How to find the right recruiter

For those looking to take the next step in their aftermarket career – perhaps you’re one of them? – finding the right recruiter can make a huge difference in a job search, argues recruiter, Glen Callum Associates (GCA). Here, it provides a best practice guide to help candidates understand what to expect from a recruiter.

This handy checklist, penned by Kerrie Richards, director at GCA, offers guidance on how candidates can ensure they are working with a recruiter that prioritises their career goals, while dispelling common misconceptions:

1. Firstly, we encourage candidates to consider whether the recruiterunderstands their unique needs. A quality recruiter will take time to understand the candidate’s experience, skills and long-term career goals. Instead of pushing roles that don’t align, they focus on matching candidates with opportunities that suit them best.

2. Next, we advise candidates to check if the recruiter offers career advice. A good recruiter should be a valuable career resource, providing guidance on CV improvements, interview techniques and market insights. At GCA, we go beyond job listings, offering one-on-one CV reviews, interview coaching and career development advice to help candidates stand out.

3. Choosing a recruitment agency that has strong networks is also key, reasoning that the best recruiters are well connected and hold established relationships with top employers and industry bodies.

4. Rather than rushing to fill vacancies, we believe that true recruitment success lies in creating lasting, well-aligned placements that focus on finding the best match, not only for the role but also for the candidate.

5. Ethics and integrity also sit at the heart of best-practice recruitment. A reputable recruiter should always act with transparency, discretion and professionalism, and be affiliated with recognised industry bodies.

6. Honest and clear communication is another vital factor; it’s about ensuring candidates are kept updated at every stage, offered honest feedback and clear details about salary, expectations and company culture. We don’t leave candidates in the dark. We’re here to guide and support them through every step.

7. Having access to the best opportunities should be a given. When it comes to job opportunities, our reputation opens doors to roles that often aren’t publicly advertised.

8. Beyond job matching, a great recruiter provides genuine support, which includes personalised notes submitted with applications to boost CVs, direct engagement with decision-makers, tailored interview prep and even post placement follow-up to ensure a smooth transition. Our job isn’t done when a CV is sent. We stay involved and invested in the outcome.

9. Recruiters should also be equipped to offer advice on packages and support salary and contract discussions, helping candidates understand total package value, from benefits and flexibility to longer-term prospects, and advise on negotiations, ensuring informed and confident decisions.

10. Specialist industry knowledge is another defining factor. As a dedicated automotive aftermarket recruiter and IAAF member, we bring insider knowledge and real-time market insight, helping candidates explore areas of growth and identify career opportunities that suit their long-term ambitions.

11. And finally, reputation matters! Before choosing a recruiter, it’s worth checking reviews and testimonials from other candidates and employers. A recruiter with a strong track record and proven success is far more likely to provide a positive experience. We have built long-standing relationships across the industry and are proud to be consistently rated highly by both job seekers and hiring businesses. Candidates can explore our testimonials and Google reviews for realworld reassurance of the quality service we provide.

Dispelling the misconceptions.

And while choosing the right recruiter is essential, we are keen to clear up one of the biggest myths in the job-hunting process: candidates don’t pay for recruitment support. Our services are funded by the employer, meaning job seekers benefit from advice, coaching and guidance at no cost.

We want to reassure candidates that this process is for them. We’re here to offer honest advice, confidential support and access to fantastic roles, all without any fees.