AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Recruitment agencies: Kelly Services vs. Randstad

Quick Verdict

Both Kelly Services and Randstad are reputable staffing agencies with global reach and a wide range of industry specializations. Randstad distinguishes itself with its post-placement support and client satisfaction tracking. Kelly Services emphasizes its tech-driven approach for faster candidate delivery. The best choice depends on specific client needs, with Randstad potentially offering more comprehensive support and Kelly Services focusing on speed and efficiency.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeKelly ServicesRandstad
Industry SpecializationAccounting and finance, administrative and office, contact center, education, engineering, government, manufacturing and production, science and clinical, semiconductor, technology, telecom, warehouse and distribution. Kelly Engineering specializes in semi-conductors, industrial automation, automotive, medical devices, aerospace, energy, and chemical manufacturing.Specializes in operational (logistics, industrial and skilled trades, supervision and industrial management, call and contact centers, hospitality and events, and retail services) and professional positions (office and administrative support, finance, accounting, HR, legal, sales, marketing, healthcare, and engineering). Randstad Technologies focuses on technology, healthcare, and finance.
Placement SpeedQualified candidates in approximately two weeks. 50% faster ramp times and a 36% increase in placements using the Gong platform. New recruiters can learn their job in under 90 days.Can typically submit a qualified candidate within one business day for general skills. Average time to hire of 33 days for a global household appliance company (up to 60 days for harder-to-fill niche roles).
Candidate QualityMeticulous screening and hiring process. Assessment of skills, performance, attitude, goals, and motivations through pre-screening and in-depth interviews. Behavioral-based questions. Vetting includes skills, qualifications, and experience verification. Specialized screening for the education sector includes checks against sex offender registries and criminal background checks.Uses a rigorous selection and screening process, including interviews, reference checks, skills assessments, and background checks. Utilizes professionally developed and validated tests to measure skill proficiency, aptitude, and motivation. Employs a 'tech and touch' approach, combining technology with human insights.
Client Company Size FocusLocal and mid-sized businesses, Fortune 500 enterprises, government agencies, and educational institutions.Caters to a diverse range of clients, from SMEs to large corporations.
Geographic ReachOperates in 22 countries across North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australasia. Offices in major Canadian cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal.Operates in 39 countries across North and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and Australasia, with a significant concentration of services in Europe.
Pricing StructureRequires contacting for tailored quotes. Flat fee or a percentage of the worker's first-year salary for recruitment. Executive searches may cost 30-35% of the executive's salary. Temporary workers may be charged a markup on daily wages, averaging between 40% and 60%. Customized pricing for enterprise clients with potential annual contract values ranging from $250,000 to $5 million.Fees depend on factors like location, industry, worker qualifications, and seniority. Executive search: A pre-agreed retainer is charged as a percentage of the executive's first-year salary, typically around 33% or a minimum of $100,000. Temporary Staffing: Hourly rates in the US range from $20-$75/hour, with Randstad charging a 50% markup. 'Pay Rolling' services: a 40% markup is applied.
Contract vs. Permanent Placement RatioEmploys over 450,000 temporary workers annually. Offers temporary staffing, temporary-to-hire, and direct-hire services.In 2023, placed 283,200 permanent workers and had over 600,000 temporary workers working daily.
Technology and Tools UsedKelly Now mobile app for job seekers. Helix, a workforce management platform for employers. Kelly Arc uses AI matching technology.Uses digital tools like a cloud-based HRMS and mobile apps. Leverages AI-powered talent-matching engines. Partnered with Textkernel to implement AI-powered source and matching technology.
Employer Branding ServicesHelps create employee and talent-facing platforms. Develops employer brand value platforms, talent personas, and recruitment messaging.Builds customized talent acquisition processes matching the company's brand. Strengthens employer branding by delivering a seamless candidate experience.
Post-Placement SupportNot availableOffers a comprehensive on-boarding and orientation process. Conducts routine performance reviews, meeting with the talent and hiring manager to assess work performance and identify areas for improvement.
Client Satisfaction RateNot availableTracks client satisfaction through a Net Promoter Score (NPS) system. Solicits client feedback via electronic evaluation forms. Implements a customer satisfaction program called 'Global Delight' aiming for satisfaction levels of 8 or higher for all clients and talents.
Diversity and Inclusion InitiativesCommitted to transformation in South Africa and prides itself on sourcing and hiring diverse talent. Conducted a diversity assessment of digital channels to enhance awareness and visibility.Hiring practices ensure all job applicants have a fair opportunity, striving for a qualified workforce that represents the diversity of the community. Builds micro-communities within social networks, focusing on key recruiting areas such as diverse candidates.

Overall Comparison

Randstad: Operates in 39 countries, placed 283,200 permanent workers in 2023, and has over 600,000 temporary workers working daily. Kelly Services: Operates in 22 countries and employs over 450,000 temporary workers annually. Randstad average time to hire of 33 days for a global household appliance company. Kelly Services achieved a 50% faster ramp times and a 36% increase in placements using the Gong platform.

Pros and Cons

Kelly Services

Pros:
  • Specializes in a wide range of industries
  • Tech-driven system for faster candidate delivery
  • Meticulous candidate screening process
  • Services cater to various client sizes
  • Global geographic reach
  • Offers employer branding services
  • Uses technology to streamline recruitment
Cons:
  • Pricing information not readily available
  • Specific details on post-placement support not found
  • Client satisfaction rates not found

Randstad

Pros:
  • Wide range of industry specializations
  • Global reach in 39 countries
  • Uses advanced technology and AI for talent matching
  • Offers employer branding services
  • Provides post-placement support
  • Focuses on diversity and inclusion initiatives
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

User Experiences and Feedback