Seeking new staff? Get local!

Even when the job market is slack, finding the right person for your business can be a frustrating, costly and time-consuming exercise. Some local candidates with real potential cannot be reached by traditional recruitment methods such as newspaper and online advertising. But a Local Employment Partnership might fill the gap and help you secure the person you need to help drive your business forward – there are no costs and no risks. Does this mean no catches too?

A Local Employment Partnership is a Jobcentre Plus initiative. They will appoint one of their local advisers to get to know your business and your employment needs in depth. Then, using their knowledge of the Maidstone labour market they will find candidates who have the skills and attitude you’re looking for. They will also help you to find and fund the right skills support for your business. There are no costs for any of these services. The catch? There isn’t one. Your only commitment is to a Local Employment Partnership agreement – this may include reviewing your recruitment processes to ensure they don’t unfairly exclude anyone and trying new ways to help people take up a job, such as by offering flexible working.