Recruitmentís Fast 100 growth positive, but must be sustainable

While the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association (RCSA) applauds the high number of recruitment companies featured in BRWís Fast 100 List, it has warned that the industryís long term sustainability relies on developing fundamental standards of client and candidate care.

ìThe recruitment and on-hire sector is growing at a rapid pace for several positive reasons. But no matter what the size of the company, or how fast itís growing, RCSA advocates all recruitment companies focus on developing a culture of professionalism, in addition to driving business growth.î

ìThis can be achieved through the adoption of RCSA Standards, ongoing professional development and proper accreditation with the industry Association. That is how we will ensure long term sustainability, not just for individual companies, but the industry as a whole,î Julie Mills, CEO of the RCSA said.

The inclusion of 12 high-growth companies in the BRW list was welcomed by the RCSA, who says it demonstrates the industryís growing importance to employers.

ìWith the tight labour market and skills shortage beginning to bite, employers are turning to recruitment companies who can provide unparalleled access to a range of quality candidates. This is where recruiters are genuinely adding value to employers in every sector,î Ms Mills said.

The industry is also seeing increased professionalism, as evidenced by the growth of RCSA, which is responsible for promoting industry standards: membership rose 18 per cent over the past 12 months.

ìRecruiters are better qualified and more accountable than ever before. Membership of the RCSA is a good indicator of a companyís quality, because all Members are bound by a Code for Professional Practice and subject to disciplinary actions if itís breached. In addition, we conduct training, professional development and other activities aimed at developing best practice.î

ìRCSA has also developed a voluntary Service Delivery Standard that recruitment companies are increasingly meeting,î Ms Mills said.

The BRW List also reflects an industry wide boom in confidence: according to the RCSAís latest Member survey, recruitment business confidence has improved markedly since 2005 - when confidence slipped to its lowest levels since 9/11. In September 2006, 74 per cent of business owners were confident of growth for the next quarter.