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Recruitment: a fresh approach

Six Steps to Recruitment

The Scout Association has a model for recruitment called the Six Step Approach, although it is important to remember that this is not the only way. This website, for example, identifies a number of different ways to recruit.

Research and experience have shown us that it works well when each step is followed through properly. The model is based on well-known recruitment methods and variations of the principles are used in recruitment all over the world. It is based on the organisational technique of breaking down a big task into smaller steps. The model follows a sequence. It is vital to use all the steps and not move on to the next step until the previous one has been fully completed.

The steps are as follows:

Step 1 – Define the job that needs to be done

This means working out exactly what it is you need to be done and what tasks

need carrying out rather than what role you want to fill.

Step 2 – Identify the skills and qualities needed

What skills and qualities would the ideal person for the job have; what sort of

person are you looking for to carry out the tasks you’ve identified?

Step 3 – Generate a list of who can do the job

Identify individuals who might be able to do the tasks you’ve identified and have

the skills and qualities for which you are looking.

Step 4 – Target the best choice

Select from the list who best fits the description of your ideal person.

Step 5 – Ask someone to help you

Decide who will ask them, how, and then do it!

Step 6 - Offer support and welcome them into Scouting

Use the induction process to welcome them and make them feel part of Scouting

by outlining the training and support available to them.

For more information on the ‘Six Steps’ and for a case study on how it has worked in practice, download the following factsheet from the ScoutBase Library at www.scoutbase.org.uk/library/hqdocs/facts/index

• BS320030: Recruitment of Adult Volunteers