New trends in the UK's comms and IT jobs market are sure signs of economic recovery, according to Gary Hammond, Director of the telecoms and VoIP recruitment specialist TTR. "We are seeing stronger demand for telesales, telemarketing, marketing and field sales personnel across the UK within the telecoms and IT sectors, which is so different to this time last year," he commented.

"There are signs of growth, albeit cautious and slow at this point, but positive all the same. I am confident that while this year will still be tough for many, life should improve for most, and some telcos will really break away as usual."

Hammond also noted a growing number of enquiries for project managers and field engineers. "This is another positive sign for our industry, suggesting that more equipment and solutions are being sold. I remember the last recession and recognise similar signs of recovery. The only way is up."

Hammond is equally upbeat about the first anniversary of TTR's telecoms Flat Fee Recruitment service. "Keeping costs down is key, and recruitment fees need to be competitive and in line with client expectations and budgets," he said. "Many telecoms, mobile comms and IT clients are taking advantage of the flat fee campaigns to attract staff at a fraction of the traditional recruitment cost."

Research conducted by TTR showed that nearly all clients questioned had lost staff after paying big agency fees. "I'm trying to soften the blow, reduce the pain of recruiting, maximise the potential of finding the best candidates and help clients recruit more cost effectively," explained Hammond. "We currently run at over 90% success rate. This is why some clients are on their 4th/5th/6th campaigns.

TTR was established 15 years ago and according to Hammond the company has evolved in line with industry expectations and requirements, a view endorsed by many of TTR's clients.

Commenting on the flat fee formula, William Rowland, MD of comms reseller Connexis, said: "The flat fee recruitment service has worked well for us. Within two weeks we were provided with ten relevant CVs to review. An offer was made and the candidate started with us."