Free Recruiter Quote Template

Recruiters quote before starting a search because retained and contingency models are priced differently. A contingency quote is free unless a placement is made; a retained search involves an upfront fee. Clients deserve to know which model applies before any interviews are arranged.

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Elevate Recruitment
QUOTE
#QUO-001
Quoted To
Bright Futures EdTech
Issue Date
21/05/2026
Expiry Date
20/06/2026
DescriptionQtyRateAmount
Permanent placement fee (15% of £28,000 salary)1€4,200.00€4,200.00
Candidate shortlist report1€480.00€480.00
Background check coordination (per candidate)3€95.00€285.00
Subtotal€4,965.00
Total€4,965.00

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a recruiter charge for a permanent placement?

Contingency recruitment fees for permanent roles typically run 12% to 20% of the first year's base salary. A £30,000 role at 15% costs £4,500. Senior roles above £80,000 may attract fees of 20% to 25%. Retained search fees (paid in stages regardless of outcome) are common for director-level and executive appointments.

What is the difference between a contingency quote and a retained search quote?

A contingency quote means you only pay a fee if a placement is successfully made. A retained search means the client pays an upfront engagement fee (often one third of the estimated total fee), with the balance due on placement. Retained searches are appropriate for senior, specialist, or confidential roles.

What is a rebate clause in a recruitment quote?

Most recruitment quotes include a sliding scale rebate if the placed candidate leaves within a period (typically 3 to 12 weeks). A standard clause offers 100% rebate in weeks 1 to 4, 50% in weeks 5 to 8, and 25% in weeks 9 to 12. After this, no rebate applies. Always include your rebate terms in the quote.

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