Is Your Recruiter Hurting Your Employer Brand? The Hidden Cost of Misaligned Values

In today's competitive talent landscape, finding the perfect hire can feel like searching for a unicorn. Many companies turn to recruitment agencies to bridge the gap, but what if the agency you choose becomes a hidden threat to your organisation's reputation? The reality is, that partnering with an agency that doesn't mirror your company's values, mission, and culture can be just as damaging as a bad hire.

The High Cost of a Misaligned Partnership

Think of a recruitment agency as an extension of your own talent acquisition team. Recent studies by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) show that a bad hiring decision can cost a UK company an average of ï¿¡20,000. Now imagine the potential damage if the agency you partner with consistently makes misaligned placements. Not only will it cost you financially, but it can erode employee morale, damage your employer brand, and ultimately, impact your bottom line.

A 2022 case involving a major retail chain serves as a stark reminder. The company partnered with an agency accused of discriminatory hiring practices. Negative press coverage and a public backlash ensued, leading to a significant decline in customer trust and brand loyalty.

The Power of Shared Values

Conversely, choosing an agency that aligns with your core values can be a game-changer. A 2021 report by Glassdoor found that 69% of job seekers consider a company's values when making a decision about employment. An agency that understands and embraces your mission can attract top talent who share your vision. This not only leads to better quality hires but also fosters a more cohesive and positive company culture.

A prime example is a tech startup that partnered with a progressive agency specialising in diversity and inclusion. The agency actively sought out candidates from underrepresented groups, resulting in a more diverse and innovative workforce. This not only enriched the company culture but also led to the development of more inclusive products, further strengthening their brand reputation.

Choosing the Right Partner: It's About More Than Just Fees

When selecting a recruitment agency, the focus shouldn't solely be on fees or quick fixes. Look for an agency that takes the time to understand your company's DNA – its mission, values, and culture. Do their practices reflect your own commitment to diversity, ethics, and social responsibility? Are they transparent about their processes and success rates in placing candidates who thrive in your environment?

A recent review from a client of Inclusion IQ stated;

“I have been working in partnership with Laura at Inclusion IQ for over 3 years now.? During this period Laura and her team have supported with recruitment across our Transport, Warehousing, Finance and Customs Departments, with many of these roles being niche to the business sector that we operate in.? Laura & her team have taken the time to visit our sites and see how each of the departments operate to get a full understanding of our recruitment needs and our people & culture.

The time that Laura and her team take to fully understand the business and our needs pays dividends in the candidates that we meet with the majority of these being successfully placed within the business.? The candidates that have been placed by Inclusion IQ give us positive feedback on the job role details given to them throughout the process and the professionalism that is carried out from start to finish.

?The level of service provided and the relationship that continues to grow from strength to strength makes Inclusion IQ our go-to recruitment partner.”???

Building a strong partnership with a values-aligned agency requires open communication and collaboration. Regularly assess the agency's performance and ensure they are actively seeking out candidates who resonate with your company's purpose.

In conclusion, finding the right talent is crucial for any organisation's success. But the search shouldn't stop at the skills and experience listed on a CV. By choosing a recruitment agency that shares your values and vision, you're not just finding top talent – you're investing in the future of your company's reputation and culture.

If you are committed to DE&I and are seeking an external recruitmnet partner who not only matches your values but will actively work to enhance your recruitmnet procedures and work to reduce unconscious bias from the process, get in touch with Laura Kearney BA Hons, MMBA or Sinéad Mck who will gladly provide you with recruitmnet support.