ONBOARD Magazine summer 2023

BACKGROUND
CHECKS
Frankie Mason outlines
the benefits of doing your
research when looking to
employ a recruitment agency
I
know from my time as chief stew, the
know from my time as chief stew, the
crew on board either makes or breaks
the season. When it’s time to find a new
crew member it’s a decision that needs care,
attention, and it most cases, urgency. You
should expect the same from a recruitment
service. Communication is paramount, heads
of department and captains lead busy
lives and they need to know you’re on the
case, while also advising them on the ever
evolving pool that is the candidate market.
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Now seeing it from the recruiter’s desk I
understand the hard work it takes to source,
screen and vet candidates for each unique
programme and job role. It’s not easy but
there is a lot of satisfaction when you get
it right.
As well as being MLC compliant, there are
quite a few qualities I would look for when
employing a recruitment agency:
Industry knowledge
Choose an agency that specialises in yacht
recruitment and has a successful track
record in the industry. Here at Bespoke Crew,
we have all worked in the yachting industry
and understand the unique requirements,
regulations, and challenges of recruiting
in the yachting sector and can empathise
with both the candidates and the clients
recruiting for the positions.
Reputation
We discovered from an article written in
Forbes magazine that 90% of consumers
read reviews before using a service or
buying a product, and 84% of people
trust online reviews as much as personal
recommendations. Recruitment companies
are built on repeat business, you should
research the agency’s reputation by
checking their website, online reviews, and
testimonials. A reputable agency will have
positive feedback and a solid reputation
within the industry.
Screening and vetting process
It’s essential that agencies have a clear
We have all worked in
the yachting industry
and understand the unique
challenges in this sector.
screening and vetting process for candidates
and that it’s followed religiously. A rigorous
selection procedure should include background
checks, certification verifications, reference
checks and digging deeper to make sure the
candidate is capable and willing to accept
a position and will fit into the existing
onboard yacht team. This ensures that the
crew members presented to you meet the
highest standards of professionalism and
competence in order to avoid disappointment
and delay on all sides.
Database and network
You should expect an agency to have an
extensive database of qualified candidates and
a wide network of industry connections. One
of the most rewarding parts of recruiting is
to see your candidates’ progress through their
careers, and maintaining these relationships
is key to a strong network. Having an active
social media presence helps agencies keep
in touch effectively and reach a wider
candidate base.
Support and follow-up
Consider the level of ongoing support and
follow-up provided by the agency. Yacht crew
recruitment involves ongoing relationships
and coordination. The agency should
provide support throughout the employment
process and be responsive to any issues
or concerns that may arise.
Flexibility and customisation
Look for an agency that can adapt to your
specific needs and preferences. They should
be willing to customise their services
to match your requirements, whether
it’s for a temporary placement, a seasonal
contract, or a long-term crew member.
The team here at Bespoke Crew are
passionate, dedicated and pride ourselves on
doing the basics exceptionally well and
achieving the high standards that the
yachting industry deserves. Our tailored
service combined with our industry experience
has helped us grow and retain a wonderful
client base. However, we do understand there
is strong competition in the recruitment
sector, and we would love to know what
you think of our service.
For more details Tel: +44 1202 069663
or visit www.bespokecrew.com
ONBOARD | SUMMER 2023 | 41