News Research Brief: Source edition/date: 22 May 2019. Research reviewed on 2 November 2026. This is a dated explainer, not a claim of a newly announced event.
The recruitment experience is part of how an employer treats people, even when an agency runs the initial contact. A buyer should understand who contacts candidates, which information is given and what costs are charged to whom.
Understand the Research Context
The ILO’s published fair-recruitment guidance includes the principle that workers should not bear recruitment fees or related costs. Local rules and the particular employment arrangement require separate review. Read the ILO: Fair Recruitment Principles and Fees Guidance for the original context. The practical questions below are Best10Companies editorial analysis, not the source organization’s checklist or an endorsement.
What to Ask Before You Commit
Ask the recruiter to explain its process, including any intermediaries, document handling and complaints route. Request a clear commercial fee arrangement with your business. Candidate-facing statements should match the approved role and employment terms. Do not treat an agency’s familiar brand as proof that every subcontractor follows the same process. Use appropriate professional advice where local licensing, migration or employment rules are involved.
| Check | Evidence to Request |
|---|---|
| Recruitment chain | Agency and intermediary responsibilities |
| Candidate information | Accurate role and terms |
| Complaints | A route to report and investigate concerns |
A Practical Exercise
Trace one hypothetical candidate from first contact to joining. Record each party involved and ask how the employer would investigate a report of an undisclosed fee.
Build a Clearer Shortlist
Use the same brief when you compare companies offering HR & Recruitment services. Keep the answers, assumptions and exclusions together so that a later decision is based on comparable information. When you are ready to post your requirement, describe the scope and the evidence you need rather than requesting a general promise of results.
