To move up in a career, it is likely that a recruitment agency is a necessity. There are many reputable ones, and maybe you personally will never experience any problems, but it is best to know as much information about dealing with recruitment agencies as possible, especially if you are new to using them. It's true that the grass isn't always greener, and there are negatives when it comes to starting elsewhere and leaving the job you have now. How can you honestly describe your present company and job situation when recruitment agencies often use their potential recruits to make new contacts for their own business?
There are various techniques and ploys that recruitment agencies can use that you need to avoid.
It's possible that detailed employer information and references will be asked for but in some cases this will be to find other potential clients. Similarly, they may ask you where else you have sent your CV, so they will know of more companies who are searching for contractors, and they can put some of their candidates up for the same vacancies that you have applied for. A top tip would be to only give concrete details during the real interview for the job and not divulge too much ahead of time. If the job is genuine, they will submit your application asap since they will not want to lose that commission to other agencies.
Reputable agencies and retained search firms won't ask you for referee details upfront and if you are asked these questions, then you need to politely side-step them, not only before you get a job, but during too. There will be continuous contact from a recruitment agency following you getting a job so they can keep tabs on your work situation and whether you're in the market for another job. This maybe so they can offer you a new position, but similarly it could be because they want to have another vacancy that they can offer to someone else for more commission.
When they ask you for your current rate or salary, do not give it to them. Instead always tell them the rate you are looking for. If you let them know the details of your current salary, they will know how much you will work for. It is unlikely that they would offer you more than a minimal increase on top of this and it will be very tricky to try to get a higher rate from them in the future.
Be wary of admitting that this is the first time you have used a recruitment agency. And always ask for the minimum amount of commission first, norms stand at 10-20%. If the agent cannot get you the rate that you asked for, they will tell you before your interview. Any agent telling you this after your interview is definitely lying and trying to keep some money back for the agency. To get the interview in the first place, the agency has to tell the contractor your rate, and the contractor must have accepted it. Always read your contract with them carefully, and make sure your contract has a notice period clause from them, and not just from you.
Underhanded, or manipulative behavior like this helps recruitment agencies survive. Ignoring contacts that their recruits could provide them with means ignoring a valuable source of information and business. Instead, protect yourself. Educate yourself about what could possible go wrong and take steps against it. Picking a recruitment agency with a good reputation can keep you safe from these ploys. Ask people you trust for recommendations.
Stopping these ruses and not being taken advantage of is a lot simpler when you are forewarned because you can see the signs. Whether you are recruiting or want to be recruited, teaming up with a top executive search firm will give you the right foundations in your search.
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