Growing your recruiting business during a recession can be both a challenge and an opportunity. Although a recession can be hard on everyone's bottom-line it can be beneficial to those willing to become resourceful and do what it takes to secure long-term client relationships.  Below are some tips on growing your recruiting business during hard times:

1.    Get creative.  When a recession hits, many companies become price conscious and value driven. While it may be unwise to discount your prices with clients without carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages, offering different service levels to fit different budgets could be beneficial.

2.    Don't take chances with sub par candidates--ever.  Carefully vet all candidates before sending them on client interviews. Try to match your client's "candidate wish list" as closely as possible, even if you think some of the requirements are unnecessary for the job.  Sending candidates who don't match the "wish list" to client interview with a client could kill any chances of developing a long-term business relationship.

3.    Specialize in your areas of strength.  Some recruiters who want to expand their business branch off into areas where they have little or no experience.  This could be a mistake. Working in areas that are outside of your areas of expertise could damage your reputation if you fail to deliver on your promises.  On the other hand, if you want to branch off into unknown territory, consider partnering with another recruiter who has the required skills and knowledge.