You asked us to explain more about our Academy training programme, so we enlisted the help of those involved - our newest recruits!

Week one went into detail about Caspian One, the recruitment industry and who our candidates are. After an introduction from the key members of the Caspian One team, our new starters discussed the basics such as the different types of recruitment, the recruitment process and how to find candidates. We find this is the perfect place to start, as it gives our new consultants a solid foundation to build from in the coming weeks.

 The first day was a surprise - we asked the team to create a presentation based on our company history, our markets and the company's vision. To make it more challenging, we then asked them to present these to our Management team. This has previously been a great ice-breaker, and this time round was no different!

 Although in the 'classroom' (also known as the board room) for most of the week, our new recruits also got to sit with our existing recruitment consultants, to listen to calls and get a taste for the buzz in the office during the busiest times of the day. We always bring our new starters in for a 'meet the team' session before their first day, so all the introductions were already done.

 Week one also saw us go through our Vision and Values and 'What Makes a Caspian One Consultant.' We set expectations that our new starters can work towards, and our training helps guide them there, proven by our successful consultants who joined Caspian One through the Academy.

 To explain a little more we spoke to Stephanie Sperling, who joined the team in the most recent Academy intake. Stephanie's background is in sales, but she also has previous recruitment experience. Stephanie has worked with large IT vendors which makes her a great match for the skills she will be recruiting for.

 Why did you apply for the job with Caspian One?

 I knew that I wanted a role where I could have a more personal relationship with the candidates and clients, and make a positive impact on their experience of hiring a candidate or finding a job.

 What happened in week one of your Academy training? What did you enjoy most?

 Week one was an opportunity to meet everyone in Operations and Management, which was great until we were asked to present to them on the first day! Although it was straight into the deep end, I think it was a great ice-breaker as it set expectations quickly. The rest of the week was spent covering the basics and laying the foundation on which to build from. We discussed methods of communication, the stages of recruitment, as well as different industry terms to help us begin to make sense of the world of recruitment.

 What is the most challenging thing to understand or pick up?

 The technology of our respective industries is the most challenging thing to pick up, however being immersed in the world from day one is definitely helping us get to grips with the industries quicker.

 What do you like so far about Caspian One?

 I love the atmosphere, and of course the people are great too. It’s the little touches that make a difference, such as having the radio on, fresh flowers in the office and drinks on a Friday with the team. It all adds up to creating a great place to work!

 What are your aims for your Caspian One career?

 I wish to progress to a Team Leader, and pass on what I’ve learnt to others who are trying to achieve what I am trying to achieve now. I would like to continue to recruit at the same time as it is something I am enjoying hugely.

 We will be speaking to the rest of the Academy team over the coming weeks, but if you're interested in finding out more, contact our Internal Trainer - Peter Kiddle on 01202 979 708.