Employers use recruitment agencies for their specialist knowledge and access to a database of talented candidates. Some agencies also offer advice on the best methods of recruitment
Advantages
- agencies provide access to large number of suitable qualified candidates in specific sectors
- they will do many of the routine recruitment tasks such as screening applicants
Disadvantages
- agencies may select inappropriate candidates
- agency staff may not implement an organisation's ethos or reflect its diversity and inclusion policies
Cost
Costs can be high.
Length of the process
If the agency has suitable candidates on their database it can be reasonably fast.
Potential for discrimination
The recruitment agency may not attract candidates from under-represented groups. For example, those with disabilities may use specialised agencies.
Conclusions
Commercial Recruitment Agencies can be effective, but employers need to make their requirements and ethos clear.
