10 Things you need to ask Automotive Recruitment Agencies
This article on 10 Questions to ask an Automotive Recruitment Agency was originally posted on Copeland Automotive Recruitment website where you will also find several useful resources to help you build a team for your Automotive Business
If you are responsible for hiring for an automotive business you may find yourself turning to the expertise, skills and knowledge of automotive recruitment agencies. But the world of recruitment is vast, so how do you choose the right agency for you?
There are many things to consider when selecting an agency that is right for both you and your business. In this article we cover 10 essential questions to ask an agency – putting you in a good position to select the agency that best matches your needs.
WHERE TO BEGIN?
Automotive Recruitment Agencies are not all the same, with the level and type of service offered varying considerably between agencies.
It is because of this, that you should always begin with defining exactly what it is that you need.
QUESTIONS TO ASK AUTOMOTIVE RECRUITMENT AGENCIES
Your choice of recruitment agency can have a profound effect on your business. You need to be confident in your decision and able to justify it to internal line managers or other stakeholders. To do this, you need to ask the right questions:
1.What is your area of specialism?
Using an agency who specialises in your industry and job function will be a great advantage. They will know your market and be able to quickly understand your business. Additionally, they should be able to easily access the right candidates.
2. How long have you been in business?
An agency with a long history in the business is more likely to have a greater depth of relevant knowledge. The same can also be said for the agency principle.
3. What other automotive employers do you recruit for?
Get proof that an agency is the expert they claim to me. Ask them which other businesses they recruit for. Ideally they should be able to give you testimonials or case studies of previous work.
4. What jobs have you filled recently?
As with previous questions this will give you solid evidence of the agency’s abilities to deliver. Some may be able to provide you with a list of Recently Filled Vacancies.
5. What services do you offer?
Some agencies will offer more then one level of service. If they cannot match all of your ‘must haves’ then they are not the agency for you.
6. What is your recruitment process?
Processes that agencies use to source and screen candidates vary considerably. The detail and quality of these processes will greatly effect the quality of candidate you receive. What are they actually going to do for you?
7. How long will it take for you to find me candidates?
Beware of agencies who promise you a full shortlist in a very short time period. It takes time to do a proper job. That being said, an agency using the latest digital technology should be able to produce good candidates within a week or so.
8. What guarantees do you offer?
Agencies offer different types of guarantee. A standard guarantee for contingency work may be a 3 month sliding scale rebate. For executive search or retained work you may be offered longer guarantee periods or a money back option. Make sure you know exactly what the agency is offering.
TIP: Remember that the agency is running a business too. Don’t expect top level guarantee terms for rock bottom fees.
9. What added value services do you offer?
Recruitment agencies can offer a vast well of help and support. Consider it a budding relationship that starts with the question “What else can they do for you”? For example some agencies can help you word your job description in a candidate friendly way. This is a service Copeland offer to our clients.
10. How much do you charge?
Finally the question you’ve probably been waiting to ask. How much do you charge? By asking the other questions first you will now fully understand what you will be getting for your money. This will allow you to make an informed decision on the value to you of the service the agency is providing.
TIP: Cost and value often go hand in hand so fully consider all options before making a decision.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
Check out the agency’s social media presence. For businesses the most important social media platform is LinkedIn. Look at their activity and contacts – you will quickly get a feel of the work they are doing and whether they know their stuff. For an example take a look at Copeland’s LinkedIn Page. Another easy place to look is Google. Just search for the agency name and see what comes up.
About Julia Pennington
Julia is Managing Director of Copeland Automotive Recruitment - UK automotive industry recruiters who help enhance your business performance. Finding you industry expert candidates and reducing your hiring times - focusing on quality over quantity.
We recruit mid to senior level sales, marketing and operations roles covering 4 employer sectors: Vehicle Manufacturers, Automotive Fleet & Financial Services, Marketing Agencies and Automotive Suppliers.
We have over 18 years' experience in automotive recruitment allowing us to give expert advice on jobs, salaries and market trends. Learn more by downloading your complimentary copy of our Automotive Industry Salary Guide
Ready to Talk? Get in touch: [email protected] or 07973 286342