First Connection to First Contribution: Clarion’s Human Approach to Recruitment 

 

Throughout history, there have been moments when an invention didn’t just improve how things were done, it changed the rules entirely. The steam engine, electricity, and the internet each marked a new era, triggering a seismic shift in how society operates. They didn’t just improve how we worked; they changed the very nature of work itself.

    

Today, artificial intelligence feels like another one of those moments. It’s a disruptive force which is taking us into a future that’s probably hard for us to fully imagine right now, but everything about it points to a landmark shift in how we live and work.

At Clarion, we’ve been quietly but deliberately exploring how AI might reshape our work; not just what we deliver, but how we deliver it. This article discusses how AI became so integrated into our daily lives, and how we, at Clarion, are addressing the topic of AI with a reflective, people-first approach. We also touch on why we believe that technology should enhance human contribution rather than replace it.

 

It Starts with the First Call 

Day one doesn’t begin when someone walks through our doors. It starts much earlier, with that very first introductory call. This is our earliest opportunity to show candidates that we’re not like everyone else. The tone is informal but professional, it’s structured, but always human. It's our way of introducing them to Clarion’s culture, where we value relationships and treat people as individuals from the outset. Our values of Trust, Tolerance and Teamwork don’t just sound good, they underpin everything we do. 

We then explore things a bit further, face-to-face. Because it doesn’t matter if you’re going to be hybrid working, working from home, or mainly in the office, we want to meet and get to know the real you. Plus, you’ll also get to see our self-designed office space, and the glorious views of Cheltenham on offer from our tenth floor. It’s also a glance into how we work and our culture: anyone you bump into will be sure to say hello to you! 

The moment I walked through the door, I felt welcome and valued at Clarion. Warmth radiates from everyone. I feel appreciated by everyone here and am immensely proud to be part of a team that cares, not only about our work but about each of us as individuals.
 

Technology with a Personal Touch  

We use tools like our Applicant Tracking System and PeopleHR to streamline the admin because process efficiency matters. But we’re careful never to let automation replace the personal touch. Candidates aren’t just names in a system. Every interaction, from interview scheduling to offer letters, is designed to be personal, thoughtful, and respectful of the individual. Even when a candidate isn’t successful, we aim for them to walk away feeling valued, seen, and supported. 

 

Every Detail Matters  

From who is interviewing them to where to park and how to find our office, we take care of the small stuff - because it matters. We provide this information well in advance and tailor it to everyone. No generic templates or automated “noreply” emails. Instead, we arrange calls and send personal messages, giving candidates a sense of reassurance that they’re in good hands and that they matter to us, even before they’ve joined. 

Once a job offer is made, the connection continues. We don’t just send a contract and disappear until you start with us. We stay in touch by checking in, arranging logistics, and making sure the new starter feels part of Clarion before they’ve even stepped inside.   

Every candidate, whether they get the role or not, is given tailored feedback if they’d like it because it’s the right thing to do. Every interaction with Clarion is a chance to leave someone with a good impression. 

We know we’re not perfect, and we don’t always get everything right. But we try. And we learn. 

I have had the warmest of welcomes at Clarion. The culture is open and honest, with a grown-up and flexible approach to work. I enjoy coming into the office and spending time with a great group of people who enjoy working hard and getting things done alongside a sense of fun.
 

Making the Official First Day Count 

By the time a new starter arrives in the office on their official first day, we want them to feel that we’ve been preparing for them. Because we have. They’re greeted personally and never left to sit awkwardly on their own. There’s an allocated seat ready for them and a welcome pack ready for them: a notepad, pen, pass, as well as their laptop. They’re small touches that show we’ve thought about their arrival and want them to feel part of the team from the first minute.  

We’ll even have their name on the welcome screen in the reception area. It’s not about fanfare or gimmicks. It’s about showing that they’ve been expected, and that we’re all excited they’re here. Their first day is structured and full, not to overwhelm, but to give a sense of inclusion. We tailor the day to their background and experience, ensuring it’s meaningful and engaging. 

 

A Thoughtful First Week 

The first week continues with a focus on connection. We ensure new starters meet our Senior Leadership Team, so they can put faces to names and get a sense of our whole business. They also meet with representatives from our wellbeing framework and our dedicated Mental Health First Aiders. It’s another way of showing that we take care of our people. 

From day two, Line Managers take the lead. If a new team member is joining a project right away, they’re introduced to the lead and invited to get stuck in. This blend of structured support and real-time immersion helps people feel useful, confident, and connected from the get-go. 

I can’t express enough how impressed I am with the onboarding process and incredible company culture here. From day one I felt like a valued member of the team. The onboarding experience was top-notch. The welcoming colleagues and clear communication made my transition seamless , and made me feel well-prepared to dive into my role.
 

Conclusion  

In a competitive recruitment market, candidates are not just comparing roles, they’re comparing experiences. At Clarion, we strive to make every conversation in our recruitment and induction process an authentic reflection of our values. It’s not about perfection. It’s about genuine care and a deep belief that people do make the biggest difference is what truly sets us apart. 

 
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Keeping People at the Centre of the AI Shift