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The 1st of April is fast approaching and if you’re a business owner, you’ll want to take note of some key changes. The government is set to adjust National Insurance (NI) rates and increase the National Living Wage, both of which will impact your business costs- especially if you hire temporary workers. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what’s changing, what it means for your business, and how you can avoid the hit to your budget by acting now.

What’s Changing on 1st April?
Important Update for Employers!
From the 1st of April 2025, the National Insurance allowance will drop to £5,000 per year, and the employer NI contribution rate will increase to 15%- up from the current 13.8%. This means you’ll need to pay more through National Insurance for your temporary staff.

How to Avoid the Cost Increase
We know keeping costs under control is crucial for your business, and we’re here to help! Get a quote for your temporary workers today, and we’ll guarantee that your rates won’t change on 1st April, even after the National Insurance rise kicks in. By locking in your rates now, you can avoid unexpected price hikes and keep your budget on track.

Why Act Now?
• Lock in rates before the price hike – Act now to guarantee your temporary worker rates before 1st April.
• Protect your business from rising costs – By securing fixed rates now, you can plan your budget with confidence.
• No surprises – We’ll fix your rates, so you won’t be caught out by changes to NI rates.

These changes to National Insurance and the National Living Wage are significant, so it’s important to factor them into your hiring strategy for the months ahead. Don’t let the rising costs take you by surprise — secure your rates today and ensure your costs stay predictable.

Don’t wait — secure your fixed rates today!
0114 349 8678
https://www.bigfishlittlefish.co.uk/employers/

Here at Big Fish Little Fish, we have been matching the perfect candidate to new roles since 2005 and we place over 250 candidates in new roles every year. As we celebrate our 20^th year in business, we want to share our expertise by highlighting the 20 key lessons we’ve learned along the way, offering insights into what makes us a successful recruitment agency.

 

24/7 Service

We offer a bespoke service with a hands-on and approachable team, and we understand that running a business never stops, which is why we offer a 24/7 service.

 

Our Promise

We visit every business to get a feel for the organisation and the culture. Once we get to know the business, we can then find the best candidates to suit the company, with candidates that match the same drive and passion.

 

Exceptional Candidates

We only source the highest calibre candidates, enforcing a stringent selection process. We have access to a unique database of over 500,000 candidates and unique professional networks that only recruiters can tap into.

 

Bespoke Process

Instead of sifting through lots of CVs, we’ll send you just 4 to 6 of the most perfect fit for your needs using our rigorous selection method.

 

4-Month Guarantee Period

We offer an extensive 4-month guarantee period where we won’t charge you for our services until a candidate has been with you for 4 weeks.

 

Zero Risk

We charge no fees until our candidate completes 4 weeks with you to make sure they’ll stay with your organisation before we charge.

 

Embracing Adaptability
In an ever-evolving recruitment landscape, we always strive to quickly adapt to new technologies and market shifts.

 

We Value Relationships

Recruiting is about more than just filling positions- it’s about establishing long-term relationships with both clients and candidates. Trust and rapport are crucial to success.

 

Culture Matters

While skills can be developed, the cultural fit must align from the start.

 

Balancing Speed and Thoroughness in Hiring

We strike the right balance between speed and thoroughness. Rushing the hiring process only leads to poor placements.

 

Tailor Your Application

Customise your CV and your cover letter- this signals to employers that you are serious about the position.

 

Highlight Your Skills

In addition to experience, employees value both hard and soft skills, so ensure your application reflects this.

 

Prepare for Interviews

Preparation is the key to success, and relying solely on your CV is likely not going to be enough to secure the role. 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.

 

Follow Up After Applications
After submitting your application or attending an interview, email to reiterate your interest in the role. This increases the business awareness of your interest and may also lead to additional positions within the business.

 

Audit Your Social Media Accounts

Ensure your personal profiles are set to private- employers are known for checking online activity beyond LinkedIn!

 

Request Feedback
You improve by learning. If feedback after an interview isn’t automatically offered, request it, and more importantly act on any advice given.

 

Upskill

Utilise free online courses and keep up to date with industry insights and news to keep you relevant.

 

Stay Open Minded
Sometimes the right job may not be what you initially expected. Be open to exploring new industries or roles that could align with your long-term career path.

 

Update LinkedIn

Ensure your LinkedIn profile is professional and up to date as employers often check online profiles. Having a good LinkedIn presence will also open your chances of being headhunted for positions.

 

Apply Strategically

Applying for jobs on a Monday or Tuesday increases your chances of being noticed as recruiters are most active then.

As we reflect on 20 incredible years at Big Fish Little Fish, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made in connecting exceptional talent with outstanding businesses. Ready to discover your next perfect employee or dream job,? Contact us today and experience the difference!

 

 

 

 

 

January is a time to reflect on our goals, and the start of 2025 offers an opportunity to set resolutions for the year ahead. For many, this includes the pursuit of a new job. Navigating the job market can be challenging, but fortunately, our expertise is here to guide you every step of the way!

At the end of 2024, the number of job postings fell to pre-pandemic levels, marking the most significant decline in recent years and reflecting a slower recruitment market. This trend is expected to continue into 2025, driven by the current economic climate, rising living wages, and increased national insurance contributions- all of which are impacting hiring. For candidates, standing out to potential employers has never been more crucial. In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 5 skills that UK employers are actively seeking and prioritising in their next hire, helping you stay ahead in an increasingly competitive job market.

Digital Literacy

With the rise of AI, automation, and digital transformation, digital literacy has become a non-negotiable skill for job seekers in 2025.The demand for tech-savvy candidates is soaring. Understanding digital tools and platforms is a must in nearly every industry, especially with emerging AI technologies. The top jobs in demand for 2025 are forecast to be heavily digital-based jobs including AI data officers, cyber security, and digital marketing. Ensure your CV and cover letter showcases your digital skills and invest time into learning new technologies to stay ahead in the workplace.

Communication Skills

A new report published by LinkedIn discovered 57% of UK employers value communication skills over technical expertise, particularly for leadership and client-facing roles. It’s evident that clear and effective communication is key to success in all workplaces. Whether it’s collaborating with teams or engaging with clients, strong verbal and written communication is a must, especially with more virtual meetings happening. Moreover, proficiency on software such as Microsoft Teams is the new standard.

Problem-Solving Abilities

Employers are actively seeking candidates who can think critically and solve complex problems independently. These skills enable businesses to save time, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. To showcase your problem-solving abilities, provide specific examples in your cover letter and CV, share examples of best practice during interviews, demonstrate critical thinking in any assessments, and support your claims with evidence of success.

Adaptability & Flexibility

As the work landscape is quickly evolving, being adaptable to change and flexible with work arrangements is crucial. The capacity to learn new technologies, systems and tasks is a skill high on the demand list for employers in 2025. With the fast rollout of new technologies in an everchanging and fast-paced world, employees need to be willing to learn and be flexible in working environments.

Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

According to the World Economic Forum, emotional intelligence is among the top 10 skills in demand for 2025. Employers value candidates who can understand and manage emotions– both their own and others. High EQ promotes better teamwork and leadership, which is why soft skills have become a desired quality as employers seek candidates that can demonstrate excellent self-awareness, relationship management, leadership, and non-verbal communication skills. Need any more convincing on improving your EQ skills? Data demonstrates that high EQ skills account for up to 58% of success in securing various job roles, so improve your EQ skills for increased success.

You can learn more about soft skills here: https://www.bigfishlittlefish.co.uk/unlocking-success-the-influence-of-soft-skills-in-uk-hiring/

With over 20 years’ experience in the recruitment industry, we are here to help secure your dream job, and we offer a free CV review by a trained career advisor who will support you in demonstrating your strengths including the in-demand skills for 2025. You can find industry insights, interview tips, and advice for career progression and more over on our blog. Make 2025 the year for your dream job!

Finding the right talent is essential for the growth of any business, but the process of hiring can often be time-consuming and complex. This is where partnering with a recruiter becomes invaluable.

 

Selecting the right recruitment partner requires careful consideration to ensure they understand your business and your needs to consistently deliver top-tier candidates.

 

Here are our 10 essential factors we recommend when choosing a recruiter that will set you up for long-term success:

 

1. Cost: Ensuring Value for Money

When partnering with a recruiter, cost is often a primary concern, but it’s crucial to think beyond the price tag. What you’re really after is value for money. This means the recruitment fee should reflect the quality of service provided, including access to highly qualified candidates and an efficient, hassle-free process. Ultimately, the focus should be on the return on investment through hiring the right people.

 

2. Service Quality

A high-quality recruitment process goes beyond just filling a position; it involves offering a smooth, seamless experience. At Big Fish Little Fish, we work diligently to exceed your expectations. This includes providing timely communication, being proactive in sourcing candidates, and ensuring the process runs without disruption.

 

3. Access to Strong Candidates

The core of a recruiter’s role is to deliver qualified candidates who are a great fit for your business. We listen to your needs and will help create the job specification to ensure we source the highest calibre candidates enforcing a stringent selection process. We have access to a database of over 500,000 candidates and unique professional networks that only recruiters can tap into. This ensures that you receive options that not only meet the job requirements but are also aligned with your company culture and values.

 

4. Guarantee for the Candidate

A recruiter who stands by their candidates will offer a guarantee. If a candidate leaves within an agreed-upon time frame, a reputable recruiter will replace them free of charge or provide a refund. This shows confidence in their recruitment process and the quality of the candidates they recommend. At Big Fish Little Fish, we won’t bill you for our services until the candidate has been with you for 4 weeks. There is nothing worse than getting a recruitment bill on day 1 of your candidate starting. We make sure they’ll stay with your organisation before we charge.

 

5. Managed Selection Process

An experienced recruiter provides a fully managed recruitment process, meaning they handle everything from identifying potential candidates to conducting interviews and presenting you with the best options. At Big Fish Little Fish, we do all the work so you don’t have to, saving you time. We will search for and filter potential candidates, providing you with only the best. Instead of sifting through lots of CVs, we’ll send you just 4 to 6 of the most perfect fit for your needs.

 

6. Understanding Your Business and the Role

It’s not enough for a recruiter to just know the job title and responsibilities. To truly succeed, they need to have a comprehensive understanding of your business, industry, and specific needs. We will visit your Business so that we get a feel for your organisation, how you work and your culture. Once we get to know you, we can find the best candidates to suit your company – candidates with the same drive and passion as you.

 

7. Open and Honest Conversations

A strong partnership with a recruiter is built on transparency and trust. You want to work with someone who is comfortable having open and honest conversations with you. This allows for a healthier, more productive working relationship that ultimately leads to better hires.

 

 

8. Reputation and Reliability

A recruiter’s reputation reflects their ability to consistently deliver. It’s important to research their track record, read reviews, and ask for testimonials to ensure they have a proven history of exceeding expectations and helping businesses like yours find the best talent. At Big Fish we have been matching the perfect candidate to new roles since 2005, and place over 250 candidates in new roles every year.

 

 

9. A Recruiter Who Listens

Good communication is about more than just talking; it’s about listening. A recruiter who listens to your needs is better equipped to find candidates who fit not only the job description but also your company culture. They should be open to your feedback and willing to adjust their approach based on your input. At Big Fish we pride ourselves on our approachability and we offer a bespoke 24/7 service.

 

10. Value Over Time

While cost is a consideration, how and when you’re billed is also crucial. Look for a recruiter who ensures that you receive a reasonable invoice only after the candidate has proven to be the right fit. This safeguards your investment and aligns the payment with performance, rather than demanding payment upfront.

 

We have an extensive 4-month guarantee period, which we are happy to discuss in more detail with you for your peace of mind. As part of our guarantee, we won’t charge you for our services until a candidate has been with you for 4 weeks.

 

 

The Big Fish Little Fish Difference

So, if all these points are important to you, and you’re seeking a long-term partner, look no further than the Big Fish Little Fish. We don’t just check all 10 boxes — we exceed them. Our tailored recruitment approach ensures you receive the best candidates and an unparalleled service that aligns with your business goals. From delivering value to ensuring open and honest communication, we’re committed to finding the right fit for your business.

 

Partner with us for a recruitment process that drives your business forward, saves you time, and secures top talent — every time.

 

 

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, keeping employees motivated and engaged can become a significant challenge for businesses. In the winter months, factors like reduced daylight, colder weather and the post-holiday slump can all take a toll on employee morale. However, with the right strategies, you can help your team stay energised and focused, no matter the season. With over 20 years of experience, our collective tried and tested strategies are here to keep your employees engaged and thriving through the winter months.

 

1. Embrace Flexible Working Options

One of the biggest challenges employees face in winter is the lack of daylight which can impact their mood and productivity. Offering flexible working hours or remote working options can help employees better manage their time, allowing them to take advantage of daylight hours for personal errands or exercise. Not only does this show your team you value their well-being, but it can also help reduce seasonal burnout.

Unilever and Virgin Media are prime examples of companies that embrace workplace flexibility, allowing their employees to adjust schedules or work remotely during the colder months. This not only supports work-life balance but also keeps engagement high by allowing staff to work in ways that best suit their personal needs during winter.

 

2. Foster a Supportive and Positive Workplace Culture

During the winter months, it’s especially important to maintain a positive workplace atmosphere. Encourage open communication and regularly check in with your employees to see how they’re feeling. A supportive environment where people feel comfortable voicing their concerns will make a huge difference in keeping morale high.

John Lewis Partnership is well-known for creating an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. During the winter, they organise festive celebrations and social events to keep employees engaged and foster a sense of community. Following their lead, organising events that celebrate team successes or even hosting virtual gatherings can keep spirits up and help employees feel more connected.

 

3. Prioritise Employee Well-being

Physical and mental well-being should always be a priority, but it becomes even more crucial during the colder months. Shorter days and colder weather can lead to increased feelings of fatigue and stress, impacting overall productivity.

BT Group takes employee well-being seriously, especially in winter, by offering wellness initiatives such as fitness challenges and free flu jabs to help staff stay healthy. Similarly, Sky promotes on-site fitness programmes and provides access to mental health resources, helping employees manage the winter blues. Implementing wellness programmes like these can boost your employees’ energy levels and help them stay engaged at work.

 

4. Recognise and Reward Contributions

Winter can feel long and dreary, especially after the festive period. To keep your team engaged, make a habit of recognising individual and team contributions. A simple thank you, public recognition or even a small incentive can significantly boost morale.

At John Lewis, employees benefit from seasonal bonuses and extra perks during winter, which not only motivates them but also shows that their efforts are valued. Virgin Media also excels at recognising and rewarding its employees with winter-themed incentives and prizes, ensuring that staff feel appreciated for their hard work. Consider setting up a reward scheme or employee recognition programme to keep your team motivated during these colder months.

 

5. Set New Goals and Celebrate Achievements

The winter months are an ideal time to refocus and set new goals for the team. Involve your employees in the goal-setting process, ensuring they feel connected to the company’s larger objectives. Having something to work towards can reinvigorate motivation and provide a clear sense of purpose.

PwC UK is known for creating opportunities to celebrate achievements throughout the year, especially in winter, by hosting events such as charity fundraisers and social gatherings. These celebrations not only boost team morale but also reinforce a sense of progress, making employees feel more connected to the company’s overall mission.

 

6. Plan for Professional Development

Winter can be a great time to focus on personal and professional growth. Offering opportunities for training, workshops, or development programmes shows your employees that you’re committed to their long-term success.

Sky and ASOS are examples of companies that provide ongoing training and development opportunities throughout the year. Sky encourages employees to engage in winter learning programmes, while ASOS hosts internal workshops to support professional growth. By investing in development, you can help your employees stay engaged and productive while also preparing them for future success.

 

To conclude, while winter presents unique challenges for employee engagement, there are plenty of strategies to keep your team motivated and enthusiastic. From flexible working arrangements to recognising achievements and supporting well-being, small changes can make a big impact.

 

Taking cues from companies like Unilever, Virgin Media, and BT Group, you can implement tailored initiatives that ensure your employees feel valued and supported through the winter months. By showing your team that you’re invested in their happiness and growth, you can create a workplace where engagement remains high, even in the darkest months of the year.

 

For more tips on employee engagement and recruitment support, explore our blog or get in touch with us today.

As Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to shed light on some of the most terrifying hiring mistakes that can spook your recruitment process and haunt your company for years to come! Recognising and avoiding these common pitfalls can help you build a stronger, more cohesive team.

 

1. Ignoring Cultural Fit

The Horror: Picture this- you’ve hired a candidate who aced the interviews and dazzled with their CV, only to find that they clash with your company culture. This mismatch can lead to conflict among team members and decreased productivity.

How to Avoid It:

• Define Your Culture: Start by clearly defining and communicating your company’s values, mission and work environment. This clarity helps candidates understand what you’re about and whether they’ll be a good fit.
• Assess Cultural Fit: Use situational and behavioural questions during interviews to gauge how well candidates align with your culture. For example, if teamwork is a core value, ask about past experiences where they successfully collaborated on a project.
• Involve Your Team: Get input from current employees during the interview process. Their perspective can provide valuable insights into how well a candidate might mesh with your existing team.

 

2. Relying Too Heavily on First Impressions

The Horror: Ever hired someone based on a charismatic interview performance or a top-notch CV, only to find they lack essential skills or a strong work ethic?

How to Avoid It:

• Structured Interviews: Implement a consistent set of questions and evaluation criteria to ensure a fair assessment of all candidates. This helps you to compare candidates more objectively.
• Verify Skills: Don’t rely solely on interviews. Use practical tests or assignments to assess a candidate’s real-world abilities. For example, if hiring a software developer, a coding test can provide insights into their technical skills.
• Check References: Always check references. They offer a window into a candidate’s past performance and work habits, providing a more comprehensive view of their suitability.

 

3. Overlooking Soft Skills

The Horror: Focusing exclusively on technical skills while neglecting soft skills like communication and teamwork can lead to hiring employees who struggle with collaboration and adaptation.

How to Avoid It:

• Balanced Criteria: Develop a job description that includes both technical and soft skills. For instance, if the role requires frequent client interaction, emphasise the need for strong communication skills.
• Behavioural Interviews: Ask candidates to describe how they’ve handled specific situations in the past, such as resolving a conflict or leading a team project. This approach reveals their soft skills in action.
• Team Fit Assessments: Consider including employees in the interview process to assess how candidates interact with potential colleagues. This can help gauge their soft skills and team compatibility. This could be formally at the interview stage or informally with a coffee meet and greet.

 

4. Neglecting Diversity and Inclusion

The Horror: Overlooking diversity and inclusion in your hiring practices can result in a team that lacks varied perspectives and innovative ideas.

How to Avoid It:

• Inclusive Job Descriptions: Write job descriptions that are welcoming and free of biased language. For example, avoid gender-specific terms and highlight your commitment to diversity.
• Diverse Hiring Panels: Involve a diverse group of people in the hiring process to reduce unconscious bias and broaden the candidate pool.
• Ongoing Training: Provide regular training on diversity and inclusion to your team. This ensures that everyone is equipped to recognise and address biases effectively.

 

Want to create an inclusive work environment that fits your company culture? You can discover more tips on our blog here:

https://www.bigfishlittlefish.co.uk/embracing-diversity-and-inclusion-a-practical-guide-to-building-a-stronger-workplace/

 

5. Rushing the Hiring Process

The Horror: Rushing to fill a vacancy can lead to hiring mistakes that, in the long-term, will cost time and resources to correct.

How to Avoid It:

• Take Your Time: Allow adequate time for each stage of the hiring process. This includes crafting a clear job description, conducting thorough interviews, and making a well-considered decision.
• Thorough Evaluation: Assess all aspects of a candidate’s fit for the role before making an offer. Consider using multiple interview rounds or assessments to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
• Plan Ahead: Anticipate hiring needs and start the recruitment process early. This reduces the pressure to make quick decisions and helps you find the right fit for your team.

 

Or, you could let us do the hard work for you! With over 18 years of experience, a database of over 500,000 candidates and unique professional networks that only recruiters can tap into, we will find the perfect candidate for you:

https://www.bigfishlittlefish.co.uk/employers

 

Avoiding these hiring nightmares requires a blend of careful planning, clear communication and a commitment to fair and thorough practices. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can enhance your recruitment process, build a more effective team and create a positive experience for everyone involved. For more tailored advice on refining your hiring strategies, explore our website or get in touch with us. Let’s work together to ensure your hiring process is a treat, not a trick!

 

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!