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New to Recruitment: Show Your Credentials | recruitment consultancy tips

Recruitment is a meritocratic industry. Hard work and achievement means more than a paper qualification. But there are some instances where formal credentials can really aid your business growth. We take a look at some of them.

If you don’t have any processional qualifications at the moment, then don’t worry. Recruitment is one of the more meritocratic industries to work in.

By that, I mean that you can succeed and thrive in recruitment by hard work, talent, and achievement. You don’t need to be qualified to take an entry level position in the industry and learn the ropes while working. In fact, I would wager that a large portion of those working in recruitment today will say that this is the only way to truly learn how to be a better recruiter.

But, if that is the case, why should you chase certificates – when your achievements can speak for themselves?

It’s a good question. But there are also several compelling reasons for seeking out various credentials. And not all of these are academic or professional qualifications. Let’s take a look at a few of the more important ones.

Recruitment Credentials

Recruitment credentials may not be essential. But they do demonstrate your knowledge, understanding, and commitment to your profession. There are a number of professional bodies that both recognise and award qualifications for recruitment, with the two largest being the British Institute of Recruiters and the Recruitment and Employment Confederation.

British Institute of Recruiters (IOR)

The British Institute of Recruiters (IOR) issues several types of formal, professional qualification. Once obtained, you may advertise your business as “IOR certified”. More significantly, if you work within a specialised niche of recruitment, you can have this expertised acknowledged within your IOR qualification.

The IOR has the added incentive of regular events and awards that further acknowledge the achievements of its members. It also runs blog and news pages, to which its members can submit articles, press releases, and announcements – helping you with your marketing objectives. Learn more about the work of the British Institute of Recruiters here

Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC)

The Recruitment and Employment Confederation also awards professional qualifications for recruiters. Its five-level system acknowledges achievement and expertise at every level of the recruitment industry, up to diploma level. The REC lets young professionals earn apprenticeships while gaining on-the-job experiences and life skills. Learn more about REC opportunities here.

Data Security

You should spare more than a thought for your business data security. In an ever-more-digital world, the successful management of data is becoming a necessity for business success.

ISO27001 for recruitment enterprises

ISO27001 is the international standard for the correct management of data systems. The system lays out a way of managing user data safely and efficiently. It describes the process for creating a functional Information Security Management System (ISMS) for your business.

In short, you will build an infrastructure that controls, manages, maintains, and protects your company data. An ISO27001 auditor can inspect your data system an certify that your company has past an ISO27001 inspection.

ISO27001 for recruitment enterprises is not mandatory. However, it will open a lot of doors when you look to secure large, government, or international contracts. It will also demonstrate to your existing clients that you take their data management seriously.

Cyber Essentials

Cyber Essentials is – as its name suggests – essential for businesses seeking contracts from public bodies, governments, and some charities. Without it, you will simply not be considered in the bidding process.

Cyber Essentials covers the very foundations of online data security. For most startups, only a basic certification is required. This guides you through the steps required to take responsibility for your company data.

Cyber Essentials certification reflects the changing technology and trends of cyber attacks, data theft and fraud. You will need to renew your certification every twelve months – though the cost to do so is relatively low.

GDPR / SCHREMS II

You have, no doubt, already lived through the first wave of GDPR regulations. Back in 2018, it was one of our most searched news topics.

The bad news is that it hasn’t gone away and, in many respects, will only get more complicated in future.

Since the UK left the EU, the British Government has signalled its intention to end GDPR in Britain. But, far from reducing the amount of regulatory hoops for businesses to jump through, it is likely to increase them.

Without GDPR enforcement, British businesses could fall foul of the recent SCHREMS II ruling – which limits the transferral of data to non-EU countries.

It means that, if you are a UK business that may process the data of EU citizens, you are likely to be subjected to greater scrutiny when it comes to your operations. This may impact your ability to win contracts with large or multinational businesses and governments. It may mean that you are more likely to be subject to inspections or data requests concerning EU citizens.

With few wishing to curtail their activities or limit their growth potential, it makes sense to acquire at least the foundational cybersecurity qualifications while there is still time remaining.

Your Local Chamber of Commerce

While membership of a local Chamber of Commerce is not a qualification, it can open doors for your business. Chambers of Commerce help local enterprises to associate with one another, share news and ideas, and learn from one another.

And, being a recruiter, the local Chamber of Commerce is an excellent way to network and connect with employers and potential clients.

Every region of the United Kingdom is represented, and it’s incredibly easy to locate your nearest Chamber of Commerce, using this designated search page.