The $26 billion employment and recruiting agency industry enjoys a low level of market share concentration across the country, with the four largest operators expected to generate only 13.2% of the industry’s revenue in 2015. The highly fragmented trade consists of many small companies operating locally and regionally, in narrow geographic markets. Even the largest firms with a global presence still possess a relatively low share of the market.
All of this is good news—mostly—for agencies striving to nab their share of the employment industry. The down side of such a diverse market is the aggressive nature of the prevailing claims – “we’ll meet your needs”, “we’re the best, the most caring”, and on and on. In the super-competitive world of staffing, standing apart from the competition isn’t easy but it is possible.
It’s important to recognize that customer service is no longer the all-definitive factor it once was. A successful agency now must wear many different hats. Thriving firms must deliver top-notch client services and ensure an exceptional candidate experience, providing job coach assistance that includes resume advice and critique, as well as interview preparation.
Set your firm apart by detailed attention to these proven strategies.
1.Relationship building is key
Nothing will propel your agency toward success more than a purposeful focus on building relationships. The reverse is also true. Little else will have as strong a negative impact as will neglecting relationship building with both client companies and job candidates.
A relationship-driven focus must first seek to understand the client’s/candidate’s needs and expectations in order to then advocate on that customer’s behalf. This “client/candidate first” attitude must permeate everything and everyone – from the physical premises to the online experience to all levels of the staff. Make it your number one business strategy.
2.Mobile is a must
Mobile is the name of the game in today’s world, folks, and this component of both staffing and seeking employment will only grow in the future. Any staffing agency who hopes to compete in today’s competitive employment industry will insure their website is comprehensive and mobile-device friendly. Furthermore, job candidates must be able to access an online application. The convenience and time-savings afforded at every level, for both client/candidates as well as agency staff, make tech-savvy options a priority.
3.Strive to balance technology and the “personal touch”
Despite the trend toward expecting and yes, even demanding online options, people still want to be treated like a person rather than a number. That means they expect to reach a friendly, knowledgeable person for a conversation about whatever – questions not addressed online, concerns that require personal interaction, assurance, and advice about the next step… and so on.
An attitude and a strategy molded around both monitoring and providing for relationship building that walks along side of the latest technological advances will lead to the greatest opportunity for success.
In summary, success in the employment industry requires a delicately balanced combination of:
*People – a knowledgeable staff focused on relationship building
*Technology – innovations that provide information, allow for easy access and enable communication
*Service – a devotion to meeting the customer’s needs and expectations
*Insight – an understanding of the unique challenges in the employment industry and the ability to implement a plan of action
At ASJ Partners, we are the experts at accelerating revenues for staffing and recruiting firms through unique, customized and highly targeted marketing programs. Our industry specific programs will help you Sell More, Win More, Grow More and Be Found More. Contact us today for a consultative assessment that will pinpoint your firm’s specific needs.
