Recruitment agencies play a key role in the job market, which is often misunderstood due to several preconceived notions. These biases, often unconsciously ingrained in the minds of both companies and candidates, distort their perceptions and influence their actions. In this article, we will demystify the top 10 misconceptions to highlight the true value added by recruitment agencies.
Here are the top 10 misconceptions about recruitment agencies :
1.”Recruitment agencies only review and forward CVs“
It is common to think that recruitment agencies simply review, sort, and forward CVs, while in reality, their work goes much further than that.
They start with an in-depth analysis of the company’s needs, taking into account the structure, long-term objectives, and the specific challenges of the position to be filled. Then, they carry out genuine sourcing efforts, identifying talent through various methods such as professional networks, internal databases, etc.
Once candidates are pre-selected, they evaluate not only their technical skills but also their soft skills (interpersonal abilities, adaptability, etc.) and their fit with the company culture. This goes far beyond a simple match between a CV and a job description: it’s a comprehensive approach aimed at finding the ideal candidate, both technically and humanly, who will be able to thrive in the company long-term.
2.”Recruiters only target candidates actively looking for a job”
Contrary to popular belief, recruitment agencies do not focus solely on candidates actively searching for a job.
In fact, they take a proactive approach by also seeking out “passive” talent – professionals who are not necessarily looking for a position but possess rare skills or valuable expertise for companies.
Thanks to their extensive network and advanced sourcing techniques, recruiters identify these strategic profiles and approach them directly, offering opportunities they might not have otherwise considered. This allows companies to access a broader and often more qualified talent pool.
3.”Recruitment agencies use overly aggressive recruitment methods”
The recruitment methods of agencies are often considered overly aggressive. While some agencies may cross boundaries by adopting too offensive a strategy, we shouldn’t lump all agencies together.
Good recruitment agencies understand that listening, respect, and transparency are key to building lasting relationships, both with candidates and companies. They prioritize a respectful approach, taking the time to understand the expectations of both parties before introducing them to each other.
If an agency uses overly insistent methods or neglects individual needs, it may be a sign that it’s better to move on to an agency that is more respectful and aligned with your expectations.
At Bessand, for example, we would never push a candidate into a company if we know that the position is not right for them or that they wouldn’t fit with the company culture !
4.”Recruitment agencies are primarily motivated by money”
It’s easy to think that recruitment agencies are driven solely by their fees, but the reality is quite different. Most recruiters invest a lot of time and energy not only in assessing candidates’ technical skills but also their motivations, values, and compatibility with the company culture.
Of course, commissions are part of the business model, but the real motivation for many agencies lies in their passion for the profession and their desire to create lasting relationships between candidates and companies. A successful recruitment benefits not only the company but also enhances the recruiter’s reputation in the long term.
Although fees can sometimes seem high, agencies help companies save valuable time and avoid hidden costs of a bad hire, such as reduced productivity or high turnover. Ultimately, working with an agency is a smart investment for the company’s long-term success.
5.”Recruitment agencies are only for large companies”
Many people believe that recruitment agencies only serve large companies, but this is not true! Many small and medium-sized businesses, as well as startups, also use their services, especially when they need specific talent or don’t have the time to recruit.
Working with an agency allows you to save time and access candidates that are not easily found through traditional methods. For growing companies, it’s a great way to find the best profiles, especially when those profiles are highly sought after. By outsourcing part of their recruitment to an agency, these companies can focus on their core activities while ensuring they find the right candidates to help them grow.
6.”Recruitment agencies only recruit for permanent positions (CDI)”
It’s common to think that recruitment agencies focus solely on permanent positions (CDI), but in reality, their scope is much broader! Many agencies also offer fixed-term contracts (CDD), temporary assignments, or even freelance positions.
This allows companies to quickly meet temporary or specific needs, whether for a one-off project, an increase in workload, or to replace an absent employee. By collaborating with an agency, companies can ensure they have access to qualified talent, regardless of the type of contract. Whether you’re looking for a CDI, CDD, or freelance work, recruitment agencies have the resources to help you find the right person at the right time.
7.”Recruiters are rarely specialized”
Some candidates and companies think that recruitment agencies lack the knowledge to fully understand the essential needs of certain industries.
However, many agencies specialize, like Bessand does, by industry (IT, Sales, finance, healthcare, etc.), and understand the challenges and specifics of each sector. They know what skills are essential, which trends are emerging, and how to adapt to the unique needs of companies. This expertise enables them to better target candidates who not only possess the necessary qualifications but who also fit perfectly into the company culture.
8.”A recruitment agency replaces the company’s HR teams”
Some companies fear that the involvement of a recruitment agency will replace or compete with their HR teams. In reality, these agencies are there to complement and enhance HR teams, not replace them.
They bring valuable expertise and proven methods that can greatly facilitate the recruitment process. Thanks to their extensive networks and in-depth market knowledge, agencies can access talents that internal HR teams may struggle to find.
By collaborating with a recruitment agency, companies benefit from additional support that allows them to optimize their selection process. This means less stress for HR teams and a higher chance of finding the ideal candidate, which is a win-win for everyone!
9.”The recruiter disappears once the candidate is placed”
Contrary to what is often thought, recruitment agencies do not disappear once a candidate is placed. In fact, most agencies commit to following up after the placement to ensure that the candidate’s integration into the company goes smoothly. This step is crucial to ensure that everyone is satisfied and to build a solid relationship.
At Bessand, we accompany you throughout the process, right through to the candidate’s onboarding. We plan end-of-assignment reviews to ensure the candidate integrates well into the company culture and that everyone is happy.
10.”Recruiting directly without an agency is more effective”
Many companies believe they can save time and resources by recruiting internally, but this approach can sometimes turn out to be longer and more complicated. Recruitment agencies have a vast network of candidates and advanced sourcing tools that allow them to find talents that the company might struggle to reach on its own.
By working with an agency, companies can benefit from the expertise of professionals who know exactly where to look and how to effectively assess candidates. This not only saves time but also allows them to access more diverse profiles that are better suited to their needs. In the end, using an agency can not only simplify the recruitment process but also increase the chances of finding the ideal person for the position.
In conclusion, recruitment agencies are often victims of misconceptions that do not reflect reality. Their mission goes far beyond simple matchmaking: they provide expertise and valuable support in a constantly evolving job market. Thanks to their deep understanding of various sectors and their ability to build trust-based relationships, they are indispensable partners for companies seeking rare or hard-to-find talent.
Whether for permanent positions, fixed-term contracts, or freelance assignments, these agencies strive to meet the specific needs of companies while considering the aspirations of candidates. By offering personalized solutions and constant follow-up, they become true allies in the recruitment process, contributing to the creation of strong, high-performing teams.
