When Recruitment Becomes a Race: The Importance of Real Conversations

We see this happen far too often.

A proper conversation takes place. Expectations are discussed. Timing is confirmed. Clear approval is given to submit a CV.

Then we’re told the client already has it.

Sent by another agency.

No meaningful conversation.
No proper context.
No confirmed consent.

The Position It Creates

This situation puts contractors in an uncomfortable spot.

Even if they haven’t had a meaningful discussion with the agency that submitted them first, many feel obliged to continue with that route simply because “it’s already been sent.”

Not because it feels right.
Not because it’s aligned.
But because it feels awkward to change direction.

As one contractor commented:

“The worst bit is that clients can also get upset because they think we apply via two different agencies.”

From the client’s side, it can look like duplication. From the contractor’s side, it can feel uncomfortable, especially when they never agreed to be submitted twice.

How It Happens

Another contractor described how quickly things can escalate:

“Agent: Mate are you available for work?
Contractor: Yes, from next week. Do you have something specific?
Agent: 3.4U… 4 weeks early March… OK?
Contractor: OK, let me know if something is confirmed.”

A short message exchange can sometimes be treated as approval to submit a CV.

Often, contractors don’t push for more detail. They don’t want to seem difficult or overly eager for work. So, they go along with it without full clarity on the role, scope or client.

That’s where the line blurs.

A Quieter Market Isn’t an Excuse

The market may be slower. Competition may be tighter.

But that shouldn’t mean standards drop.

Submitting CVs without proper discussion or clear consent creates:

• Confusion for clients
• Discomfort for contractors
• Duplicate submissions
• Erosion of trust

When recruitment becomes a race to submit first, quality suffers.

A Different Approach at Elevate Offshore

At Elevate Offshore, we don’t work on individual commission. That removes the pressure to “own” a CV or rush submissions.

Our focus stays on:

✔️ The right role
✔️ The right timing
✔️ The right outcome for the person

That starts with a proper conversation.

If expectations, timing or representation aren’t clearly agreed, the CV doesn’t get sent. It’s that simple.

Contact Us

If you’re considering a new role or want to ensure your CV is represented properly, we’re always happy to have a conversation.

You can email [email protected] or upload your CV here.