Once upon a time, there was a client—a leading manufacturer in their field. Like the famous tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, they were in search of something that was “just right.” But in their quest for the perfect candidate, they made a series of decisions that turned their recruitment journey into a cautionary tale.
Luckily for them, Jiggle’s recruitment experts were there to guide them.
The Client’s Quest
This client needed front-line operatives, and they needed them urgently. They set out very clear criteria for the role:
• No previous employment with the company.
• Specific qualifications.
• A precise number of years’ experience.
On the surface, it seemed straightforward. But as candidates came along, the story began to unravel.
The Candidates: Too Hot, Too Cold, and… Just Right?
Like Goldilocks testing porridge, chairs, and beds, the client sifted through candidates:
- Too Green:
Some candidates were new to the industry but held all the right qualifications. These were rejected for not meeting the strict experience requirements. - Too Seasoned:
Others had years of hands-on expertise but lacked the specific qualification the client insisted on. Rejected. - Just Right—But Still Rejected:
Finally, Jiggle managed to find a candidate with the right qualifications and experience. They started on a temp-to-perm basis and exceeded expectations. The client loved them. The candidate loved the company. Everything seemed perfect.
When the Crunch Came
The candidate was clear from the outset about the rate they needed for a permanent role. During the temp period, the client agreed. At the interview, they reinforced this understanding.
But when the time came to formally offer the position, the client offered a lower rate, citing it as the “company standard.”
• The candidate felt undervalued.
• The client insisted their hands were tied.
• Communication broke down.
Jiggle’s recruitment experts stepped in, working tirelessly to negotiate and find a solution that would satisfy both parties. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, the client was unwilling to adjust their offer.
How Jiggle Supported the Candidate
At this point, Jiggle’s recruitment experts knew they had to act transparently and ethically. We advised the client that the candidate would not accept the lower offer and informed them we would support the candidate in finding an alternative role. Our client even signposted us to reputable competitors the candidate would be successful with (yes, we know!).
For the candidate, we:
• Provided immediate access to other opportunities within our network.
• Connected them with a competitor of the client who was hiring for a similar role.
• Ensured the competitor understood the candidate’s expectations and requirements, so there would be no surprises.
The competitor:
• Interviewed the candidate the same day.
• Offered the required rate on the spot.
• Secured a fantastic hire without the drama.
The candidate was happy, the competitor gained a valuable team member, and Jiggle upheld its commitment to supporting both clients and candidates with transparency and fairness.
The Moral of the Story
Goldilocks knew when the porridge was too hot or too cold. She didn’t settle for anything less than “just right.” For clients, getting it “just right” in recruitment means:
- Clear Communication:
If your “company standard” rate is non-negotiable, set that expectation early in the process. Surprises at the offer stage don’t go down well. - Flexibility Where It Matters:
Exceptional candidates are worth bending the rules for. Sometimes, the value they bring outweighs rigid policies. - Listening to the Market:
If a candidate tells you what they need, and you’ve seen their value firsthand, respect that. The market is competitive, and great candidates won’t wait around.
How Jiggle Ensures the Porridge is “Just Right”
At Jiggle, we don’t just find candidates; we build relationships. Our recruitment experts are here to:
• Support clients in navigating negotiations and finding win-win solutions.
• Provide honest, transparent advice when a situation isn’t working.
• Advocate for candidates and connect them with opportunities that align with their goals.
We don’t leave anyone in the lurch—whether you’re a client or a candidate, Jiggle ensures you get the support you need.
Don’t Lose the Candidate to the Competition
The client in this story learned a hard lesson: sometimes, being inflexible means missing out. The good news? You don’t have to repeat their mistakes.
At Jiggle, we work with clients to make sure their recruitment process is “just right.” From clear communication to market insights and ethical practices, we help you secure the best talent for your business—without the drama.
If you’re ready to reimagine your recruitment story, let’s talk. Together, we’ll make sure your porridge is just right.
