Whilst the recruitment industry is fast-paced and sales-driven, relationships really are the backbone that builds the strongest recruitment businesses. Building a strong network of fellow recruiters and business owners can be the secret ingredient to your success. It's about creating a support system, sharing knowledge, and unlocking opportunities that you might miss out on.

Porter Gale, former Vice President of Marketing at Virgin America once said, “Your network is your net worth”. Truer words have never been spoken!

Why networking matters

Networking is more than just exchanging business cards (does this still happen nowadays?!); it’s about building genuine connections. By surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals, you can create a colossally powerful support system. The right network will give you a sounding board for ideas, access to industry insights, people to lean on when times get tough (because, in recruitment, they certainly do) and a platform to share your expertise too.

Moreover, a strong network can open doors to new business opportunities. Referrals, partnerships, discounts and collaborations often stem from these connections. In an industry as competitive as recruitment, having a solid network can give you a significant advantage.

This is particularly true within the TEAM network, where our 500+ recruitment industry members have access to over £1.7million in split fees, up to 85% discount on job boards, access to top-tier industry suppliers knowledge and guidance, and the feeling that they are not in this alone.

The Benefits of Networking

The impact of networking on business growth is undeniable. According to a study by the British Chambers of Commerce, 75% of businesses believe that networking is essential for business growth. This highlights the importance of building and maintaining strong professional relationships.

Furthermore, a report by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy found that businesses with strong networks are more likely to innovate, create jobs, and increase exports.

One person who knows the benefits of networking first hand is Simon Bliss, Chairman at TEAM. Simon says,

“When I was a TEAM member as MD at Principal People, I reached out for advice to other members in the regional meetings for advice on incentive and commission programmes for my growing team. The feedback and openness i received from fellow members allowed me to build a new incentive scheme for my current and future staff that both helped with retention and attraction, and contributed hugely to build sales and margin without any consultancy or legal costs.”

We also asked Ruth Forster, Founder at Wagstaff Recruitment, and TEAM member, to share her thoughts. She said,

“Building a network that works for you takes time, but like most important things, you have to invest time to reap the rewards. I would not be the person I am today, nor would my business be the success it is, without my network. Success to me means being in a strong and happy place personally, having a happy team that achieves great results, and running a stable business with a solid reputation. The right network of people offers support, challenge, accountability, and learning, and in return, you will support people in your network too.”

Building Your Network

Building a strong network takes time and effort, but it is so worth it! Here are some tips to get you started:

Attend industry events

Conferences, meetups, and awards ceremonies are great places to connect with other professionals. The TEAM network hold monthly virtual and in person events for members, and an annual conference which is one of the most talked about events of the year! Check out this video from our 2023 conference.

Leverage online platforms

If you’re not on LinkedIn, are you even a recruiter? LinkedIn can be a powerful networking tool, when it’s used to its full potential. Connect with others in the industry, join groups and spend some time building connections through commenting on industry posts and topics.

Join professional organisations

Becoming a member of a recruitment network, like TEAM, can connect you with like-minded individuals and be the springboard you need to propel your recruitment business forward.

At TEAM, we understand the importance of networking. We exist to create opportunities for recruiters, whether solo or agency, to save on costs and increase revenue, through extensive access to services, as well as offering a safe, collaborative national (and International) network to help businesses and people reach their potential.

With member fees starting at just £60 per month, why wait? Start building your network today and watch your recruitment business thrive.