After more than 20 years in recruitment, one thing has stayed consistent: hiring the right person makes all the difference. The tools and technology have changed, but the fundamentals of great hiring haven’t. Since joining Thompson & Terry Recruitment, here are the core lessons that have truly stood the test of time.

1. Attitude Beats Experience

I’ve seen many “perfect CVs” fall short and many less‑experienced candidates excel. Skills can be taught, but drive, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn cannot. The right attitude nearly always leads to long‑term success.

2. Culture Fit Is Crucial

When a hire doesn’t work out, it’s rarely about capability. It’s usually about culture. Understanding how a business works, its pace, values, and personality, is essential to placing someone who will thrive, not just cope.

3. A Clear Brief Makes Everything Easier

Strong recruitment starts with clarity. When a business knows exactly what success looks like, which behaviours matter, and what challenges the role involves, the whole process becomes smoother and far more effective.

4. How You Treat Candidates Matters

Candidates remember every step of the process… especially how they’re communicated with. A positive experience, even if they don’t get the job, reflects well on the business and strengthens its reputation.

5. Listening Is a Recruiter’s Superpower

The best placements come from genuinely listening, to what hiring managers want and what candidates need. When you understand both sides properly, the right match becomes much clearer.

6. The Right Hire Is Worth Taking Time For

Fast hiring isn’t always good hiring. A little more time spent at the start; defining the role and interviewing properly, prevents problems later and builds stronger, longer‑lasting teams.

Final Thought

After two decades, I’m still motivated by the same thing: helping people find roles where they can grow, and helping businesses build teams they can be proud of. Joining Thompson & Terry Recruitment gives me the chance to continue doing exactly that.

By Nicky Jeffs, Thompson & Terry Recruitment

E: nicky@thompsonandterry.co.uk