Retained vs Contingent Recruitment – A Smarter Way to Hire
Many companies still rely on multiple recruitment agencies to fill a single role. It seems like the fastest way to hire but in reality, it often slows things down and reduces quality.
You get duplicated CVs, rushed submissions, and very little insight into the market.
The Problem with Contingent Recruitment
The traditional contingent model (multiple agencies, no upfront commitment) often leads to:
- CVs sent quickly rather than accurately
- Little visibility into the wider talent market
- Inconsistent communication with candidates
- No clear ownership of the role
- Higher risk of making the wrong hire
Ultimately, it becomes a race not a strategy.
What Is Retained Recruitment?
Retained recruitment is a partnership model.
Instead of working with multiple agencies, you partner with one specialist recruiter who manages the entire search process from market mapping to final hire.
At 2020 Recruitment, this means a structured, transparent, and data-led approach to finding the right person.
How Retained Recruitment Works
Our retained search model is built around quality and accountability.
Exclusive Focus
We work solely on your role. No competing agencies, no distractions.
Market Mapping & Headhunting
We identify and approach the right candidates not just those actively applying.
Data & Insight
We provide real-time information on salaries, talent availability, and hiring trends.
Weekly Reporting
You get full visibility of progress, pipeline, and market feedback.
Rigorous Assessment
We evaluate both technical ability and cultural fit to reduce hiring risk.
Shortlisted Candidates Only
No CV overload. Just a carefully selected shortlist.
Benefits of Retained Recruitment
Choosing a retained model leads to:
- Higher-quality hires
- Reduced time-to-hire
- Improved employee retention
- Better candidate experience
- Access to passive talent
- Clear accountability and ownership
Is Retained Recruitment Worth It?
A common question. It’s not the same service at a higher fee. It’s a completely different service.
You’re not paying for CVs.
You’re investing in:
- Expertise
- Market intelligence
- A structured hiring process
- Long-term hiring success
When Retained Recruitment Makes Sense
Retained recruitment works best when:
- The role is business-critical
- You need access to the full talent market
- Cultural fit is just as important as skillset
- You want a strategic hiring partner. Not just CVs and hope for the best
Final Thoughts
The companies that hire best today aren’t the ones speaking to the most agencies.
They’re the ones working with the right partner.
At 2020 Recruitment, we focus on delivering the right hire. Not just the fastest one!
