recruitment

As we approach the festive season, the hiring landscape experiences its own set of dynamics. For employers and job seekers, this period presents unique opportunities. Here are some practical tips for navigating the holiday hiring season.

For employers:

Identify Seasonal Needs: Pinpoint areas in your business that require additional support during the holiday rush. Plan to ensure you meet the increased demand with a well-prepared team.

Efficient Hiring Process: Acknowledge the limited availability of job seekers during the holidays. Streamline your hiring process to make it quick and effective, respecting their time while securing the best talent promptly. If there are people in charge of the process on holiday to avoid delays notify the candidates of the circumstances.

Smooth Onboarding: For those joining during this season, ensure a seamless onboarding process. Set them up for success by integrating them into the team and emphasizing the importance of their role.

Evaluate skill sets: Look into your current team, are there any skill gaps that could benefit from being filled out with a new hire? Focus on finding key skills to fit into the position and communicate them in the job description.

For candidates:

Update your CV: While applying for jobs get your CV up to date with new skills, jobs and companies before sending applications going into the new year.

Highlight Relevant Skills: Tailor your resume to emphasize skills that are particularly valuable to the role. Your CV and cover letter must be fully relevant to the job you are applying to making you a strong relevant candidate. You may have all the skills but unless you showcase them on paper you are lowering your chances of an interview.

Flexible Availability: Communicate your availability. If you would rather not start a role until the new year make sure to communicate that. Christmas and New Year come with a lot of holidays and all parties must be aware of each other’s leave and unavailability during the holiday season.

Reach out: Use the time to reach out to specialists for any upcoming roles. This keeps you ahead of other candidates and allows you to communicate personally with someone responsible for the hiring process.

Time to reflect: Use the downtime to reflect on your current role and responsibilities and think about what you’re looking for from your employer in 2024. Assess whether you feel this can be achieved with your current company and if not, it could be time for a move. 

Get your LI profile up to date: Renew your photo (before the Christmas dinners, baileys, port and cheese boards catch up with you)! But on a serious note, you may have a fantastic CV but companies that use LinkedIn Recruiter will see your profile and think you are still the same fresh graduate with no industry experience if your profile is not up to date!

General tips:

Maintain Professionalism: While the holiday season brings a festive atmosphere, maintain a professional approach throughout the hiring process. Treat it with the same level of dedication and respect as any other time of the year.

Express Enthusiasm: Showcase your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Employers appreciate candidates who bring positive energy, especially during the festive season.

Remember, a strategic approach to the holiday hiring season can be beneficial for both employers and job seekers. By combining a festive spirit with a focused strategy, businesses and professionals can make the most of this unique time.

 

 

Navigating the Festive Hiring Season

November is Men’s Mental Health Month, which is an important time to raise awareness and promote men’s mental well-being.

In recent years, the conversation around mental health has caught on, breaking down the stigma of the traditional male stereotype that includes ideas that men are expected to be assertive, ambitious, independent, self-reliant, in control, strong, and successful earners who have stable jobs and high-income security.

This can reduce their capacity to acknowledge and recognise their own sadness and articulate those feelings to themselves.

According to recent studies, men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, contributing to an increase in undiagnosed conditions;  Men’s Health Forum stated that “over 190,000 men a year in the UK (an average of 1.2% of men in work over a 12-month period) report stress, depression or anxiety that is caused or exacerbated by work.”

This can have a huge impact on work ethic, work-life balance as well as productivity, job satisfaction and overall performance of the individual!

As part of Men’s Mental Health Month, we encourage our male colleagues and clients to put their mental well-being first.

By fostering an open and meaningful workplace we can together help break down the barriers that prevent conversations about men’s mental health.

Some ways that you can improve your happiness at work:

1. Take regular screen breaks – Go for a walk at lunch, make yourself a coffee/ tea, staring at a screen for 8 hours straight will cause burnout.
2. Set Boundaries – Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life to maintain balance. Know how to balance your workload and how to set deadlines. Learn to say NO.
3. Stay Active – Now the nights are drawing in earlier it’s harder to keep those active levels up as let’s be honest we want to go sit on that sofa or go to bed. But whether it’s a gym session or a walk on your lunch, moving is so important for our minds, bodies, and hormones!
4. Socialise – talk to your team – form trust and don’t be a stranger.
5. Plan your day/ week/ month – nothing worse than leaving things out and suddenly realising the deadline is tomorrow! Schedule and make sure you add those deadlines! We like to use Microsoft To Do!

November Focus on Men’s Mental Health Month

In recent years, remote work has revolutionised the way we work in the UK. It’s not just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in the way businesses operate. In this article, we’ll dive into the perks, challenges, and some practical tips for UK employers when it comes to managing a remote workforce.

The Upsides:

Getting More Done: According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), remote workers in the UK often report getting more work done. Fewer office distractions and the flexibility to manage their time seem to be the key factors.

Saving the Pounds: Businesses are saving big by going remote. A study by Global Workplace Analytics found that UK companies could save an impressive £6,800 per year for each remote worker. That’s a significant chunk of change!

Casting a Wider Net: When your team isn’t limited by geography, you can tap into a vast pool of talent. The UK’s competitive job market becomes your playground.

The Challenges:

The Loneliness Factor: A report from Totaljobs tells us that 41% of UK remote workers experience feelings of isolation and loneliness. This is a challenge that employers must address for the sake of their team’s well-being.

Communication Hiccups: Effective communication can be like a game of cat and mouse in remote work setups. Statista reports that 37% of UK remote workers find it tough to collaborate with their colleagues.

Security Jitters: With great freedom comes great responsibility. Cybersecurity risks have been on the rise in the UK. Employers need to ensure their remote teams are well-versed in security best practices.

Employer Survival Guide:

Keep the Conversation Flowing: Communication is the lifeline of remote work. Invest in the right tools and establish regular check-ins to keep remote employees engaged and in the loop.

Flexibility Rules: A flexible work schedule can do wonders for work-life balance. Let your employees tailor their hours to suit their needs.

Guarding the Castle: Don’t underestimate the importance of cybersecurity training. Equip your team with the knowledge to protect sensitive data and fend off potential security threats.

Mental Health Matters: Loneliness is real, and it can impact your team’s mental well-being. Offer resources and support for mental health, and encourage social interaction among your remote workers.

Remote work in the UK is the new normal, offering both opportunities and challenges for employers. By implementing the best practices we’ve highlighted, companies can make the most of the benefits while addressing the downsides. Adapting to this changing work landscape is essential for business success in the modern era. Embrace it, and you’ll find your team thriving in the world of remote work.

Embracing Remote Working

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern workplaces, diversity and inclusivity have become not just buzzwords but fundamental principles. However, a recent survey conducted by the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) has unveiled some rather concerning practices among UK employers when it comes to promoting diversity in recruitment.

Survey Snapshot:

So, what did the survey reveal? Well, it turns out that when it comes to promoting diversity in their job adverts and recruitment processes, many employers are still lagging behind. Here’s a quick rundown of the key findings:

Reviewing Job Advert Wording

It’s encouraging to see that 60% of the surveyed employers have taken a step in the right direction by reviewing the wording of their job adverts to make them more inclusive. This is an improvement from last year when only 54% had made such adjustments.

The Missing Diversity Statements

Here’s where things get a bit concerning. Nearly half, or 49%, of the respondents admitted not mentioning their interest in hiring diverse candidates in their job adverts. This omission can potentially deter diverse applicants from applying.

Name-Blind CVs – A Missed Opportunity

Name-blind CVs are a valuable tool for reducing unconscious bias during the selection process. Surprisingly, the survey found that 67% of employers do not use this practice. This is actually a step backwards from the previous year when the figure was 53%.

Diverse Interview Panels

Building diverse interview panels is vital for unbiased evaluations. However, the survey showed that 56% of employers still don’t have diverse interview panels, compared to 53% in the previous year.

Taking Action

Change should come not only from HR departments but also from company boards, executives, government bodies, and industry organizations.

The Path to Promoting Diversity

Recruitment isn’t just about finding the right fit for a job; it’s about building a team that represents the rich tapestry of society. Here are some practical steps that employers can take to promote diversity in recruitment:

• Inclusive Language: Craft job adverts with language that welcomes candidates from all walks of life. Use terminology that doesn’t exclude anyone.
• State Your Intentions: Be upfront about your organization’s commitment to diversity. Clearly, state in job adverts that you value diversity and actively encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
• Name-Blind Recruitment: Consider implementing name-blind CV practices during initial screenings to reduce unconscious bias.
• Diverse Interview Panels: Ensure that interview panels are diverse, representing various backgrounds and perspectives.

The findings of the REC survey serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, there’s still work to be done in promoting diversity in recruitment among UK employers. Embracing inclusivity and fairness in the hiring process isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a way to tap into a wider talent pool and boost business performance. It’s crucial for organizations to take concrete actions to address these issues and move towards building a more equitable and diverse workforce. After all, diversity isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a pathway to innovation and success in the modern world of work.

Exploring Diversity and Bridging the Gap in Recruitment

Join the Toolfix Family – A Company Where Passion and Innovation Thrive

In today’s dynamic job market, many professionals contemplate a career change. Whether due to personal growth, industry trends, or a desire for new challenges, transitioning to a different industry can be an exciting yet daunting prospect.

This article aims to guide individuals through the process of successfully pivoting to a new industry while highlighting transferable skills

Self-Reflection and Research

Before diving into a new industry, take the time to reflect on your interests, values, and long-term career goals. Consider the aspects of your current job that you enjoy and those you wish to leave behind. Once you have a clear understanding of what you’re looking for, conduct thorough research on the industries that align with your aspirations. Explore the job market, growth prospects, required qualifications, and industry-specific skills.

Identify Transferable Skills

One of the most crucial aspects of transitioning to a new industry is recognizing your transferable skills. These abilities and experiences you’ve gained throughout your career can be valuable in any industry. Analyze your skills, such as leadership, communication, project management, problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork, among others. Highlight these skills in your resume, and cover letter, and during interviews to demonstrate your versatility and value to potential employers.

Networking and Building Connections

Networking plays a vital role in career transitions. Engage with professionals already working in your target industry through networking events, social media platforms like LinkedIn, and industry-specific forums. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to the industry you wish to enter. Building meaningful connections can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities.

Upskilling and Education

Depending on the requirements of your desired industry, you may need to acquire additional knowledge or qualifications. Consider enrolling in courses, workshops, or certifications to enhance your skill set and gain industry-specific expertise. This proactive approach not only demonstrates your commitment to learning but also equips you with the necessary tools to succeed in your new field.

Tailoring Your Resume and Cover Letter

Crafting a tailored resume and cover letter is crucial when applying for jobs in a new industry. Emphasize your transferable skills and highlight relevant accomplishments from your previous experience. Customize your resume and cover letter to align with the requirements and language of the industry you’re transitioning into. This will help recruiters understand how your skills can be valuable in their industry.

Seek Mentors and Industry Experts

Connecting with mentors and industry experts can be immensely beneficial during a career transition. Seek out professionals who have successfully made a similar switch and ask for their guidance. They can provide insights into the industry, offer advice on job searching strategies, and share their experiences, helping you navigate potential challenges.

Gain Practical Experience

To enhance your credibility and marketability in your new industry, seek opportunities to gain practical experience. This can include internships, volunteer work, freelance projects, or part-time positions. Practical experience demonstrates your commitment, adaptability, and willingness to learn, making you more attractive to potential employers.

Transitioning to a new industry can be an exciting and fulfilling career move, allowing you to explore new horizons and unleash your potential.

By reflecting on your goals, identifying transferable skills, networking, upskilling, tailoring your application materials, seeking guidance from mentors, and gaining practical experience, you can successfully navigate this career transition. Remember, persistence, adaptability, and a positive mindset are key factors in achieving your desired outcome.

Career Transitions: Pivoting to a New Industry

In today’s rapidly changing world, diversity and inclusion have emerged as essential values for successful companies and sought-after qualities for job seekers.

Embracing diversity goes beyond just ticking boxes on a checklist; it fosters a culture of acceptance, respect, and equal opportunity.

In this blog post, we will explore the significance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and shed light on the benefits it brings to both employers and job seekers.

Creating a Welcoming and Inclusive Environment

A diverse workforce brings together individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, genders, ethnicities, abilities, and perspectives. By embracing this diversity, companies can tap into a vast pool of experiences and insights, leading to increased creativity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities.

Diverse teams are more likely to generate a wider range of ideas, which can lead to improved decision-making and better outcomes.

Moreover, when employees feel valued and included, they are more engaged and motivated. Inclusive workplaces foster a sense of belonging, where everyone can contribute their unique skills and talents.

This not only enhances employee morale but also boosts productivity and retention rates. When people feel that their voices are heard and respected, they are more likely to stay with a company for the long term.

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

In an increasingly interconnected world, job seekers actively seek out companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion. A diverse and inclusive reputation can attract top talent, making it easier for companies to recruit skilled individuals from a wider talent pool.

Candidates want to work in environments where they can bring their authentic selves to work and where their contributions are recognized and valued.

Additionally, embracing diversity and inclusion can enhance a company’s employer brand. Positive word-of-mouth spreads, and talented individuals are more likely to be drawn to organizations that prioritize inclusivity.

By cultivating a diverse workplace, companies position themselves as forward-thinking, socially responsible, and attractive to a wide range of candidates.

Real-Life Examples

Numerous companies have reaped the benefits of embracing diversity and inclusion. For instance, tech giant Google has made significant efforts to create an inclusive environment.

By implementing initiatives such as unconscious bias training and inclusive hiring practices, Google has seen an increase in employee satisfaction and innovation. They have recognized that diverse perspectives lead to better products and services.

Similarly, the multinational consumer goods company, Procter & Gamble, understands the importance of diversity in their workforce. Their commitment to inclusivity has not only resulted in higher employee engagement but also a better understanding of diverse customer needs, leading to increased sales and market share.

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace go beyond being a buzzword; they are key drivers of success in today’s business landscape.

By embracing diversity, companies can unlock the full potential of their workforce, foster innovation, and enhance their competitive edge.

For job seekers, diversity and inclusion are vital considerations when choosing an employer, as they seek environments that value their uniqueness and provide equal opportunities.

It is important for companies to proactively create inclusive cultures, implement fair policies, and celebrate diversity at all levels. By doing so, organizations can attract top talent, retain employees, and cultivate a positive brand image.

Remember, embracing diversity and inclusion is not just the right thing to do; it is the smart thing to do for long-term success.

Together, let us build workplaces that celebrate the power of diversity and create a more inclusive and equitable future.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: The Competitive Edge for Companies and Candidates

The job market is constantly evolving, and as a candidate, it’s essential to stay informed and equipped with the right strategies to navigate the landscape successfully. 

Personal Branding Building Your Professional Identity

Learn how to define and communicate your unique selling point, optimize your online presence, and create a compelling resume and cover letter. Explore strategies for showcasing your skills, accomplishments, and expertise to capture the attention of employers.

Mastering the Art of Networking

Networking remains a crucial aspect of job search and career growth. Explore effective networking strategies both online and offline, such as attending industry events, joining professional associations, and utilizing social media platforms.

Crafting a Winning Job Application

A well-crafted job application and CV can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview. Dive into the elements of a strong application, including tailoring your CV to specific roles, writing compelling cover letters which are honest, addressing the criteria and adjusting your CV so that it mentions the necessary skills. 

Navigating the Interview Process

Preparing for interviews is key to making a positive impression on potential employers. Discuss strategies for researching companies, anticipating common interview questions, and developing compelling responses. Non-verbal communication, dressing appropriately, and demonstrating your enthusiasm and cultural fit is crucial. 

Developing In-Demand Skills and Continuous Learning

In a rapidly changing job market, upskilling and continuous learning are crucial for long-term career growth. Explore ways to identify in-demand skills in your industry, such as through job market research and analyzing job descriptions. Discuss the benefits of online courses, professional certifications, and networking with industry experts.

Balancing Work-Life Integration and Well-being

Finding a balance between work and personal life is essential for long-term career satisfaction. Discuss strategies for maintaining work-life integration, setting boundaries, and managing stress. Highlight the importance of prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy mindset throughout the job search and beyond.

Navigating the job market as a candidate requires strategic planning, self-promotion, and continuous learning. Remember, investing in your professional growth and presenting yourself authentically are key to standing out in the competitive job market.

Cracking the Code: Unleashing Your Success in the Job Market

Mental Health Awareness Week is an important time to shed light on the various aspects of mental health including its signs and how we acknowledge and work on them. This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is anxiety and the impact it can have on our lives.

One area where it commonly rears its head is during the process of searching for a new job. From the initial stages of seeking opportunities to starting at a new company and experiencing anxiety in your role, the entire journey can be overwhelming.

The Anxiety of Job Searching:

Job searching can be a rollercoaster of emotions, anxiety and uncertainty  (whether severe or mild) and it often accompanies every step. The fear of rejection, uncertainty about the future, and the pressure to make the right career move can all contribute to heightened anxiety levels. Constantly crafting CVs, attending interviews, and waiting for responses can be mentally exhausting. Recognizing early symptoms of anxiety during job searching is normal and crucial, but managing it effectively is essential.

Coping with the Process:

• Self-care: Prioritize self-care throughout the job search process. Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as exercise, mindfulness, and spending time with loved ones. Taking breaks from job hunting can help you maintain a healthy mindset.
• Seeking support: Reach out to friends, family, or a recruiter who can provide guidance. Sharing your concerns and seeking reassurance can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the process. As well as applying for jobs through agencies can help alleviate some of the pressure as you will be guided every step of the way by someone with vast experience on the matter providing clarity throughout the process.
• Time management: Set realistic goals and create a structured routine. Breaking down your job search tasks into manageable steps can help you stay focused and reduce overwhelm.
• Starting at a New Company:

It’s natural to feel apprehensive about starting fresh and adapting to new expectations. colleagues and routine. Here are some strategies to manage this anxiety:

• Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the company’s culture, values, and mission before your start date. This knowledge can help alleviate some anxiety by providing a sense of familiarity.  Ask any questions you may have before you start. If you’re anxious about that first day; a day or two beforehand drive down to the site and find out your new route, familiarise yourself with the area so that you are fully prepared.
• Networking: Reach out to future colleagues through professional platforms like LinkedIn, and introduce yourself. Building connections before your start date can ease the anxiety of entering an unfamiliar workplace.
• Embrace a growth mindset: Understand that there will be a learning curve in any new role. Embrace the opportunity to grow and develop your skills and be patient with yourself during the adjustment period. Remember, you would not have got the job if the management didn’t think you were capable- this is as long as you were honest in your interview.
• Anxiety in Your Job: Assessing the Need for a Support Network or Change. If you feel like your anxiety is going to heavily impact you and your work, ensure that you notify the management and seek support.

Sometimes, after a while, despite your best efforts, the anxiety within your job may persist. If there is a lack of support or an unsuitable work environment, it may be time to consider seeking help or exploring other opportunities. Here are signs that indicate it might be time for a change:

• Persistent anxiety: If your anxiety is consistently high and negatively impacting your mental well-being, it’s important to take it seriously. Seek support from a therapist or counsellor who can help you navigate your emotions and provide guidance.
• Lack of support: If your current workplace lacks a supportive network or resources for managing anxiety, it may be beneficial to explore other options. Look for organisations that prioritize employee well-being and have programs in place to address mental health concerns.
• Stagnation and unhappiness: If you find yourself feeling stuck, unchallenged, or unhappy in your role, it could be an indicator that a change is needed. Consider exploring opportunities that align better with your goals, values, and passions.

At Henderson Brown, we understand the significance of mental health and its impact on career decisions. If you find yourself contemplating a change in your career or seeking a fresh start, our team of experienced professionals is here to support you. With our expertise in talent acquisition and our commitment to understanding individual aspirations, we can help guide you towards new opportunities that align with your goals and values. Contact Henderson Brown today and take the first step towards a fulfilling and mentally healthy career journey.

Navigating Job Search Anxiety: When It’s Time to Seek Support and Start Anew