The recruitment industry¹s image needs to be uplifted to improve the relationship between recruiters and its HR partners, the latest Association of Technology Staffing Companies (ATSCo) and Intellect debate heard yesterday.

 "The relationship between recruiters and HR is currently master/servant rather than equals. The problem is the perception of recruiters - the Delboys of the industry mean HR looks down on us. We need to prove to them what we can do," a recruiter attending the debate said.

Cooper HR Consulting¹s Pat Cooper advised recruiters to work closely with their HR partners: "Plan which partner is responsible for what and make sure everyone knows what is needed. Then have regular meetings to discuss issues and to get feedback on candidates."

The debate was attended by more than 30 ATSCo members.

* For more on the ATSCo debate see the next issue of Recruiter 7 March.