June 2, 2026

HOW DID THE GRAD TEAM MAKE MAY THEIR BEST MONTH YET?

At SW6 Associates, May was a record-breaking month for our Entry-Level team.

In an increasingly competitive recruitment market, the team delivered their strongest performance of the year so far. Naturally, we wanted to know what made the difference.

The answer wasn't a new piece of technology, a secret sourcing method or a dramatic market shift.

It was recruitment fundamentals executed consistently and at a high standard.

The Basics Still Win

When we asked the team what contributed to their success, one theme appeared repeatedly: doing the basics properly.

From driving urgency throughout processes to maintaining close communication with both candidates and clients, the highest performers focused on activities that have always delivered results.

As Ronnie Griffiths explained:

"Doing the basics properly, injecting urgency with the candidate and client throughout the process, pre-closing prior to a final and making sure the client is in the loop with everything around candidates' other processes and thoughts."

In a market where candidates often have multiple opportunities available, clear communication and process control remain essential.

Expanding Networks, Not Waiting for Applications

Another recurring theme was proactivity.

Rather than relying solely on inbound applications, consultants widened their searches and revisited existing talent pools.

Lucy Dixon credited much of her success to reconnecting with candidates who had previously applied months earlier.

Recruitment databases are often filled with strong candidates who may not have been ready at the time but become highly relevant later.

The lesson is simple: opportunities are often already sitting within your network.

Healthy Competition Raises Standards

Strong teams create strong results.

Several consultants highlighted the impact of working in a high-performing environment where everyone is pushing each other to improve.

Sam Bridges explained that with the team performing at such a high level, standards have naturally increased across the board.

When success becomes visible, it often encourages others to raise their own activity levels, sharpen their processes and compete positively with colleagues.

Activity Drives Outcomes

The final theme was work ethic.

Recruitment remains a people business and conversations matter.

Libby Tracey attributed her success to maximising activity levels, spending as much time as possible speaking directly with candidates and ensuring she was giving herself every opportunity to uncover top talent.

Similarly, Cameron Angus emphasised the importance of picking up the phone rather than relying on emails and messages.

While technology continues to evolve, direct conversations remain one of the most effective tools recruiters have.

What Can Recruiters Learn From This?

The team's biggest month wasn't built on shortcuts.

It came from:

Consistent candidate and client communication
Creating urgency throughout recruitment processes
Expanding networks beyond active applicants
Maintaining high activity levels
Staying close to every stage of the hiring journey
Working within a culture that encourages high standards

For recruiters looking to improve performance, the takeaway is straightforward.

Success often comes from mastering the fundamentals rather than searching for the next big trick.