2 minute read
Patron Focus
Why and when did you join the Chamber?
Tate joined the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce around 10 years ago. At the time, I was still finding my confidence with networking, but I immediately felt welcomed in what was both a professional and sociable environment. I quickly recognised the Chamber as a valuable platform to grow my business network and I was drawn to its strong ethos of keeping business in Hertfordshire, something I’m deeply passionate about. I’ve always championed the idea of finding local careers for local residents and collaborating with nearby businesses wherever possible. The Chamber connected me with like-minded professionals who share that same community-first mindset.
How do you feel being a Patron has helped your business?
Being the ‘Recruitment Patron’ has given us valuable exposure and positioned us as a go-to resource for Chamber members seeking insight into the talent market. Through this recognition, we’ve been able to support members by sharing expertise on topics such as talent availability, salary benchmarking and current employer challenges, including ED&I, Disability Confidence and strategies to enhance staff attraction and retention through stronger Employer Branding. These complimentary value-adds help build relationships and trust over time and from that, business naturally follows.
What advice would you give to new Chamber members?
Be authentic and clear about what you do. When networking, explain your business in simple, jargonfree terms so others can easily understand your services and who your ideal customer is. It also helps to share what you’re hoping to achieve from the network whether that’s finding collaborators, clients, suppliers or simply learning from others. Let people know who you’re trying to connect with. And don’t feel self-conscious about joining a group or introducing yourself! Everyone’s here to meet new people. Networking isn’t about direct sales; it’s about building trust and becoming known in your community. The business will follow naturally when relationships are nurtured.
What are the biggest challenges affecting your business? How do you think the Chamber can best assist you with these challenges?
From a recruitment perspective, one of the biggest challenges is the rising cost of employment combined with increasingly complex legislation, which makes it harder for businesses to hire with confidence. At the same time, AI is rapidly transforming the hiring process, bringing speed and efficiency, but also raising concerns around candidate authenticity, bias and transparency. These shifts require businesses to stay agile and informed.
The Chamber can play a vital role by continuing to provide platforms for discussion, sharing best practices and offering access to expert insights. It’s also important that the Chamber continues to advocate for local businesses by ensuring that government policy reflects the real-world impact on employers and the workforce.
Being the ‘Recruitment Patron’ has given us valuable exposure and positioned us as a go-to resource for Chamber members seeking insight into the talent market.
What are your plans for the future growth of your business?
Despite the challenges in the current economy and job market, I’m optimistic about the future. The demand for great talent remains strong, and businesses are increasingly turning to expert recruiters to help them navigate complexity.
At Tate, we’re embracing innovation, particularly around AI and digital transformation, while staying true to our core values of trust, service and community.
We’re continuing to grow our presence across the Home Counties, exploring new partnerships and supporting clients with evolving workforce needs. Our focus is on sustainable, meaningful growth developing our team, enhancing and tailor-making our service offering and remaining a positive force in the local business landscape.
