Glen Callum Associates (GCA) has argued finding the right recruiter can make a difference for those looking to take the next step in their aftermarket career and has created a best-practice guide to help candidates understand what to expect from a recruiter.
The checklist offers guidance on how candidates can ensure they are working with a professional, ethical recruiter prioritising their career goals, while dispelling common misconceptions.
Kerrie Richards, director at GCA, said: “A great recruiter should be more than just a middleman; they should act as a trusted advisor, offering guidance, support and access to the best opportunities. To ensure you’re working with a recruiter who truly has your best interests at heart, consider working through our checklist.”
Firstly, GCA encourages candidates to consider whether the recruiter understands their needs.
Richards explained: “A quality recruiter takes time to understand your experience, skills and long-term career goals. Instead of pushing roles that don’t align, they focus on matching you with opportunities that suit you best.”
GCA’s recruiters take a consultative approach, allowing them to match candidates with positions reflecting their aspirations. Even if they do not have an immediate match, they keep candidates on record and notify them as soon as a suitable role becomes available.
Next, GCA advises candidates to check if the recruiter offers career advice. Richard continued: “A recruiter should be a valuable career resource, providing guidance on CV improvements, interview techniques and market insights. At GCA, we go beyond job listings, offering one-on-one CV reviews, interview coaching and career development advice to help candidates stand out.”
Choosing a recruitment agency which has strong networks is also said to be key, the best recruiters are well connected and hold established relationships with top employers and industry bodies.
As GCA has spent over two decades cultivating trusted relationships within the automotive aftermarket, its team is able to connect candidates with companies which may not be publicly advertising roles but would welcome the right talent.
Rather than rushing to fill vacancies, GCA believes true recruitment success lies in creating lasting, well-aligned placements, focusing on finding the best match, not only for the role but also for the candidate.
Ethics and integrity also sit at the heart of best-practice recruitment. A reputable recruiter should always act with transparency, discretion and professionalism, and be affiliated with recognised industry bodies.
GCA’s consultants have been affiliated members of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) since 2009 and follow its code of practice, giving candidates confidence their information is safe and will never be shared without full consent.
Honest and clear communication is said to be another vital factor. GCA ensures candidates are kept updated at every stage, offering honest feedback and details about salary, expectations and company culture. Richard said: “We don’t leave candidates in the dark. We’re here to guide and support them through every step.”
Richards added: “Our job isn’t done when a CV is sent. We stay involved and invested in the outcome.”
Recruiters should also be equipped to offer advice on packages and support salary and contract discussions. GCA helps candidates understand total package value, from benefits and flexibility to longer-term prospects, and advises on negotiations, ensuring informed decisions.
Specialist industry knowledge is another defining factor. As a dedicated automotive aftermarket recruiter and IAAF member, GCA brings insider knowledge and real-time market insight, helping candidates explore areas of growth and identify career opportunities suiting their long-term ambitions.
Finally, reputation matters. Before choosing a recruiter, it’s worth checking reviews and testimonials from other candidates and employers, says GCA.
Richards explained: “A recruiter with a strong track record and proven success is far more likely to provide a positive experience. GCA has built long-standing relationships across the industry and is proud to be consistently rated highly by both job seekers and hiring businesses. Candidates can explore our testimonials and Google reviews for real-world reassurance of the quality service we provide.”
And while choosing the right recruiter is essential, GCA is keen to clear up one of the biggest myths in the job-hunting process: candidates don’t pay for recruitment support. GCA’s services are funded by the employer, meaning job seekers benefit from advice, coaching and guidance at no cost.
Richards concluded: “We want to reassure candidates that this process is for them. We’re here to offer honest advice, confidential support and access to fantastic roles, all without any fees. If you’re thinking about your next career move, we’ll help you find the right fit, not just the next job.”
