The recruitment industry in the United States is fiercely competitive, and Robert Half and Kelly are two standout players. Both companies, founded in the mid-20th century, have shaped the landscape of talent acquisition, specialising in connecting job seekers with positions across various industries. Despite their common goal of facilitating employment, Robert Half and Kelly differ significantly in their approach to employee experience, benefits, and corporate culture.
Robert Half and Kelly in Forbes 2024 list
Robert Half, founded in 1948 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, is a premier recruiting firm specialising in professional services. With 15,000 employees, it is widely recognized for its structured work environment, competitive benefits, and commitment to diversity. Robert Half consistently ranks high across multiple categories on the Forbes 2024 lists, including number 1 on America’s Best Professional Recruiting Firms, number 2 on America’s Best Executive Recruiting Firms, and number 2 on America’s Best Temp Staffing Firms. It has also earned spots at number 140 for Best Employers for Women, number 54 for Best Employers for Diversity, and number 570 for America’s Best Large Employers, reinforcing its reputation as an inclusive and employee-focused organisation.
Kelly, founded in 1946 and headquartered in Troy, Michigan, is another top recruiting firm known for its focus on science, engineering, education, and light industrial sectors. With 3,700 employees, Kelly places a strong emphasis on flexibility, innovation, and employee satisfaction. The company holds the number 1 spot on Forbes’ 2024 list of America’s Best Temp Staffing Firms and ranks number 2 among America’s Best Professional Recruiting Firms. Additionally, Kelly ranks number 383 for Best Employers for Women and number 378 for Best Employers for Diversity, underlining its commitment to workplace inclusivity and employee welfare.
Robert Half vs. Kelly: A Comparative Analysis
This analysis will explore how these two corporate giants compare in key areas such as work culture, perks, benefits, employee satisfaction, and flexibility, offering insights into which firm may suit different needs.
Work Culture and Employee Experience
Robert Half is recognized for its structured, results-driven environment, where employees are provided with well-defined career paths and regular performance reviews that allow for measurable professional growth. For example, employees have access to skill-building opportunities like their “Protiviti Career Accelerator,” which offers training in emerging areas such as data analytics, project management, and IT auditing. On the other hand, Kelly fosters a more flexible, employee-centred culture. One notable policy is the “Kelly Anywhere” programme, which allows employees to work from locations of their choice, supporting autonomy in decision-making.
Perks, Benefits, and Special Offers
Robert Half offers comprehensive benefits that include health insurance, retirement savings plans, and tuition reimbursement for courses at accredited institutions. Additionally, they provide performance bonuses, such as quarterly bonuses for recruitment consultants based on key performance indicators (KPIs) like client acquisition and placement success. Kelly also offers competitive benefits, including health coverage and retirement plans, but differentiates itself with its specialised “Kelly Learning Center,” which provides employees with access to over 5,000 online training courses, particularly in STEM fields like engineering and life sciences.
Leave Policies and Additional Flexibility
Robert Half offers generous leave policies, including a standard 20 days of paid time off (PTO) annually, with additional sick leave and maternity/paternity leave of up to 12 weeks. Kelly, however, takes flexibility a step further with its “Parental Flex” programme, which allows employees up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave and the option for a phased return to work. Additionally, Kelly’s personal development leave allows employees to take sabbaticals for education, personal growth, or community service projects.