Why did you re-enter the recruitment sector?

During my short break from the recruitment sector, due to the acquisition of my former recruitment business, Draig, by a national agency, I missed the buzz and challenges that the recruitment arena brings. I guess, I missed the interaction with the team, clients and candidates. My career in the recruitment sector began in 1999 when I set up and ran my first recruitment business and it is a sector in which I feel that I belong. I had built up a network of contacts, many of whom I consider to be friends, so it was lovely to have had an opportunity to work with them once again.

How has the first year been?

The first year has been like that of the majority of new businesses… tough. I have lost count of the number of long days and weekends I have worked in the first year of trading in order to get the momentum of the business to gather pace. As the team grew in line with the demand for our services, my day-to-day life has become a little easier and my role has now changed from wearing all of the hats to managing and developing the business and the excellent team I now have on board. It has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride and it has been difficult to get in front of potential clients, however, there have been a number of businesses that have been kind enough to put their faith in myself and Clear Sky Recruitment and engage our services.

What was the high/low?

There have been many high and low points during the first year of the business. I guess the high point was reaching the first anniversary of the business, having attracted an experienced team of seven hardworking recruitment professionals. I would say the low point would have to be the fact that I only had four days off in the first 12 months of trading and that I didn’t get to take the family away on holidays during that time.

How will the next year be?

I am hoping the next year will see us build on our success to date as the brand becomes more well known among the businesses in South Wales. The next year will not be easy, however, we will continue to push on and ensure that we are the best at what we do.

What plans have your further expansion?

We have a set growth plan for the business which involves the opening of an additional office within the next 12 months and the expansion of our team accordingly.

How do you view the current employment market and how will employers over-come what many believe will be a sever skills shortages in various sectors?

The current employment market is buoyant and many businesses appear to be recruiting for both temporary and permanent positions as the economic climate continues to move in the right direction.

How do you manage to attract and place suitable candidates?

We have invested heavily in the latest technology, which ensures we can attract and communicate with candidates efficiently. We use social media, online job boards and our website to ensure we attract the very best talent for our clients. Before we place anyone in a temporary or permanent position, we screen each candidate thoroughly to ensure they are the right match for the right job. There’s more to it than just putting bums on seats!

How did you celebrate?

We all went for a meal, but as the anniversary fell on a Tuesday, our celebration was quite a sober affair as we had work the next day!