Most agency recruiters who have been in the business for a while are fantastic salespeople and great negotiators.  But they can always take a few practical tips from their counterparts in corporate HR.  While developing and managing relationships may be your strength as a third party recruiter, thinking from the perspective of a recruiter in a corporate setting can set you apart from the competition.

How to Work Like HR

Stay on top of employment law.  A corporate HR person has to know and comply with employment laws.  And while they should know the laws for their state and industry, not all recruiters do.  But staying educated about employment law helps you appeal to clients with higher level, niche positions to fill.

Build Better Companies.  Corporate HR depends on making great hires to grow their company and keep their jobs.  Are your placements making companies better?  HR people have to look at the bigger picture - how will this hire affect their company in the long run?  Will they end up being an asset or a liability?  They run assessments that not only determine culture fit, but predict future job performance.  Placing candidates that not only fit the job description, but will be an asset to your client’s business gives you a great reputation - a necessity for longevity in any business.

Prove Your Worth.  The HR department does not generate revenue directly, so every decision is weighed by how it can save money or grow profit.  Show your clients why their investment in you is valuable.  Demonstrate to your client how paying a fee upfront and getting a phenomenal employee now will pay off big in the end.  Provide the right candidate at the right time to stop productivity loss and ease strain on your client's resources.

Care About Your Brand.  To get the best hires, HR has to create and promote an enticing corporate brand.  Don’t rely solely on your client’s brand, leaving your own brand out of the equation.  Brand recognition helps to develop expectations and trust among the best talent, making you just as enticing to work with as the companies you are recruiting for.

p.s.  for 8 more ways to think like HR, download “Breaking the Barriers:  8 Tips for Working with HR” →

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