UK Recruitment Glossary
Trade Union Recognition
In recruiter context
Statutory recognition requires the union to demonstrate at least 10% membership in the proposed bargaining unit, and majority support in a ballot. Once recognised, the employer must bargain collectively — but isn't obligated to agree. Common UK industries with strong recognition: rail, education, NHS, civil service, parts of manufacturing. Less common: tech, finance, consulting, retail. Recognised unions provide individual representation in disciplinary and grievance hearings, plus collective negotiation of pay and conditions. Membership is a legal right that employers can't penalise.
Related terms
Recruiter (in-house vs agency)
A person who finds, screens, and shortlists candidates for hiring managers.
Furlough
A temporary leave of absence with reduced or zero pay, where the employee remains employed.
Talent Pool
A pre-built list of candidates a recruiter has already screened for future roles.
ATS (Applicant Tracking System)
Software that hiring teams use to receive, store, filter, and rank job applications.