I often hear about Client Control or Controlling Candidates.

This phrase makes me think of the image here – the puppet master working the strings. We’re supposed to be in charge, but sometimes we can feel like the puppet, with the client or candidate running the show. We lose our grip on the process, things begin to spiral in a direction we never intended, and we fail to get the outcome, or the placement, we were working towards.

So it’s time to take control! But…

… there is a danger in approaching our relationships with the “control” mindset. Our clients and candidates can often FEEL controlled.

And do you know what the human reaction is to that?

Rebellion.
Just ask a teenager.

There is a better, easier and more enjoyable way to recruit. A way to take the reins and nail the perfect placement. It comes from leading your clients and candidates through their own process. Yes, that’s right, THEIR process.

I like to think about it as a dance, rather than a puppet show. You are leading your partner, not pulling their strings.

To make this work, you need to set it up from the very first conversation. Start your client or candidate relationship by asking:

What are their expectations from this partnership?
How would they measure great service?
What can you do to bring them the best outcome?
How would they like you to communicate with them?
What do they need from you?

Let them know you will absolutely commit to these terms. Of course, to give them this quality service, there are certain things you need in return.
What are YOUR ground rules?

What you are doing here, is laying the foundations for a true relationship. Your client or candidate will feel they have a dedicated process with you, one they have defined themselves. A process with clear expectations and commitment from both sides. This is the heart of keeping placements alive.

And this is just the beginning. The real fun starts when the job comes through!

If you would like to delve deeper into leading the candidate and client process – and saving your placements from falling through – come visit us over at Fusion Training.

Better yet, why not join us on our next live webinar on this topic, on Tuesday 12th May 2015.