GET CONNECTED ISSUE 5
www.connectappointments.co.uk
TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT
How to get the most out of a short-term contract
MASTER YOUR CV Showcase your skillset with our top CV tips
GET AHEAD WITH CONNECT Stand out from the crowd with our insider recruitment tips
WHY AN AGENCY? Discover what Connect Appointments recruitment consultants can do for you
LOOKING FOR WORK? NEED GREAT STAFF? GET EMPLOYED. GET CONNECTED. Trust Connect Appointments consultants to take the stress out of hiring and finding employment.
Dundee T: 01382 797 579
Hamilton T: 01698 535870
Glasgow T: 0141 212 3740
Livingston T: 01506 449944
Grangemouth T: 01324 464951
North East T: 0191 731 4800
connectappointments.co.uk
WELCOME
You can trust Connect Appointments to get you connected into employment Dundee T: 01382 797 579 Glasgow T: 0141 212 3740 Grangemouth T: 01324 464951 Hamilton T: 01698 535870 Livingston T: 01506 449944 North East T: 0191 731 4800
Proud to be one of the leading and most innovative independent recruitment agencies in the UK, Connect Appointments knows recruitment inside out. Dedicated to getting more people into work, our recruitment specialists are on hand to help job seekers find temporary, permanent or flexible work, all whilst helping clients with staffing solutions. Key industry connections partnered with decades worth of experience in recruitment, Connect Appointments is your one stop for recruitment needs. In the following pages we’ll detail how we work, our recruitment process, the industries and sectors we serve, plus CV tips to help you stand out. Our dedicated and professional recruitment consultants are looking forward to connecting with you today. It’s time to get connected and get employed. The Connect Appointments team
ConnectAppointments ConnectDrivers connectappts connectdrivers connectappointments Get Connected is published by DC Publishing Ltd T: 0844 249 9007 www.dcpublishing.co.uk
Publisher Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk Editor Lorne Gillies lorne.gillies@dcpublishing.co.uk Staff Writer Emma Storr emma.storr@dcpublishing.co.uk Design/Production Emma Goodman
WHAT’S INSIDE ABOUT US 4 TIME TO CONNECT Get to know Connect Appointments. OUR SECTORS 10 GETTING TO KNOW OUR INDUSTRIES A spotlight on the industries we work in. 20 ON THE ROAD WITH CONNECT DRIVER SOLUTIONS An overview of how we can meet your driver needs. 21 INTRODUCING CONNECT SITE SERVICES Learn how we supply the construction industry. OUR SERVICES 24 CONNECT CREDENTIALS An insight into our industry certifications and expertise. OUR PEOPLE 22 TESTIMONIALS Clients and candidates share their experiences of working with Connect Appointments.
ON THE JOB 12 THRIVING IN TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT Making temporary employment work for you and your future career prospects. ADVICE 6 RECRUITMENT WITH EASE Providing staffing solutions for clients and candidates, why use an agency? 8 THE RETURN TO WORK Ace the transition back into employment. 14 BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL CV Perfect your CV with our industry tips. 16 SOCIAL MEDIA MISTAKES As a nation of scrollers, it is easy to make a social media mistake. Get your digital footprint employer friendly. 17 TOP RECRUITMENT TIPS Our long serving Connect Appointments consultants share their top tips and reveal how we can help you. 18 STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD Showcase your skills and qualifications to stand out from the crowd.
©DC Publishing Ltd 2021. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.
Time to Connect
Connect Appointments is proud to be one of the most prominent recruitment agencies in the UK, continually boasting results for clients and candidates
A
s one of the largest independent recruitment companies, Connect Appointments is the leading agency for your employment and recruitment needs. The service Connect Appointments provides for both clients and candidates is second to none, with our committed and dedicated recruitment consultants, experts in a wide range of industries, dedicated to fulfilling all your staffing needs. THE SERVICE With six branches across Scotland and Northern England, Connect Appointments can provide recruitment services in a range of locations and sectors. Despite branching out and continually
4 GET CONNECTED
expanding, Connect Appointments has not lost the personal, customer focused method of working that has made the company such a success to date. From providing excellent staffing solutions to a range of highprofile and respected businesses, to supporting jobseekers to find and get into paid employment. No matter if you are looking for temporary workers during a busy period, or as a job seeker you need shifts that fit around your personal life: Connect Appointments are experts in providing temporary, flexible employment, with opportunities for permanent roles available, too. No matter what you are looking for, no request is too big or small for our recruitment consultants.
SOLUTIONS Connect Appointments is dedicated to solving your recruitment or employment needs. Finding candidates for positions you have open shouldn’t be challenging. Take the stress out of recruitment by working with Connect Appointments. Our consultants are well versed in conducting CV checks, preemployment testing, interviews, continually adapting our methods of working to ensure the right candidate is placed in your organisation. Always staying connected with clients throughout the process, you can rest assured you will receive candidates of the highest calibre from our candidate pool. For jobseekers, too, Connect
ABOUT US
WHERE TO FIND US DUNDEE Discovery House, Gemini Crescent, Dundee Technology Park, Dundee DD2 1SW 01382 797 579 dundee@connectappointments.co.uk GLASGOW 198 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4HG 0141 212 3740 glasgow@connectappointments.co.uk GRANGEMOUTH Unit 6, Earls Court, Earls Gate Business Park, Grangemouth FK3 8ZE 01324 464951 grangemouth@connectappointments.co.uk
Appointments is on hand to get you into temporary or permanent employment. Providing a range of contracts with a host of recognised and respected companies, our recruitment consultants can provide you with everything from CV to interview support. If you are well versed in temporary work, or you are new to temporary employment (page 12) due to the pandemic, Connect Appointments will support you every step of the way in your recruitment journey. Discover how Connect Appointments can work for your staffing needs, or help you get into employment. Get in touch with your local branch, our skilled recruitment consultants are waiting to connect with you.
Rest assured you will receive candidates of the highest calibre from our candidate pool
HAMILTON New Life Centre, 10-18 Hope Street, Hamilton ML3 6AF 01698 535870 hamilton@connectappointments.co.uk LIVINGSTON 1 Houston Interchange, Livingston EH54 5DW 01506 449944 livingston@connectappointments.co.uk SUNDERLAND 11 Austin Boulevard, Quay West Business Village, Sunderland SR5 2AL 0191 731 4800 sunderland@connectappointments.co.uk
GET CONNECTED
5
RECRUITMENT WITH EASE FOR CANDIDATES Temporary, permanent and flexible, Connect Appointments has a job opportunity for you. Get acquainted with Connect Appointments and work alongside our experienced recruitment consultants to get clocked into your next role
1
SAVES YOU TIME
Searching for employment can be time consuming, and you might even miss or overlook positions that are right for you. We understand searching for the right role is challenging, and knowing what to say in the application can be even harder. Once you have registered we’ll get in touch any time a suitable vacancy comes up meaning you can leave the hard part of job seeking to us.
When you apply for one of our jobs we will talk you through the process 6 GET CONNECTED
2
WE’LL PROVIDE TOP TIPS
3
WE’LL KEEP YOUR SKILLS IN MIND
When you apply for one of our jobs we will talk you through the whole process. As our consultants conduct any potential job interviews, you can be safe in the knowledge that an experienced interviewer is handling your responses. That valuable intel could give you the edge above those applying directly.
If you apply directly to a company you will only be considered for that job. When you apply through Connect Appointments we will keep you in mind for other vacancies that meet your individual skillset. Essentially, your CV will get more exposure.
4
WE’LL GET TO KNOW YOU
We build a professional relationship with the men and women within our workforce. The people we know, and who have a great reputation with our clients, are always at the top of our list for further work. Knowing your skillset means we know what positions will suit you. WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Our friendly recruitment consultants are waiting to hear from you. Looking for temporary, permanent or flexible work, get in touch with your local branch of Connect Appointments today.
ADVICE
“We talk candidates through our process from start to finish, we match a person up to the best job we can” JULIE MCALLISTER, Grangemouth Branch Manager
2
WE VALUE YOUR TIME
3
WE’LL LIAISE WITH CANDIDATES
4
WE CONDUCT ALL PRE-HIRING CHECKS
5
WE ARE AFFORDABLE
Gone are the days of sifting through piles of CVs. We take the work out of recruiting and process all applications – you will only be presented with candidates that are right for the job. We’ll do our best to work to your timescale and requirements to find the perfect person for the role.
FOR CLIENTS At Connect Appointments we go above and beyond the average recruitment agency to find the right candidates for you. With experience matching thousands of candidates with industry leaders annually, we know what your company needs in a recruitment agency
1
WE ARE EXPERTS
Specialists in a range of industries (see page 10), we understand your company, your policies and values, and the staff you are looking for. At Connect Appointments we have a bank of candidates, and we ensure only the relevant candidates with the right skillset are put forward for your consideration. We know the ins and outs of the business, jobs, and the skills and qualifications required. Lynda McLaughlin, a senior recruitment consultant at Connect Appointments, adds: “We pride ourselves on the first class service and support we offer candidates and clients alike. We show dedication and commitment to every single assignment – we care.”
We take the work out recruiting by dealing with any question’s candidates might have in relation to your role. This means you have more time to get on with the important work.
Collecting references, ensuring candidates are eligible to work in the UK, job-specific testing and prechecks required in your industry: Connect Appointments will ensure all the boxes are ticked. We also conduct drink and drug testing on your behalf if required. We’re committed to ensuring your hiring process is as seamless as possible.
Working together is vital when entrusting a recruitment company to hire on your behalf. At Connect Appointments we work with you to agree on suitable budgets to meet your recruitment needs. Furthermore, by advertising your roles on partner platforms, you’re guaranteed to save money in the long term.
GET IN TOUCH Our recruitment consultants are dedicated to getting the best workforce for your business. For staffing solutions, let’s get connected. Contact your nearest branch using the contact details on page 5, or visit: www.connectappointments.co.uk
GET CONNECTED
7
Preparing to get back into employment after a period of absence can cause stress or anxiety. With help from Connect Appointments your skills and experiences will be put to good use as you prepare to clock in
T
he job market has changed in the last 12-months, and it is important that as a job seeker you also adapt to new restrictions and methods of working. At Connect Appointments we are continually monitoring and adhering to government guidance to ensure not only our recruitment consultants are kept safe, but so are our clients and candidates. HERE FOR YOU When returning to work, our recruitment consultants will take your skills and experiences into consideration. No matter if you have been out of work for days, weeks or months, we are dedicated to helping you into paid employment. Flexibility is essential, and this can make finding employment faster if you are looking for an immediate start. Don’t worry if there are no jobs available in your desired sector right now: our consultants will use their expert knowledge to utilise your transferable skills and connect you with new roles in different industries. Many of our clients require no experience and provide on-the-job training. THE SEARCH When an increased number of people are on the job hunt and the market is constantly changing, the idea of starting your search can be overwhelming. This doesn’t mean there are no positions available: we are constantly adding to our current vacancies and have positions across multiple sectors. You can start your job search by browsing our vacancies online, or connect with one of our consultants virtually to find out what’s available. It 8 GET CONNECTED
THE RETURN TO
WORK
is quick and easy to search for jobs on the Connect Appointments website or to find contact information for your local branch to send over your CV. Think about any key factors before starting your search. This can include hourly rate, how far you can travel to and from work, when you can start and any specialist qualifications you have. TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Regardless of the reasons that have seen you out of work, be that redundancy due to the pandemic or a break from work to become a parent, you will have a breadth of transferable skills that prospective employers will be looking for. For example, running a home may seem like daily chores,
but it comes with highly sought-after skills: organisation, time management, communication and delegation are just some of the key qualities you can bring to a role after time managing the effective running of your home. Similarly, make sure to let our recruitment consultants know about any training you may have undertaken whilst you were in or out of work. Volunteering to completing a free online course, this will show a prospective employer you are proactive and committed to building on your experiences. FURLOUGH For many, the last year has seen working hours reduced or amended. If you are looking for work to fill the
ADVICE
Our consultants will use their expert knowledge to utilise your transferable skills
time or in need of more money, we can provide flexible temporary positions. Are you currently furloughed from your role in the hospitality or retail sector? Our recruitment consultants can utilise your skillset with a range of our clients looking for temporary staffing solutions, meaning we can help fill any employment gaps prior to your industry opening up fully. You never know, going into a new field of work may introduce you to a new industry. BEING RESPONSIBLE In an ever-changing time, it’s important for everyone to stay safe and be responsible. At Connect
Appointments, we know our clients are taking the appropriate measures to keep candidates safe. Each client has measures in place that you will be required to follow in order to keep everyone safe both in and out of the workplace. When you contact Connect Appointments to start the recruitment process, we will reduce face-toface contact as much as possible to adhere to coronavirus government guidelines. After you apply through Connect Appointments a member of the team will contact you to arrange an interview to help open the doors as you prepare to return to work.
Visit our website, www.connectappointments.co.uk, to see our current vacancies. GET CONNECTED
9
OUR SECTORS
GETTING TO KNOW OUR INDUSTRIES The team at Connect Appointments have expertise in a wide range of sectors and we are always looking to expand into more. Regardless of your previous experience, we have temporary and permanent positions available, from entry-level to senior roles
MANUFACTURING The manufacturing industry is always growing and there are roles available across a wide range of specialisms including automotive, plastic, packaging, bottling and textiles. We work with a range of organisations that you can utilise your skills with. CONSTRUCTION The construction market is thriving and our clients are always looking for reliable, skilled workers. Our dedicated construction division, Connect Site Services, cover all disciplines including joiners, bricklayers, painters and more. We also cover both site/project and commercial management roles. ELECTRONICS Our specialist consultants can work with you to deliver on your recruitment needs. If you have skills in software development, project
management or are a technician, we could have the job for you. ENGINEERING With close ties to the engineering industry, we have positions available across a variety of different specialisms including test engineers, design engineers, mechanical engineers and gas and wind turbine engineers. DRIVING Whether you’re looking to further your career or you’re new to the driving sector, Connect Driver Solutions can match you with the right role for your skill set. Roles range from LGV drivers to multi-drop van drivers and more. FOOD AND DRINK We work to match thousands of candidates with positions in distilleries and bottling halls across Scotland. Candidates with transferable skills are sure to succeed in this sector.
LOGISTICS AND DISTRIBUTION The production line is vital to many businesses and our clients need reliable staff. Transport administrators, supply chain managers and warehouse order pickers are just some of the logistics and distribution roles we recruit for. OFFICE AND COMMERCIAL Whether you’re looking to further your career in the industry or for a complete career change, we have roles from short-term over to permanent positions in admin, reception, personal assistance and data input. WASTE MANAGEMENT Waste management is integral to all aspects of life and business, that’s why we work with a wide range of specialisms including construction waste, household waste and water waste.
We always keep candidate CVs on file, ready to contact you when a relevant role in your industry becomes available. Get in touch with your nearest branch today to find out what we can do for you.
10 GET CONNECTED
Easy to navigate Connect Appointments
Jobs at your fingertips Providing employment across a wide range of sectors, we continually update our website with the latest leading industry jobs and organisations looking for your key skills. Expert advice Looking to revamp your CV or need tips for your next job interview? The Connect Appointments blog provides industry hints and tips to help you in your career. Upload your cv Get closer to your next employment opportunity by uploading your CV directly to the Connect Appointments website today. We’ll pass your CV and information to your local branch and contact you when any suitable roles arise.
connectappointments.co.uk
THRIVING IN
TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT Temporary employment is a great way to get your foot in the door with one of our clients and occasional shift work is an ever-expanding business. We tell you how to get the most out of a short-term contract
ON THE JOB
FLEXIBILITY
One of the biggest perks to temporary work is the flexibility it gives you to take complete control of your working life. You won’t have to worry about taking your responsibilities from work home with temporary positions, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Short-term employment gives you the option to build your work life around other commitments.
BUILDING SKILLS You already have a plethora of skills that you may not even know about, and with each role you work, you will improve certain aptitudes. From communication to project management, everyone in the workforce can learn on the job. It may only be temporary work, but going into a job with an open mind and being proactive in learning all you can will go on to benefit you in the long run.
UPGRADE YOUR CV
Each time you start a new role include this on your CV, regardless of the length of time spent with a business. We pride ourselves on working with some of the leading organisations in the UK, having these names on your CV is always going to look good. Keeping your CV updated will also give you the chance to reflect on the skills you have learned within each role.
NETWORKING
Short-term work within organisations at the top of their industries means you can build your contacts. Connecting with colleagues during temporary employment is key: the people you meet may be able to act as a reference, managers who are looking to hire permanent staff, or it could simply be an opportunity to make new friends.
IN THE MONEY
When you start working, it is important to know that this may impact the amount of benefits you can claim. As you start to earn more, the Universal Credit you are eligible for will gradually reduce. Unlike Jobseeker’s Allowance, your payment won’t stop just because you work more than 16 hours a week. In some cases, you may be eligible for a work allowance. A work allowance is the amount that you can earn before your Universal Credit payment is affected. Turn2Us (www.turn2us.org.uk) have a free benefit calculator to help you calculate not only what benefits you are entitled to, but how much you can expect your monthly income to be.
POSITIVE ATTITUDE
You may only be working in your short-term or temporary contract for several days or weeks, it might only be a couple of shifts, but if you go in with the right UNDERSTAND attitude then the potential YOUR RIGHTS is limitless. If you are From the day you start work, you’ve got regularly doing shifts a worker’s employment rights, and the with a company and same rights as your permanent colleagues a similar role arises, to use shared facilities provided by the they might consider employer. After 12-weeks in the job, you’ll you first for the qualify for the same rights as someone position. When you employed directly, also known as ‘equal are known, reliable treatment’, which includes the same pay as and understand the a permanent colleague doing the same job, business, the potential automatic pension enrolment for permanent work is and paid annual leave. always there during temp roles.
A TAILORED WORKFORCE If you are an employer, temporary workers supplied by an agency could be the answer to any demanding or busy periods within your company. Making an immediate difference to any role they are placed in; temporary workers are also fast to hire. In the past we have had clients call us on the day requiring staff to start at 9am – we are committed to
making sure this happens. Whether you have had an unexpected job come through, or you have absences to cover, temporary workers can make a real difference. Sourcing temporary workers during busy periods can be extremely efficient and offers flexibility to ensure tasks are completed. Bringing skills, experience and knowledge to your workforce,
temporary workers can even provide new industry information to current, permanent members of staff. When a permanent position is required to be filled temporary workers can slot into this role during the set recruitment period. If you want to find out more about how temporary workers can boost your business, call your nearest Connect Appointments office now.
GET CONNECTED 13
BUILDING A
SUCCESSFUL CV
At Connect Appointments the first information we get about you is from your CV. Our top CV tips will ensure you impress our consultant first, then prospective employers MASTER THE COVER LETTER
Cover letters are an incredible tool when applying for a job: this is a direct reply to the job advert. Study the job advert and look for buzzwords they use. A cover letter is your chance to explain what skills, qualifications and experience make you perfect for the job. This is different to the personal statement at the top of your CV which should summarise who you are, what you do and your career objectives.
ROBERT BLACK 123 Leith Road, Edinburgh EH01 6HU Tel: 0131 987 5432 Mobile: 07812 345 123 Email: robertblack@gmail.co.uk Driving licence: Full, clean
EDUCATION Bell College
Sep 1997 – June 2001 HND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Edinburgh College
POWER OF THE PERSONAL STATEMENT
Your cover letter is crucial, but keep in mind that recruiters may lose track of your letter and focus entirely on your CV, this is why a small blurb – or personal statement – at the top of your CV is important. It’s a great method of summarising your entire CV into a couple of sentences, and gives you the opportunity to really sell yourself. Ensure you tailor your personal statement for each role you apply for, this shows attention to detail.
HIGHLIGHT YOUR SKILLS
No matter if you have glowing grades from school or wish you had done better, it’s important to include each qualification on your CV. This lets a recruiter get to understand your base knowledge or a subject and see how you’ve taken it forward into your working life, building on those skills. However, if there’s a particular grade you would rather not shout about, you could list the topics you studied and highlight the ones where you achieved good grades. When you progress further in your career, and have a wealth of experience and roles to reference back to, the onus on your grades from secondary school or college aren’t as integral. Briefly mention them, but give more focus to the skills and experience you’ve gained through various jobs and work placements you’ve held.
Sep 1995 – May 1997 OND in Engineering
Edinburgh High School Aug 1990 – June 1995 O Levels: English, Maths, Geography and Physics Highers: Maths and Physics
SKILLS
Proficient in use of: • • • • • •
PowerPoint Microsoft Word Excel First Aid Antron S/Step card
INTERESTS
I am an avid reader, and enjoy reading new authors. Referee for local children’s football club and volunteering.
REFERENCES Available on request
ADVICE
KEEP IT CONCISE
PERSONAL STATEMENT
Ensure your CV only includes the relevant information and use your editing skills to get your CV to two A4 pages at most, making use of bullet points where necessary.
Skilled electronic and test technician seeking new opportunities.
WORK EXPERIENCE Test Technician
Advantage Resourcing, Edinburgh Aug 2017 – present • Fault finding and testing of PDM systems prior to customer visits or shipment. • Assembling racks for the Electrical and Power Distribution Industry to customer specifications. • Working from schematic diagrams to cable up DIN rails and PDM systems.
System Failure Analysis Technician
Scottish Microsystems, Perth Dec 2010 – Aug 2017 • Responsible for the verification and correct failure analysis to FRU level of High End Network Servers. • The assembly to customer specifications of High End Network Servers. • Quality Process Owner with responsibility for any quality issue with products on the line. Achieved six consecutive quarters without any fails being reported at customer’s premises.
KEEP IT STRUCTURED
Every employer assess CVs differently, but each CV should be chronological and showcase your skills and personal attributes. Always include your name and contact details at the top followed by your personal statement. Include your work experience and qualifications. When it comes to work positions, only feature roles you think are relevant for the industry you are apply for.
REFLECTION
Always include roles that are relevant to your chosen career to highlight your former experience but, make sure to go beyond the job role – many positions will have similar responsibilities. Consider what those roles taught you and reflect on what you’ve learned, any awards or qualifications you achieved and how you went above and beyond the call of duty. From being nominated as employee of the month, training new team members, or even holding a clean, full drivers’ licence will instantly appeal to our recruitment consultants and any potential employers.
Diagnostic Technician
Atalian Servest, Midlothian Jan 2006 – Dec 2010 • Diagnosed HP, Compaq and 3 Com network cards to component level. • Skilled and trained in the use of various de-bug tools i.e. Antron and S/Step card. • Conducted root cause analysis to support in the resolving of production line issues.
Electronic Technician
Easy PC Centre, Edinburgh July 2001 – Jan 2006 • De-bugging IBM motherboards and Compaq boards to component level. • Worked towards continuous improvement of manufacturing techniques. • Successfully analysed fails and ensured timely returns to contractor.
IN THE PICTURE
Recruiters spend on average just six seconds scanning a CV so grabbing their attention is vital, and images are a great way to do that. Using the logos of your past employers will make your CV more visual and a recruitment consultant will recognise what companies you’ve worked for in an instant. This works far better if you’ve had a role with an instantly recognisable brand – a grainy photo of a small business logo won’t make the cut.
CHECK IT TWICE
Mistakes happen, but try to avoid errors on your CV. The best way to do this is to check it over for any spelling or grammatical errors, or ask someone you trust to proof read it for you. A rogue comma could land your CV at the bottom of the pile, even if you have all the relevant skills.
ADVICE
SOCIAL MEDIA
MISTAKES
Our online presence can make or break career opportunities. Being mindful of what you share online and put your name behind is imperative to ensure your digital footprint is employer friendly
I
n the digital age, posting on social media without thinking about what this will showcase to employers isn’t an option. It’s not uncommon for an employer to conduct their own background checks, all with the click of a mouse. Social media is more powerful than ever, so ensuring your digital presence is employer friendly is essential. GO PRIVATE Give yourself a Google, you might be surprised what appears. Take a moment to see what public information is available on your social media channels; simply set all content to friends only and log out to view your public page. Personal photos should be private. SKILLS SUCCESS You don’t have to be completely employment centred on your social media channels, take the time to share your achievements online. If you have recently started volunteering, fundraised for a charity that is close to your heart, or achieved a goal you were working towards – this could include being proactive and completing an online course – use your social media to shout about your achievements. This could aid you in the workplace or be valuable to an employer. Prospective employers will see your work and
16 GET CONNECTED
you will look more desirable.
are in the workplace.
ENGAGE Having passions and interests for the work or industry you are employed in is fantastic. Interacting with people or organisations pertinent to your sector, or sharing articles and positive comments about your industry or field will go a long way in highlighting your interest and involvement in the sector. You don’t need to saturate your social feeds with these posts, even joining a local interest group about the industry is a good start. Employers want you to have a work life balance, but still be excited about what you do when you
POSITIVE ATTITUDE Social media is a great way to stay connected with friends, family and get their support, especially if you have had a bad day, but be aware of the negative messages you promote online. Sharing a status or posting a comment that paints your employer in a bad light will get back to them, even if your account is private. Remember, private accounts can still have posts screenshotted and shared with someone connected to your employer. If in doubt, don’t post.
Social media is more powerful than ever, so ensuring your digital presence is employer friendly is essential
ADVICE
TOP RECRUITMENT TIPS With decades of experience supporting people into employment, our consultants know recruitment inside out. Some of our long serving Connect Appointments team members share their top tips, plus what we can do for you
WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU
GARY SLOSS
JULIE MCALLISTER
SERVICE DIRECTOR
First impressions are very important and first contact will often be by phone, so find a quiet room and have a copy of your CV to hand. Also, remember to smile and stand up while talking on the phone. Doing both injects your voice with more energy and strength. When invited for your interview, be that virtually or face-to-face in the office – adhering to all social distancing and coronavirus guidelines – make sure you research the company beforehand, be punctual and dress appropriately; it’s best to over-dress than arrive too casual.
LYNDA MCLAUGHLIN SENIOR CONSULTANT
Tailor your CV to the job you are applying for by looking over the job description, details and the skills required. Make yourself an obvious fit. Don’t overthink as this will only lead to being stressed. Just relax, be yourself, make sure you stand out and at the end of your interview, always thank your interviewer – you will be amazed at how far this simple act of courtesy can go.
BRANCH MANAGER
“First impressions are very important” WILLIAM SIM DIRECTOR
Having a list of target employers allows you to conduct your job search in a more precise and purposeful manner. Stay active by commenting on, liking, and sharing content, to stand out against other LinkedIn allstars in your industry. For people to really get to know you as a professional, you’ll need to engage multiple times. You have to think like a marketer if you are to land your dream job. Recruiters are always sourcing social media for new talent. To catch their attention, you need to promote yourself.
Get tailored and specific advice for your industry by visiting our website (connectappointments.co.uk) or contact your local branch.
We’ve had a lot of people reaching out to Connect Appointments who have been in the same job for a long time; most have never worked for an agency. First of all, we talk candidates through our process from start to finish, we match a person up to the best job we can, and we discuss weekly wages – we will talk you through the process, you will not just be placed into a role. We understand this is all new for you.
BARBARA BUJALSKA REGIONAL SERVICE MANAGER We are here to help you find employment. Whatever stage you are at, from being made redundant and never worked with an agency before, to returning for temporary work: we will go into detail about the processes and explain stage by stage how we work at Connect Appointments from the interview to employment procedures.
GET CONNECTED 17
STAND OUT
FROM THE CROWD Understanding what an employer wants from a job description isn’t as hard as you might think. Using our years of recruiting experience, we reveal exactly what employers are looking for in a candidate
I
n 2021 the job market is more competitive than ever due to redundancies and job losses as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Although the market is competitive, it doesn’t mean there’s no hope of finding employment: our tips will help you to stand out to prospective employers by highlighting your industry skills and experiences.
18 GET CONNECTED
HIGHLIGHT
Your CV and cover letter are the first impression an employer will have of you, so it’s important to showcase any skills and relevant experience you have for each individual position you apply for. The buzzwords included within a job application should be utilised to pinpoint the skills that are important to a potential employer. Understanding these buzzwords will allow you to tailor the skills and experience listed on your
CV for each role you apply for. The top buzzwords for recruiters include flexibility, effective and communication skills. These phrases can be quite ambiguous, how are you effective? If you can prioritise tasks, have good organisational skills and are productive, that means you can work effectively. If you always strive to arrive ahead of time, prepare for a role when necessary and always come to work with a
ADVICE
Top tip: Always aim to be relevant to a job position you are applying for effective if you have worked in a similar role, or a role that requires the same skills as you have utilised before. If you’re target-orientated, highlight goals you have met in the past to prove this. For resilience, demonstrate how this attitude has helped in former roles in employment or even volunteering. Showcasing that you have a strong work ethic, are willing to listen and learn from your mistakes, your reliability and enthusiasm, means you’re halfway there.
EXPERIENCE
positive attitude, you can be considered as reliable. A top tip from our expert consultants: make sure you bring all of the relevant documentation to your interview with us. Do this and we will know immediately that you are prepared.
ADAPT
Alongside highlighting your key skills and qualifications on your CV, it is important to take the time to adapt each CV or covering letter that you may write. No matter where you are in your career, be that using an agency for the first time, a seasoned temporary worker or looking for employment after a job loss, your CV is your most essential tool to find a job. If you’re coming to Connect Appointments looking for work in a specific industry, research similar CV
examples for that field. This means you can see exactly what employers are looking for so you can focus on the experiences and accomplishments you know will make you stand out from the crowd.
ATTITUDE
Coming in with the right attitude and a good work ethic will see you go a long way in any role. Whether it is a temporary or permanent role, taking pride in your work is critical. Plus, showing our recruitment consultants a positive attitude will let us know how you will fit in with our clients. Similarly, instead of simply listing your personal qualities on your CV and any job applications, go further and provide examples of how these qualities were beneficial in previous work placements. This is especially
Any previous employment or volunteering experience will see you picking up a plethora of skills that you might not even realise you have. These can be split into soft skills and hard skills. Soft skills are non-industry specific attributes, for example leadership and problem solving. Different soft skills will be relevant to different jobs, but these are often transferable and important in a range of roles. Of course, it is also important to highlight any hard skills you might have picked up from previous industry experience. This could be an industry-specific qualification or certificate, technical skills and training, or machine operating licenses. It’s a good idea to list both your relevant hard and soft skills in your job application, this will showcase all of your strengths and give you a boost over other candidates. Now that you know what employers are looking for, you’re well-equipped to fill in the application form with confidence. GET CONNECTED 19
OUR SECTORS ADVICE
ON THE ROAD WITH
CONNECT DRIVER SOLUTIONS
Taking pole position in the world of recruitment for the transport industry, Connect Driver Solutions is in the fast lane of all your driver needs
GET APPY
O
Combined, the team has more than 100 years’ worth of experience in the field of transport recruitment, so your staffing solutions or job seeking needs are in expert hands.
TRUSTED Get your services and products from A to B with the company that is the driving force behind the industry. Under the directorship of Stuart Steven, CDS matches hard working staff with transport and logistics organisations across the UK.
QUALIFIED “The staff that work for our business are some of the most knowledgeable in the market,” enthuses Stuart. “They are experienced within the industry and have the most up to date training.” By providing specialist training, including Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence), CDS ensures candidates are ready to get behind the wheel. We also provide specialist training to support recruiters, ensuring that your workforce is in line with industry standards.
ur specialist driving division, Connect Drivers Solutions (CDS) is proud to be one of the leading names in the sector. Established in 2015, the team behind CDS has a plethora of experience both working directly in transport and recruiting in the field. Looking for your next career challenge or searching for reliable, talented and qualified staff, CDS has proven success in matching the best candidates to positions across the UK.
20 GET CONNECTED
Take the stress out of searching for driving and transport positions with the brand-new, state-of-the-art Connect Driver Solutions app – available to download now for Apple and Android devices. Get the latest vacancies straight to your phone (with push notifications that you can set to your preferences), meaning you will never miss out on the latest positions for LGV drivers, multi-drop drivers, forklift drivers and more, applying at the touch of a button. Select the locations you are interested in working in alongside your availability, and you will be notified when a job meeting your tailored specifications becomes available. Our dedicated driver recruitment consultants continually update the app so you can get into gear for your next position.
Discover the opportunities available at Connect Driver Solutions online, connectdriversolutions.co.uk
OUR SECTORS ADVICE
INTRODUCING
CONNECT SITE SERVICES
E
The newest division of Connect Appointments, Connect Site Services are a provider of recruitment services to the UK construction market, investing time and resources to ensure that the experience for both operatives and contractors is first-class
nsuring quality and compliance is at the forefront of what we do, Connect Site Services cover all disciplines including: labourers, joiners, painters, civil engineering disciplines, mechanical and engineering trades, bricklayers and more. We also cover both site, project and commercial management roles on a permanent or contract basis. WORKING WITH US The team at Connect Site Services have years of experience recruiting in the fast-paced UK construction market and understand the issues at the heart of the industry. From labour shortages to lack of training and investment in the next generation, we’re addressing these industry issues by offering sustainable employment for our operatives, committed to supporting our candidates to remain employed.
We also work closely with our compliance manager to ensure we’re not only providing a legally compliant service, but ensuring we deliver first-class solutions to our clients and operatives alike. A professional, honest and ethical approach means that we have already worked with a number of blue-chip clients in the sector. By demonstrating a customer-focused and resultsorientated attitude, we have become their go to agency. WHY USE US? At Connect Site Services, we offer a bespoke service tailored to your specific needs. You will see our team as an extension of your already thriving business, rather than an external company – we are all working towards the same end goal.
We are committed to cost effective, high quality recruitment solutions and ensure we understand our clients’ businesses, allowing us to source the best possible candidate for your needs. Being a single point of contact with local offices across the UK and a wealth of experience, we have total understanding of the end-to-end recruitment process, challenges, and opportunities. We ensure candidates have the same values, ambitions and cultural fit to your company – not to mention, that they are skilled to the highest industry level. Rewarding site operatives for their hard work on-site with incentives and repeat work, our candidates are loyal and diligent. Together we can work to meet your staffing needs.
To find out more about how Connect Site Services could support you, visit www.connectappointments.co.uk or call 01563 598071.
TESTIMONIALS
With a friendly, approachable, professional team of specialist consultants, we ensure the highest possible level of service for employers and great prospects for jobseekers. See what some of our clients and candidates have to say
Liaising with recruitment consultants at Connect Appointments has always been pleasant. Everyone I have worked with has been incredibly helpful, and on the rare occasion concerns or queries have arisen on my end, the team deal with everything in a timely and professional manner. I am happy to continue working with Connect Appointments for future job opportunities.
METPRO The service that Connect Appointments Technical Team supplied to support our permanent recruitment drive for staff was excellent. In the first instance visiting the site to learn the culture and fit of the staff required, alongside the technical capabilities that potential candidates for our business would need. Being a niche industry, Connect Appointments’ support allowed us to recruit eight new members of staff promptly.
OCHIL FUDGE PANTRY Connect Appointments definitely raise the bar; having a national reach gives them the scale and infrastructure, but with regional offices they interact well with local business and therefore supply local people. Connect took the time to scope out our business, see what type of people we needed and then interviewed candidates with the appropriate experience. Of course, they can supply a quick fix but our key requirement was for consistency and quality. Connect Appointments achieved that very well, so much so that we later employed a few of those who were originally temporary workers. A very supportive and easy to work with company, we highly recommend them.
Having worked with Connect Site Services for a significant period of time, the service has always been friendly and professional. Also, I know that my salary will always be paid on time.
SCOBIE JUNOR After making initial contact with the team, I was fortunate enough to be offered a temporary position. The service was fast and friendly, with continued contact, good pay and I know I am guaranteed hours every week.
Connect Appointments have been a vital support to Scobie Junor and to our manufacturing and warehouse teams. For the last two years they have gone above and beyond to meet our staffing requirements, most often without a great deal of notice. They are by far the best recruitment agency for supplying temporary staff. It’s my opinion no other agency can beat them on the service they provide.
OUR PEOPLE
ISS UK I am appreciative for the team at Connect Appointments for supplying ISS UK with the staff we required, with such a quick turnaround. Whilst finding our requirements have changed and the need to supply touchpoint cleaning throughout operational hours at key sites due to the pandemic, Connect Appointments has always been close to hand supplying us with what is required, with a professional touch and a fantastic level of customer service. Thank you for all your help.
For anyone looking for temporary work, I cannot recommend Connect Driver Solutions highly enough.
VEOLIA We have been using Connect Driver Solutions for over two years now for both driver and operative cover and the service we receive is fantastic. The team are in regular contact to plan for the week ahead and are always on hand to deal with last minute requirements, which occur often in this type of industry. We have a great rapport with the team at Connect Driver Solutions as well as the drivers that are provided to us, some of whom have now been working with us for a number of years.
“No other agency can beat Connect Appointments on the service they provide”
GLENDALE TRANSPORT UK LTD Having used Connect Driver Solutions for a number of years, we find the team honest, trustworthy and always willing to help. Even on the weekend or out of hours, the team are answering any queries and trying their very best to cater for all our needs. Connect Driver Solutions is a fantastic recruitment agency.
NICHOL MCKAY The Technical and Engineering team at Connect Appointments have supported our business for a number of years now with a flexible staffing solution for our shop floor. Our requirements for welding and engineering staff flex up and down, which is where the technical recruitment team at Connect Appointments step in, with a skilled and productive contingent work force for us to supplement our own staff. Their professionalism and turnaround in supplying staff is exceptional.
Working in the cleaning sector for Connect Appointments, not only have I enjoyed my time at my temporary placement, but the communication from the recruitment consultants is always clear and concise.
Get connected with the team at Connect Appointments by visiting, www.connectappointments.co.uk
OUR SERVICES
CONNECT CREDENTIALS Connect Appointments is committed to ensuring we meet the highest industry certification and compliance accreditations. Don’t just take our word for it, our credentials speak for themselves
C
ommitted to ensuring we operate to the highest standard and provide the best services for both our clients and candidates, we have partnered with a range of industry leaders.
SEDEX
Working across multiple sectors in labour, we recognise that our practise reflects on our clients’ reputation and position in the goods supply chain. As a result, we take our clients’ operational standards extremely seriously and we consider them as highly as our own. Our partnership with Sedex enables us at Connect Appointments to manage and minimise risks, making informed decisions to improve business performance surrounding labour rights, health and safety, and the environment. The Sedex membership is a pledge to our clients to continuously assess our standards, to ensure full transparency and integrity.
GANGMASTERS AND LABOUR ABUSE AUTHORITY (GLAA)
Ensuring we protect candidates from exploitation in the agriculture, shellfish, food and drink industries, we are members of the Gangmasters And Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) scheme. It is a legal requirement to be in possession of a GLAA license. This accreditation allows us to provide
candidates into the aforementioned sectors. Our license ensures our candidates are protected from mistreatment in the workplace, which is a priority for Connect Appointments. Similarly, our candidates exemplify the work we do, and we’re committed to ensuring everyone using our services is treated fairly, and receive the pay and working conditions they deserve.
RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT CONFEDERATION (REC)
REC is a representation body for the recruitment sector, with a network of over 3,500 members. Being part of REC enables us to access the latest professional support services regarding employee relations, employment law, immigration, Brexit and labour market trends. Our membership is our promise to clients to deliver the right people for their businesses and offer services of the highest quality, marked by professionalism and care.
We always operate to the highest standard
STRONGER TOGETHER
Stronger Together is a business-led co-operative, working with the GLAA and various charities to identify and tackle human exploitation. Some of our candidates are migrant workers – the group most vulnerable to exploitation – and so we ensure our staff are well-educated to understand the risks, incorporating exploitation safeguarding into our recruitment and ongoing labour co-ordination. We treat the safety of our candidates with the highest importance, so we complete an annual accreditation process and are regularly audited by our clients to ensure we maintain high standards of exploitation risk management. Connect Appointments has always been, and continues to be, obligated to ensuring we provide our clients and candidates with services that protect their rights, their businesses and their wellbeing.
Further information on our accreditations is available by visiting our website, www. connectappointments.co.uk/cm/ about-us/accreditations
AFTER YOUR NEXT BIG CHALLENGE? MAKE THE LEAP WITH CONNECT APPOINTMENTS Master your next career switch and register with Connect Appointments. Never miss out on the latest vacancies, upload your CV to the website today. connectappointments.co.uk
INDUSTRIAL
DRIVING
ENGINEERING HR TECHNICAL
FOOD AND DRINK INDUSTRY
LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN
IT CONSTRUCTION HOSPITALITY
Dedicated and professional, our recruitment consultants know recruitment inside out. Looking for your next career move or in need of staffing solutions for your business, get connected with Connect Appointments. We’ll do the rest.
connectappointments.co.uk
