Misconceptions About Recruitment

Recruitment is an ever-evolving industry, yet there are many misconceptions surrounding the work that recruiters do. Whether it's the belief that we simply send out CVs or that we only care about commissions, these myths can create unnecessary friction in the hiring process. As a specialist in global recruitment, I want to debunk some of the most common misconceptions and shed light on what recruiters actually do.

1. Recruiters Just Forward Resumes

One of the biggest misconceptions is that recruiters simply act as middlemen, passing along resumes with little thought or effort. In reality, recruitment involves thorough candidate sourcing, market mapping, in-depth screening, and detailed discussions with both clients and candidates to ensure the perfect fit. A good recruiter doesn’t just forward a CV; they provide valuable insights, career advice, and strategic hiring solutions.

2. Recruitment is Only About Filling Vacancies

While filling open positions is a major part of recruitment, it’s not the sole focus. Strong recruiters build long-term relationships with both clients and candidates, advising companies on workforce planning and talent acquisition strategies. We help organizations find not just immediate talent, but also future leaders who align with their long-term vision.

3. Recruitment Fees Are Unnecessary and Overpriced

Some companies hesitate to work with recruiters due to perceived high fees. However, a skilled recruiter saves businesses significant time and resources by sourcing top-tier talent efficiently. The cost of a bad hire, lost productivity, and prolonged vacancies far outweighs the investment in a recruiter who can find the right fit quickly and effectively.

4. Recruiters Only Care About Commission

It's easy to assume that recruiters are only driven by financial incentives. While commission is part of the job, most reputable recruiters prioritize building relationships and delivering quality placements. A successful recruiter focuses on matching the right talent with the right company, ensuring long-term success for both parties.

5. Internal Hiring Teams Make External Recruiters Redundant

Many companies believe that having an internal talent acquisition team eliminates the need for external recruiters. While internal teams are crucial, external recruiters bring specialized market knowledge, access to passive candidates, and a broader network. In niche industries, such as clinical affairs and quantum technologies, external recruiters can identify talent that internal teams might struggle to reach.

6. Candidates Don’t Need Recruiters if They Have LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a great tool for job seekers, but it doesn’t replace the expertise of a recruiter. Many top-tier opportunities aren’t advertised publicly, and recruiters have exclusive access to roles that job seekers wouldn’t find on their own. Additionally, we provide personalized career guidance, interview preparation, and salary negotiation support, giving candidates a competitive edge.

Final Thoughts

Recruitment is far more strategic and value-driven than many realize. Whether you’re a company looking to hire or a professional seeking your next opportunity, working with a skilled recruiter can provide significant advantages. By dispelling these misconceptions, we can foster stronger, more productive partnerships in the hiring process.

If you’re looking for a recruitment partner who understands your industry and global hiring needs, let’s connect!