More than 100 recruiters from across the UK assembled in London yesterday for the first Recruiter Annual Forum.

The congregation was treated to a day of news, views and discussion from leading industry names and case studies from across the sector.

Steve Huxham, chairman of the Recruitment Society and the Forum, welcomed the audience: “We as an industry don’t give ourselves enough credit. I believe, excluding care workers and the emergency services, there is no more important sector than recruitment. Don’t forget the importance of what you do.”

Author and creator of the Superboss approach Dr David Freemantle (pictured above right) took the Forum through the importance and issues of customer service. “There is a lot of customer service around but to be World Class you have to be memorable,” he advised.

Meanwhile Felix Wetzel (pictured left), marketing manager at Jobsite, was on hand to discuss the importance of candidate feedback. He said all feedback is positive, even when it initially appears negative. “It gives good insight to your business, a new perspective on persistent problems, and can help free up resources,” he explained.

And Eutopia Solutions’ managing director Craig Coverman (pictured right) examined agency collaboration. “No agency can fill all jobs. No agency is an expert in all areas… However be careful who you get into bed with and you can fill more positions, create new revenue streams, add value to your business and learn about your competitors.”

Other topics explored at the Recruiter Annual Forum were company branding, values, consolidation and acquisitions and mergers.

Panels of experts give their opinions         DeeDee Doke gets the Forum's views   

The congregation get down to business   Careerbuilder's presentation  

Event included some stands                               The experts listen to views 

Charterhouse's Mark Bale, Rosaleen Blair CEO at Alexander Mann Solutions,

 Hat Pin's chief executive Angela Campbell-Noe and Christopher Clark, director at BDO Stoy Hayward 

Attendees use the event to network         The Forum's chairmen                                                                                                                    

    Guests make new contacts                              Select Education presents        

     Recruiters get to ask questions                The event's chairs take it all in       

* For extended coverage of the Forum see Recruiter May 2.