In spite of the positive factors such as good numbers from key grocers, the knock on effect of the end of 2008 along with the negative business sentiment for much first quarter of 2009 has lead to a much more cautious, risk-averse approach to recruitment. Without doubt the first few months of this year have represented some of the most challenging in recent history for our market with hiring freezes, redundancies and of course increased competition for the active job seeker not to mention the difficulties encountered by businesses aiming to directly acquire talent from industry competitors with a far more wary, media influenced target employee market.

However, whilst these circumstances have had an effect on the volume of assignments handled, we’ve been able to add value via our trademark network / search led approach where traditional agencies have struggled to maintain a relationship and deliver a result.

It’s improving… Since April consumer confidence has risen on both sides of the Atlantic with an appetite for risk returning to the financial markets which has led to various good news stories of “green shoots” and some even forecasting an end to the recession. Whilst the latter could be optimistic at this stage, we’re noticing a definite upturn in both general mood / confidence as well as in hiring forecasts.

We're handling an array interesting projects on behalf of businesses ranging from leading industry heavyweights to innovative start ups - to find out more about how Vertex could help you or to have a general conversation call us on 020 8614 4180 or browse the site for our latest vacancies.