Navigating aftermarket career moves: Why choice of recruiter matters
For those looking to take the next step in their aftermarket career, finding the right recruiter can make a huge difference in a job search, argues specialist recruiter, Glen Callum Associates (GCA), who has created a best-practice guide to help candidates understand what to expect from a recruiter.
The handy checklist offers guidance on how candidates can ensure they are working with a professional, ethical recruiter that prioritises their career goals, while dispelling common misconceptions.
Kerrie Richards, director at GCA, says: “A great recruiter should be more than just a middleman; they should act as a trusted advisor, offering guidance, support and access to the best opportunities. To ensure you're working with a recruiter who truly has your best interests at heart, consider working through our checklist.”
Firstly, GCA encourages candidates to consider whether the recruiter understands their unique needs.
Richards explains: “A quality recruiter takes time to understand your experience, skills and long-term career goals. Instead of pushing roles that don’t align, they focus on matching you with opportunities that suit you best.”
GCA’s recruiters take a consultative approach, allowing them to match candidates with positions that reflect their aspirations. Even if they do not have an immediate match, they keep candidates on record and notify them as soon as a suitable role becomes available.
Next, GCA advises candidates to check if the recruiter offers career advice, with Richards believing: “A recruiter should be a valuable career resource, providing guidance on CV improvements, interview techniques and market insights. At GCA, we go beyond job listings, offering one-on-one CV reviews, interview coaching and career development advice to help candidates stand out.”
Choosing a recruitment agency that has strong networks is also key, says GCA, arguing that the best recruiters are well connected and hold established relationships with top employers and industry bodies.
As GCA has spent over two decades cultivating trusted relationships within the automotive aftermarket, its team is able to connect candidates with companies that may not be publicly advertising roles but would welcome the right talent.
Rather than rushing to fill vacancies, GCA believes that true recruitment success lies in creating lasting, well-aligned placements that focuses on finding the best match, not only for the role but also for the candidate.
The team works closely with hiring managers to consider everything from job expectations and company culture to growth prospects, resulting in strong, sustainable matches. With a 98 percent client retention rate, GCA’s track record is proof of its people-first approach.
Ethics and integrity also sit at the heart of best-practice recruitment. A reputable recruiter should always act with transparency, discretion and professionalism, and be affiliated with recognised industry bodies.
GCA’s consultants have been affiliated members of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) since 2009 and follow its code of practice, giving candidates confidence that their information is safe and will never be shared without full consent.
Honest and clear communication is another vital factor. GCA ensures candidates are kept updated at every stage, offering honest feedback and clear details about salary, expectations and company culture. Richard says: “We don’t leave candidates in the dark. We’re here to guide and support them through every step.”
Having access to the best opportunities should be a given, says GCA. When it comes to job opportunities, GCA’s long-standing reputation opens doors to roles that often aren’t publicly advertised.
As the longest-established recruitment business in the automotive aftermarket, the team frequently connects candidates with companies who are open to hiring but not actively recruiting, or who are willing to create a position for the right person.
Beyond job matching, a great recruiter provides genuine support. At GCA, that includes personalised notes submitted with applications to boost CVs, direct engagement with decision-makers, tailored interview prep and even post-placement follow-up to ensure a smooth transition.
Richards adds: “Our job isn’t done when a CV is sent. We stay involved and invested in the outcome.”
Recruiters should also be equipped to offer advice on packages and support salary and contract discussions. GCA helps candidates understand total package value, from benefits and flexibility to longer-term prospects, and advises on negotiations, ensuring informed and confident decisions.
Specialist industry knowledge is another defining factor. As a dedicated automotive aftermarket recruiter and proud IAAF member, GCA brings insider knowledge and real-time market insight, helping candidates explore areas of growth and identify career opportunities that suit their long-term ambitions.
And finally, reputation matters. Before choosing a recruiter, it’s worth checking reviews and testimonials from other candidates and employers, says GCA.
“A recruiter with a strong track record and proven success is far more likely to provide a positive experience,” explains Richards. “GCA has built long-standing relationships across the industry and is proud to be consistently rated highly by both job seekers and hiring businesses. Candidates can explore our testimonials and Google reviews for real-world reassurance of the quality service we provide.”
And while choosing the right recruiter is essential, GCA is keen to clear up one of the biggest myths in the job-hunting process: candidates don’t pay for recruitment support. GCA’s services are funded by the employer, meaning job seekers benefit from expert advice, coaching and guidance at no cost.
Richards concludes: “We want to reassure candidates that this process is for them. We’re here to offer honest advice, confidential support and access to fantastic roles, all without any fees. If you’re thinking about your next career move, we’ll help you find the right fit, not just the next job.”