Find complementary expertise
International agency partnerships work best when each business contributes something specific. One agency may understand the employer and its requirement; the other may know the local talent market, the specialism or the practical hiring process in that location.
Start with the gap you are trying to fill. “We need a partner experienced in this sector and country” is a useful brief. “We want partners everywhere” gives the other agency much less to work with.
Look beyond the country label
When reviewing an agency, consider its sectors, role levels, services and evidence of relevant work. An agency operating in a country does not necessarily cover every location or profession there. Ask how the team works, who would handle your requirement and where its expertise ends.
TAP agency profiles let businesses explain their specialisms, locations and services. Use those details to start a focused conversation, then carry out your own checks before agreeing work. A listing is not a guarantee of performance or regulatory approval.
Agree the practical details early
- The work: role requirements, territory, client ownership and candidate responsibilities.
- The commercial arrangement: fee basis, agreed split, currency, payment timing and responsibility for transfer costs.
- The communication: named contacts, time zones and when each agency will provide updates.
- The boundaries: information-sharing permissions and any local requirements the agencies must satisfy.
Turn a connection into a defined opportunity
Introduce your agency in a few specific lines. Explain the relevant requirement or specialism, why the other agency seems suitable and what you would like to discuss. Avoid sending candidate details in an introductory message; establish the purpose and permissions first.
If the agencies decide to work together, use a clearly defined role and written agreement. TAP takes no placement commission. Agencies agree their own commercial arrangements and remain responsible for their delivery and payment obligations.
Build the network you can actually use
You do not need hundreds of contacts in every country. A small group of responsive, complementary agencies can give you a practical starting point. Keep your own profile current so prospective partners can understand where you can help in return.
Build a stronger agency profile, then use TAP’s agency connections and messaging to start the relevant conversation.