Helping recruitment business owners and recruiters navigate these uncertain times through timely thought leadership. Listen to REC CEO Neil Carberry's podcasts for practical advice on issues that matter to you the most.

Download our COVID-19 - Essential business lessons for recruitment leaders digital guide for free here: https://www.rec.uk.com/recruiters/business-support/covid-19-recruitment

For more COVID-19 guidance and latest updates, visit our COVID-19 hub at www.rec.uk.com/covid19

2020 Series

Welcome to our Talking Recruitment Podcast. 

Helping recruitment business owners and recruiters navigate these uncertain times through timely thought leadership. Listen to REC CEO Neil Carberry's podcasts for practical advice on issues that matter to you the most.

For the latest COVID-19 guidance and updates, visit our COVID-19 hub at www.rec.uk.com/covid19

2021 Series

2022 Series

2023 Series

2024 Series

In this episode, our CEO Neil Carberry interviews Mims Davies MP, Minister of Employment. They discuss the labour market, the DWP and REC partnership and the new youth hubs which will support candidates with the required skills for employment.

In this episode, tune in to hear:

• About the level of demand and shortages in the economy
• More on employment opportunities and the ways people are able to progress within organisations
• How the government is committed to supporting people into fulfilling roles and helping employers to attract more candidates

Ep 21 - Breaking barriers and supporting the placements of jobs

In this episode, our CEO Neil Carberry interviews recruitment entrepreneur, Ricky Martin.  They discuss running a business through the downturn, recovery and the standards we should be accountable for in recruitment and staffing. 

In this episode, tune in to hear: 

*How Ricky has used life sciences to help others, supporting hires relating to Covid-19 and the vaccine rollout 

*The importance of hiring individuals who have a passion for the sector they are recruiting for 

*About giving people a sense of purpose and devising a strategy that people can relate to 

*What it is to be a recruiter and the career you can build; celebrating the differences that can be made when helping businesses to grow and delivering a step change for inclusion and diversity

Ep 22 - Making a difference to lives by improving recruitment standards and strategy

In this episode, our CEO Neil Carberry interviews Anne Kiem, Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Business Schools and Executive Director of the Small Business Charter.  They discuss how we can improve business management, how to seek productivity as we bounce back from Covid-19 and adapt to Brexit, and how to solve long-term productivity challenges that we have faced in the UK.

In this episode, tune in to hear:
*How we can improve the performance of the UK economy for businesses of all sizes
*More about the Government-backed 12-week programme - Help to grow: Management for SME leaders, which is helping SEMs achieve growth by providing Business Mentors 
* Why sustainability is important to the future of your business and its growth

Ep 23 - Help to grow: Management, programme for SMEs

In this episode, our CEO Neil Carberry interviews Amanda Fone, Founder & CEO at f1 Recruitment. They discuss managing social change for clients, championing hybrid working for flexibility and equal work life balance, and diversifying the talent pool used to recruit candidates.

In this episode, tune in to hear:
* How to incorporate diversity into your business and retain talent
* Empowering business decisions that can change lack of social representation in the marketing, communications and sports sectors
* The importance of influencing young people at an early stage to join a marketing and comms career

Ep 24 - Paving the way for organisations to be more inclusive, diverse and influential in our sector

In this episode, our CEO Neil Carberry and Deputy CEO Kate Shoesmith review the highs and lows of 2021. They discuss the positive impact of our reports and campaigns, and the value that recruiters provide our economy.

Tune in to hear:
* The scale of the industry and how our Recruitment and Recovery campaign has helped to reposition the role of recruiters
* How our labour shortage campaign has demonstrated the value that recruiters bring to the economy and how the REC can help businesses formulate their plans for the future
* The REC being your go-to for support and tools to help you make informed decisions for your business.

Ep 25 - 2021 Business Update

In this episode, our CEO Neil Carberry interviews Chris Williamson, Chief Business Economist, IHS Markit. They discuss the economic outlook for 2022and what this year may bring for businesses and individuals. Following the rollercoaster rof the pandemic, Brexit and our recovery phase, they analyse what businesses and recruiters need to do to stay on top.

In this episode, tune in to hear about:
• The pace of UK economic growth and how COVID-19 is influencing each sector
• The labour market and jobs experience, as the British economy is driven by consumer activity 
• The business model that is most sustainable in our current climate

Ep 1 - 2022 Economic Outlook

In this episode, our Chief Executive Neil Carberry interviews Ollie Sharpe, Vice President of Revenue, EMEA, Salesloft. They discuss the issues recruiters may face around technology and improving the performance of their business. 

In this episode, tune in to hear about:
• The automation behind Salesloft’s tool which helps recruiters to stand out in a crowded market, to give both candidates and clients a better experience
• The key wins a recruitment company should be focusing on and how to apply technology 
• How technology can improve productivity levels in your business

Ep 4 - Using technology to your advantage in the recruitment space

Guest speaker: Christian Fowles-Smith, Customer Service Director, REC

Job board prices are going up, blocking access to a wider talent pool. 
At the same time, the new generation of tech and social media savvy jobseekers are looking at where they can get the right information about vacancies quickly. As a recruiter, what can you do to access more candidates in a candidate-short market, with limited investment? 

REC's Customer Service Director Christian Fowles-Smith has been in the industry since 2001. In this episode of Talking Recruitment, he and Neil discuss:  
•	The current status of job boards
•	What REC members are doing to find more candidates in this market
•	What the REC is doing to help improve the offer from job boards and support members with training relevant to a candidate-short market
•	How you can work with your clients to access more candidates
•	Predictions on where the industry is headed.

If you want to hear more about candidate sourcing and facing future challenges in the industry, sign up to our virtual conference on 30 June. rec.uk.com/rec2022

Ep 7 - How to access more candidates in a candidate-short market

The UK’s labour market is under pressure from worker shortages like never before. There is huge demand for workers and people are making choices about when and how they engage in work with a power they haven’t had until now. 

Download our latest report - Overcoming shortages - to learn about the economic impact of labour and skills shortages in the UK and how long-term workforce planning is the key to solving them. https://www.rec.uk.com/our-view/policy-and-campaigns/labour-shortages/overcoming-shortages-creating-sustainable-labour-market

Special Episode: Overcoming Shortages - How to create a sustainable labour market

Guest speaker:
•	Vanessa Raath, Head Cheerleader

A recruiter wears many hats during their career - from being a marketer building brands and deploying marketing strategies to source the best talent, to forging long-lasting relationships and partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders. 

As Global Talent Sourcing Trainer and renowned Keynote Speaker Vanessa Raath puts it "If you're going to be a recruiter for life, your partnerships and your relationships are golden."

But how can you up your talent sourcing game? Are you relying solely on active talent to fulfil your clients' requirements or thinking outside the box to overcome the challenges posed by the ongoing labour shortages?

In our latest podcast, Vanessa shares her wisdom on becoming a better talent acquisition professional. You'll hear about:  
•	Why do we need to source passive talent?
•	Tools to source the right talent 
•	Next steps once you have identified the right people
•	The importance of your online brand as a Talent Acquisition/Recruiting Professional
•	The power of Boolean

Find out more about Vanessa Raath here: http://www.vanessaraath.com/

Ep 18: How to up your talent sourcing game: Tips from a global talent sourcing trainer

Guest speakers
•	Nicola Inge, Employment & Skills Director, BITC 
•	Hayley Tatum, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer from Asda

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) isn't a corporate craze that'll disappear in a few years. What can be missing is not realising the commercial benefits of being a truly diverse and inclusive organisation. Being an inclusive organisation improves your desirability as an employer which is crucial to talent attraction and retention. 

Who better to explain the impact of EDI in talent attraction and recruitment than Nicola Inge, Employment & Skills Director from BITC? Nicola led the 'Opening Doors' campaign which puts inclusive recruitment at its heart. As an Opening Doors Employer, Hayley Tatum, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer from Asda, also joins us to share what actions they are taking to address the skills challenges and the work they're doing on EDI.   

Tune into this episode to hear about:
•	How can businesses attract and recruit talent in a tight labour market, with an eye on EDI?
•	What can businesses do to ensure they have the skills needed for the future?
•	What actions has ASDA taken or committed to address these challenges?
•	What new actions or approaches we are seeing from businesses in inclusive recruitment?

Learn more about BITC's Opening Doors campaign here: https://www.bitc.org.uk/openingdoors/

Ep 19: Championing inclusive recruitment during times of skills shortages

Guest speaker: 
•	Paul Chamberlain, Partner and Head of Employment, JMW Solicitors LLP 

On 20 July 2022, the Supreme Court issued its long-awaited decision in the case of Harpur Trust v Brazel regarding the calculation of annual leave and holiday pay for employees with irregular working patterns.

We spoke to Paul Chamberlain, Partner and Head of Employment of JMW Solicitors LLP, to take us through:
•	The facts of the case 
•	Calculating holiday pay the right way 
•	Key commercial aspects to consider as recruitment agency owners
•	Managing client relationships and arrangements
•	How agencies are reacting to these changes 
•	What this might mean for working time regulations more generally.

Find out more at our holiday pay hub at rec.uk.com/holidaypay 
Check our JMW's latest blog on the Harpur Trust v Brazel case: https://www.jmw.co.uk/services-for-business/employment-law/blog/supreme-court-decision-practice-and-calculation-rolled-holiday-pay-harpur-trust-v-brazel

Ep 20: Holiday pay in recruitment: Navigating the technicalities

Guest speaker: 
•	Richard Skellett, Founder of Globalution Group

As we approach the end of this year, there is a lot to reflect on. But it's also time to think about what our market will look like in the coming years. 

Our annual industry status report 2021/2022 shows the vital role the recruitment industry has played in the economic recovery, at a time when businesses underwent significant change and workers reorganised. 

One of the major issues most companies have is around fixed costs. We spoke to future of work expert, visionary leader and Founder of The Globalution Group, Richard Skellett, to learn more about how businesses are reacting to market changes, how to manage the fixed cost to variable cost challenge and how recruitment businesses need to change to meet future challenges. 

Connect with Richard Skellett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardskellett/

Ep 21: Digital transformation and the future of labour market

Guest speaker:
•	Kate Shoesmith, Deputy CEO, REC

Our latest Recruitment Industry Status report (RISR) demonstrates the huge role recruitment and staffing firms have played in driving the recovery from the pandemic. Our industry made 22.4 million temporary / contract placements and 540,000 permanent placements in 2021.

However, ongoing skills shortages presents a big challenge for our economy, and could constrain growth. Our Overcoming Shortages report predicts that, without a strategy to address growing labour demand, UK GDP would fall by between £30 & £39 billion a year from 2024. In addition, we are in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis and one of the most turbulent periods in UK political history.

But the outlook for 2023 isn't all gloomy, and the opportunities are out there for recruitment consultancies that get it right. So, what does it take to overcome the ongoing challenges and stand out from the crowd? 

Our final podcast of 2022 takes you through some of our predictions for next year - backed by our own research, member feedback and intel gathered from countless meetings and discussions with key stakeholders over the year. Tune in as we take you through: 

•	A deep dive into REC's research data and what it tells us about clients' appetite to hire
•	What should be at the top of the government's 2023 agenda, to drive pragmatic change in our industry and combat skills shortages
•	Predictions for opportunities in 2023 and key drivers of growth
•	How can recruiters and recruitment leaders set yourselves up for success next year 
•	What should recruiters champion in 2023? 

Useful links:
Download our Overcoming shortages report: https://www.rec.uk.com/our-view/policy-and-campaigns/labour-shortages/overcoming-shortages-creating-sustainable-labour-market 

Download the Recruitment Industry Statement Report: https://www.rec.uk.com/our-view/research/recruitment-and-industry-status-report/uk-recruitment-industry-status-report-202122 

Download the futureproofing guide
https://www.rec.uk.com/recruiters/business-support/futureproof-your-recruitment-business

Ep 22: Looking ahead to 2023: Where do the opportunities lie for recruiters?

Guest speaker:
•	Ed Thompson, CEO and Founder, Uptimize 

Our recent research in partnership with neurodivergent training experts Uptimize revealed some astonishing findings about the state of neuroinclusive recruitment in the UK. We surveyed REC members to understand the level of awareness of neuroinclusive recruitment practices within organisations. Here are some key findings:
 
•	Only 30% of recruiters in our study have knowingly placed neurodivergent candidates.
•	Almost 80% of respondents said they had received no training on neuroinclusive recruitment and only 20% understood how to conduct a neuroinclusive interview.
•	70% of recruiters believe there is high potential in untapped neurodiverse talent pool.

So, what does it take to become a neuroinclusive recruiter? What practical steps can leaders take to drive the movement? We spoke to Ed Thompson, CEO of Uptimize to guide us through this unexplored area of recruitment which could hold the key to tackling the ongoing skills shortages. You'll hear about:

•	What did we (collectively!) learn from surveying REC members on this topic?
•	What is the particular role/responsibility that recruiters have when it comes to (neuro)diversity and (neuro)inclusion?
•	Why do conventional hiring processes and practices often disadvantage neurodivergent candidates?
•	What are some of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to neurodiversity and recruitment?
•	What can REC members do right now to bring greater neuroinclusion to their own work?
•	What can REC members do right now to bring greater neuroinclusion to their teams/organisations?
•	What are the key messages/takeaways of the REC/Uptimize guide?

Download our guide to recruiting neurodiverse talent. https://www.rec.uk.com/our-view/research/practical-guides/rec-uptimize-guide-how-to-recruit-neurodiverse-candidates

Episode 2: What does it take to become a neuroinclusive recruiter?

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

Episode 18: Breaking barriers through transforming the recruitment process.

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

Episode 21: Unpacking hiring trends, early careers, and quality of living

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.

Episode 22: The Barriers, the Mistakes and the Successes of recruitment.

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

Episode 23: Employee engagement in the age of tech and behavioural change

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.

Episode 24: Neurodiversity and the recruitment industry

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?

Episode 25: Navigating tomorrow – futureproofing for 2024 and beyond in recruitment.

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.

Episode 36: Navigating recruitment challenges: skills shortages and upskilling

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

Episode 37: Talent talk: navigating education recruitment challenges

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

Episode 40: Driving a winning business: Business development for high performance!

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

Episode 42: AI in recruitment: boosting efficiency, reducing bias and shaping the future

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.

Episode 46: Mastering the negotiation game: the RAD approach

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.

Episode 47: Purpose-driven recruitment: building impact and opportunity

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.

Episode 48: Empowering people, elevating standards: The Mixxos way

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.

Episode 49: Navigating the future of staffing: compliance and the power of technology

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.

Episode 50: REC round-up: highlights, challenges & the road ahead

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.

Episode 51: Shaping recruitment’s future: insights from Bev White on AI and human-centred strategies

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

Episode 52: Beyond the hype: How AI and verifiable credentials are transforming talent acquisition

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.

Episode 53: Breaking barriers – how employers can create meaningful opportunities for young people

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.

Episode 54: Going beyond the placement and elevating recruitment through strong business strategy

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.

Episode 55: The changing cost of business: taxes, talent & the UK’s economic shift

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 

Episode 56: How is automation transforming hiring and empowering candidates in the UK?

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.

Episode 57: The power of communication: Scaling a successful recruitment business

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. 

Episode 58: Navigating the recent legal changes and what they mean for you

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. 

Episode 59: Rethinking recruitment for a future-ready workforce

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry sits down with Duncan Wyeth, Partner Manager at Vision33, a Sage Partner, to explore how recruitment agencies can take control, get lean, and grow smarter in today’s shifting market. From finance transformation to data-led decisions, this episode is packed with practical insight. 

Episode 60: Fit for the turnaround: building scalable, profitable recruitment agencies

In this exclusive episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry sits down with Justin Madders MP, Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets for a timely conversation exploring the Government’s employment agenda and the future of work in the UK. With the Employment Rights Bill on the horizon and his recent fireside chat at RECLive25, this episode offers a front-row seat to the thinking behind the proposed reforms and what they mean for the recruitment industry. 

Episode 61: The Employment Rights Bill exclusive with Justin Madders MP

In this special episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry introduces a valuable conversation from RECLive25. The session, hosted by Lorraine Laryea, Chief Standards Officer at the REC, features guest speakers Colin Gunnell, Chief Executive at Liquid Friday; Michelle Mellor, Chair of the REC and Director and Founder of Cummins Mellor; and Denise Walker, Founder and Managing Director at Absolutely Business. Together, they share strategies and insights on supporting a race to the top prioritising and advocating for the quality and value of recruitment partnerships.


Episode 62: Racing to the top not the bottom: holding value in a price driven market

Nita Clark Director at the Involvement and Participation Association (IPA) which focusses on improving performance through employee engagement talks to Neil Carberry about why it is more important than ever to invest in supporting and developing staff in a crisis.

So, tune in to hear
•	What is to be gained by doing right by your employees In the current crisis
•	What to aim for In a process where you may have to make people redundant
•	How you create a culture and environment where staff can be themselves and work to their full potential

For up-to-the-minute COVID-19 updates and practical guidance, visit our COVID-19 hub at www.rec.uk.com/covid19

Audio track: www.bensound.com/

Ep 20: Doing right by your staff - why it's more important now than ever

When COVID-19 hit, business priorities shifted. Survival took priority for many, and the candidate experience got lost in the midst of need for speed - recruiting in retail and health for example.  

Candidate experience is back on the agenda as businesses’ hiring intentions are slowly improving. But as consultants to your clients, how can agency recruiters step in to help their clients improve the candidate experience? We were joined by Steve Bernard, Founder of Connectwell, and a Good Recruitment Collective (GRC) signatory to share his advice for agencies and clients on:

•	Shifting perceptions about candidate experience
•	How recruitment agencies can help clients struggling with candidate experience
•	The role of recruiters in providing professional advocacy to the candidates
•	Advice for employers on candidate experience management

Sign up to REC2020 - REC's first free virtual gathering on 8 September. www.rec.uk.com/rec2020

Download our COVID-19 - Essential business lessons for recruitment leaders digital guide for free here: www.rec.uk.com/recruiters/busine…id-19-recruitment

For up-to-the-minute COVID-19 updates and practical guidance, visit our COVID-19 hub at www.rec.uk.com/covid19

Ep 32: Candidate experience still matters – recruiters and employers ignore it at their peril

"I think there'll be a need to plan for some connection that is more social, more human - on both sides - as we go through the journey of attraction and onboarding."

Tech has changed the way we connect with our employees, but also how we build new relationships with future talent. Hear Jayne Haines, Senior Vice President, Talent Leadership and Organisation Development of GSK discuss how they have adapted their people strategy during the crisis to connect with current employees and worked with key partners to source new talent. You'll hear about:

•	What has homeworking meant for how GSK sources talent – hiring directly and working with partners?
•	What does a mixed model of home working mean for GSK in the long-haul? What are the benefits and complexities?
•	What gets GSK interested in working with a potential partner on people issues?
•	What recruitment business owners need to be mindful of when working with their clients

Ep 43: How GSK is building human connections in a technology-led world

How can businesses facilitate the transition for candidates in a post-COVID-19 world? How can the employability and recruitment sectors work together to benefit job seekers? We were joined by Tony Carr, Director of 4front partners, and Jo Ingold, Associate Professor, Department of Management, Faculty of Business & Law of Deakin University, to share expert findings from their research on employability programmes and the role of 'collaboration' between both sectors to bring forward positive results for the industry.

Need more advice like this? Access our latest digital guide: REC2020: A guide for future-focused leaders here: www.rec.uk.com/rec2020lessons

Ep 44: How can the employability and recruitment sectors work together during uncertain times?

"It's not just what we can do during global pandemics, but how we handle life in general." Anthony Gruppo, CEO of Marsh Commercial. 

This has been a unique year. Next year will come with its own share of challenges for new and established leaders. But the key thing that'll determine how you come out of the other end is resilience. 

Anthony is a visionary and thinker around leadership issues as well as a published author. His take on leadership is inspirational and practical. Tune into his discussion with Neil Carberry where he shares his views on how leaders can maintain resilience during tough times and how our values and behaviours can drive impact around us.

Ep 45: Maintaining resilience during tough times - A guide for leaders

"Pre-pandemic, only 15% of job vacancies were able to reference any form of flexible working in the job vacancy. What we found [post-pandemic] is that the increase has been minimal. It's now 22% of job vacancies in the UK over this year on aggregate are now showing that it's possible to work flexibly from the point of hire."

As a recruiter, how do you approach conversations about flexible working with your clients? We spoke to Emma Stewart, Co-founder and CEO of Timewise, UK's leading flexible working consultancy on the latest findings from their Flexible Jobs Index 2020. 

Timewise has been tracking the jobs market over the past five years looking at how many job vacancies are open to flexible working at the point of hire through their Flexible Jobs Index. In Neil Carberry's latest podcast discussion, Emma talks about:
•	What flexibility really means?
•	The shift in flexible working in job vacancies pre-and post- pandemic - based on Timewise's Flexible Jobs Index 2020 report 
•	The role of flexible working in talent attraction and retention
•	Regional and sectoral trends on how businesses are responding to flexible working 
•	How recruiters can approach conversations with clients on flexible working

Ep 46: Flexibility works: But how can recruiters make it work?

In the episode Neil Carberry on giving evidence to the APPG on loan charges for their work on understanding the role of Umbrella companies. "The government need to look at how Umbrellas should be regulated and create a fair and ethical playing field."

"We have a really robust industry and this is reflected in the 2019/2020 UK recruitment industry status report. The total industry GVA in 2019 is up 8% from 2018." Kate Shoesmith 

The status report out on 16th December is an insight into the shape and size of the industry in 2019 to help recruiters plan for their businesses in 2021.

Ep 47: REC's latest industry status report and a look ahead at what to do in 2021

A regular podcast featuring the leading thinkers from across the recruitment and business world, in conversation with REC Chief Executive Neil Carberry.

*The views expressed by guests on the REC's Talking Recruitment podcast are not those of the REC and reflect the individual's personal opinions.

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