12 Best Recruitment Agencies For SMBs In The UK

The bustling heart of the UK's business sector is not dominated by corporate giants but powered by the ceaseless pulse of small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs).

As of 2023, these vital businesses employ 60% of the workforce and generate around 50% of all private sector turnover, a remarkable contribution that adds up to a whopping £2.3 trillion.

With a market bursting at the seams with potential candidates - over 31.2 million to be exact - finding the perfect fit can feel like trying to find a single piece in a 31.2 million-piece jigsaw puzzle.

As pivotal as they are to the UK economy, SMBs often face unique challenges in their quest for growth, with talent acquisition sitting high on that list.

Finding the right match in a marketplace brimming with talent can feel akin to solving a complex jigsaw puzzle.

Over 30,000 recruitment agencies operate in the UK, each with its modus operandi, specialist sectors, and candidate networks.

Check out our blog on the top recruitment agencies in the UK. 

Navigating this maze is not a task for the faint-hearted or time-poor.

Yet, the right recruitment agency can serve as a lighthouse, guiding SMBs toward the talent that fits their unique culture and business needs.

This is where platforms like GoHire, a leading hiring solution, come into play. GoHire bridges the gap between SMBs and the best-fit talent, facilitating a smoother, more efficient recruitment process.

It is crucial not to plunge into the recruitment process blindfolded but to do so armed with a solid knowledge of the best recruitment agencies that specialise in catering to SMBs.

Our team has sifted through the mountains of data, pored over countless client testimonials, and studied agency track records.

After diligent research and analysis, we have curated a list of the top 12 recruitment agencies in the UK, which stand head and shoulders above the rest in their service to SMBs.

Our selection isn't solely based on the number of placements an agency makes.

We've drilled down into the finer details, assessing factors like client satisfaction - a metric where top agencies average a stellar 89% score - and the longevity of placements, where the best performers boast retention rates exceeding 92%.

We've also examined the depth and breadth of candidate pools, where leading agencies have a rich trove of over 100,000 potential employees and have considered the added value agencies provide, such as insights into market trends and hiring strategies.

Read on to discover the 12 best recruitment agencies in the UK that have earned their place on our list, and learn what makes each one an invaluable ally for SMBs on their growth journey.

1. Reed

Reed has been a reliable force in the recruitment industry for over six decades, now boasting a network of over 3 million candidates.

Their quick response time, with a reported 85% of vacancies filled within a week, particularly appeals to SMBs looking to avoid long talent acquisition timelines.

Alongside their recruitment prowess, Reed offers a suite of resources, including industry insights and salary guides, which add a holistic layer to their service.

2. Robert Half

Robert Half is renowned for its specialist approach in accounting, finance, and technology.

They make over 10,000 permanent placements annually in the UK alone, evidencing their prowess in finding the perfect fit for businesses.

In addition to their impressive placement rates, their comprehensive Candidate Management System aids SMBs in swiftly aligning the right talent with the appropriate roles.

3. Michael Page

With over 40 years of industry experience, Michael Page's global reach extends across 36 countries, providing SMBs access to a diverse talent pool.

They fill a role every minute globally, which is a testament to their successful methodology.

Beyond this, they offer market insights and hiring advice, empowering SMBs to make informed recruitment decisions.

4. Hays

Hays has built a formidable reputation for their in-depth industry knowledge and extensive candidate network.

They report a 76% candidate retention rate over 12 months, indicating a solid track record in successful, lasting placements.

Additionally, their 'Recruitment Strategies' service provides SMBs valuable insights into market conditions and future trends.

5. Adecco

Adecco’s commitment to upskilling candidates and strategic talent acquisition places them high on the list for SMBs.

They've placed 3 million people in permanent, temporary, and contract work globally, speaking volumes about their ability to find the right fit.

Adecco also offers an 'Insights' section that provides SMBs with information on hiring strategies, workplace culture, and leadership tips.

6. Manpower

With a strong global presence, Manpower has filled over 4 million jobs worldwide.

Their varied sector services make them an excellent partner for SMBs with diverse hiring needs.

Beyond recruitment, Manpower's 'Talent Shortage Survey' and 'Global Candidate Preferences Research' provide valuable insights into the talent landscape, aiding SMBs in formulating effective hiring strategies.

7. Pertemps

Pertemps is a reliable name in the recruitment sector with over 50 years of experience.

They register 45,000 candidates each year, showing a consistent inflow of talent for SMBs.

They also provide SMBs with industry insights through their regularly updated blog, covering topics like diversity in the workplace and recruitment best practices.

8. Brook Street

Brook Street, a recruitment stalwart with over 70 years in the industry, understands SMBs' needs like few others.

Their sector-specific focus enables them to deliver personalised services to SMBs across numerous sectors.

In addition, Brook Street's additional resources, such as hiring advice and market trend reports, provide SMBs with the essential knowledge to inform their hiring strategies.

9. Office Angels

Specialising in office and administrative roles, Office Angels is a top choice for SMBs needing office talent.

Their services extend to over 60,000 client organisations each year, showcasing their broad appeal.

Also, Office Angels' regular salary surveys and expert advice on hiring trends equip SMBs with crucial market insights.

10. Randstad

Randstad’s deep industry expertise and extensive candidate network ensure high-quality recruitment solutions for SMBs.

They place around 600,000 people into permanent and temporary roles each year worldwide.

Additionally, their 'Workplace Insights' offer SMBs a wealth of knowledge on talent trends, which can shape their recruitment strategies.

11. Sellick Partnership

Catering to niche sectors, Sellick Partnership has made over 15,000 successful placements since their inception.

Their specialist knowledge and solid track record make them an ideal choice for SMBs in these fields.

Their additional resources, like market updates and salary guides, further support SMBs in their recruitment and retention strategies.

12. Badenoch + Clark

Badenoch + Clark, specialising in the professional services field, is trusted by over 90% of Fortune 500 companies, showcasing their capacity to deliver high-quality recruitment solutions.

Their 'Knowledge Centre' provides SMBs with expert insight into hiring trends and market conditions, equipping them with the knowledge to make data-driven recruitment decisions.

Let's wrap up the 12 best recruitment agencies for SMBs in the UK. 

Navigating the labyrinthine landscape of the UK's recruitment industry can be daunting for any SMB, but the potential rewards are immense.

The right recruitment agency can serve as a conduit to top-tier talent and a strategic partner in your growth journey.

Equally, a solution like GoHire's Applicant Tracking System can empower businesses with efficient recruitment capabilities, allowing them to manage their entire hiring process from a single dashboard.

The 12 best recruitment agencies highlighted here represent the crème de la crème for SMBs.

Each brings a unique approach, specialist knowledge, and an extensive network of candidates.

But remember, the choice of a recruitment partner should not solely be guided by an agency's ranking or reputation.

Just like GoHire's system is customised to suit your business, your chosen recruitment agency should also consider your unique needs, organisational culture, and future growth plans.

Look for an agency that not only understands your immediate hiring needs but can also align with your long-term business strategy.

An effective recruitment partner should be able to provide tailored solutions, market insights, and a robust selection process to ensure a great fit between your business and the talent you onboard.

Remember, the talent landscape is ever-changing and keeping abreast of the latest trends, market shifts, and recruitment practices is vital for sustained success.

Ensuring your recruitment agency aligns with these shifts is equally crucial.

After all, it's the people that make a business, and investing in the right talent is the best investment an SMB can make.