IS YOUR PREFERRED RECRUITMENT AGENCY A MEMBER OF THE RECRUITMENT & EMPLOYMENT CONFEDERATION (REC)? IF NOT, WHY NOT?

What is the REC and why does it matter?

The Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) is the UK’s leading professional body for recruitment. Membership isn’t automatic; agencies must meet defined standards, pass compliance checks, and commit to an ongoing Code of Professional Practice.

In simple terms, REC membership demonstrates a clear commitment to legal compliance, ethical behaviour, and professional standards.

When choosing a recruitment partner, most organisations naturally focus on speed, sector expertise, and cost. One important consideration that’s sometimes overlooked is:

Is your recruitment agency a member of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC)?

REC membership isn’t just a badge. It’s a recognised benchmark that provides reassurance in an industry where trust, compliance, and ethics matter more than ever.

When you’re hiring, you’re not simply filling a vacancy, you’re shaping the future of your organisation. The recruitment partner you choose should therefore demonstrate more than strong sales credentials; they should be able to evidence how they operate.

Why REC membership is especially relevant for permanent recruitment

Permanent recruitment relies heavily on trust. You need an agency that represents your brand responsibly, treats candidates fairly, and operates with integrity at every stage.

REC members commit to clear professional standards and an ongoing Code of Practice, providing an additional layer of structure and accountability that many employers value when making long-term hiring decisions.

Our commitment to professional, ethical recruitment

We don’t just talk about high standards; we work to them every day.

To give our clients confidence and peace of mind, we operate under a robust framework of policies and principles, including:

• We abide by all relevant legislation
• We abide by the REC Code of Conduct
• We fully comply with Data Protection and Privacy requirements
• We adhere strictly to Gender, Race, Age and Disability discrimination laws and respect diversity
• We are an REC Diversity Pledge Holder
• We treat all clients with dignity and respect at all times
• We agree terms and conditions upfront, before candidate introductions
• We always obtain candidate permission before submitting any CV
• We keep clients regularly informed throughout the recruitment process
• We call back when we say we will
• We provide detailed feedback and ongoing support
• We reference candidates wherever possible
• We immediately declare any foreseeable conflicts of interest
• We never headhunt staff from current clients
• We operate with the highest levels of integrity and confidentiality
• We are committed to continuous improvement

These principles are not optional extras. They are the foundation of how permanent recruitment should be done.

Considering agencies that aren’t REC members

Many capable recruitment agencies choose different ways to demonstrate professionalism and compliance. However, without REC membership, it’s important for employers to understand:

• What standards the agency works to
• How compliance and best practice are maintained
• How changes in employment legislation are monitored and managed
• What safeguards are in place if issues arise

Asking these questions helps ensure you’re making an informed decision and choosing a partner that aligns with your organisation’s values and risk appetite.

Permanent recruitment deserves professionalism

Working with an REC member agency can offer:

• Ethical and responsible candidate handling
• Transparent and honest recruitment processes
• Strong focus on legal compliance
• Greater clarity, accountability, and reassurance
• A trusted partner representing your brand professionally

Permanent hires shape your organisation’s culture, capability, and long-term success. Choosing a recruitment partner who can clearly demonstrate their standards is a critical part of that process.

Final thought

Before briefing your next vacancy or reviewing your PSL, it’s worth asking:

“Are you an REC member?”

If not, take the time to understand how the agency demonstrates professionalism, compliance, and accountability, and whether that gives you the confidence you need moving forward.