REC Scale Up Podcast

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast Neil Carberry talks to Jo Major, Founder of Diversity in Recruitment. They discuss the evolving role of tomorrow's recruiter, from transactional hiring to strategic talent architect and reengineering recruitment practices for a skills-first future.

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast REC Legal experts Lorraine Laryea, Chief Standards Officer and Melissa Mhondoro, Legal Advice Manager sit down with Kate Shoesmith Deputy CEO to discuss the latest legal and Employment Right Bill changes.

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Laura Clark, CEO of OA Group and an REC business member. They explore the journey of scaling a business from 6 to 50 people, navigating an MBO, and the vital role of communication in building a successful company.

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Chris Milligan, CEO of Konfir. They discuss how Konfir's technology supports the candidate credential verification process, putting the power of data back in candidates' hands. They go on to discuss: The latest automation trends transforming hiring and onboarding processes Real-world case studies showcasing industry success stories An exclusive preview of Konfir Konnect, happening this June

In this episode of the #TalkingRecruitmentPodcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Raj Lal, Senior Sales Director at Totaljobs. They dive into the recent increase in National Insurance contributions, how these changes are affecting businesses and examine the growing disconnect between employee-valued benefits and employer offerings, considering strategies for companies to stay competitive in talent acquisition and retention.

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry speaks to Ben Browning, Founder of Resonant, a business consultancy that supports recruitment firms to address their growth challenges. They discuss why recruitment businesses must shift toward a more strategic approach to revenue generation and what recruiters might be missing when it comes to sales efficiency.

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Nish Mayor, Director of Employer Engagement & Partnerships at Youth Futures Foundation. They dive into the impact of Youth Futures Foundation's work and how it is helping young people, especially those from marginalized groups, access the labour market. In this episode they discus: The mission and impact of Youth Futures Foundation. Nish's journey and role in driving employer engagement. How businesses can adapt their hiring practices to better support young talent. The importance of systemic change in employer behaviour to create lasting opportunities.

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Etan Bernstein, Co-founder and Head of Ecosystem at the Velocity Network Foundation. They go beyond the hype on how AI is truly impacting the talent acquisition market, what verifiable credentials (VCs) are, and their potential impact. In this episode, we cover: What verifiable credentials are and what makes them unique or special. How VCs address the challenges posed by AI that were discussed earlier. The combined value of AI and VCs in transforming talent acquisition

Our first episode of the Talking Recruitment podcast for 2025 hears from a speaker that truly does what they love and ensures it creates a difference for the future. Bev White, Chief Executive Officer of Nash Squared sits down with Kate Shoesmith, REC Deputy CEO to chat about her career journey, the importance of personalisation and prioritising human involvement in any business. We also discuss how recruitment businesses should be leveraging the transformative impact of AI and automation while understanding the impact it is having on our future talent demands.

In the final episode of 2024, the REC's formidable duo, Neil Carberry and Kate Shoesmith, sit down to look back at the highlights, the political shifts, the challenges, and how we have supported members throughout the year. They'll go on to talk about what's in store for 2025 from the REC and how we are making the sector's voice heard.

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Mark Kieve, CEO of UK & Ireland of REC business partner Pixid Group. They discuss the importance of compliance in an evolving world, navigating the challenges of cross-border staffing and leveraging technology. In this episode, we discuss: Agility, scalability, and flexibility: in uncertain times, the ability to scale staffing solutions quickly with pay-as-you-go models helps businesses stay adaptable and minimise upfront costs. Cross-border contingent staffing: successfully navigating the challenges of cross-border staffing requires understanding local laws and leveraging technology to manage diverse talent pools efficiently. The recent acquisition of VectorVMS: the acquisition of VectorVMS by Pixid group strengthens its position in the UK staffing industry by enhancing its technology and offering more streamlined contingent workforce solutions.

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Gemma Downing and Chris Mapp, Co-owners of REC member, Mixxos Group. They discuss their business journey and how driving standards as a recruitment agency has empowered them to aim higher. In this episode, we discuss: How Mixxos has grown in terms of people, technology, and personal branding. How they balance business success with charity, community, and local presence. How standards are upheld to allow them to choose the right partners. How to deliver consultative client service and unmatched candidate care. How Mixxos has integrated EDI into their daily operations, from internal policies to client interactions.

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Karen Young, Social Purpose Lead at Hays, about how recruitment companies can find and embrace their social purpose. They discuss the increasing significance of purpose in the recruitment sector and its influence on attracting and supporting talent. Key topics include: The vital role of social purpose in recruitment and how companies can adapt and progress. How to attract purpose-driven talent by aligning recruitment strategies with the values of the next generation. Strategies to enhance skills development and create more opportunities for under-represented groups and the communities recruitment firms serve.

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Giles Morgan, Founder and Managing Director of REC business partner Kahvay. Kahvay are a negotiation training, coaching and consulting provider, on-hand to help you become a skilled negotiator. They discuss the art of negotiation with a focus on the RAD (Relationship Awareness Demand) approach. Learn how to shift from selling to negotiating with confidence, understanding that negotiation is inherently a conflict that must be embraced, not avoided. In this episode, we discuss: The danger of selling during negotiations – understand how overselling can weaken your stance and why shifting into negotiation mode strategically is crucial. Embracing conflict in negotiation – discover why conflict is central to successful negotiations and how to use differences to drive agreements. The compass framework – learn to use advanced strategy to confidently navigate complex deals and maintain control.

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Andrew Tallents, Leadership Coach and Founder of Tallents Partnership. They discuss the importance of staying ahead of shifting client expectations and ensuring you retain top talent. In this episode, we discuss: What issues businesses can face when relying too heavily on outdated recruitment methods and failing to innovate The disvalue caused by paying lip service to diversity and inclusion without making meaningful change

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith talks to John Buyers, Partner and Head of the International AI team at Osborne Clarke. They discuss what makes artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) different from any other technology and how UK businesses should manage their own use of AI. We discuss: What makes artificial intelligence or machine learning different from any other technology? Should we be worried about it? What makes generative AI different? The EU is taking steps to regulate Artificial Intelligence systems through the EU Artificial Intelligence Act – is this something to be concerned about and how does the new regulation work? What the UK is doing to regulate AI How UK businesses should manage their own use of AI – steps for you to take now

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Shazia Ejaz, Campaigns and Insights Director here at the REC. They discuss our newest campaign ‘Voice of the worker' and why temporary work is a vital part of today's labour market; driving economic growth and getting people into work. In this episode we discuss: Why #TempWorkWorks for individuals, for business and for the economy. Why it's so important that temporary work isn't jeopardised by any changes to employment rules How to get involved in the campaign and amplify the message

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Founders Gary Elden and CEO Dan Malka of Hire Genius, a cloud-based recruitment business toolkit provider which aims to help recruitment agencies of all sizes streamline their operations. They discuss the role and the opportunity for enhancing efficiency by using AI in recruitment. In this episode we discuss: AI's role in enhancing recruitment efficiency AI and bias mitigation in hiring The future of AI and human collaboration in recruitment

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Rhona Driggs, Chief Executive Officer of Empresaria. They discuss the global perspective on UK recruitment and what the primary differences are between the market in the UK and in other locations, like the US. In this episode we discuss: The profile of the Empresaria's business and where it's headed. The fundamentals of moving away from a transactional sale to a relationship-based one. How recruiters can manage clients' expectations. Empresaria's experience of driving this change and whether it required structural changes. How to build a more effective team to deliver in this world.

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Brad Shackleton, Motivational Sales & Leadership Coach. They discuss the current issues impacting new business growth in recruitment and how to get your team match-fit for winning new profitable clients and business. In this episode we discuss: The leadership challenges facing recruiters right now when winning new business The key sales performance challenges recruitment leaders are facing Why external coaching is so important for businesses to harness the power of their people

In this episode, we bring you a special edition of our Talking Recruitment podcast with REC campaigns and policy experts Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive and Kate Shoesmith, REC Deputy Chief Executive. They discuss the results of a momentous General Election, what it means and its impact on the UK recruitment industry and labour market.

In this episode, Maxine Bligh, Chief Membership & Innovation Officer steps in for Neil Carberry to talk to Peter Stoll from REC business partner Marsh Commercial. They discuss whether the economic climate is leading to clients' late payment of invoices and the potential risk of bad debts. In this episode we discuss: Are clients imposing more stringent terms due to factors like IR35, cyber risks, liability, and professional indemnity concerns? Are businesses encountering heightened risks due to Statement of Works contracts? How businesses can leverage insurance as a tool to protect against uncertainties in client engagements and contractual obligations.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Gary Williams, Chief Commercial Officer from Welsh member New Directions. They discuss overcoming challenges and finding the right talent for the education sector within the devolved nation. In this episode you'll hear about: How to overcome the top recruitment challenges HR leaders face today, including sourcing talent with the right skills, meeting candidates' salary expectations, and addressing the growing competition for skilled workers. How technology in recruitment can be leveraged to address skills shortages

In this episode Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Sarah Wright, Director - Indirect Sales at REC business partner TotalJobs. They discuss the findings of the Hiring trends index produced by TotalJobs.

This podcast discusses mental health and suicide, which may be distressing. Listener discretion is advised. Seek support if needed. In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Mike Duma, advocate for mental wellbeing in the workplace and founder of Miindset, a personal wellbeing companion app. They discuss how destigmatise and highlight the importance of good mental health in a competitive workplace. In this episode you'll hear about: Mike's story and how the company Miindset was created Howorganisations can effectively destigmatise discussions about mental health in competitive workplaces How individuals can begin building resilience in their mental health journey, starting with the dismantling of societal stigma surrounding mental health How we can establish a comprehensive safety net for addressing mental health experiences, particularly focusing on intercepting individuals at the milder end of the spectrum and destigmatising mental health issues.

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith, Deputy CEO, steps in for Neil Carberry, to talk to Katie Maycock, Founder of Get Your Sh*t Together and GYST Wellbeing. They discuss the importance of wellbeing during times of high stress and high pressure all year around, not just during #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth. In this episode we discuss: Why it's important for recruiters to take care of their well-being during times of high stress/pressure The warning signs that employee wellbeing is on the decline How someone can take care of their wellbeing during times of high stress What wellbeing encompasses

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Sharon Livermore MBE, Founder & DA Campaigner and Ayesha Fordham, Membership & Partnerships Manager at the Employer's Initiative on Domestic Abuse. They discuss the impact of domestic abuse on employees and the important role employers play to both victim and perpetrator. In this episode we discuss: The importance of raising awareness of domestic abuse and the impact it has on working life. The tools employers need to tackle domestic abuse experienced by employees. How external organisations like Employer's Initiative on Domestic Abuse can help support employers to share best practice and guidance.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Miles Beckwith, Assistant Director at the Department for Business and Trade. They discuss the importance and impact of technology on recruitment and professional services. In this episode we discuss: Why the Government sees professional services firms like recruiters as a priority to the UK economy l The potential of AI in the recruitment sector The Professional Services AI Skills Pilot and why Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced it How listeners can take part in the Professional Services AI Skills Pilot.

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith, Deputy Chief Executive steps in as host, to chat to Lorraine Laryea. REC's Chief Standards Officer, to make sense of the important legal changes that came into effect in April 2024. In this episode we discuss: How to use rolled up Holiday Pay and the impact of this legislation The impact of the increase to National Minimum Wage on agency works, recruiters and businesses. The changes to National Insurance Contributions Other upcoming legislative changes like Carers leave, Paternity leave and IR35 that will impact businesses

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to REC's Maxine Bligh, Chief Membership & Innovation Officer. They discuss the importance of high-quality recruiter services, how to build strong relationships outside of the hiring process to support the long-term growth of businesses and how to use the Aim Hire guide/toolkit as a recruiter. In this episode we discuss: The reason behind creating the Aim Hire guides and toolkit. The demand and desire from the industry for resources to help illustrate the value of a high standards recruitment service. How the current hiring climate has impacted clients and recruitment agencies . How to maximise these relationships to attract and retain the people needed to continue doing what you do best.

In this episode, REC Deputy Chief Executive, Kate Shoesmith steps in for Neil Carberry to talk to Dan Robertson Global MD at FAIRER Consulting. They discuss the current trends driving change within the business and how grassroots activism within the workplace is driving ED&I changes from the workforce up. In this episode we discuss: The current trends in the world of ED&I How the trends are also transcending the recruitment sector Where ED&I and HR align more broadly Tips on how recruiters can increase diversity as part of their responsibilities.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Shazia Ejaz, REC Campaigns and Insights Director. They discuss why publishing our Manifesto was vital for the election year ahead and the important key asks that drive change for the labour market.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Sarah Atkinson, Chief Executive of the Social Mobility Foundation. They discuss why social mobility is so important and how socioeconomic background can impact recruitment. In this episode find out: How recruiters can support social mobility and ensure their clients are reaching candidates from all backgrounds. How contextual recruitment can support candidates through the process. What young people think about recruitment processes and the barriers to applying for jobs if you're from a lower socioeconomic background.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Matthew Howard Wragg, CEO at Gattaca. They discuss how the recruitment industry has changed over the last 10-15 years and how Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) in STEM is driving economic change. In this episode, you'll hear about: The level of EDI in Engineering over the last 10-15 years and where EDI is now in STEM Why EDI in STEM is important, what is working and what isn't What Gattaca is doing to positively impact change in STEM sector What the staffing industry could be doing more to help impact change

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Kate Shoesmith, Deputy CEO at the REC. They discuss how the recruitment industry is looking and how businesses can set themselves up for success in 2024. In this episode, you'll hear about: the latest research data and what it tells us about clients' appetite to hire What should be at the top of the Government's 2024 agenda? Predictions for opportunities in 2024 and key drivers of growth. How can recruiters and recruitment leaders set themselves up for success next year? What should recruiters champion in 2024?

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Steven Ingram, the founder of Neurodiversity Together. They discuss how the recruitment process can be fair to everyone and enable neurodivergent people to thrive. In this episode you'll hear about: What an adapted recruitment process can look like, and how a neurodivergent recruitment process is fair to everyone. The positive and negative elements of the recruitment process and some of the things organisations should consider. Tips on what the REC's members can do to make their recruitment practices more neurodivergent friendly.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Fraser Duncumb, CEO of Wotter Group. They discuss the power of positive employee engagement led by data decision-making and in the face of accelerated change. In this episode you'll hear about: Employee engagement in the age of AI Intergenerational differences in the workplace The importance of data in employee engagement decision making

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Alex Arnot, board advisor for 35 companies and creator of Founderz. They discuss the barriers, the mistakes and the successes that stop recruitment owners and their business from thriving. In this episode you'll hear about: The top 3 challenges we see facing recruitment owners today. Our top 3 tips that recruitment owners should implement to help them accelerate their company's revenue, profit and shareholder value. The most common things that stop recruitment owners from achieving a successful exit.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Raj Lal, Senior Director of Commercial UK at Totaljobs. They discuss the impact of uncertain times on the young workforce and the factory driving candidates to relocate for viable work opportunities. In this episode you'll hear about: The latest findings from the Totaljobs Hiring Trends Index The impact Covid has had on the aspirations of young people The current difficulty facing businesses when hiring entry-level talent The factors leading candidates to consider relocating for a better career/ lifestyle

In this episode Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to John Kiernan, Employer engagement and network manager at the Centre for Ageing Better. They discuss reducing age bias and enabling recruiters to start the conversation. In this episode, you'll hear about: How to reduce age bias in the recruitment process. How the original GROW research report and checklist has been revised and updated by a working group of HR professionals to reflect today's changing labour market How to talk about flexible working with candidates during the recruitment process. How supporting tools are available to equip recruiters to enable an inclusive workforce.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Gareth Parry, Programme Director for Employability at Maximus. They discuss the current labour marketing and how we as recruiters can think differently about the recruitment process to enable all to succeed. In this episode, you'll hear about: How the Maximus restart scheme is blossoming through the partnership with the REC. How the current labour market challenges are impacting employment How recruiters should start to think differently about the recruitment process to better engage with the long-term unemployed. How closing the Disability employment gap through support available to employers and disabled jobseekers can foster a positive working environment for all. Key quotes “Our job at Maximus is to work with individuals, to give them the confidence to work, to give them the transferable workplace skills, to be able to work and sometimes the vocational skills to do those jobs as well. We really prepare them properly for work because many of the people we work with will have fallen out of work for various reasons, often because of illness or disease for an extended period of time.” Gareth “It's important to make sure that companies employ a workforce that's reflective of the communities where they either operate or the base that they're providing services to, and I think more and more organisations are waking up to the fact that this isn't just a good thing to do, but it makes good business sense to have a strong ED&I agenda that's representative in the workforce.” Gareth “I think also you know if we consider a bit more around autism, mental health, those hidden disabilities, I think most employers probably would already be employing people with various levels of those conditions already in the workforce. But having somebody who comes in who has maybe a more visible disability or somebody that is more open about their hidden disability can create a dynamic in the workforce that opens a different kind of cultural ethos in the workforce to and creates a different dynamic, which is, which is genuinely more inclusive in its approach. Many employers who report back to us that as we place people with different backgrounds into their organisations, it does create a different workplace dynamic.” Gareth

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Hung Lee, Recruitment expert and Curator of Recruiting Brainfood. They discuss the shift in recruitment practices due to the emergence of digital platforms and the skills recruiters will need in the new world of technology. In this episode, you'll hear about: The influence emerging digital platforms and social media has on recruitment. The key skills of a recruiter in this new world. What the Brainfood community is highlighting about the direction of travel

n this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Emily Summerhayes, Director at Hoop Recruitment. They discuss the importance and critical impact that forming lasting relationships can have on recruiters' success in the sector. In this episode, you'll hear about: The importance of forming relationships throughout the recruitment process and the impact it has on the overall success of talent acquisition. The reason why technology won't replace recruiters and the unique value human recruiters bring to the table. How truly knowing your candidates and the knowledge it gives can provide a strategic advantage. The effective strategies that can be employed to cultivate successful relationships. How relationship building within the recruitment industry demonstrates resilience.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Neil Curry, Sales Director at Target Recruit and REC business partner. They discuss the landscape technology offers, their challenges and the pathways businesses should take in the digital transformation journey. In this episode, you'll hear about: The basics a company needs in place for success overseas related to technology infostructure How AI and Automation can be integrated into your technology stack to help the day to day. The risks and trends being seen in the market. Key Quotes “In what we've experienced with CRM systems and them essentially being the center of what agencies do but then think about what are the other technologies you have sitting around it? Do you have workforce management, do you have automation, do you have LinkedIn or job boards if you've got those then are they working in silo? Neil Curry “The technology strategy flows from business strategy and creating space and time to think about what your tech stack does in an institutional and geographical context. What I mean by institutional context is things like staff adoption, is it saving them time, is it focusing them on the right pinpoints and then by geographical context does it work for where you are and where you're going.” Neil Carberry “If you're branching into a new region, check your tech stack. Check things like your CRM system - does it support multi-currency, does it support multi language, is it even able to reflect you know zip code to post code? It might sound like a small thing, but it has a big effect on the users and their adoption rate.” Neil Curry “Does the supplier that you've got say within the home country, do they have overseas support in the region that you're looking to branch into? “Neil Curry

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Paul Sharpe and Miles Lloyd the founders of NorthStar People. They discuss recruitment process outsourcing (RPOs), managed service programmes (MSPs) and how to allow business leaders the headspace to fully embracethe professional development of the sector. In this episode, you'll hear about: Why everyone is talking about developing ‘consultative solutions. Are RPO / MSP solutions just for the big agencies? Where to start if you want to sell RPO/MSP solutions The biggest obstacles owners face during this time. The practice approach to developing an RPO solution. Key Quotes “The second interesting point when you're talking about customer relationships, 28% of recruitment owners have got a clear plan on how to build and maintain and develop the customer relationships, which means there are 72% that haven't. So, we'll know the importance of consultative selling and we'll think that's the North Star that we want to aim for.” Paul “Getting the right people to show you the way and having people there that have been there, seen it, done it and have got the battle scars. Can help you navigate those pitfalls.” Miles “Designing, building and deploying the technology is the time impact on that organisation and recruiters tend to be time short and struggle to actually get on and do it because of that perm placement on Monday, or the contract is out a week on Friday”. Paul

Episode 13: Masterclass - Recruit - The Savage Way In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to legendary recruitment expert Greg Savage. They discuss the upcoming masterclass UK tour, and the insights recruiters can expect to digest in the sessions. In this episode, you'll hear about: The insights recruiters can expect to find out about at the upcoming masterclass. The specific skills recruiters should focus on developing in a rapidly changing world. What attendees can learn and take away from the sessions. The importance of recruiters investing in their own professional development through training and learning opportunities. Key Quotes “It's the soft skills that are actually hard in our business and they haven't been taught....The relationship building, the managing of situations, the creating of outcomes, the sophisticated influencing skills, which frankly was what recruitment was before technology came along and will continue to be. “Greg “The book, I mean the book is 128 chapters, they're short, they're punchy, some as little as a page, but some maybe 5 or 6 pages that they each tackle a skill or an attitude or a competency.” Greg “The book is a handbook. My hope is that this book is scribbled on, and notes are taken and pages bent back, I hope that people might even say, hey, if you're handling accounts, if you're going to deal with this counteroffer or you're putting an offer to a candidate, just read this chapter first and let's remind ourselves of what we need to think about. I hope it's used that way because it is very tactical. It's not, it's not theoretical, it's based entirely on things that have worked.” Greg “What appears to be happening with technology is the industry skill set is being forced back to where it was maybe in the in the 80s and 90s. Where I remember someone saying in the art of recruitment is selling imperfect candidates to imperfect jobs and imperfect jobs to imperfect candidates, and that is not something that AI is going to be able to do.” Neil

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Hannah Slaughter, a senior economist at the Resolution Foundation. Hannah discusses labour market enforcement, its importance and how it can be improved to drive standards. In this episode, you'll hear about: Why labour market enforcement is an important issue for both workers and employers. The strengths and weaknesses of the labour market rights which are currently enforced in the UK. The current landscape of labour market rights. The proposals for how labour market enforcement can be improved in the years ahead.

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith, REC Deputy CEO, talks to Josh Gitman and Miranda Ashley, both Co-founders of LGWS a US based provider of solutions for onboarding & paying contractors. Josh and Miranda discuss how to navigate expansion into the US recruitment market and what success in the US looks like. LGWS is a US based Employer of Record servicing international recruitment companies. In just a few clicks we onboard, pay, and manage compliance for your contractors and internal employees. In this episode, we explore: What do foreign recruitment firms need to be aware of when expanding into the US market? How do various laws and regulations differ from the UK to the US? What industries are hot in the US within the temp/contract staffing market? Key Quotes “The US is a huge market that's got huge potential, but it's also a huge country. There are 50 states almost operating as 50 separate countries. It's a bit like Europe and the expectation is that you would know the rules and regulations of every country in Europe. Likewise, the states here all have their own...But the country itself is very different East to West, North to South.” Miranda “For anybody coming into the US, it's important that they keep that in mind and that you take the time to get used to and find out about what part of the country might be best for your business. Think about is there a particular part of the country that suits your industry or you may find you know your hiring pool is better on the West or the East …you want to come over here and be focused, you know you don't want to be a very generalist recruitment offering you want to stay to your strength, stay with your niche.” Miranda “American sales cycles are very relationship driven. You make one good placement with the best candidate. They might not come back to you again if you don't have that relationship and you're not staying in touch connecting on a more personal level.” Josh “Popular for UK staffing firms moving to the states includes technology IT that's been popular over here for quite some time. The newest trends are in renewables, so I think wind and solar engineering firms feeding into those industries.” Josh

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Mark Kieve, CEO at Pixid UK & Ireland. Mark discusses the challenges and opportunities that have arisen due to economic shifts, changes in employment trends, skills shortages and high inflation. In this episode, you'll hear about: How the impact of the current UK contingent staffing landscape has shifted the recruitment sector. How staffing firms can leverage market conditions to provide tailored services to their clients. How recruiters can stay ahead of the curve by leveraging technology and industry networks. Key Quotes “Skill shortages are being heightened by a significant increase in the number of people out of the workforce due to long-term sickness. This includes, you know, mental health and long COVID.” Mark “Change of demographics of the foreign nationals constitute to 12% of the UK workforce... and the pool of all country nationals applying to come to work in the UK in 2022, there are a total of 423,000 work visas granted.”Mark “There is a depth of trusting relationship on delivery and compliance. That could be delivered in a number of different frameworks, but it's the nature of the client relationship that's changing and that feels to me like something that is people-led, but Tech delivered.” Neil

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Helen Tomlinson, Head of Talent Development at The Adecco Group and the UK's first-ever Menopause Employment Champion, as appointed by the Department for Work and Pensions. Helen shares her experiences of supporting women across the recruitment industry and how, in her new role as Menopause Employment Champion, she is working with employers to better support and retain women through perimenopause and menopause. In this episode, you'll hear about: The importance of supporting women through perimenopause & menopause in the recruitment industry. How supporting women through perimenopause & menopause periods in their life is linked to retaining women in the workforce more broadly. How has Adecco developed their Women's Health strategy to support their female workforce? Key Quotes ”I've lost count of the number of women that I've spoken to who had really senior roles in the organisation and felt that they've got no alternative but to leave because they just felt that they'd lost their mojo and left their position.” Helen “It's not a time to step down, step back, or step out of your career. Because if the situation is handled properly both by the person and the organisation, arguably you could have the best 10 to 15 years of your career still left." Helen “In the context of a world where we are short of high-quality recruiters, and we are short of candidates. People are going to stay at the places that they feel they belong.” Neil

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, interviews Chris Fletcher, GM LSIP and Policy Director at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce. They provide an insight into how the local skills improvement plan is being implemented in the Greater Manchester area, what the local skills improvement plan enables and how it's different from previous plans. In this episode, you'll hear about: Why the current local skills improvement plan (LSIP) is different from other skills plans and how it enables the local economy to flourish. What work has been done so far in the Greater Manchester area and the plans that they have going forward. How the LSIPs fit with the Greater Manchester Devolution Deal and the Mayor's plan for an integrated technical skills city region. How the learning gained in Greater Manchester can be applied elsewhere.