How to Pick a Good Recruiter: Experience, Reputation, and Price Matter

Finding the right recruiter can make all the difference in securing top talent for your business. But with so many recruitment agencies out there, how do you know which one to trust?

Many businesses focus on choosing a well-known agency, assuming that a big name guarantees results. However, the real difference often comes down to the individual recruiter—not just the company they work for.

In an industry where recruiters frequently move between firms, choosing someone with a strong track record, the right experience, and a reputation for delivering results is key. But experience and quality come at a price—you get what you pay for.

Why a Recruiter’s Experience Matters

Recruitment is about relationships, market knowledge, and understanding the hiring process inside out. A recruiter who has spent years refining their skills, building networks, and learning from experience is far more valuable than someone who has only been in the industry for a short time.

Here’s what to look for:

1. Years of Industry Experience

A recruiter with 5, 10, or even 15+ years in the industry has seen market shifts, hiring trends, and recruitment challenges firsthand. They will know how to navigate these and find the best talent quickly.

Be cautious of recruiters who frequently change jobs—someone moving from agency to agency every year may not have the commitment or expertise needed to deliver long-term results.

2. Length of Service at Their Current Agency

A recruiter who has stayed with the same agency for several years is more likely to be invested in their clients, understand the company’s processes, and have a strong, established network of candidates.

A recruiter who frequently jumps from one company to another may struggle to build meaningful relationships with clients and candidates. This can lead to inconsistent service and a lack of accountability.

3. Proven Track Record with Client Recommendations

Great recruiters don’t just talk about results—they have clients who vouch for them. When choosing a recruiter, ask for testimonials, case studies, or direct recommendations from businesses they’ve worked with.

A good recruiter should be able to show examples of successful placements, long-term client relationships, and repeat business. If they can’t, it’s a red flag.

4. Google Reviews and Online Reputation

A well-regarded recruiter should have a strong online presence, with positive reviews on Google, LinkedIn, and industry-specific platforms.

Look for:

• Consistent 5-star reviews

• Clients mentioning specific recruiters by name

• Positive feedback about communication, candidate quality, and overall service

If an agency has poor or no reviews, dig deeper before committing.

5. Specialisation in Your Industry

A recruiter with deep knowledge of your sector will have a better understanding of the skills, salary expectations, and challenges in hiring for your industry.

Generalist recruiters may struggle to find the right candidates for technical or specialist roles. Choose someone who knows your industry inside and out.

6. Local Expertise (If Needed)

While location isn’t always essential, if you need candidates in a specific area, your recruiter should have the tools and networks to find local talent. Ask about their sourcing strategies—do they have an existing database of local candidates? Do they advertise in the right places? Do they have strong connections with professionals in your region?

Price: You Get What You Pay For

Recruitment isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about finding the right person who will add value to your business. Cheap recruitment may seem like a saving, but it often costs more in the long run if you end up with the wrong hire.

When choosing a recruiter, consider:

• Their fee structure: Low fees often mean less time spent on sourcing, vetting, and ensuring candidate quality.

• Do they offer a rebate you can rely on? A reputable recruiter stands by their placements and offers a meaningful rebate if a candidate doesn’t work out. Be wary of agencies that only provide a credit note—this ties you into using them again, even if they didn’t get it right the first time.

• Do they guarantee their service? The best recruiters are confident in their ability to find the right candidates and will have a clear policy on replacements or refunds.

The Right Recruiter Becomes a Long-Term Partner

A great recruiter doesn’t just fill one vacancy—they become a trusted partner who understands your business, your culture, and your hiring needs over time. They save you time, reduce hiring risks, and ensure you get the best candidates, not just the available ones.

When choosing a recruiter, don’t just focus on the agency name. Look at the individual, their experience, their track record, and their reputation. A recruiter who has built a career in the industry is far more valuable than someone who has jumped from job to job. And remember, price reflects quality—cheaper isn’t always better.

Need a Trusted Recruitment Partner?

If you’re looking for a recruiter with years of experience, a strong track record, and a commitment to delivering top talent, we can help. Our team is built on expertise, long-term client relationships, and a deep understanding of the industries we serve.

Get in touch today to find out how we can support your hiring needs.

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