As a leading STEM Talent Recruitment company, we play a vital role in connecting employers with talent, yet there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding the services of staffing agencies. Here’s a look at some of the most common myths we’ve come across, and the truths behind them.
1. Myth: Recruitment agencies only care about filling positions quickly
Reality: Speed is important, usually for all parties concerned, but a reputable recruitment agency prioritises finding the right fit for both the employer and the candidate. They focus on matching skills, experience, and cultural fit, ensuring long-term satisfaction for both parties.
2. Myth: Recruitment companies are too expensive
Reality: While there is a cost associated with using a recruitment agency, it often outweighs the expense of a bad hire. Agencies save companies time and resources by handling the entire hiring process, from sourcing candidates to screening and interviewing, which can ultimately be more cost-effective. See our eBook ‘The Cost and Consequences of a Bad Hire’ for more information.
3. Myth: Recruitment agencies only offer temporary jobs
Reality: Recruitment agencies provide a wide range of opportunities, including temporary, permanent, contract, and temp-to-perm positions. They cater to various industries and job levels, from entry-level roles to executive and c-suite placements.
4. Myth: You don't need a recruitment agency if you have internal HR
Reality: Even companies with strong HR departments can benefit from the specialised expertise and broader candidate networks that recruitment agencies offer. Agencies can supplement internal efforts, especially for niche roles or when a company is scaling rapidly.
5. Myth: Recruitment agencies aren’t invested in candidates’ success
Reality: Successful recruitment agencies are deeply invested in candidates’ success because their reputation depends on it. They provide guidance, feedback and support throughout the hiring process to ensure candidates are well-prepared and positioned to succeed. Plus a candidate and client that has a had a great experience is more likely to come back in the future.
6. Myth: Recruitment agencies only help large companies
Reality: Recruitment agencies work with companies of all sizes, from startups to large corporations. They tailor their services to meet the specific needs of each client, whether it’s filling a single position or staffing an entire department or new site.
7. Myth: Recruitment agencies only look at CVs
Reality: Recruitment agencies do much more than just review CVs. They conduct in-depth interviews, assess cultural fit, verify qualifications, and often provide additional assessments, such as skills testing, to ensure candidates meet all job requirements.
8. Myth: Candidates have to pay to use recruitment agencies
Reality: Legitimate recruitment agencies do not charge candidates for their services. They are typically compensated by the hiring company, so candidates can benefit from their expertise and resources at no cost.
9. Myth: Recruitment agencies are just middlemen
Reality: Recruitment agencies add significant value by acting as strategic partners. They offer industry insights, market trend analysis, and advice on hiring strategies, salary expectations, and candidate availability, helping companies make informed hiring decisions.
10. Myth: Using a Recruitment Agency means losing control over the hiring process
Reality: Companies maintain control over key hiring decisions when working with recruitment agencies. The agency acts as a partner, handling time-consuming tasks and providing qualified candidates, but the final hiring decision always rests with the employer.
Discover more
Hopefully this breakdown has provided you with an appreciation of the value that STR, as recruitment company, can bring to our clients and candidates, making the hiring process smoother, more efficient, compliant and ultimately more successful.
To find out more about our range of recruitment solutions, how they’ve already helped hundreds of clients, and how your business can benefit in the future, click here or contact our Group Director of Solutions Ross Sanderson on rsanderson@strgroup.co.uk to book a discovery call.
Join the team!
Are you interested in a career in recruitment? The great news is that the STR Group is looking for Graduate talent right now! Contact Iona, our Talent Acquisition Team Leader, to find out more and get your application started today!
