Author: admin

In today’s dynamic work environment, diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords- they’re essential elements of a thriving and innovative workplace. Whether you’re a business leader, manager, or team member, fostering a culture that values diverse perspectives and inclusive practices can significantly enhance your organisation’s success. Here’s our practical guide to integrating diversity and inclusion into your workplace.

1. Know the Importance of Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion go hand in hand; however, they influence different aspects of a workplace:

• Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a given setting including race, gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and more.
• Inclusion is about creating an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities to contribute and advance.

Understanding this difference is crucial for developing effective strategies that address both the structure of your workforce and the quality of their experience.

2. Set Clear Goals and Commitments

To make significant progress, set clear, actionable goals for diversity and inclusion within your organisation:

• Define Your Objectives: Identify specific areas where you want to improve, such as increasing representation of underrepresented groups or enhancing inclusive practices.
• Develop a Strategy: Create a plan that outlines initiatives, resources, and timelines. Engage stakeholders at all levels to ensure alignment and commitment.
• Measure Progress: Select suitable metrics to track your progress, such as employee demographics, retention rates, and feedback on inclusion efforts. Regularly review and adapt your strategy based on the data you collect.

3. Foster an Inclusive Culture

Building an inclusive culture requires intentional actions and ongoing effort:

• Promote Open Communication: Encourage employees to share their perspectives and experiences. Create safe channels for feedback and discussions on diversity-related topics.
• Provide Training: Offer regular training sessions on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competence, and inclusive leadership. This helps raise awareness and prepare employees with the tools to contribute to an inclusive environment.
• Celebrate Diversity: Recognise and celebrate cultural events, holidays, and achievements. Highlight diverse role models and success stories within your organisation to reinforce the value of diverse perspectives.

4. Recruit and Retain Diverse Talent

Attracting and retaining a diverse workforce involves more than just hiring practices:

• Inclusive Hiring Practices: Make sure that your job descriptions are inclusive and do not include biased language. Use diverse hiring panels and consider structured interviews to minimise biases.
• Support Career Development: Offer mentorship and sponsorship programmes to support the growth of diverse talent. You should also look to provide opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

5. Lead by Example

Leadership plays a massive role in creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace:

• Model Inclusive Behaviour: Demonstrate inclusive behaviour through your actions and decisions. Show respect for different perspectives and actively support your initiatives.
• Hold Yourself and Others Accountable: Take responsibility for fostering an inclusive culture and hold others accountable for their contributions. Address any issues of exclusion or discrimination promptly and transparently.
• Utilise Experts: Collaborate with diversity and inclusion consultants or organisations to gain insights and guidance on best practices and strategies.

For more resources on building a diverse and inclusive workplace, explore our website. Get in touch with us— for all your recruitment needs and together, we can build teams where everyone thrives!

In today’s competitive job market, technical expertise alone isn’t enough to secure your dream role. Employers across the UK are increasingly valuing soft skills as key indicators of a candidate’s potential to contribute effectively to their teams and organisational success. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, understanding and showcasing these soft skills can significantly advance your prospects in the job market.

The Vital Role of Soft Skills

Soft skills encompass a diverse array of personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that are crucial for thriving in any workplace environment. These include:

• Communication: The ability to convey ideas clearly and persuasively, both in written and verbal forms, is essential for nurturing productive relationships and ensuring effective teamwork and successful departments.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with others is vital for maintaining a positive work atmosphere and a happy workforce, which in turn increases productivity, fosters creativity, and achieves results.
• Adaptability: The capacity to embrace change and navigate challenges with resilience is highly valued in today’s ever-changing business environment.
• Problem-solving: Employers appreciate candidates who can analyse complex issues, think critically, and propose innovative solutions to drive business objectives forward.

Why Soft Skills Matter in Hiring

At Big Fish Little Fish, soft skills play a pivotal role in evaluating candidate suitability beyond their technical competencies. Employers seek individuals who not only possess the necessary qualifications but also demonstrate a strong cultural fit and alignment with organisational values.

Strategies for Showcasing Your Soft Skills

1. Crafting Your CV: Highlight your soft skills by providing concrete examples of how you’ve applied them in previous roles. Use specific achievements and outcomes to illustrate your ability to communicate effectively, collaborate successfully, and adapt to unexpected and diverse challenges.

Want to ensure your CV gets the attention it needs? Did you know we offer a complimentary CV review conducted by a qualified careers advisor? Upload yours today.

1. Preparing for Interviews: Reflect on instances where your soft skills have made a noticeable difference. Share stories that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, teamwork ethic, and proactive approach to overcoming obstacles.

Looking to excel in your next interview? Read our Interview Prep 101 blog for expert guidance.

1. Continuous Development: Invest in ongoing learning opportunities to enhance your soft skills. Seek out workshops, courses, and networking events that focus on communication, emotional intelligence, and leadership development to stay ahead in your career.

In conclusion, while technical skills are fundamental, it’s your soft skills that can truly set you apart in today’s competitive job market. By emphasising and refining these essential attributes, you can position yourself as an asset to potential employers and open doors to exciting new career opportunities.

For more insights into mastering soft skills and navigating your career journey, explore our website for a variety of expertly crafted blogs designed to assist you.

Your fail proof guide to career progression

Change is always good, and progression is even better. Whether you fancy a career change or switching jobs, Summer is an excellent time to plan your transition into the field of your desired career move. Here are our five-stage action plans to help you smoothly take that next step in your career or apply for a new job that has caught your interest.

1. Decide on your long-term goal

You might already know the next step you wish to take in your career, but it is also okay if you are not sure where to go next, which is why researching different career roles is vital to maximise your satisfaction.

Start by researching potential career paths and jobs, consider what desirable qualities you are looking for in a job, and what factors are non-negotiable, we suggest reflecting on:

• Personal fields of interests and ethics
• Long term career aspirations
• Industry demand
• Salary averages and progression opportunities
• Employee benefits
• Location
• Opportunities for remote or hybrid working
• Company culture

2. Identify skills and training gaps

Missing key training qualifications? Needing to enhance your skills to progress? Do not let gaps in your experience block your career goals. Many training providers operate online courses and training both remotely and at a time flexible to your schedule, meaning you can enhance your skills at a time that suits you. Learning new skills or accreditation does not need to come at a cost, you can discover many free workshops, webinars, and courses online. If your skill set is niche, you could consider volunteering in your desired field to gain valuable experience, it may be a short-term sacrifice for long term gain and a great networking opportunity. Developing your qualifications and skills will enhance your competitiveness when you begin applying for positions.

3. Get your CV reviewed by a career’s advisor

Is your CV up to date and fulfilling its potential? With competition for vacancies at an all-time high, an application that helps set you apart is vital. Recruiters will be inundated with CVs during this time and, on average, will spend only 20 seconds looking at each, making every sentence count! We are here to help; did you know we offer a FREE CV review from a trained careers advisor? Our service involves carrying out an in-depth review of your CV and providing tools and advice to help you get the most of your CV.

Upload your CV and a member of our team will be in touch.

4. Start your search

Do not procrastinate, job hunting does not need to be time consuming, your next job could be a click away! We have a large network of employers across the UK and Northern Island, discover your dream job here at Big Fish Little Fish!

Browse our latest jobs here.

Cannot find the job you are looking for? Please do get in touch, we like a challenge! Call us on 0114 349 8679

5. Perfect your interview skills

Good news, with over 20 years of experience in the recruitment industry we can equip you with the secrets you need to succeed at every job interview.

With practical advice cultivated from years of experience, prepare yourself for success at your next interview by studying our Interview preparation blog.

For more industry tips and tricks, please visit our website for a host of interesting and useful articles to help you elevate your career.

Congratulations, you’ve secured an interview for your dream job! But now what? After almost 20 years in the recruitment industry, we’ve sent countless candidates off to interviews, all of whom had different experiences with the interview process. We understand the nerves and excitement that come with this part of the job search journey, which is why we’re here now to equip you with the tools you’ll need to nail that interview.

Welcome to Big Fish Little Fish’s Interview Prep 101!

Consider this your roadmap to both confidence and competence in your interview. We’ll cover everything from body language to mastering common interview questions and standing out from other candidates. With advice cultivated from years of experience, we’ll turn those nerves into strengths and make sure that you’re ready to impress.

So, without further ado…

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WHY IS INTERVIEW PREP SO IMPORTANT?

Job interviews are not just about showcasing your skills and qualifications, that’s what your CV is for. The interview stage is about making a lasting impression on your potential employer and selling who you are rather than just what you can do. Like anything, preparation is the key to success with this, and solely relying on your CV is likely not going to be enough to secure the role. Employers will utilise the interview to see how you present yourself, communicate and handle pressure in face-to-face interactions. By investing time into the preparation for the interview, you will increase your chances of getting the job.

 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A JOB INTERVIEW

1. Research the company

It is essential to research the company you are interviewing for, not only to impress the interviewer but to also help you tailor your responses to align with the company’s goals and values. Make sure that you research things like the company’s mission, products, services, recent news and industry trends. This can be done on their website, social media profiles and even relevant news articles.

 

2. Prepare your personal pitch

This is just a brief summary of who you are, what you do and what makes you unique. Basically, it’s the ideal response to the dreaded ‘tell me about yourself’. This pitch should be short but compelling and should highlight your skills, experiences and career goals. This will provide the interviewer with a memorable introduction to your professional identity.

 

3. Master common interview questions

Although you cannot predict every question you will be asked in your interview, there are plenty of common interview questions that you can prepare for. You should practice answering questions about your strengths, weaknesses, experiences and aspirations. You should also prepare for behavioural questions that assess your problem-solving skills, ability to work in a team and adaptability. If you struggle to structure your answers, you could use the STAR (situation, task, action and result) method. This ensures that you cover all necessary information and provide examples to further illustrate your capabilities.

 

4. Practice body language

Now that you are more confident with verbally communicating, it’s time to master your non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication includes things such as body language, facial expressions and eye contact; all things which can significantly impact the impression you make in an interview. Practising a confident posture, maintaining eye contact, holding a friendly expression and being mindful of your tone of voice are all ways to ensure that you come across as respectful, genuine and enthusiastic.

 

5. Dress for success

First impressions do matter and your appearance will play a significant role in how you are perceived during your interview. Ensure that you dress appropriately and professionally for the company to show that you have put effort in for the occasion and that you are serious about the role. If you’re unsure what to wear, we recommend opting for conservative attire that reflects your professionalism.

 

6. Prepare questions for the interviewer

You will likely be given the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview. This is a helpful way to demonstrate interest in the company and showcase your genuine curiosity and enthusiasm. Prepare a few thoughtful questions about things such as the company culture, team dynamics, role expectations and opportunities for advancement.

 

7. Review your CV

Usually a potential employer will have already seen your CV prior to your interview so it is helpful for you to look over it yourself before attending your interview. This means that you can be prepared to discuss any key achievements, projects and skills that are shown on your CV. It is also useful to bring a copy of your CV to the interview with you along with any supporting documents or references you may need.

 

8. Learn how to manage your nerves

Nerves are normal before an interview but an excessive amount of nerves could hinder your performance. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and positive self-talk. Focus on what you do bring to the table rather than what you don’t and remind yourself that this interview is a chance to showcase your skills and personality.

 

Remember, preparation is key to success. With our tips, you can confidently navigate the interview process and showcase your full potential. We are here to support you along the way but the most important thing to remember to do is to trust in your ability- you got this!

Remote Working Tips for Employers and Employees

Over recent years, remote working has become the norm for many businesses whether it is a through a hybrid working scheme or a purely remote working arrangement. Remote working offers both employers and employees flexibility and convenience, but it does also come with its own set of challenges. Whether you are an employer managing a remote working team or an employee trying to navigate this new way of working, we have collated a list of useful tips for you to help you thrive in the landscape of remote work.

TIPS FOR EMPLOYERS

1. Establish clear and easy-to-use communication channels
Even in a normal, in-office working environment, effective communication is the key to success, so it is important for employers to solidify a solid communication protocol for their team. Tools such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom are commonly used to facilitate seamless communication among team members, allowing for regular check-ins and providing ways for engaging in casual conversations to maintain team cohesion.

2. Make your expectations clear
Make sure that you clarify your expectations from the get-go including deliverables, work hours and communication protocols. Roles and responsibilities should be clarified to avoid any misunderstandings and also allows for accountability within the team.

3. Provide necessary resources
It is your responsibility to equip your remote team with the tools, resources and software that they need to perform their jobs efficiently. You should also consider having teams such as technical support to help mitigate any productivity hindrances should your team experience problems at home.

4. Encourage a good work-life balance
Arguably one of the biggest challenges with remote working is the blurred boundaries between an employee’s personal and professional life. As an employer, you should encourage your employees to establish healthy boundaries such as taking regular breaks, prioritising self-care and separating their professional and personal lives. This will prevent burnout and encourages long-term productivity.

5. Create a culture of trust
Trust is important when managing a remote working team. Focusing on outcomes rather than micromanaging processes and encouraging employees to take ownership of their work will help to cultivate a positive work culture which employers will appreciate.

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TIPS FOR EMPLOYEES

1. Establish a routine
Create a consistent schedule to maintain structure and routine when remote working. Set your working hours, regular breaks and mealtimes so that you can enhance your productivity and feel a sense of consistency.

2. Practice self-care
It is so important to prioritise self-care when remote working as this way of working will often spill into your personal/home life. Simple additions to your life such as daily exercise, making sure to disconnect from work outside of working hours and taking regular breaks will help you to maintain your overall well-being and recharge.

3. Design a dedicated workspace
Separate your workspace, away from your personal space, to help you maintain focus and concentration. It is beneficial to create a designated workspace to enhance productivity and minimise distractions.

4. Keep organised
Keeping organised will help you to keep on track with your deadlines and deliverables. Prioritising tasks, setting goals and effective time management will help you to stay organised and focused throughout the day.

5. Communicate
Provide regular updates on your progress, raise any concerns or challenges you are facing and ask for feedback to improve your performance. Keeping these lines of communication open with your manager and colleagues will allow you to foster the feeling of being part of a team and maintain connected throughout your work journey.

Implementing these tips will help both employers and employees to thrive in remote working arrangements through enhanced productivity, more effective collaboration and of course, employee satisfaction. To find out about the remote working positions we have open, get in touch with us.

The recruitment landscape is ever evolving, and the digital age has influenced a transformative shift in the way that organisations attract, assess and hire talent. Gone are the days of just relying on traditional methods such as paper CVs and in-person interviews. Instead, these are still prevalent, but with the accompaniment of various digital tools, platforms and strategies. This blog will explore how the recruitment landscape is adapting to the digital age, unlocking new possibilities, streamlining what was once a lengthy process and redefining the dynamic between employers and candidates.

 

THE INCREASE IN USE OF ONLINE PLATFORMS AND JOB PORTALS

Job seekers no longer need to look through newspaper job adverts or submit physical CVs. Instead, online platforms and job portals have become the go-to destinations for both employers and candidates. Websites such as Indeed, LinkedIn and Glassdoor act as virtual job marketplaces and provide a place where professionals can showcase their skills, experiences and accomplishments on a global scale to enhance their recruitment journey.

 

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

AI has emerged as a game-changer in the recruitment process from CV screening to predictive analytics for candidate success. AI is streamlining and enhancing the various stages of hiring, making it crucial that candidates and recruiters understand how to optimise their hiring chances whilst considering the involvement of AI. Machine learning algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns in candidate profiles, helping recruiters and employers to make more informed decisions and improve the efficiency of the selection process. As a recruitment agency, we understand the importance of staying ahead of these technological developments and provide our candidates with up-to-date advice and guidance throughout their job search journey with us.

 

VIDEO INTERVIEWS & ASSESMENTS

The hiring process is more accessible and efficient than ever after the introduction of video interviews. These allow recruiters and employers to gauge not just a candidate’s qualifications, but also their communication skills, cultural fit and personality. Virtual assessments provide a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s abilities, reducing the need for multiple rounds of face-to-face interviews.

 

EMPLOYER BRANDING

A strong online presence is no longer just essential for job seekers, employers also need to establish and maintain a positive digital presence. Companies are investing in building a compelling employer brand through engaging websites, active social media profiles, and transparent communication. Potential candidates often research employers online, and a positive digital presence can significantly influence their perception of them and their decision-making process.

 

DATA-DRIVEN DECISION MAKING

Recruitment analytics and metrics provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of various hiring strategies which helps organisations to refine their recruitment process and approaches. Data-driven recruitment enables continuous improvement, allowing companies to optimise their processes, save time and enhance the overall quality of the candidates they recruit.

 

MOBILE RECRUITING

Most job seekers will use smartphones which has meant that mobile recruiting has become an integral part of the digital recruitment landscape. Mobile-friendly job applications, responsive career websites, and even recruitment chatbots are all integral parts of the modern-day recruitment landscape. Mobile recruiting ensures that opportunities are accessible to a broader and more diverse pool of candidates which makes it advantageous for both employers and candidates.

 

VIRTUAL ONBOARDING AND REMOTE WORK

Not only has the digital age transformed the hiring process, but it has also influenced the way that employees are onboarded. With the rise of remote work, virtual onboarding processes have become essential. Digital communication tools, cloud-based platforms, and online training modules allow organisations to seamlessly integrate new hires, regardless of their geographical location.

 

SOCIAL MEDIA RECRUITING

Social media platforms have evolved beyond personal networking and have become powerful tools for recruitment. Recruiters leverage platforms like LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and even Instagram to source talent, promote job opportunities, and engage with potential candidates. Social media recruiting allows for a more personalised and interactive approach, creating a two-way communication channel between employers and job seekers.

 

As the recruitment industry continues to adapt to the digital advancements of the modern day, it provides more opportunities which ensure a more dynamic and inclusive recruitment landscape. While digital tools enhance efficiency and broaden reach, the importance of fostering meaningful connections and understanding the human side of hiring cannot be understated. Navigating the digital recruitment age requires a balance between innovation and the core principles of effective talent acquisition which will pave the way for a brighter future in the world of work.

As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome in 2024, new opportunities arise and mindsets change. This clean slate is a chance to reassess our goals, make resolutions and embark on new journeys. For many, a new job is at the top of the list. If you’ve been contemplating a fresh start in your career, the start of a New Year provides the perfect backdrop for the start of a new career venture.

Navigating the job market can be daunting, especially in a world that is constantly changing. This is where the expertise of a recruitment agency comes in handy. Reputable agencies serve as a bridge between employers and job seekers, streamlining the process and ensuring a perfect match between skills and opportunities. Who knows, they may even land you your dream job in the coming year…

WHY USE A RECRUITMENT AGENCY WHEN SEARCHING FOR A NEW JOB?

1. Personalised guidance

Recruitment experts are there to help you every step of your job search journey from polishing your CV to finalising your contract. Their industry insights and knowledge of market trends are invaluable and can give you a competitive advantage in the job market. This tailored approach helps to make sure that your recruitment experience and job match is right for you.

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2. Access to hidden opportunities

Not all job openings are publicly advertised. Many organisations will prefer to work with recruitment agencies so that they can discreetly find the right candidates with the help of experienced professionals. By partnering with a reputable agency, you can gain access to a network of hidden opportunities that might otherwise be hidden.

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3. Additional services

Many recruitment agencies will offer additional services on top of matching employers and job seekers. This can include interview preparation, CV reviews and updates. These additional services can help to make your application stand out as recruiters understand what employers are looking for and can make sure that your strengths are highlighted.

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4. Reduced stress

Tackling a job search can be a stressful task, but a recruitment agency will significantly reduce that stress. These agencies will streamline the entire process and will provide comprehensive support that will encourage a sense of confidence in candidates whilst making their job search more efficient.

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5. Expert services

This team of seasoned professionals will possess a deep understanding of industry trends, employer requirements and the evolving job market. The expert services and knowledge that recruitment agencies provide transform the job-seeking experience, turning it into a more effective, guided and ultimately successful experience for individuals who are seeking meaningful employment.

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Whilst a recruitment agency is a powerful ally when on the job hunt, personal efforts also play a crucial role in career development. Stay ahead of industry trends, join online forums, connect with professionals and acquire new certifications or skills that enhance your employability. By demonstrating this type of commitment towards continuous learning, you position yourself as a valuable asset to potential employers.

This new year is the time for career growth and renewal, and partnering with an expert recruitment agency can be the catalyst for turning your New Year goals into a reality. By leveraging their expertise, personalising your approach and committing to your goals, you could land the job of your dreams in this coming year. Here’s to a new year and new opportunities!

Talent acquisition is an increasingly competitive landscape and your job ad is the gateway to attracting top-tier candidates. To stand out and appeal to the best talent, there are certain elements that we recommend including in your job ad. Here are five of them…

 

1. A CLEAR JOB DESCRIPTION 

Candidates appreciate clarity. A well-defined and structured job description is the foundation of an effective job ad. Make sure to clearly outline the responsibilities, qualifications and expectations of the role. Try to avoid jargon and provide a realistic overview of the day-to-day tasks they will be required to do. This will help candidates to envision themselves in the position and determine if it is the right role for them.

 

2. OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAREER ADVANCEMENT 

Top candidates are not just looking for a job, they are seeking a career path, so you should clearly outline any potential avenues for growth within the company. Whether it is promotions or skills development, showing your commitment to an employee’s long-term success can be a significant factor when aiming to attract high-quality candidates.

 

3. COMPELLING COMPANY CULTURE AND VALUES

A job is more than just the work. A candidate will be looking for a workplace that is unique and has a strong company culture. In the job description, share insights into your company’s mission, values, testimonials or success stories. This will help the candidate to connect to your brand and assess if they align with your business’s ethos.

 

4. INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE AND A COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

Use inclusive language in your job advertisement to appeal to a diverse pool of candidates. This includes any initiatives or programs that promote a diverse and welcoming workplace, as well as your commitment to equity and inclusion. Not only does this attract a broader range of candidates but it also reflects positively on your company’s values.

 

5. JOB BENEFITS 

When dealing with in-demand candidates, additional benefits can be a key factor for them when making a job decision. Be transparent about things such as salary ranges, retirement plans or professional development opportunities. This will not just make the job more attractive, it will also build trust with candidates who will appreciate your transparency.

 

And finally, try to not think of your job ad as a listing. Instead, it is an invitation that is aimed at only the highest calibre of candidates. Craft it with the candidate in mind and make sure to address their key concerns and aspirations. By including these elements in your job advertisements, you’re not only attracting top talent, but you are also setting up a positive employer-employee relationship.

As an employer, you will be looking to hire candidates that have a perfect mix of hard and soft skills.

Hard skills are technical abilities specific to the industry, job or task required. They focus on practical abilities of skills.

Soft skills, on the other hand, are less tangible and harder to teach. It comes down to the candidate’s personality, soft skills are an extremely valuable attribute.

Looking for new employees? Here are 5 key skills we recommend looking out for on CVs to help find the perfect addition to your business.

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1. Teamwork Skills

It might seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many people are unable to work in a team.

This doesn’t just mean working in a company with more people, but also being able to be involved in projects that require strong coordination between the parts. It requires trust, communication, and the ability to delegate while taking on responsibility at the same time.

Unfortunately, this isn’t a skill that everyone has mastered.

If your company requires an employee that can harmonise with the rest of the team and deliver results, teamwork is a skill that you should be looking for.

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2. Organisational Skills

All jobs in every industry will have to meet certain deadlines, however, there are additional benefits of an individual with good organisational skills.

Good organisational skills provide effective time management abilities. As a result, this will ensure employees are able to manage their time and balance their tasks successfully.

Excellent organisational skills will help ensure that the communication and coordination with the rest of the team run smoothly.

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3. Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are crucial for working in the business world.

Effective communication skills are key in achieving productivity and maintaining strong working relationships at every level of an organisation (from co-workers to managers or directors).

Ensure that any potential new employees can communicate competently over a variety of channels to meet the demands of the modern business world, this should include, the ability to communicate face to face, in email, video, phone and in writing.

An employee with excellent communication skills will be an exceptional investment in your workplace.

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4. Problem Solving Skills

In every sector, problems, challenges, and unexpected situations will arise, you need to feel confident your employees are able to identify and solve any problems appropriately.

Problem-solving skills also demonstrate a range of other competencies including creativity, determination, responsibility, logic and resilience, all desirable skills for employees to obtain. Always check CVs to provide evidence of competent problem-solving skills.

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5. Adaptability

Being able to adapt to any situation is a highly desired skill in employees.

Good skills and experience are brilliant, however, if an employee is unable to adapt to different situations, teams, tools or tasks they will not be as successful as other members of staff.

Identify candidates who are flexible to adapt to change. The ability to adapt will be essential for them to progress within the organisation or workplace.

 

If you need help finding the perfect candidate, look no further.

With over 15 years of experience and over 5000 candidates, we will find you the perfect candidate to complement your business.

We assess skills, experience and personality ensuring we find you the best potential employees for your workplace, saving you precious time, and allowing you to focus on other important aspects of running your business. Finding the perfect employee can be hard, but we make it easy.

 

 

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) was introduced to minimise the number of people made redundant during the pandemic.

Despite all the efforts, a lot of people will unfortunately still lose their jobs. It is estimated that 42% of gross staffing reductions will result in permanent layoffs.  

For some employees that haven’t had the call to return to work, it might be worth it to start considering the possibility of looking for another position. 

A lot of companies are hoping to bring the workforce back, but they can’t promise that will happen. So, the safest move if you have been on furlough is to start researching for new positions available. You always have the chance to stay where you are if they offered your job back!   

 

42% of recent furloughs could become permanent

Why does it make sense to job-hunt during furlough? 

After all, furlough periods are the best time to find another job as it reduces the financial stress related to unemployment.  

Imagine that in a month you are told your furlough is becoming a permanent layoff, what would you wish you’d done during this time? 

What can you do to find a new job while on furlough?  

Like at any other time, you should start by determining what you have to offer to employers.  

• Work on your skills: as you are on furlough, you can use it as an opportunity to work on your skills and achieve new ones.  
• Define your skillset: What skills do you have? Which of your skills is more applicable to the job? Are you including your soft skills as well as your hard skills?   
• Have a look at the job opportunities available and make a list of the ones that could be the right fit for you.  

• Before applying to a job, it’s advisable to research the company, their personality and culture. After all, the company has to be the right fit for you too! This will also be extremely valuable for the application process, as you will have a more detailed idea of what they are looking for.  
• Work on your interview skills. If you haven’t been in a job interview for a while, it’s a good idea to practise in advance. A job interview can make it o break it. You don’t want to blow your opportunities of getting a job in just five minutes, right?  

Don’t be scared of asking questions yourself, after all, you also need to find out if the opportunity is what you are looking for!  

• Get comfortable with the idea of a remote hiring process. Expect to do multiple video or phone interviews, so you might want to explore the most used video technologies and use them to do practice interviews.  

Also, check your background! You don’t want your possible employer to see your messy room while you talk up about your organisational skills.  

 

Write your CV  

Your CV will highly depend on the job you are applying for, your experience and your qualifications. If you are a highly qualified person with not much experience, you will focus on the prior. If, on the other hand, you have a lot of experience, explain what that’s taught you!  

If you already had one CV, update it and tailor it to the different companies and job positions you want to apply for. They will need different information, skillset, tone of voice… Don’t just create a ‘one size fits all’!  

Here are some tips on how to write your CV. Once you have that, get in touch for a FREE CV review from a trained careers advisor.