from one hiring manager to another.

Usually, a key factor will be the recruiter’s knowledge of, and/or access to, a particular sector or candidate population. Other considerations may include the need for discretion or a desire for a particular perspective such as diversity.

Most recruitment firms are organized around particular industries such as consumer goods or telecommunications, or around specific functions such as finance or human resources.

When a client company engages and briefs a recruitment firm, it expects the recruiter to demonstrate a clear understanding of its needs, to provide professional advice regarding the role and the availability of suitable candidates, and to draw up a high-quality shortlist. The client also expects regular communication from the firm and for the recruitment process to move at a good pace.

When an executive search firm is instructed, its consultants (usually those with expertise in the industry or functional area) spend time with the client to make sure that they have a clear understanding of the role. They familiarize themselves with the client company, its strategy, problems, culture and people, and the characteristics and skills the successful candidate should possess. The consultants work with the client to draw up a specification of the role and of the ideal candidate.

The recruiter uses a network of resources and experience, including their own primary research, proprietary databases, company information and the internet to identify the target market. This may include competitor companies, as well as businesses in a range of industries, in which individuals with the required skills and experience might exist. Top-quality search firms engage in a great deal of research behind the scenes to build up a picture of the marketplace and the kind of candidates likely to fit a particular role.

The recruiter approaches prospective candidates, seeking to develop their interest in the role. Sometimes, the recruiter will review their shortlist with the client beforehand, discussing the individuals identified. Otherwise, the recruiter interviews the candidates, evaluating them against the position specification and the desired profile.

The best-qualified and most interested candidates are presented to the client for interview. The recruiter works closely with both the client and the candidate to facilitate the interview, debriefing candidates, and as client and candidate move towards an offer the recruiter may also be involved in the negotiations. The interaction between the client and the recruiter works best when the recruiter forms a consulting relationship with the client, working in partnership towards identifying the most suitable candidate.

Frequently, the first contact you have with a recruitment company is when a recruiter approaches you about a role and invites your interest in the role. If you are looking to move, however, it is sensible to establish a relationship with a recruitment company. In this instance, the dynamics are very different. It may be worth contacting an industry or sector expert within the recruitment firm to let them know that you are interested in a move.

The most appropriate way to make yourself known to RedBreed Finance is by registering with us. But bear in mind that larger firms like RedBreed Finance will receive many such introductions everyday, so they tend only to arrange face-to-face meetings if you fit a current role, or if you are likely to be a candidate for an assignment in the near future.

Although the recruitment firm is acting for its client, recruiters have an interest in developing professional relationships with candidates and other individuals with whom they come into contact with. These relationships develop over time and are of benefit to both parties. You may, for example, be called for advice or information in relation to a search. Such calls are a great opportunity to develop a relationship that can be useful when you are looking to move.

Ideally, by the time a role that meets with your interest and experience come up, you will already be known to the recruiter. Networking within your industry also helps to ensure that you are known to recruiters. Do not underestimate the value of a having good reputation in your field and being known to, and respected by, your peers in your organisations as well as other organizations.