This is what Heather thought:
The event focussed on “Exploring Expansion”
There were three excellent speakers:
- Graeme Read – Director of Antal International
- Tristan Ramus – Director of Hamilton Bradshaw
- Greg Savage – Founder & CEO of Firebrand Talent Search
- Tristan Ramus – Director of Hamilton Bradshaw
- Greg Savage – Founder & CEO of Firebrand Talent Search
All of the speakers gave a very interesting, surprisingly honest and at times humorous insight into how they have expanded their businesses both in the UK and internationally. They touched on issues surrounding different cultures, languages, strategies & key appointments; sharing the upsides and downsides and lessons learned along the way.
Natwest also spoke about some current recruitment issues, and how to prepare for expansion within your recruitment business.
There was plenty of time for networking where the buzz of conversation was at times deafening; always a good sign at any event! In case some people were not as comfortable at networking there was a 10 minute speed networking slot – so nobody had any excuses!
After the event there was further networking in the form of a quiz – hosted at a nearby drinking establishment.
I always attend these events, as always this was well organised, well attended, excellent value and a great venue. I am looking forward to the next event; to meet new faces and to catch up with the people I now have regular contact with.
This is the summary from BlueSky
Recruiters wanting to expand their business heard from three experts at a recent Director’s Networking event hosted by UK Recruiter and HB RIDA, the private equity vehicle that supports growing recruitment businesses.
Graeme Read, Managing Director of Antal International addressed the issue of expanding overseas and advised recruiters to follow their clients. “It’s no good trying to trailblaze in a completely new and unknown market,” he said. “Look at where your clients are going and follow them. Additionally, make sure you have a robust model and process – whatever country you are going into people will always try and tell you that recruitment is different over here – it won’t be.” Read also advised recruiters to have a subs bench of talent so that you don’t have to rely on strangers opening up in new markets.
Tristan Ramus from Hamilton Bradshaw agreed that a robust process was vital. “When you are expanding a team, it’s really important to get those people into a process. If your hiring relies purely on commission and bonus then they will always be able to better that package elsewhere.” He also emphasised the importance of communicating the vision of the company to staff. “If you think you have communicated regularly then think again – when was the last you really addressed the whole of the business – and how many people have joined since then?”
“Expanding your recruitment business is a bit like teenage sex – everyone wants to do it, but hardly anyone has any idea of how to go about it.” These were the opening words of Greg savage, CEO of Firebrand Talent Search who advised recruiters to think carefully about geographical diversification. “It can distract you from the main game and suck up money. But if you are going to do it then make sure you go on at least ten client visits first and find out what they want – and run an ad for recruiters – what better way to find out about the local market?”
Commenting on the presentations, Helen Reynolds, Managing Director of HB RIDA said: “The feedback from Directors was very positive. Growth is at the top of the agenda for many owner managers – as is creating value. And while many recruitment firms would like to offer the carrot of equity in order to attract and retain good staff, people will only get excited about that if the equity has some value. These networking events give an ideal opportunity for recruiters to hear from people who have been there, done it and got the t-shirt.”
We also got some great feedback from attendees with 100% saying they enjoyed the event! If you want to see what you missed there are some great photos taken by Zak Reynolds.
Our next Directors Only event is on the 20th October (email me if you want more information in advance of us opening bookings). We also have a speed-pitching technology event on the 22nd September that you can check out.
