DEVELOPING HOME-GROWN talent pays dividends at Phaidon International, the London-based recruiter that scoops second place — its highest ranking to date — in our 100 Best Small Companies to Work For list. The firm, founded 11 years ago by chief executive Adam Buck, now numbers 130 employees. Practising what it preaches, the staffing specialist credits its promotion-from-within track record on making the right hires — and looks for authentic characters in its new employees. Staff have opportunities to work overseas in Phaidon International's New York, Singapore, Zurich, Hong Kong and San Francisco offices: more than 30 recruitment consultants have transferred abroad in the past two years. The youthful workforce — 60% of employees are aged between 21 and 25 — receive upper-quartile salaries and bucket-loads of benefits. Consultants earn £60,000 on average and enjoy fun extras include a “king or queen for the day” incentive, which rewards the month's top biller with a limousine ride to work. Employees award Phaidon International a string of No 1 scores: experience here is valuable for the future (96%), prospects within the company are positive (97%) and satisfaction with pay and benefits is high (94%). www.phaidoninternational.com
