Understanding our role

Even if negotiations about money are handled by a Recruiter, it's important to keep in mind the potential employer across the table. This can help keep your demands realistic. "Never ask for anything via a Recruiter which you wouldn't ask for yourself were you sitting face-to-face with your potential employer".

The fact that you don't negotiate with the Recruiter but through them is important. Strictly speaking, Recruiters don't negotiate with candidates, their responsibility is to mediate between the two parties and ultimately, they are paid to complete the deal.

Clients vary in their use of Recruiters. Some prefer to negotiate directly with candidates whilst others retain the Recruiter as the intermediary.

The benefit of negotiating via the Recruiter, is that it helps both parties  maintain their objectivity during what can be a highly charged process.

Part of the service Recruiters provide is advising their clients on market rates.  Recruiters can also help ensure both parties are thinking alike. The Recruiter will usually have a conversation with both sides about expectations prior to presentation of an actual offer, thus avoiding potential obstacles further down the line.