Insights

Our Business

Our purpose is to enable talent and businesses to meet and do great things together. We make this happen through an unrivalled network, a values-led, consultative approach and a hard-earned reputation as the go-to recruiter in property.

This case study exemplifies the importance of a tailored and consultative approach to recruitment. By closely collaborating with the client, assessing their specific needs, and conducting a thorough search, we were able to find a uniquely skilled individual who not only fulfilled the client's requirements but also brought additional value to their team. The successful outcome of this recruitment process proves our commitment to delivering cost-effective and efficient solutions to meet our clients’ recruitment needs.

Setting the Scene

A prominent property development company in Central London approached us with the intent to hire two Personal Assistants (PAs) to manage the demanding administrative responsibilities of their Senior Executives and Directors. The client believed that two distinct individuals were required due to the volume and complexity of tasks involved. However, by thoroughly understanding the client's requirements and conducting a comprehensive talent search, we identified a single highly skilled candidate who could efficiently manage all the responsibilities of the dual role. 

Client's Initial Requirements

The client initially expressed the need for two PAs, primarily driven by the belief that the workload was too extensive for one individual. Their list of requirements included:

1.           Extensive calendar management for multiple senior executives.

2.           Travel coordination for international and domestic trips.

3.           Event planning and coordination.

4.           Managing phone calls and emails.

5.           Project management support.

Our Approach

We offer a tailored approach to every client, aiming to thoroughly grasp their needs and enhance their business's value.

Our approach included:

-         Carrying out an in-depth client consultation

To gain a deeper understanding of the client's operations and the demands of the role, we visited the client’s office and spoke at length with both of the Directors to whom the PA would be reporting. 

-         Completing a detailed skills assessment

We assessed the core competencies and skills required to perform the role efficiently, identifying overlaps and areas where a single highly capable PA could excel.

     -       Initiating a comprehensive talent search.

We initiated a comprehensive search for candidates with the required skill set, experience and a proven track record in similar roles.  

    -       Implementing an effective candidate evaluation process.

Several candidates were evaluated for the position, focusing on their ability to handle multiple responsibilities efficiently.

The search led us to ONE exceptional candidate with a background in both executive support and property development. This candidate demonstrated proficiency in each of the client's required requirements. 

By presenting this candidate as a single, capable solution to fulfil the client's administrative needs, we provided a cost-effective and streamlined solution. The client appreciated our ability to identify a candidate who could efficiently manage the combined workload, which ultimately saved them significant time and resources. The whole process from initial phone call to job offer acceptance was only 3 weeks.

Outcome

The client expressed immense satisfaction with our approach and the final outcome.  They recognised the value of our expertise in understanding their requirements and identifying a candidate who not only met but exceeded their expectations. They especially valued the cost savings and enhanced efficiency brought about by this single hire.

Final observation

Honesty is key to a successful recruitment process.

While we initially received instructions to hire two PAs, our extensive experience and market insight led us to believe that this course of action would not serve our client's best interests, so we told them…

Our primary goal is to enhance our clients' experiences by delivering optimal solutions and fostering enduring relationships to ensure their success.