Big recruitment agencies have some real advantages. But with size come some traits and characteristics that are not always as positive as they may seem. Small recruitment agencies have some distinct advantages also, but a strategy must be put in place to exercise these strengths in order to outposition the big firms. Here are some thoughts on how small can beat big…
- Recognize the advantages small recruitment agencies have and make the most of these advantages.
- Learn how to minimize the big agency advantages.
- Put a plan in place and work your plan.
Advantages for Small Recruitment Agencies to Leverage:
- Information. Being close to the customer has advantages. Small companies have a natural advantage in this area. Get close to your customer and keep the flow of information into your agency moving both ways.
- Time/Speed. Big companies have a difficult time doing anything quickly. Small companies can do more in the first hours of the day then a giant competitor can do in a week.
- Focus. Big companies must spread their attention to the whole of the market. Small independents can focus on one segment and become expert. While the big agency must increase scope to remain in a growth mode, small recruitment agencies can remain focused on the customer.
- Innovation. Big companies need to have endless meetings to get everyone aligned around the smallest changes and shifts. Being nimble and flexible have great advantages to your customers. They want weekly billing…you can do it. They want daily reporting…you can do it. These small requests can rarely be handled with ease by the big agency.
- Scale. Big companies need big markets. Find the things that big agencies are unwilling to learn, do or service and do them with excellence. You will create a market with little or no competition from the big guys.
Be aware of big agency strengths and do what is needed to minimize those strengths. Have a specific plan in place to combat each area of strength. Be prepared for when the big agency attacks your small business. Understand your response before the attack happens. Whenever possible, band together with like-minded small businesses so that in spite of your unique size you are a part of something bigger. There are many associations and recruitment networks that will allow you to operate as a small business but gain the advantage of being part of something larger.
Big is not always best! And as the story goes…David can beat Goliath when prepared and armed with the right tools.
