What Does a Recruitment Agency Do?

A Friendly Guide for First-Time Job Seekers and Employers

If you’ve never worked with a recruitment agency before, you might be wondering what we actually do — and how we can help. Whether you’re searching for a new role or trying to fill a vacancy, this article breaks it all down in plain English.

At SF Recruitment, we work closely with both employers (clients) and job seekers (candidates). Employers engage us to find the right people for their vacancies, and in turn, we help candidates connect with roles that match their goals, skills and values. And just to clear up a common question: our service is completely free for candidates.

As consultants, we’re here to simplify the hiring process, offer support, and give everyone involved a better experience from start to finish.

So, what is a recruitment agency?

A recruitment agency is a business that brings employers and job seekers together. Think of us as matchmakers for the working world.

Agencies like SF Recruitment, Macildowie, Hays, Michael Page and Gleeson Recruitment have been part of the employment landscape for years — building up expert knowledge, trusted client relationships, and databases of talent that go back decades. Most recruitment agencies also use smart (and often bespoke) technology to match candidates with roles faster and more accurately.

In fact, many employers choose to hire only through agencies because it saves them time, improves candidate quality, and helps them fill roles quicker.

How do recruitment agencies work?

Our day-to-day involves a lot of moving parts — but here’s a quick overview of how we support both clients and candidates:

1. Candidate sourcing

We tap into a variety of channels to find the right people: our own network, job boards, LinkedIn, referrals, and people already in our database.

2. Screening and interviewing

Once we identify potential candidates, we have initial conversations to understand their experience, motivations and preferences.

3. Matching to roles

We don’t just tick skills off a list. We match people to companies based on culture, values and long-term goals too.

4. Negotiation and placement

We support both sides when it comes to salary, benefits and expectations — helping to make the offer process smooth and fair.

Why work with a recruitment agency?

For Employers

• Access to a wider talent pool – including candidates who aren’t actively applying for jobs.

• Time-saving – we screen candidates, reduce admin, and only introduce people we believe are a good fit.

• Expert advice – we know the market, salary trends, and how to position your opportunity for success.

• Quality over quantity – our reputation relies on placing the right people, not just any people.

For Job Seekers

• Exclusive opportunities – not all jobs are advertised. Some are filled purely through trusted recruitment partners.

• Helpful guidance – we offer honest feedback on your CV, interview tips, and insight into what employers are really looking for.

• Insider knowledge – because we know the businesses we recruit for, we can help you understand the culture and expectations before you apply.

Types of recruitment agencies

Not all agencies do the same thing. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Industry-specific agencies

These agencies specialise in one area, such as technology, finance, engineering or healthcare. For example, SF Recruitment focuses on Finance & Accountancy, Professional Services, Engineering, Technology, and Executive-level recruitment. Sector-specific agencies often have deeper insights and stronger networks in their field.

Executive search

Also known as headhunting, this is about finding senior leaders and C-suite professionals. Our own executive brand, SF Executive, is dedicated to these high-level appointments.

Temp (Temporary) and contract agencies

These focus on short-term or interim roles. They’re great for businesses with fluctuating workloads, and for candidates who want flexibility or project-based work.

What does the recruitment process look like?

Every agency works slightly differently, but here’s a typical outline of how we support a successful hire:

1. Initial chat – to understand the role or the job seeker’s goals

2. Advertising and sourcing – reaching out to candidates or roles that align

3. Screening and shortlisting – narrowing it down to the best fit

4. Interviews – supporting both sides through the interview process

5. Reference checks – verifying experience, qualifications and values

6. Offer stage – handling negotiations and expectations

7. Onboarding – helping with a smooth start

What challenges do recruitment agencies face?

It’s a fast-paced world out there. We’re always adapting to changes in the job market; from new technologies like AI, to shifting expectations around flexibility and benefits.

Our role isn’t just about finding candidates anymore; it’s about helping employers build inclusive, diverse, and resilient teams. And that takes insight, trust, and a lot of listening.

What’s next for recruitment agencies?

Recruitment is evolving and that’s a good thing. Agencies that embrace new tech, smarter data, and inclusive practices will continue to thrive. But no matter how the tools change, one thing stays the same: recruitment is about people.

At SF Recruitment, we’re proud to play our part in putting people into jobs they love, and supporting businesses to grow with confidence.

Looking for your next role or trying to fill one?
Get in touch with one of our friendly consultants – we’re always happy to help.