They can help you avoid mistakes in the hiring process by providing objective analysis of a candidate or by following up on references, and they can save you time by screening candidates against your agreed-upon requirements. Recruiters work for you and employment agencies work for job hunters. Retained search firms might specialize in a particular industry, but usually they are generalists. Most search firms require a non-refundable retainer, plus the placement fee if you hire one of their candidates. If you hire one of the recruiter's candidates, the usual fee is equal to 25 percent of the new employee's first-year salary.
Extraordinary expenses can be extra.
Carefully, because the recruiter will be representing your company and because a poor recruiter can waste a lot of your time. Ask about their methods. Some recruiting firms routinely assign a team of recruiters to an assignment to make sure someone is always available to answer your questions and to ensure that progress continues if, for example, one recruiter becomes ill. Find out who will handle your assignment. Ask about their experience in recruiting the position you are trying to fill.