A typical recruitment agency handles the search for and shortlisting of candidates for a job and provides guidance throughout the interview and hiring process. There are various types of agencies, ranging from providers of temporary staff to executive search and headhunters. Some agencies specialise in specific sectors, such as IT, hospitality or healthcare. It is important to choose the right agency for the specific needs of the business and to brief and monitor them properly.

This factsheet explains how to find and select a recruitment agency, how to brief the agency and how to assess its effectiveness. It provides information about costs as well as advice on what to do if any problems arise.