Posted by Nicky P. Anderson on Jul 08, 2022

Dear Nicky,

I am usually a job-side recruiter, relying on partners to provide candidates. Recently, I had some extra time so I working on providing candidates for my NPAworldwide partners. I found that not a lot of members have what I call client control. That is not the way I like to work. Is there a good way for me to get that information upfront, without sounding bossy?

As we know, the hiring manager is likely giving the job order to everyone and anyone who wants to see it. I set expectations upfront with my client so I know I will get feedback, and I also make it clear that I need to know where they are sending the job(s).

Controlling in Calvin

Dear Calvin,

I always recommend having a call with the job-side recruiter before starting any recruitment activities. No one wants to waste their time. This call gives you the opportunity to ask about the client, previous placements, feedback process, candidates already submitted, other recruiters that are involved, etc. Here are some things to think about asking:

  • Is there already a short list?
  • Are you working it from your side too, or counting exclusively on help from candidate-side recruiters?
  • How many other recruitment firms (NPAworldwide members AND non-members) are working this role?
  • Have you done business with this client before?
  • What is your commitment to me about feedback?
You can also use this time to discuss the job-side recruiter's process and how they want to work. It's a great time to review the salary, fee and guarantee, and any other details that may have changed since the job was first obtained. And, you'll be investing effort in building a strong trading relationship for future deals as well.

Nicky

send letters to: nanderson@npaworldwide.com