In any job search process, it is key that you have a well-structured CV with all the essential information set out in a neat, concise, and clear manner. Hiring managers use CVs to help them shortlist candidates, and so it is vital that your CV is formatted correctly.
Be brief and direct. Highlight your achievements, skills, experience, and qualifications. However, make sure that it is relevant to the role that you are applying for. Your personal statement should consist of a few short sentences, so keep it to the point.
It is common practise to list your past employment history in reverse chronological order, i.e., your most recent job role, company you worked for, and length of your period there should be at the top.
It is best to list the aforementioned in bullet points, showcasing your steady growth and successes. For your educational qualifications, make sure to include the dates you attended as well as any awards or grades you may have received.
Mention that your references are available on request. The purpose of this is to support the information on your CV and for the hiring company to carry out their own due diligence.
Avoid spelling and grammar errors; they may hurt your chances of getting the job because they can be interpreted as laziness or a lack of attention to detail.
Phrases such as “team player,” “detail-oriented,” and “hard worker” are overused. You want to stand out, so show what differentiates you from the rest and what makes you unique. Instead, use examples of how you have applied a skill to your job.
It is always best to explain why you were unemployed during certain periods of your career history. Reasons may range from termination of contract, health issues, prioritising family, and so on.
With regards to any illness, if it took place over a decade ago, it is not worth mentioning. However, if it took place fairly recently, it is only fair that you explain it to some degree. This may involve you explaining that although you did take some time off for your health, you have bounced back and are ready for work.
For reasons relating to termination of contract, it is understandable for you to have a gap in your employment. However, in this case, what hiring managers/employers pay attention to is what you were doing during the break; if you attended any training courses or workshops to enhance your skills, did some community volunteer work, etc.
Do you have a CV that is complete and ready to be put forward for job applications? Send it to us at– https://www.spinwellglobal.com/registration.aspx and get hired.
Perhaps you are currently unemployed and looking for work, or you might even be employed but are actively looking for something different-how do you go about it? Let’s go over the top three approaches for getting the process started.
Spinwell is delighted to have received re-accreditation for JOSCAR for the second consecutive year. To be approved with this accreditation for a second time in as many years demonstrates and highlights a continuous commitment to following industry standards.
What is JOSCAR (Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register)?
JOSCAR is a trusted collaborative tool used by an ever-growing group of buyers in the aerospace, defence and security industry. This list acts as an exclusive directory of trusted suppliers for buyers to choose from. All suppliers that are listed must be approved and checked thoroughly before being accredited. JOSCAR offers buyers the chance to search for trusted suppliers effectively, using the accreditation as a pre-qualification in addition to offering compliance information for those seeking assistance.
JOSCAR is partnered with a third-party risk management and information supplier, Hellios. The partnership of JOSCAR and Hellios means that background checks and audits of suppliers are carried out with the upmost efficiency. JOSCAR uses a multisectoral analysis spanning the companies’ capabilities’, level of information security, ethical, social and communal responsibility, financial history and other accreditations.
All suppliers that have completed the JOSCAR process will have their data made available to any of the buyers on JOSCAR, operating as a buyer-led hub.
What are the Benefits of JOSCAR?
Any company that displays the JOSCAR accreditation can be trusted as a “fit for business” supplier. The information provided during the assessment for this accreditation must be faultless, and in doing so it helps both suppliers and buyers manage their risk and reputation.
Spinwell being JOSCAR registered brings a host of benefits for our clients, listed below is just a few of them:
How can Spinwell Help?
Being re-accredited with JOSCAR enables Spinwell to continue providing quality staffing solutions. Our team can identify key talent to supplement and enhance your current workforce, including any security check queries. We are always more than happy to discuss any requirements, so please do get in touch:
IDVT stands for Identity Document Validation Technology. This is soon to be the go-to way for British and Republic of Ireland passport holders to be verified for employment. IDVT has been introduced by the Home Office, where employers and recruiters like Spinwell will complete verification checks on candidates digitally.
The new IDVT verification checks will come into force on the 1st October 2022. The IDVT check is being introduced on the backend of the pandemic and how verification checks were carried out over this period. Under the previous system, checks used to be held over a video call between the employer and candidate. Nevertheless, this is about to change, employers will now be required to review documents digitally but meet with British and Republic of Ireland candidates in person if the candidate does not hold an up-to-date passport.
Upon review of the previous systems that were implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, both employers and the government alike could see the benefits of carrying out verification checks remotely. However, this left a sense of paranoia as it left room for fraudulent activity. Employers were not able to check over the identification documents physically, leaving chance for them to be doctored with.
The introduction of IDVT into the verification process can help promise that employees in waiting are verified using a method that poses a greatly reduced risk for employers.
IDVT only works when a holder’s passport (including Irish passport cards) is in date. IDVT processes and analyses the documents provided by the prospective employee through a digital identity service provider (IDSP) to complete the digital element of the right to work checks.
By allowing people to upload images of their personal documents as opposed to presenting them physically to employers, it means that the onboarding process is sped up.
Employers who do not carry out these checks correctly or in its entirety will face repercussions. Employers can expect fines of up to £20,000 per falsely checked employee, varying case to case.
If you cannot be security checked by IDVT (currently about 32% cannot), what are your options? The pandemic has encouraged more organisations to adopt a hybrid working model, so those who do not have a ‘physical place of work’ are facing issues. It may result in the need to meet face-to-face in a mutually convenient location or send your documentation via a secure service to a client’s place of business. We understand your apprehension. Waiting until you attend your new role isn’t an option, so efforts to ensure these checks are completed will be vital to ensure you can get to work right away.
For oversees workers, a BRP (Biometric Residents Permit) card or an E-Visa was introduced on 6th April 2022. The BRP was introduced to replace work permits that were previously included within passports for non-British and non-Republic of Ireland workers. By providing copies and images of personal documentation the process has become digitalised. After employers receive permission to conduct the check, candidates will provide a ‘share code’ and their date of birth so that employers can obtain the right to work documentation.
Alternatively, where permitted, employers and recruiters alike can use the Home Office online services which provides right to work in real time direct from Home Office systems.
Here at Spinwell, we have thoroughly prepared for the change in identity checks whatever your circumstances may be. If you aren’t sure how the changes will impact you, please contact your recruitment consultant who will be more than happy to help.
info@spinwellglobal.com | 02035109454
Let’s face it – finding the perfect permanent position can be tricky. Regardless of what sector you’re searching in, that dream job may be nowhere to be found for a while yet, so you must have a plan in place.
Whether you’re currently between jobs or simply looking for a change, a temporary position could be the solution to your problems. We completely understand some people desire the security of a permanent role, but temporary positions can boost your CV and make you a top candidate when the time is right!
Here are some of the benefits taking on a temporary job can provide, so you can give the option some consideration as part of your job search.
We understand that there are various reasons people can have career gaps on their CV. From redundancy to professionally retraining, not everyone has back-to-back job experience to list.
A temporary position can offer the perfect stepping stone if you’re unemployed and currently seeking a role. You could be improving on your existing skill-set and learning new ones along the way, creating a more dynamic portfolio.
Let’s face it, a temporary position is fantastic for learning and improving various skills. Working in a temporary role actually demonstrates an array of skills in itself, such as:
The list goes on, and it can be a fantastic talking point during interviews, where you can demonstrate how this experience has positively impacted your career path.
Positive word-of-mouth recommendations go a long way in your job search. Potential employers will check with previous employers on various matters, including your performance and personal attributes that made you a pinnacle member of their team.
You must ask permission from the individual to list them as a reference, but most people will be happy to provide positive feedback to your future employer. With this type of work, it can be difficult to understand whom to use as your reference, so please always check with your recruitment consultant!
Gaining experience in a new setting means new people and opportunities! Whether your temporary position is in your ideal sector or you’re trying something else, you’re bound to meet an abundance of interesting people.
Whether it’s networking internally or attending events as part of the organisation, you will become exposed to potential opportunities, such as possible job offers! If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of networking, why not take a look at our recent article?
At the end of the day, your job search can become tiring, and you may start to lose focus on what you want. The mind wanders, especially if you lose hope in finding that dream role. By looking for a temporary position, you might learn more about yourself than you think!
Whether it’s discovering a hidden passion or observing company culture, you will begin to piece together what parts of a new position are personally negotiable and non-negotiable. This can help you narrow down the job search and go after what you want.
It’s time to say goodbye. You’ve been seeking pastures anew, but the daunting task of telling your current employer you wish to resign remains. It can be incredibly difficult moving away from a job, whether it’s removing some security or simply saying goodbye to your amazing co-workers. At the end of the day, it’s important you leave on a good foot and for the right reasons – so here’s our do’s and don’ts on handing in your notice.
We understand it’s incredibly difficult to sit down in front of your seniors and tell them you’re moving on. By showing gratitude and offering an honest approach, take some time aside to inform them of your decision and offer assistance in planning how you can both move forward to ensure a smooth departure for everyone involved.
Ensure you have thoroughly checked your contract and have an understanding of the appropriate notice period required. 2 weeks tend to be the ballpark figure, however, it’s highly dependent on your role. If you’re not sure, your HR department or consultant will be able to guide you.
Make HR’s life easier, and supply a formal letter providing the following information:
Continue being a team player, and complete your role until your very last day. Whether it’s providing support to your team or assisting with the onboarding of your replacement, ensure your work ethic doesn’t dip just because you are!
We completely understand you may have a personal relationship with some of your coworkers, but avoid gossiping and boasting about your next move – especially before discussing it with your boss. If it passes through the grapevine that you’re quitting, your departure mightn’t be a pleasant one.
It can be an incredibly intimidating situation, but don’t tell little white lies to escape the awkwardness! You don’t have to lay all your cards on the table, but being honest about your decision will help your employer understand and prevent any bad blood from forming further down the line.
Exit interviews offer the opportunity to provide feedback on your experience with your current employer. We have good days, we have bad days – please do not let the bad days get the better of you!
It’s important the feedback you provide can assist your employer in making positive changes in the future, so don’t be afraid to offer some constructive criticism. There is a huge difference between constructive criticism and just having a big old moan, so ensure feedback is actionable and don’t let your emotions get on top of you.
We mean this both in terms of physical mess and mental mess for your remaining coworkers – please always ensure you leave things properly. Whether it’s clearing up files on your laptop to briefing team members properly, provide as much assistance as possible to ensure your departure is smooth for the remaining team. Sure, you don’t know what people say about you after you’re gone – but don’t partake in any activity that could make it negative!
If you feel like the time has come to say goodbye to your current role and find something new, browse the abundance of exciting opportunities on our website today or call us on +44 203 510 9454 where we’ll be more than happy to help
Here at Spinwell, we understand entirely the turbulence associated with looking for a new job – it’s what we do for a living, after all! The COVID-19 pandemic has made the labour market very different from what it was, with more people seeking alternative employment or having a complete career change.
Although growth continues at an all-time high, ONS reported that the quarterly vacancy growth fell to 1.6% from 5.4% last quarter. The current job market continues to be highly competitive, but if you’ve decided now is the time for a change, we’re here to help. Follow our recruitment experts’ simple tips:
Knowing exactly what you’re looking for is fantastic, but if you’re struggling to have any success, it’s maybe time to broaden your search.
Hybrid and remote working opportunities widen the scope for both employers and prospective employees, offering greater work/life balance and an increasingly diverse team due to a lack of restrictions by location.
If you want to stay put where you are, consider what opportunities are available around you. Have you signed up for job alerts? It’s an easy win getting applicable roles right to your inbox, saving valuable time that you can use to improve your CV!
Social media is a great place to search for your latest role. According to LinkedIn, over 75% of people who recently changed jobs used LinkedIn to inform their career decision. Many employers advertise positions on their profiles, so don’t forget to turn on your push notifications to get your application in first for any new roles!
You’ve heard it before, but ensuring your profiles are up to scratch is a quick task with great pay-offs. Removing all those embarrassing photos and using your profile to build connections and share your professional opinions helps build your personal brand, allowing potential recruiters to get great insight into your personality.
Do not, we repeat, DO NOT use the same CV for every single job application you put in. We are not advocating for you to tell lies but to tailor your CV and create a cover letter applicable to the role you’re applying for! Your experience is invaluable, so it’s important to demonstrate how it will assist you as a potential part of their organisation.
When considering why you’re the best fit for the job, The Balance Careers suggests:
● Highlighting your personality traits
● Emphasising special skills & what makes you unique
● Examples of your achievements
If you’ve landed an interview for your ideal role, congratulations! Job interviews can be incredibly nerve-racking, but being prepared can help ease this and additionally put you ahead of the competition.
It may seem like common sense, but taking the time to research the organisation you’re applying for helps you adapt your interview answers. Another top tip here is to ensure you thoroughly understand the job description, and don’t be afraid to ask for further information if you need it.
When the interview is over, and all the hard work is done, leave things on a positive note. A quick thank-you email to your recruiter may not guarantee you the role, but it’s always greatly appreciated and may make you memorable for when another role comes around.
It’s not always pleasant to hear about your shortcomings, but asking for feedback if you’ve been unsuccessful is an important learning experience that will assist you as you continue your search. Here at Spinwell, we ensure to provide our candidates with feedback, so don’t be afraid to ask your recruiter if it’s not readily available.
Good luck in your job search, don’t forget we’ve plenty of opportunities available daily
Recent studies have shown that 85% of UK adults will regularly feel incompetent at work. This sense of incompetence and self-doubt can be understood as a form of imposter syndrome.
It’s likely that at some point in your career, you will experience imposter syndrome; don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Summarised by VeryWellMind, imposter syndrome is “an internal experience of believing that you are not as competent as others perceive you to be.” In essence, it’s feeling like a fraud!
It can affect anyone and harm your working life. In a professional setting, imposter syndrome may present itself as feeling underqualified or attributing your successes to luck. Being unsuccessful in your job search can amplify the feeling of imposter syndrome, as each rejection can reaffirm these negative beliefs.
We completely understand it’s easier said than done, but here’s some advice on how to face imposter syndrome head-on and strive for success.
We hope you’re keeping that CV up to date! It’s not something you may think of if you’re comfortable in your current position, but updating your CV with all the incredible experience you boast of can have a positive impact on your perception.
Understand your qualifications, and ensure you are applying for roles that your skill set is best suited for. Your CV offers a tangible document of your career successes and attributes, so be proud of it! You’ve got the certificates to prove it, after all, so don’t be afraid to show them off.
If you lack confidence in certain areas of your career, it may be beneficial to consider additional training. In our opinion, additional training tends to offer a win-win situation – hear us out!
By attending a training session in an area you don’t feel comfortable in, you’ll experience one of two outcomes:
Your network will be full of like-minded people who are likely to be going through a similar process. Whether it’s finding out the best training opportunities to amplify your confidence or simply sharing your story with someone who understands, no one will understand quite like those who have experienced it for themself.
Your professional network may also know of job opportunities that are not commonly advertised. You may not see how brilliant you are, but others around you do! Word-of-mouth recommendations are a huge bonus in such a large talent pool, so don’t let these opportunities pass – hear them out.
Success is measured differently by everyone, but many influential people experience imposter syndrome at the peak of their careers. Believe in yourself and your ability – you’ve worked hard to get to where you are.
‘Networking’ is a prevalent practice in the professional sphere, known as the process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop different contacts. Without knowing, you probably network daily when you meet new people or socialise with friends! We understand that putting yourself out there can be daunting, but building a professional network can offer various benefits for your career – here’s a handful of our favourites.
For some, career success is attributed to the pool of information gained through life and experiences. It can be tough to grasp the depth of your understanding without speaking and listening to like-minded people, but this is exactly what your network can offer!
Your network will provide you with a platform to trade ideas and develop professionally as an individual. If you’re stuck on a problem for an extended period and all your research opportunities have been exhausted, your network is on hand to help. Whether it’s offering updated information or alternative ideas, your network can provide expert support and help you get that all-important breakthrough.
As you interact with your network, you will stand out for your unique capabilities and skills, which may lead to future career opportunities. According to HubSpot, 85% of jobs are filled through networking, so it’s vital if you’re on the job hunt to get out there! Opportunities can vary, from meeting potential clients to impressing like-minded people, so it’s important to utilise this avenue.
Your network can also help you better understand yourself and your career path. Perhaps there is an opportunity you weren’t aware of or a skill set you are not effectively utilising? Regular communication with your network can keep you updated with these opportunities and help you unlock your true potential!
It all sounds very exciting (and trust us, it is!), but it’s also important to not lose sight of your end goal. Ensure the opportunities presented are right for you and don’t forget to explore alternative vacancies before making any final decisions.
Of course, the primary purpose of professional networking is to develop and nurture professional relationships; however, think of all the friends you have made in different career roles throughout your life so far!
We’re not saying to treat your network like a dating site or a method to gain new friends,but some of the strongest and most long-standing relationships* and friendships develop from these professional settings. Your networking contacts are likely to be people with similar careers and goals to yourself, so it’s not unheard of that your professional network spills over into your personal life.
Enjoying your career and the role you are working in is essential, so surrounding yourself with these people shouldn’t be a corporate or tedious process. Achieving this balance of professionalism is crucial to ensuring you are enjoying your career.
A great tip is to begin networking in your workplace and utilise your co-workers’ contacts to build a larger network. If your current workplace isn’t cutting it, you’ve come to the right place! Take a look at our current vacancies, or get in touch with our team of experts to find your perfect role.
Successful and effective recruitment means a lot more than simply hiring the most skilled person for the role advertised. Aside from an outlined skillset (which is still definitely to consider), the candidate appointed for a role must cover multiple bases. The recruitment process not only has a financial impact on a business but it can damage internal relationships and result in current employees becoming unhappy at work. The overall importance of successful recruitment will be further discussed throughout this blog.
Let’s start with a leading factor which most organisations will consider a priority when recruiting; the skills of the employee. This should always be considered, don’t worry! If there is an experienced, educated and uniquely skilled employee on offer then they are likely to find themselves near the top of any recruiter’s list, as they should. However, what we are saying is that ability should never be the only factor considered. This skilled individual may be skilled in different industries or have limited applicable abilities to the role on offer. It is also important to consider the harmony of your current workforce. Will the new employee disturb the current workplace balance? Although we are not advocating for socialisation to dominate the workplace, we are stating that strong relationships are key aspects to achieving synergy.
Losing staff is never a pleasant subject matter. With employers losing 25% of all new talent within the first year, finding an effective fit the first time is tricky by can be worth the hassle in the long term. In terms of your business, replacing staff can be costly and often requires dedicated time to allow for appropriate training for the role. For your employees, losing a valuable member of their team can put a strain on their role if mismanaged, allowing the cycle to present itself again. By understanding candidate skill sets and how they may best integrate into your company, you can assess whether your values are aligned and establish a mutual value offering.
Your staff act as ambassadors for your business, so demonstrating a positive company culture will not only create a happy environment – but it helps recruit exciting future talent through positive perception! Value propositions are a large part of recruitment – what can you offer employees in exchange for their service? Whether it’s tangible benefits or a supportive team structure, it’s vital you demonstrate these components when going through the recruitment process. Having a well-established recruitment and onboarding process not only makes things easier for both parties involved but allows even unsuccessful candidates to leave with a positive interpretation of your organisation.
As previously discussed, ensuring staff are a good fit in your current company structure will decrease the amount of disruption experienced by your business. It can be incredibly difficult to understand this in the early stages, so hiring a recruitment expert can help extract this information for your assessment. Overall, it is recommended to consider an employee who covers all bases and is balanced in their abilities overtaking just the most experienced or skilled every time. Remember – you can train skills and gain experience, relationships and social skills are natural!
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