What to Expect from the Recruitment Process
- Joynes & Hunt

- Aug 18
- 4 min read
Starting a job search on your own can feel overwhelming. From tailoring your CV to navigating multiple interviews, there are a lot of moving parts. That’s where working with a recruiter can make a real difference. Recruiters act as your guide and advocate, connecting you with opportunities that match your skills while making sure you feel supported through every stage of the hiring journey.
If you’ve never worked with a recruiter before, you might be wondering what the process looks like. Here’s a detailed step-by-step breakdown of what to expect when you partner with us:
Introduction & Registration
The process starts when you connect with a recruiter, whether you applied for a job posting, were referred, or reached out directly.
What happens: We’ll have an initial chat to understand your background, experience, and what you’re looking for in your next role.
What we ask: Career goals, salary expectations, preferred work environment, notice period, and ideal location (or flexibility for remote work).
How you benefit: We take time to learn your story, not just what’s on your CV. The more open you are about what you want, the better we can match you with the right role.
CV & Profile Review
Your CV is often the first impression employers will have of you and recruiters know what hiring managers are looking for.
What happens: We’ll review your CV and LinkedIn profile, suggesting changes to highlight your most relevant skills and achievements.
Why it matters: Employers skim CVs quickly. We make sure yours is tailored and stands out.
Tip for candidates: Be open to feedback. Recruiters understand the keywords, phrasing, and layouts that catch an employer’s eye.
Initial Screening Interview (with the Recruiter)
Before submitting your profile to the employer, we’ll hold a more detailed conversation. This can be the first step if you have been headhunted by us for a specific role.
What happens: We’ll discuss your career journey, technical skills, and key accomplishments, while also assessing your cultural fit for specific companies.
What we ask: Situational and behavioural questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge at work”), as well as practical details like salary, notice period, and interview availability.
How you benefit: This stage is about aligning your expectations with the employer’s needs, ensuring neither side wastes time.

Submission to Employer
Once we’re confident you’re a strong fit, we’ll present your profile directly to the hiring manager.
What happens: Recruiters package your CV with insights about your strengths and why you’d be a good fit.
Why it matters: Instead of applying blindly through job boards and waiting, your application goes straight to the decision-makers.
Tip for candidates: Be responsive. Timing can make a difference, sometimes roles move fast, and delays can mean missing out.
Interview Preparation
This is where having a recruiter really pays off.
What happens: We’ll give you insights about the company, the role, and even the people you’ll be meeting. We’ll walk through likely interview questions, coach you on your answers, and offer tips to calm nerves.
How you benefit: You go into the interview more prepared than candidates applying independently.
Tip for candidates: Treat preparation seriously. Employers notice when you’ve done your homework.
Employer Interviews
Now comes the official interview process with the employer.
What happens: Depending on the role, this could be a one-to-one with the hiring manager, a panel interview, or a series of stages including technical assessments or presentations.
How recruiters support you: We check in before and after each interview, gathering feedback and helping you refine your approach for the next round.
Tip for candidates: Share honest feedback after each stage. If something didn’t feel right or you have concerns, your recruiter can address it with the employer.

Offer Negotiation
One of the biggest benefits of working with a recruiter is having someone to negotiate on your behalf.
What happens: Once the employer is ready to make an offer, we handle the discussions around salary, benefits, start date, and any special conditions.
How you benefit: Recruiters understand market rates and know how to position your value. We aim to secure the best package without putting your offer at risk.
Tip for candidates: Be clear from the start about your expectations. Surprises at the negotiation stage can slow things down.
Onboarding & Aftercare
Our job doesn’t end when you accept the offer.
What happens: We support you through the paperwork, notice period, and first days in your new role. Many recruiters check in during your first few weeks to make sure you’re settling in well.
Why it matters: Good onboarding sets the tone for your success in a new role.
Tip for candidates: Use this stage to ask questions about expectations, training, and company culture so you feel confident from day one.
Final Thoughts
Working with a recruiter means you don’t have to navigate the hiring process alone. From refining your CV to preparing for interviews and negotiating offers, we’re here to support, guide, and advocate for you every step of the way.
Our ultimate goal is simple: not just helping you find a job, but helping you find the right job, one where you can thrive.





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