Recruitment is the process of filling a job vacancy. Internal recruitment appoints someone who already works for the business, while external recruitment appoints someone from outside the business.

Internal recruitment is suitable only if a current employee has the skills, experience and potential needed for the role. When deciding between the methods, the business should also consider the urgency of the vacancy, the importance of continuity, the recruitment budget and the effect on employee motivation. These factors may support internal recruitment even when the vacancy is not urgent. If no suitable current employee exists, external recruitment may be necessary.