5 Signs It’s Time to Switch Recruitment Agencies
John, the operations manager of a bustling retail chain, was stuck in a loop. Every time he thought he’d found the right recruitment agency, he ended up babysitting the process himself.
He missed follow-ups. He got irrelevant CVs. He had staff that ghosted on day two.
Does this sound familiar? If you are silently nodding, it might be time to reassess your recruiting partner.
Your staffing agency should feel like a strategic arm of your business, not a black hole of time and resources.
You need to note this 5 unmistakable signs it’s time to make a switch:
- You’re Doing All the Chasing
You shouldn’t have to micromanage your recruitment agency. If you’re the one constantly sending reminders or following up on interviews and feedback, something’s wrong. A good agency takes initiative, keeps you informed, and respects your time.
Quick Check: Who initiates most conversations, you or your agency?
- The Candidates Never Stay Long
High turnover? That’s a red flag. It might mean the agency isn’t properly screening candidates or matching them to your culture. Consistent short-term hires can drain your team’s morale and productivity.
Fun Fact: A bad hire can cost your business up to 30% of the employee’s annual salary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- You’re Getting CVs, Not Solutions
If your agency just dumps resumes on your desk without adding context or recommendations, they’re not adding value. Recruitment is more than sending CVs. It’s about understanding your goals and offering candidates that are ready to deliver from day one.
Checklist: Is your agency offering candidate insights, cultural fit commentary, and pre-screening?
- They Don’t Understand Your Industry
Every industry has its quirks. Whether it’s licensing in healthcare or shift logistics in warehousing, your agency should speak your language. If you constantly have to explain the basics, you’re wasting time.
Example: A Hillgate healthcare client recently transitioned to us after months of receiving candidates without proper NHS compliance.
- Your Gut Says It’s Time
Sometimes it’s not one glaring issue, but a pattern. Missed calls. Repetitive mistakes. Communication breakdowns. If it feels wrong, it probably is.
Time to Break Up?
If you noticed three or more signs here, it’s time to reconsider your partnership.
Hillgate Recruitment offers hands-on, industry-specific recruitment services with a human-first approach. We’re not just here to fill roles. We’re here to help you grow.
Book a free 15-minute discovery call and let’s explore how we can support your hiring goals.
