Running a recruitment business on your own or with a small team can feel like riding a rollercoaster solo. One minute you’re celebrating a big client win, the next you’re deep in spreadsheets, juggling marketing, candidate sourcing, and wondering if it’s all worth it. That’s where the TEAM Network (The Employment Agents Movement) comes in — and honestly, it’s a bit of a game-changer. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been flying solo for a while, TEAM offers the kind of support, connection, and commercial advantage that makes it feel like you’re part of something much bigger (because, well, you are).
The UK’s no.1 most trusted recruitment network for independent agencies.
Let’s break it down.
1. You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
Recruitment can be a lonely game — especially when you’re a one-person show or leading a boutique agency. But what if you had a whole network of people who actually get it?
TEAM is a national network of independent recruiters — over 500 members strong, across 700+ locations in the UK. It’s not just about numbers though; it’s about the culture. Everyone’s in the same boat: small business owners, solo operators, and recruiters who are building something of their own. No big egos, just people helping people.
Whether it’s hopping on a Zoom for a virtual meet-up, chatting in the member forums, or grabbing a coffee at an in-person event, there’s always someone to bounce ideas off or get advice from. That kind of connection? Priceless.
2. Real Collaboration, Not Just Lip Service
In most industries, competitors rarely help each other. But TEAM flips that on its head. It creates opportunities for genuine collaboration through a system of split-fee partnerships.
Imagine you’ve got a great candidate, but no client to place them with. Or maybe you’ve got a role outside your niche. Through TEAM Xchange, you can partner with another member and split the fee when the placement is made. It’s a win-win — and it means you’re not leaving money on the table.
For solo recruiters, this is especially powerful. It opens doors to revenue and client relationships that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible. It’s like having a virtual team you can tap into when you need extra help.
3. Big Business Buying Power (Without Being a Big Business)
Here’s the thing: Most solo recruiters and small agencies get stuck paying full price for tools and platforms because they don’t have the volume to negotiate deals.
But TEAM’s collective buying power changes the game. Members get exclusive discounts on major job boards like Reed, CV-Library, Totaljobs, Monster and more — often up to 80% off. That alone can make a huge dent in your operating costs.
But it doesn’t stop there. You’ll also find discounted services for:
It’s like having a procurement team working behind the scenes, making sure you get the best deal.
4. Training, Development, and CPD — Done Right
Let’s be honest — when you’re busy running a business, it’s hard to make time for professional development. But it’s also essential if you want to stay sharp and grow.
The TEAM Network makes it easy. They run weekly webinars with industry experts covering everything from legal updates to LinkedIn strategy. They also help members access 95–100% funded training through government-supported initiatives, whether you’re hiring your first apprentice or looking to level up your own leadership skills.
And the best part? It’s all tailored to recruitment. No fluff. No generic advice. Just relevant, practical learning that you can actually use.
5. A Bit of Backup When You Need It Most
You know those moments where you hit a legal snag or need advice on a tricky client situation? The TEAM Network has your back.
Members get access to legal helplines, expert guidance, and resources that help you navigate the tougher parts of running your business. There are also initiatives around mental health and wellbeing, because they know running your own business can take its toll.
It’s not just about protecting your business — it’s about protecting you too.
6. Real Stories, Real People, Real Results
One of the best things about TEAM is that the success stories are totally relatable. Take Liz Chapman, who started her own recruitment business (EC Appointments) in 2020. She joined the TEAM Network shortly after launching and credits the network with helping her grow confidently and sustainably, tapping into advice, job board deals, and the power of collaboration.
Stories like Liz’s are a great reminder that you don’t have to have a 20-person office or a massive budget to build a thriving recruitment business. You just need the right support system.
7. Why TEAM and Giig Hire Are a Perfect Match
If you’re using Giig Hire CRM to run your recruitment workflow (and if you’re not — you should be), then the TEAM Network is like the natural extension of your setup.
Giig Hire is all about giving solo recruiters and lean agencies the power to operate like bigger businesses — supporting the admin, keeping candidates warm, tracking client comms, and helping you stay on top of every little moving part in your pipeline. It’s built for people who want more flow and less faff in their day-to-day.
Now pair that with TEAM’s offering — community, collaboration, job board discounts, support, and real-world training — and you’ve got a seriously powerful combo. One handles your systems and day-to-day workflow (Giig), the other brings the human connection, commercial benefits, and broader ecosystem (TEAM).
Together, they help you:
- Work smarter — CRM efficiency + exclusive offers and services
- Grow faster — Split-fee placements + support
- Stay sane — Automated processes + a network that has your back
Think of Giig as your digital engine room, and the TEAM Network as your growth crew cheering you on from the sidelines (while also handing you deals, advice, and even candidates). For solo recruiters and small agencies looking to scale with purpose — not chaos — this pairing just makes sense.
So, Is the TEAM Network Right for You?
If you’re a solo recruiter or run a small agency and you’re craving community, cost savings, collaboration, and commercial edge, then honestly — yes. TEAM is probably exactly what you’ve been looking for.
It doesn’t try to turn you into something you’re not. It just gives you the tools, the network, and the confidence to run your business your way — but with a whole crew cheering you on.
You’re independent — but you don’t have to do it all alone.