Spinwell Global

Interesting Jobs for Interesting People

The importance of networking for job seekers

Networking is an essential part of the job search process. It involves building and maintaining relationships with people who can provide information, advice, and referrals to job opportunities. Here are some reasons why networking is important for job seekers:

Access to job opportunities: Many job openings are not publicly advertised and instead are filled through personal referrals. By networking, job seekers can tap into this hidden job market and potentially get access to job opportunities that they wouldn’t find otherwise.
Professional connections: Networking allows job seekers to make connections with people who work in their desired field and can offer valuable insights into the industry.
Career advice and support: Through networking, job seekers can connect with mentors and peers who can offer career advice, share insights and experiences, and provide support during the job search process.
Increased exposure: Networking can help raise a job seeker’s profile and increase their exposure to potential employers and recruiters.
Fresh ideas and information: Networking can provide access to new ideas and information about industry trends, job market conditions, and emerging career paths.
Build confidence: Networking can help job seekers build confidence in their abilities, develop their communication skills, and improve their interview and networking skills.

Overall, networking is a valuable tool for job seekers, as it can connect them with job opportunities, provide career advice and support, and help them build relationships with professionals in their desired field.

How to manage stress during a job search

Job searching can be a stressful experience, especially if you have been looking for a job for a while. Here are some tips on how to manage stress during a job search:

Take breaks: It is essential to take breaks and allow yourself time to recharge. Take a short walk, read a book, or do something you enjoy.
Set boundaries: Create a schedule for your job search and stick to it to avoid being overwhelmed.
Focus on self-care: Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Make time for exercise, healthy eating, and sleep.
Stay positive: Try to remain positive and focus on your strengths and accomplishments, even if you face rejection.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your experience, or seek out a job search support group in your area.
Incorporate relaxation techniques: Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and anxiety.
Stay organized: Keep track of your job search progress, including the companies you have applied to and any follow-up actions you need to take.

Managing stress during the process of searching for a job is of utmost importance, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding and promoting not only your physical well-being but also your mental health. By proactively taking care of yourself through various self-care practices, such as engaging in activities that bring you joy, maintaining a balanced diet, getting sufficient restorative sleep, and incorporating regular exercise into your routine, you can effectively combat the negative effects of stress and maintain optimal physical health.

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The impact of Brexit on the UK job market

Brexit, the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union, has caused significant uncertainty in many areas of the country, including the job market. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of Brexit on the job market in the UK.

One of the main impacts of Brexit on the job market has been the uncertainty that it has created both for employers and employees. Many businesses have been cautious about investing and hiring new employees due to the uncertainty surrounding the UK’s future relationship with the EU. This has contributed to a slowdown in hiring across various sectors, and the job market has become highly competitive.

Additionally, Brexit has led to changes in immigration policies, which have affected the availability of foreign workers. After the UK left the EU, freedom of movement ended, and the UK introduced a new immigration system, which requires individuals to have specific qualifications and job offers to work in the country. This has reduced the number of foreign workers available to fill jobs and created recruitment challenges in a range of sectors, from hospitality to healthcare.

Another impact of Brexit on the job market has been the shift in economic activity across the UK. With the UK losing its access to the EU market, businesses have been exploring new trade opportunities, leading to changes in the economic landscape. This has created new jobs in some sectors, such as finance and technology, while others, such as manufacturing, have been hit particularly hard. In general, the outlook for the UK job market remains uncertain as the country continues to adjust to life outside the EU.

As the UK continues to adapt to the post-Brexit environment, there are actions that employers and employees can take to navigate the uncertainty. For businesses, it is important to keep up to date with the regulatory changes post-Brexit and develop a strategy to mitigate the impacts of new immigration policies on recruitment and employee retention. Additionally, investing in training and upskilling existing employees can help businesses sustain competitiveness and reduce uncertainty.

For job seekers, focusing on building a diverse set of skills and making themselves more marketable can increase their chances of finding new opportunities in a challenging job market. It is also important to stay informed about the latest industry trends and regulatory changes that could affect job opportunities.

In conclusion, Brexit has created significant challenges in the UK job market. However, taking proactive steps to prepare for the new regulatory environment, staying informed and upskilling or investing in training can help businesses and individuals navigate the uncertainty, find new opportunities, and move forward toward a brighter future.

How to excel when working from home

With remote work becoming increasingly common, it’s important to demonstrate to your employer that you’re a hard worker, even when you’re working from home.

Here are some tips to help you show your dedication and work ethic while working remotely:

Establish clear goals: Work with your employer to establish clear goals and expectations for your work. This can help you stay focused and motivated, and it can also help your employer monitor your progress and evaluate your performance.
Communicate regularly: Maintain regular communication with your employer and colleagues to demonstrate your engagement and commitment to your work. Schedule regular check-ins and provide updates on your progress and accomplishments.
Be available: Make sure you’re available during your regular working hours and respond promptly to emails and other messages. This can help show your employer that you’re committed to your work and willing to put in the extra effort to meet their needs.
Take initiative: Look for ways to contribute to your team and take on new challenges. This can help demonstrate your work ethic and willingness to go above and beyond in your role.
Track your accomplishments: Keep a record of your accomplishments and contributions, and share this information with your employer during performance evaluations or when discussing future opportunities.

By following these tips, you can show your employer that you’re a hard worker, even while working remotely. Demonstrating your commitment and work ethic can help you position yourself for success in your current role and advance in your career over time.

Overall, it’s important to remember that while remote work may present unique challenges, it doesn’t have to impact your ability to be a dedicated and effective employee. With the right approach and mindset, you can thrive in a remote work environment and achieve your professional goals.

Top 10 in-demand skills for job seekers in the UK

According to various sources, the top 10 in-demand skills for job seekers in the UK include a mix of technical and soft skills.

Programming and software development: With the digital skills gap continuing to grow, there is a high demand for professionals who can develop software and applications.

Cybersecurity: As more businesses shift to remote work and online platforms, the need for cybersecurity professionals has increased significantly.

Data analysis: Data is becoming an increasingly valuable asset for businesses, and professionals who can analyze and interpret data are highly sought after.

Artificial intelligence/machine learning: With the growth of AI and machine learning in various industries, there is a need for professionals who can design, develop and manage these technologies.

Cloud computing: As more businesses adopt cloud-based systems, the demand for professionals who can design and manage these systems has increased.

Digital marketing: With the shift towards digital channels, there is an increasing demand for professionals who can create and execute effective digital marketing strategies.

Project management: Effective project management is critical to the success of any business, and there is a high demand for professionals who can manage complex projects.

Communication skills: Good communication skills are essential in any role, and are a highly sought after soft skill by employers.

Leadership skills: In addition to project management, there is a high demand for professionals with strong leadership skills to lead teams and drive success.

Problem-solving skills: The ability to identify problems and develop effective solutions is a valuable skill in any role, and is highly sought after by employers.

It is important to note that the demand for skills can vary depending on the industry and job sector, so conducting research on the specific job market you are interested in can help you identify the most in-demand skills for that sector.

Recovering from Burnout

Work burnout is something that many people experience at some point in their career. It can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as having a heavy workload, long working hours, or dealing with difficult co-workers or clients. If you are feeling burned out, the good news is that it’s possible to recover.

Here are some tips on how to do it:

Take a break: If possible, take some time off work to recharge your batteries. This could be a short vacation or even just a long weekend. Use this time to relax, do things you enjoy, and spend time with loved ones.
Re-evaluate your workload: Take a look at your to-do list and see if there are tasks that you can delegate or prioritize differently. It’s important to be realistic about what you can accomplish in a given day or week.
Practice self-care: Make sure that you are taking care of yourself physically and mentally. This can involve getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in exercise or other activities that you enjoy.
Set boundaries: Try to establish clear boundaries between work and your personal life. This could involve setting a specific time when you stop checking work emails or messages, or simply saying “no” to additional work when your plate is already full.
Seek support: Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a professional if you are feeling overwhelmed. Getting support from others can be a great way to manage stress and regain a sense of balance.

Recovering from work burnout can take time, but by taking steps to prioritize self-care and set healthy boundaries, it’s possible to bounce back and regain a sense of fulfillment and enjoyment in your work and personal life.

Hybrid working, the new norm?

Hybrid working, which combines remote and in-person work, has become increasingly popular due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While hybrid working can offer employees more flexibility and work-life balance, it also presents unique challenges for organisations and individuals.

Here are some tips for making hybrid working as successful as possible:

1. Establish clear communication: Communication is key to any successful work arrangement, but it’s especially important in a hybrid environment where employees may be working from different locations. Ensure that everyone is on the same page by using clear communication channels and setting expectations for response times.

2. Emphasize team culture: When a team is working remotely, it’s easy to feel disconnected from your co-workers.

3. To avoid this, make a conscious effort to build and maintain a strong team culture. This can involve team-building activities, regular check-ins, and fostering a sense of belonging among team members.

4. Set boundaries: While hybrid working offers more flexibility, it can also blur the line between work and personal life. To avoid burnout, set clear boundaries between work time and personal time, and encourage employees to do the same.

5. Invest in technology: To facilitate communication and collaboration, it’s important to invest in the right technology tools. This can include video conferencing platforms, project management software, and other tools to help teams work together effectively.

6. Be adaptable: Hybrid working is a relatively new concept, and it’s likely that organisations will need to adapt and refine their approach over time. Encourage feedback from employees and be willing to adjust your approach to accommodate changing needs.

In summary, with clear communication, a strong team culture, clear boundaries, the right technology tools, and a willingness to adapt, hybrid working can be a successful work arrangement for both organisations and employees. It offers the flexibility that many modern workers crave while ensuring that work can continue to be completed efficiently.

Our Top 5 Tips When Searching for Your Next Role

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:

1. Be Smart With Your Job Search – Use It to Your Full Advantage

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!

2. Make Use of Social Media

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.

3. Make Yourself the Perfect Fit

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

4. Always Come Prepared

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.

5. Don’t Forget That Follow-Up

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 – start your search here!

Could Temporary Roles Help You in Your Job Search?

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.

Prevent Career Gaps

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.

Demonstrates Important Skills

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:

You’re adaptable in terms of your transferable skills and flexibility in trying new things.
You’re hard-working and want to continue developing while you navigate a permanent position.
You’re a fast learner, having completed the tasks required in a role you may not have previous experience in.

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.

Additional Positive References

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!

Improves Your Professional Network

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!

Greater Understanding of Your Job Search

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.

Need we say more? Head over to our current vacancies to discover what opportunities await you.

IDVT – Identity Document Validation Technology

What is IDVT & How it Affects You

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.

Why is IDVT Replacing the Previous System?

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.

How Does IDVT Work?

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.

What does IDVT mean for Non-British and Non-Republic of Ireland Passport Holders?

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

In Summary

IDVT stands for Identity Document Validation Technology.
IDVT mitigates risk of fraud.
IDVT processes and analyses the documents provided by prospective British and Republic of Ireland employees through a IDSP to complete the digital element of the right to work checks.
BRP or an E-Visa was introduced on 6th April 2022 for non-British and non-Republic of Ireland passport holders.
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