Going rate/%age for new client for agency

[quackhandle]

Managed to win a few week's consultancy direct with a client, but they've said they may need a pimp for future hires. I can recommend one I have worked with in the past (they were actually quite nice, but I know that was because I extended twice and didn't put my rate up, but in 2 years I had no issues with payment, etc) but I wanted to possibly gauge a figure, or maybe something in writing from them, ie - 15% kickback or "finders fee" to me for any future agreement, is there a going rate for this? I don't want to rely on a "verbal" agreement in the pub (which is what agency would want to do).

Cheers

qh

[northernladuk]

I am not too sure about a finders fee. The only time I had to engage an agent after finding work I agreed they only took a 4% fixed margin for me. I knew what the client was willing to pay so just made sure that the agents cut was minimal. I had to ring a few that the client could actually deal with and some wouldn't go below 10-15% even though I pointed out it was free cash for them so be prepared to try a few.

I can see why you might want commission for finding them work but surely they will have to make this and more back from the cut so might as well cut to the chase and keep the cut down? The money they will be making is from you so it's a case of give with one hand and take with the other.

I guess at the time I should have tried this as no doubt the agent didn't let the client go when I left. No idea if they got any more business though.

I would be interested in what finally happens....

[quackhandle]

I guess at the time I should have tried this as no doubt the agent didn't let the client go when I left. No idea if they got any more business though.

I would be interested in what finally happens....

Sorry, I meant that whilst I would ensure any engagement on my part would always be direct, would it be possible to get anything from the pimp for any other permies/contractors they take on? More likely in the future. Like you said, you had no idea if they got any more business, it could be a nice little earner for the pimp or one role per year. I'm not expecting thousands but something would be nice for me recommending them. So yeah finders fee is best way of putting it.

It's all business at the end of the day.

Will keep you posted.

qh

[Wanderer]

I see some agencies offering £300 for successful referrals. Perhaps this agency could agree to give you £300 for each person they place with the client?

Definitely get that in writing though...

[northernladuk]

I see some agencies offering £300 for successful referrals. Perhaps this agency could agree to give you £300 for each person they place with the client?

Definitely get that in writing though...

I would think they would want to word it 'everyone placed that completes the term of the contract'.