Pros
The best thing about ISE is the genuine passion and excitement we all have for recruiting into some of London’s top companies, whilst enjoying working alongside each other. As a boutique, you quickly become part of the team and can learn on the desk, over hearing what consultants are working on, meeting candidates and the commission splits for candidate / clients are fair. Everyone encourages each other and is patient in describing what their client is looking for. Each consultant has a real interest in their clients and we all take the same pride in every recruitment process to ensure the clients and candidates are given all the support needed – from CV advice and interview prep, to support writing job descriptions.
The Directors have trust in all their employees, you can truly run your own desk with autonomy, and have their support and guidance whenever you need, they will always make themselves available for the team. Although there are targets, and you are expected to perform and bill, there are no ridiculous KPIs and you aren’t expected to ‘phone bash’ every hour of the day or to over-send CVs if they would not be suitable for the role. There are regular 1:1s, as well as bi-annual reviews so as you can track your progress, and review career progression – which is really encouraged.
There is a very open, honest and inclusive culture, and regular socials for us all – group lunches, activities (for example Crystal Maze, theatre trip, Flight Club), rewards for high billing months and consultants as well as Friday drinks (with snacks!). The office location is also great as well as the office space being clean, light, and modern. Whilst working from home during Covid, ISE have made sure we have all the equipment we need for the home set up to be comfortable and productive. The team have also continued to keep in regular contact with a morning call each day, and quizzes etc.
It’s also worth noting that ISE are part of the Pertemps Group; being part of a larger company is great for many things including: all training opportunities, I, and other in the team, have completed REC Certificates; administration help – from a 24/7 IT team, to the payroll department for the temp desk; marketing – branding all our reports etc for clients. You also can speak to other branches and attend training with other consultants so you meet lots of other recruiters, extend your network and learn about different sectors too.
Cons
Nothing specific to ISE. As other reviews have touched upon, the work style is independent, you will run your own desk and so you do need to be self motivated, and truly want to succeed - you do have to prove your abilities, and ask for support and guidance when you needed vs. being micro managed. This may not be for everyone.
As per other recruitment agencies/the industry in general, you are regularly relying on other people, so you have to be happy with that and able to ‘bounce’ back from knockdowns quickly. Again, as per other agencies, there can be long hours, but remuneration is fair and you get rewarded for your work through commission, bonuses and the flexibility when needed.