Importance of an Efficient Hiring Process

eshalmalik — Sun, 21 Apr 2024 07:18:42 +0000

The Importance of an Efficient Hiring Process

Recruitment and onboarding processes are essential to not only obtaining the best candidates but retaining them too, reducing your re-hiring costs and allowing talent to contribute to your business more quickly and successfully. Glassdoor’s 2018 study demonstrated this, with positive onboarding processes leading to a whopping 91% of employees feeling more connected to a company following a positive onboarding experience. Definitely worth the effort in our opinion!

If these statistics have you considering your own practices, it’s time to get the upper hand on your competition by ensuring a polished recruitment process and secure top talent with these simple steps.

Communicate

It’s an old cliché but communication really is key, especially in recruitment. Can’t get back to a candidate for a couple of days? Don’t say you’ll be in touch soon, give them a realistic timeline. Not only is it stressful to leave a potential employee hanging, but the lack of interaction may encourage them to look elsewhere or even accept a counteroffer form a company that have kept them in the loop, and, just like that, you’ve missed out on a great candidate.

Invest

You don’t need to part with your annual recruitment budget just for one vacancy, investment can also come in the form of time. No matter the size of your company, it is always worth spending some time considering exactly what you are looking for in your new hire and compose job descriptions that capture this. Without this crucial step, you will spend most of your time reading CVs or interviewing candidates that just don’t have that WOW factor you’re after!

Plan

Have a realistic timeline, not only for yourself, but also for your candidates. Communicate this timeline to them, as previously mentioned, and stick to it! Recruitment experts can help you to diarise and organise your interviews, and cut down the time you spend attracting and assessing candidates, meaning you can get on with your other responsibilities.

Partner Up!

Recruitment agencies are here to help. We are experts in talent acquisition and employee retention, and candidate experience is what we do best! We are efficient, whilst remaining personable and friendly, getting to know our candidates and clients to promote strong professional relationships that ensure a positive onboarding process.

AI-Powered Recruitment: 100% Your Type on Paper?

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 10:27:30 +0000

AI-Powered Recruitment: 100% Your Type on Paper?

Recruitment is increasingly reliant upon technology, and AI is being used as a tool aiming to optimise efficiency and accuracy in the hiring process. But does this method lack the human touch required for a successful candidate and client experience?

Recruiters spend over two thirds of their working week on administration and resourcing. This statistic is no great surprise to those in HR and recruitment, but is certainly food for thought. AI promises the opportunity to reduce the time spent on admin and resourcing, allowing recruiters to focus on calling and interviewing candidates, but is this the way forward?

At first glance, this appears to make sense, auto-matching candidates to job descriptions, writing job adverts and scheduling interviews to fill roles at lightning speed.

Recruiters are trusted professionals, experts in not only knowing how to screen and prepare candidates, but also how to find them. Resourcing candidates is a complex and necessarily time-consuming process, and the quick fix solutions currently being rolled out across multiple job sites are likely to see a decrease in the candidate quality offered by recruitment agencies.

The AI templates provided by job sites such as Indeed are certainly a good starting place for small businesses looking to save time in their hiring process, but, as recruiters, we know what we’re doing! Our team has seen countless job adverts, we know what works, and how to get your company ethos and requirements across, and are able to do this in a timely fashion using our plethora of experience. We pride ourselves on our client communication, and the detailed meetings we host to understand your culture and hiring requirements have a human touch, irreplaceable by smart technology. Nice try AI!

Brite understands that companies and candidates are people-led, and so are we. We know the nuances of your requirements and source the right candidates to fill vacancies, working on a combination of CV and personality screening to ensure the right attitude, ambition and experience for your team. Whilst new AI recruitment services boast their objectivity, our subjective approach allows us to find the right fit, every time, as we know that the right candidate is about more than just your type on paper!

Skills-Based Hiring: The Future of Recruitment?

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 10:19:08 +0000

Skills-Based Hiring: The Future of Recruitment?

Skills-based hiring has boomed in popularity following the talent demands left by the 2020 pandemic, forcing employers to broaden their job requirements and widen their talent pools. The diminishing focus on degrees and other qualifications as tools for measuring suitability has transformed the job market, encouraging hiring diversity amongst employers and recruiters alike.

What is skills-based hiring?

Skills-based hiring takes the focus off of tangible qualifications and employment history, instead spotlighting the transferable skills developed in a candidate’s previous roles. This recruitment prevents candidates from being held back by their lack of specific experience, and instead allows them to thrive using the skills they have accumulated throughout their working lives.

What is skills-based hiring?

Whilst on the point of financial implications, this method is proven to reduce the cost of the hiring process, as it reduces the hiring time dramatically, 82% reduction on average, finding the right person for the vacancy in a cost effective and timely manner. Test Gorilla’s study indicates that by using this process, over a third of employers were able to reduce their cost-to-hire by almost 20% on average. In addition, the likelihood of mis-hires was reduced by 88%, preventing re-hiring costs and demonstrating the power of this approach.

How does this affect me as a candidate?

The world of job-hunting is scary, and keeping up with hiring trends can be exhausting, so what can you do to appeal to employers currently looking for skilled candidates?

Firstly, look through your existing CV and annotate all of the skills you have acquired across your roles. You can do this exercise no matter your level of employment, whether you are a waiter or a company director.

Secondly, make the most of your LinkedIn profile! LinkedIn used to be solely a job seekers site, and has transformed into a wonderful social platform used by over 900 million people! There is still a strong hiring element within LinkedIn, so make sure that your profile highlights your key skills and personality, think about how employers would see your profile and tailor it accordingly.Finally, if you are unsure what it is that you want to go into, and want all of the opportunities that skills-based hiring can provide, make a list of your skills and rank them. This exercise forces you to evaluate your key strengths, as well as thinking about where you may have learned or developed them in your previous employment history.

How can Brite help?

Whether you are a client or a candidate, we have you covered. Our team are experts in various hiring methods, including skills-based hiring, and have used this method with many clients looking to broaden their talent pool and hiring practices.We help candidates by reading between the lines, searching for transferrable skills to make sure we find the perfect role to suit your skill set, and we know all of our roles inside out, to ensure that perfect fit.

So, whether you are looking for your newest team member, or you’re on the search for your perfect role, get in touch today and let Brite support your search!

Dopamine Dressing and the Office

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:33:53 +0000

Dopamine Dressing and the Office

Dopamine dressing has been buzzing around the fashion and social media world recently, with icons such as Harry Styles leading the charge in this new trend, but what is it and how can it benefit your work life?

The term ‘dopamine dressing’ comes from the rush of dopamine we can feel when incorporating colour into our outfit. Dressing for comfort can lead to the abandonment of personal style, opting to stick with joggers and hoodie over putting together an outfit. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, creates feelings or pleasure, and simulates the reward response in our brains, improving our overall mood and productivity.Put simply, dopamine dressing is wearing clothes in colours, patterns or textures which make you feel happy or calm.

Dopamine dressing is all about wearing items that make you feel happy, and improve your mental wellbeing. It really is the little things!Since the pandemic, more people are focusing on how their clothes make them feel, rather than solely on the way they look – whether that’s ditching the heels, or adding a burst of colour.

Colourful clothes can emulate that new ‘fit feeling, boosting your confidence and putting a spring in your step on your morning commute. your mental wellbeing. It really is the little things! Since the pandemic, more people are focusing on how their clothes make them feel, rather than solely on the way they look – whether that’s ditching the heels, or adding a burst of colour. Dopamine dressing is here to help! Picking colours for your office outfit which make you feel confident and positive can get you out of a dressing rut, and encourage you to be more outgoing at work.

Dressing for comfort can lead to the abandonment of personal style, opting to stick with joggers and hoodie over putting together an outfit. Dopamine dressing is here to help! Picking colours for your office outfit which make you feel confident and positive can get you out of a dressing rut, and encourage you to be more outgoing at work.

Whilst dopamine dressing can benefit all areas of our life, more recent studies demonstrate its use in the workplace, analysing the connotations of certain colours in the office. Looking to ace an interview or just bring good vibes to your workplace – try a few of these!

Yellow: Improves energy, confidence, and happiness – Ideal for meetings and networking.

Green: Encourages relaxation and security – good for those stressful days!

Blue: Great for creativity – ideal for those in creative roles or those days when you need to problem solve.

Purple: Indicates sophistication and imagination – great for brainstorming and making a positive first impression!

Black: Shows authority – for those days when you need to be powerful!“It is not about the colour per se, but rather what you associate with that colour” – Elizabeth Lombardo PHD

First creative role, with no experience:

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:23:15 +0000

A job, or occupation, is a person’s role in society. More specifically, a job is an activity, often regular and often performed in exchange for payment “for a living”Many people have multiple jobs e.g., parent, homemaker, and employee. A person can begin a job by becoming an employee, volunteering, starting a business, or becoming a parent. The duration of a job may range from temporary e.g., hourly odd jobs to a lifetime e.g., judges. An activity that requires a person’s mental or physical effort is work as in “a day’s work”. If a person is trained for a certain type of job, they may have a profession. Typically, a job would be a subset of someone’s career. The two may differ in that one usually retires from their career, versus resignation or termination from a job. Types of jobs Jobs can be categorized, by the hours per week, into full time or part time. They can be categorized as temporary, odd jobs, seasonal, self-employment, consulting, or contract employment. Jobs can be categorized as paid or unpaid. Examples of unpaid jobs include volunteer, homemaker, mentor, student, and sometimes intern. Jobs can be categorized by the level of experience required: entry level, intern, and co-op. Some jobs require specific training or an academic degree. Those without paid full-time employment may be categorized as unemployed or underemployed if they are seeking a full-time paid job. Moonlighting is the practice of holding an additional job or jobs, often at night, in addition to one’s main job, usually to earn extra income. A person who moonlights may have little time left for sleep or leisure activities. The Office for National Statistics in the United Kingdom lists 27,966 different job titles, within a website published 2015.

Find Your Next Job: Job Boards

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:14:25 +0000

Find Your Next Job: Job Boards

It’s time for a new job, but which Job Board should you use? In the contemporary job market, the days of flipping through local newspapers or checking library bulletin boards for job opportunities are long gone. The internet has become the primary resource for job seekers, offering a plethora of options. However, navigating through the extensive array of online job listings can be overwhelming. To streamline your job search, it’s crucial to focus on the best job boards that cater to your needs.

While many jobs are duplicated across multiple job boards, it’s essential not to limit yourself to just one platform. Creating profiles on at least two job boards can expand your reach, though it’s crucial to be aware of potential duplicate content across different sites.

Here are some of the best job boards in the UK:

Indeed

A well-known job search engine with a straightforward design
Offers a vast number of job listings, though some may be duplicated
Features a mobile app for on-the-go job hunting
Provides job alerts and company insights through employee reviews

The UK’s first-ever job site, in operation since 1960
Non-specialist, suitable for professionals across various sectors
Clear design and simple search functions
Mobile app for easy job sorting
Offers email alerts for similar jobs and provides courses to enhance skills

Totaljobs

Approximately 100,000 live jobs at any given time
Operates in multiple countries with 57 partner sites
Provides career advice, articles, and courses
Offers “One Click Apply” feature for easy job applications

A professional networking site that advertises jobs
Allows users to connect with professionals and advance their careers
Users can follow companies of interest and receive job suggestions
Mobile app for convenient job searching on the go

When it comes to finding a job in a specific industry, utilizing industry-specific job boards can significantly enhance your chances of landing the perfect role. It can save time scrolling through companies, when all roles are industry specific.

Facebook

Social media site with its own job board
Non-specialized, attracting candidates from various industries
Job application automatically filled with content from your Facebook profile
Notifications for new job openings
And location specific groups for new opportunities

Google for Jobs

Aggregates job listings from across the web
Provides a streamlined search with filters for location, salary, company, and more
Displays job descriptions, company logos, reviews, and ratings
Aims to eliminate duplicate listings

Brite Recruitment

We’re a generalist agency meaning we recruit for all types of roles across a variety of industries. Although located in Cheltenham, we recruit all over the UK and Europe.
You can even register (just like you do on other job sites) so we receive your CV. It’s frustrating having to trawl through all the jobs online. So, by registering with us, we can notify you of any jobs that may be suitable for you.

Here are some industry-specific job boards:

Tech and IT:

Dice: Specializing in technology and engineering jobs.

Healthcare:

Health eCareers: Covering a range of healthcare professions.

Finance:

eFinancialCareers: Specializing in finance, banking, and accounting roles.

Marketing and Advertising:

MediaBistro: Focused on media, marketing, and creative professions.

Education:

HigherEdJobs: Specializing in higher education positions.

Engineering:

IEEE Job Site: Focused on jobs in electrical engineering and computer science.

Human Resources:

SHRM Job Board: From the Society for Human Resource Management.

Legal:

SimplyLaw: Covering a range of legal professions.

Construction and Architecture:

Archinect: Specializing in architecture and design jobs.

Retail:

RetailChoice: Covering a variety of retail positions.

Degree Apprenticeships: On The Front Lines

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:08:41 +0000

Degree Apprenticeships are rising in popularity with employers and young people alike, offering the opportunity to gain qualifications and build experience on the job, all whilst earning a salary.

Degree Apprenticeships offer a variety of benefits to both employer and apprentice, and we want to know more!

And what better way to learn, than talking to someone experiencing this new-wave education format currently?

Harry is a 3^rd year student, studying BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying and has given us more insight into the world of degree apprenticeships.

Harry, you are three years into a five year degree apprenticeship within the Construction industry, what made you choose this route into your career?

The degree apprenticeship route particularly stood out to me as it provided me with the experience whilst learning my trade to progress quicker than a graduate, developing my CV and applying my learning every day on site. The loose structure of university did not motivate me and following the completion of my A-Levels, full time education did not appeal to me, I needed to be out on site, applying my learning, getting started on my career and starting the climb up the rankings.

You are working a full-time role as well as completing your degree, how is your learning structured to facilitate this?

I get 20% of my hours to be recorded as ‘Off the Job’ learning, this usually correlates to a Friday each week to complete my university qualification and CPD. My employer is flexible on this to enable me to complete what I need regarding assignments and attendance of CPD opportunities around my work schedule. I have two modules each term, each with two assignments to be completed, which fits well into the structure provided.

What are the main benefits of the degree apprenticeship route, in your opinion?

I think there are three key factors for me:

Experience – gaining experience every day on site, putting my learning into practice and providing context to what is sometimes only visual learning at university. I am able to apply this to real-life situations, problem solve using skills I have developed and get stuck in a safe, fail-friendly environment.

Money! – ultimately… nobody goes to work for free, and yet at university you are expected to complete placements for at your own expense. Apprentices get paid fairly in my company, with the opportunity to be promoted, as I have, prior to graduation. The packages can include a company car and increased salary all at a young age whilst most people attend university at their own expense.

University and learning fees – my employer covers my university costs, and all other CPD and development opportunities, all expenses associated with as well as other benefits and financial rewards in place for good marks. No student loan repayment and a head start on earning!

There must be a difficult transition period between leaving full-time education and starting your apprenticeship, how did you find this time?

A-Levels to full time employment was a tricky step. The nature of the construction industry is an early start, and so from rolling out of bed in a free period (or lying in bed in the Covid times!) at sixth form, to the early starts and independence was difficult to adapt to. I adjusted very quickly; in fact, I’d now say the first hour of my day as the sun rises is the most peaceful and gives me time to think about what I need to get out of the day. Unless I’m sat on the M42, I hate the M42…

Did you find that some of your skill areas were lacking when you moved into employment and, if so, how did this learning method support your development?

The nature of my job is a lot of presenting and leadership work, something you don’t get much exposure to in A-Levels, and so I quickly had to learn and develop these skills, come out of my shell and be comfortable speaking to everyone and anyone on my sites. Having the confidence to speak up should I see something I disagree with or think we can do better, is something my employer has held campaigns on and promotes, no matter our level. I think I adapted to employment quickly because of the structure and discipline of it, something I have always benefitted from, from being a bit, self-admittedly, clueless and timid at eighteen, my progression in an apprenticeship role has been accelerated compared to if I had solely been a University student, I communicate effectively with all project teams to effectively deliver, on schedule and within budget.

In terms of progression, which route have you found to be more beneficial within your industry?

I have worked with numerous graduates and whilst they have an accelerated degree (three years + placement as oppose to my five), their lack of experience tends to mean that they take longer to adjust and adapt to the nature of the work, the formality and informality of going from site to corporate office environment trains me to be comfortable in any environment, with any stake holder, team member or client.

Do you think that degree apprenticeships are a learning tool that will continue to grow in the next decade?

Definitely! From the employer’s perspective, degree apprenticeships provide them with the opportunity to shape young people into the people they want them to be. They can self-promote, develop internal talent, and nurture apprentices for future roles and opportunities. Meanwhile from a potential apprentice’s viewpoint, they’re provided the opportunity to earn and learn, gain experience, and apply this learning to further develop their skill set and get ahead of the curve, using the experience provided to build the best CV of work possible to progress

Degree Apprenticeships are changing the world of employment as we know it, and are certainly an interesting option available to school-leavers and employers alike. The benefits are overwhelming, and are allowing young people to enter the workforce at a younger age, developing their skills and experience along the way.

Education VS Experience

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:01:25 +0000

Education VS Experience

In the ever-evolving landscape of career choices, the age-old debate of education versus experience continues to perplex job seekers. Do you really need a degree to land that dream job? The answer, quite simply, depends on the career path you wish to embark upon.

The Power of a Degree

In certain professions, a degree or higher level of qualification is the golden ticket to entry. Fields like medicine, law, accountancy, and engineering demand the rigorous knowledge gained through university degrees. The benefits of holding a degree are manifold – from better job prospects and a higher salary to an enhanced understanding of your chosen field. Universities don’t just impart subject-specific knowledge; they mould well-rounded individuals with improved resilience and a broader perspective on life.

Yet, the road to a degree isn’t without its bumps. The steep cost of education can be a deterrent, and the promise of a lucrative career doesn’t always materialize. Many graduates find themselves saddled with debt, questioning whether the investment was worth it, and settle for jobs that have nothing to do with their degree, or in which they are overqualified.

Experience Matters

On the flip side, practical experience can be a game-changer. While a degree showcases theoretical expertise, real-world experience hones practical skills such as leadership and teamwork – qualities often lacking in fresh graduates. The “book smart” may find themselves lacking in the soft skills necessary for the workplace. Skills such as effective communication, organisation and time management However, those without a degree face an uphill battle. The absence of formal qualifications can lead to overlooked resumes and a perception of being less capable.

Degrees vs. Experience: The Changing Paradigm

In today’s job market, the once ironclad requirement of a degree is losing its grip. It’s not enough to have studied a subject, to ensure you will succeed in a job. Instead, employers are increasingly valuing proof of skills, talent, and hard work. Although a degree offers transferable skills, and attests to your commitment and dedication, it is not the deciding factor for employees.

Therefore, working throughout your degree is highly advised. Hospitality and/or retail experience will allow you to develop your communication, time management and personable skills. You can learn valuable lessons, such as how to resolve conflicts, basic administration skills and how to deliver an exceptional level of customer service.

exceptional level of customer service.

The bottom line is that experience and qualifications are both valued by employers. And the trick is to use either to your advantage, explaining in your CV and interview how each have moulded you into a desirable employee. Highlight the skills that your education has given you, and use scenarios from your work experience to explain why you are the perfect choice for the job.

And if you are struggling to find the perfect job for you, then get in touch with us!

Content Block: LinkedIn Post Ideas

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 07:54:41 +0000

Content Block: LinkedIn Post Ideas

Everyone says to post consistently on LinkedIn to see results. They rage about finding a schedule that works for you, or posting 3-5 times a week. But what happens when you have content block?

Ever find yourself staring at that blank screen, desperately trying to conjure up content ideas? Well, you’re not alone! Posting consistently is the secret sauce to success, but let’s face it, coming up with engaging content can be as tricky as finding your keys on a Monday morning! We have all been there!

So, to help you with that content block, we have some top tip posts for your LinkedIn:

Create a Top Tip Carousel:

Sometimes, all it takes is a carousel of wisdom! Share bite-sized tips in a visually appealing carousel. It’s like a mini masterclass that your audience can swipe through. Pro tip: Make it fun, informative, and sprinkle a bit of your personality on each slide. But don’t go crazy with graphics and colours, perhaps stick to a select few that comply with your brand.

Shout Out People to Follow:

Spread the love and give a shoutout to fellow LinkedIn connections or influencers who inspire you. It’s a win-win – your audience discovers new faces, and you get to build a community vibe. It may even boost your outreach if one of these LinkedIn stars engages with the post!

Share Your Workspace and Why It Works:

Let’s get personal. Take a snapshot of your workspace and spill the beans on why it’s your creative haven. Whether it’s the cozy corner or the motivational wall art, let your audience peek behind the scenes. Then you can invite people to share their top workspace tips and tricks, to really get the conversation going.

Share How You Learned from Your Mistakes:

Embrace the oops moments! Share a mistake you made and the valuable lesson you learned. It humanizes you, and your connections will appreciate the authenticity. Plus people are more inclined to engage with a kindred spirit.

Create an Industry Poll:

Everybody loves a poll. Craft a question related to your industry, current trends or burning questions. It not only engages your audience but also provides valuable insight.

Ask Your Connections for Some Advice About a Problem:

Why not utilise the network that you have worked hard to build? Pose a problem you’re facing and invite your connections to share their wisdom. It’s a fantastic way to foster engagement and build a sense of community.

Discuss a Recent Industry Update or News:

Be the news-breaker in your network by offering your opinion on the newest industry trends and news. It positions you as a thought leader and keeps your audience in the loop.

Reintroduce Yourself to Your Audience:

Has it been a while since you said hello? Well then do a reintroduction post – share a fun fact or a recent achievement. Remind your audience why they hit that ‘Follow’ button in the first place.

Share Your Personal Success Story:

Share your story, as others may relate or be inspired. Whether it’s overcoming a challenge or reaching a milestone, share your success story. It motivates your audience and adds a personal touch.

Resigning: How to Leave a Job

eshalmalik — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 07:49:08 +0000

Resigning: How to Leave a Job

It’s the end… of your employment! But how do you ensure you leave in the right way? Here’s our top tips on resigning!

POV: You have decided that it’s time to leave your current role. Whether it’s due to progression, increased pay, a change in location, or an opportunity you just couldn’t turn down, handing in your notice can be daunting!

So, we are sharing some of our top tips with you on how to leave professionally and as graciously as possible.

Set the Scene: The time and place are everything. Don’t just email it to your manager, or announce your departure in passing, schedule a meeting with the relevant staff members to present your printed letter of resignation. This is both professional and respectful.

Keep it Respectful: Even if you are angry at a particular member of management, or at the company, the impression you make when leaving is a lasting one. The world is small, and you could find yourself sitting across an old colleague for your next interview! So, bite your tongue, and keep your resignation kind and respectful.

Keep Grafting: Just because you are leaving a business, doesn’t mean that you should become sloppy. Maintain your high level of productivity and efficiency. You don’t need to start any more big projects that you won’t finish, but you can wind up your workload with a motivated and passionate attitude. Remember that your employers will still need to give you a reference, so keep them happy and take pride in your work for those final days!

Keep it Sweet: Remain positive. Keep saying nice things about your business when asked, don’t badmouth the company, and offer thanks and best wishes on that last day. Good connections can be very beneficial in the future, and so it is important to maintain relationships.

And for some of you, being transparent is the best way forward. If you are leaving your company for more pay or benefits, then have a conversation first – give your company a chance to meet your needs. If they can’t then you can let them know that you will be looking for other opportunities. It doesn’t have to be a secretive process – open communication can be very effective.

So, keep these 5 top tips in mind when the time comes to move on to your next challenge. And if you need help finding the next step, Brite Recruitment are here to help!