Before a hiring manager picks up the phone, they will almost always look at your website. Sometimes after a referral, sometimes after a cold call, sometimes because an AI assistant named you. In a few seconds they decide whether you are worth a conversation.
What they are looking for
Proof you understand their market
The first question is whether you specialise in what they need. Clear sector pages, specific language and evidence of real placements answer it. Generic claims about "connecting great people with great companies" do not.
Evidence you have done it before
Case studies, client logos where permitted, testimonials and examples of difficult roles filled give hiring managers confidence. Specifics matter more than superlatives.
The people behind the brand
Recruitment is a relationship business. Hiring managers want to see the consultants they would be working with, their experience and how to contact them.
How you work
A short explanation of your recruitment models, such as contingent, retained or RPO, and what the process looks like helps clients picture working with you.
Market insight
Salary guides, hiring reports and thoughtful insights signal that you know the market, and give clients a reason to come back.
What puts them off
- A website that looks outdated or broken on mobile.
- Out-of-date jobs and old news.
- No clear specialism.
- Stock photography instead of real people.
- No obvious way to get in touch with the right person.
Make the next step easy
Give clients a clear route that is separate from the candidate journey: a "hiring?" button, a short brief form or a direct line to the relevant consultant.
Your website is part of the pitch
For many clients, the website is the first impression of your agency. A site that clearly shows your specialism, your people and your results does part of the selling before the first conversation.