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Seeking advice for my daughter

My daughter is an independent recruiter in a nitch technology segment. She had a good business filling job orders at between 20 and 25% before she went out on maternity leave last Oct. Recently, as she re-entered the work world, two of her clients offered her several job orders, but were only willing to pay 10%. She feels this is way below the value she has provided these clients over the years, but is fearful of other firms willing to work at 10% moving in and taking over these important relationships. I'd love to hear your thoughts whether she should reduce her fee to 10% or say,"Thanks, but no thanks" and spend her time (hopefully) developing new clients who are willing to pay more. Many thanks!

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Permalink Reply by Jessica Miller-Merrell, SPHR on April 13, 2009 at 7:50am: The job market is tight right now for independent recruiters as well as job seekers. Many will take any opportunity and some would consider your daughter very lucky. She might consider expanding her client list or field of expertise to open up her opportunities.

Not to sound nit picky, but if your daughter is an independent and successful recruiter, she might consider being the one posting questions for advise and not her mother. The internet is easily searchable and with a few keywords, most recruiters and savy networkers probably could determine who your daughter is. Give your daughter an opportunity to develop herself and grow from this experience. I am certain that she will find her way.

Best of luck!

Jessica Miller-Merrell
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Permalink Reply by Jade Vickery on April 27, 2009 at 7:08am: Well, in my point of view, she is totally right so say 'Thanks, but no thanks', because if she provided her clients over several years and her firm is not willing to pay her more than 10%, she should think about moving to another firm. In today's business society it is absolutely adequate that when you move to another firm, that you take over your important relationships, because it is combined with loyalty between your daughter and the client. She should not be fearful but believe in her abilities and spend her time with developing new clients who are willing to pay her more.; ▶ Reply to This