Manchester-based firm Circle Recruitment says it has introduced flexible working and other working policies to position itself as an employer of choice to overcome the industry's current shortage of consultants.

The IT and HR recruiter says all of its recruitment consultants have their own laptops and have links so they can work from home. The company is investing in training for its entire staff and is maintaining a high commission rate.

Managing director Steve Ricketts told Recruiter the commission rate is "higher than we've come across in the industry".

He adds that the company's laid-back office atmosphere is also appealing, "and we don't restrict our consultants to one region or to a specific skill-set. That way they learn a lot more.

"There are no companies out there with an ethos like ours, and as a result people want to work for us," said Ricketts.

"Every member of staff is a billing consultant, therefore the directors keep in touch with what's going on. At so many large companies the top directors have completely lost touch."

Circle is set to open its second office in Leeds; its first southern office will follow next year.

"We've massively increased our advertising budget and our sales have gone up as a result. It is harder to find candidates, but you have to adapt," said Ricketts.