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photo credit -- Sora Shimazaki

October 17, 2024

Just a contingent recruiter

I had an HR Director once say “but Kerry, you’re just a contingent recruiter”.

Yikes.  Her words stung.  I felt like a complete loser.

While I’ve been recruiting since 2000 as a contingent recruiter, I’ve always focused on exceptional service and stellar results for my clients.  It didn’t matter to me that I didn’t get 30% of a fee upfront.  I was focused on identifying the best talent for my clients, and I still do today. 

I’ve considered the retainer route, but I enjoy the diversity of roles and clients that I work with.  I’m not tied to one client or obligated to focus all of my efforts on one role.  I am still obsessed with doing what’s best for my clients, and I’ve never been one to throw resumes at the wall to see if they stick.  I am in the trenches seeking the appropriate match, connecting with passive and active candidates, and everyone in between.

(I’m also obsessed with doing what’s right for my candidates.  The perfect placement is one where both the biotech client and the scientist candidate are excited about working together and moving forward with an offer and placement.  If one party or the other isn’t thrilled, this relationship will not last long.  I want to help facilitate a partnership that is long lasting and mutually beneficial.)

I’ve had other recruiters wanting to partner with me, and most are new to the business and want a quick dollar.  That’s not how I roll.  I am laser focused on my client relationships, and I’m marketing my clients as I smile and dial.

So sure, I’m “just a contingent recruiter”.  It’s challenging to consider a new model as old, new, and referred clients have come to expect the tried and true process that I’ve used over the last few decades.  

I hope when we work together, I exceed your expectations and surprise you with “retained results”!