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    IT Brokerage vs. Recruitment

    Many confuse IT brokerage and recruitment. The difference comes down to employment relationship, speed, and flexibility. Here's a practical guide to when you should use each.

    IT staffing vs. recruitmentSide-by-side comparison of key characteristicsIT StaffingTemporary needProject or capacity gapFast accessStart within 2–6 weeksFlexible exitNo notice periodConsultant via brokerSubcontractor, not employeeRecruitmentPermanent employmentLong-term, strategic roleLonger processTypically 8–16 weeks to startCultural anchoringEmployed in your companyHigher upfront investmentTraining and onboarding includedClick an attribute to explore more

    TL;DR

    • IT brokerage = hiring consultants through a broker, typically project-based or for temporary capacity.
    • Recruitment = permanent employment in your organization, longer process.
    • Brokerage provides faster access (typically 24–48 hours to candidate list) and more flexibility.
    • Recruitment provides long-term anchoring and no ongoing consultant costs.
    • The choice depends on your needs: duration, competency type, and availability.

    What is IT Brokerage?

    IT brokerage is about connecting companies with consultants through a third party – the broker. The consultant is typically employed by a consultancy or is independent. The broker activates their network, matches on requirements, and presents a candidate list. You usually sign an agreement with the broker or consultancy, not directly with the consultant. This provides flexibility: you can scale up or down based on project needs without committing to permanent hires.

    What is Recruitment?

    Recruitment is about hiring someone permanently in your organization. The recruiter sources, screens, and presents candidates whom you interview and potentially offer a job. The process typically takes 4–12 weeks, depending on the role and market. The candidate becomes your employee, with all the rights and obligations that entails.

    When Should You Use IT Brokerage?

    IT brokerage is right when: • You need capacity quickly (days/weeks, not months). • The project is time-limited or uncertain in scope. • You need specialist competency you don't have in-house. • You want to test a profile before potential permanent hire. • You need flexibility to adjust team size.

    When Should You Use Recruitment?

    Recruitment is right when: • You're building long-term core competency. • The role is critical to the business over time. • You have time for a thorough process (4–12 weeks). • You want to avoid ongoing consultant costs. • Cultural fit and long-term commitment matter more than speed.

    Practical Checklist

    • 1Define whether the need is temporary or permanent.
    • 2Assess how quickly you need someone in place.
    • 3Check internal capacity for onboarding and follow-up.
    • 4Consider budget: fixed salary vs consultant rate.
    • 5Consider flexibility: can you scale down again?
    • 6Address security clearance if relevant.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Sources & methodology:Sources
    See the sources page for methodology and data points.

    Sources used in this guide:

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