When we’re young, we all grow up dreaming of our perfect job – usually a footballer, an astronaut, singer or actor – you get the drift!

But for every one of us that makes it, thousands don’t and we have to look for something else to do – not easy when it’s likely that you’re suffering the disappointment of not being lucky enough in your preferred job.

When you break down the numbers, many people spend more time at work than with their families or even asleep, so it’s crucial for a healthy work life balance and general happiness to enjoy what you do.

Given recent events, where very famous, affluent people have been taken ill or sadly passed away, it all goes to show that no-one is immune from fate playing it’s final hand.

Which got us thinking, it doesn’t matter who you are, what you do or what you have, life can be far too short, so it’s imperative that you enjoy your life as much as possible whilst you can, and work is a huge part of that.

So if you’re in a job that doesn’t fulfil you, then do something about it. Sure, you might need to study outside of work to get extra qualifications, or work harder in your current role to get that promotion you want, but it’ll be worth it.

Because life is too short not to be in a job you love!

If you are looking for a new role or advice to take your career into orbit, please get in touch on with us on 01235 462 900 or email us at info@selective-group.co.uk.

1. What not to do in a job interview
2. We’re Not Sure How to Leave the EU, But Here’s How to Leave your Current Employer
3. Four tips to stay at the top of your career from Conor McGregor
4. Video Interviews, everything you need to know now!

After spending hours perfecting your cover letter and tweaking your CV, you finally have an interview for your dream job!

Unless your Donald Trump, you have to be qualified for the role in hand and showcase your skills and experience.

You may have read our previous blog on why first impressions matter, but there’s much more to it!  So below, we take a look at the key things not to do in a job interview:

Don’t be late

Did your car break down or did the bus not show up? If you’re late for an interview it doesn’t really matter why and the interviewers may write you off before you’ve even spoken. Leave with plenty of time, plan your route and aim to show up 15 minutes early. It’s better to be early than late!

Don’t fidget or slouch

Having good body language and posture will go a long way in creating a good first impression. Don’t slouch when you sit down and avoid fidgeting as this will make you appear nervous and lacking in confidence. How can you expect an employer to believe in your abilities when you don’t believe in yourself?

Don’t dress inappropriately

You may be excited to wear your new dress, but if it’s not appropriate for an interview, you probably shouldn’t wear it. Whilst many workplaces will not require you to wear full business wear into the office every day when it comes to interviews, proper business attire is expected! So even if you are interviewing for a warehouse role, you still need to look the part!

Don’t criticise
Although you may not be happy in your current job, it’s important not to appear bitter or resentful. Avoid bad mouthing your current or previous employers during a job interview. Interviewees who are quick to share information about the internal goings-on within their current company will appear indiscreet and disloyal – neither of which will help you secure a new job!

Combining our advice with a good dose of common sense will help you make a great first impression and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

If you are looking for a new role or advice, please get in touch on with us on 01235 462 900 or email us at info@selective-group.co.uk.

We all know that saying goodbye is a difficult thing, especially for Theresa May and the European Union!

Leaving your job is also a difficult process, something that needs to be handled carefully to ensure there is no bad blood.

There are many reasons that people find this uncomfortable, such as not knowing how their employer will react, fear of confrontation and appearing disloyal. What is important throughout is to remember why you are leaving and plan your exit carefully.

We take a look at the key things that you should bare in mind when planning your resignation:

The Exit Strategy

The Chequers Deal hasn’t gone to plan and we may even delay our departure from the EU. However, when leaving your employer it’s important to make a clear plan and stick to it.

First things first, find out what your notice period is and plan accordingly. It may be tempting to take an extended notice period if they ask nicely, but think carefully about what’s best for you.

The next step is to write your letter of resignation – but don’t worry, you won’t have to carefully craft a well-written document, as there are many templates available online.

Handing in your Notice

Handing in your notice can be uncomfortable for both you and your employer – but not as uncomfortable as May’s dancing! Can anything be?

It’s important to be clear and explain your reasons well, giving genuine feedback. Before going into the meeting, it’s best to reflect on why you’re leaving so you can give a full picture.

Many of us have had a hot head of a boss! It’s also important to keep your cool and remain professional – if things do get heated.

Counter Offer

A counter offer is a dangerous game and something that needs to be handled with care. While a new offer must seem attractive, it’s important to remember why you wanted to leave in the first place.

If your present employer offers you a pay rise or a promotion in order to keep you, should you be flattered? Not always!

If these things were always available, why are they only being offered now that you want to leave? Will this short-term solution fix the reasons that made you want to leave? Probably not. Think about your future at the company, can you see yourself there long-term or will this offer only delay the inevitable?

Exit Interview
You may be invited to an exit interview with your current employer. Do not mistake this for an opportunity to vent or rant about what has irritated you during your time with them. You still need to remain professional and polite at all times.

An exit interview is to help the company understand why you are leaving, why you have taken another offer and for them to look internally for ways to rectify this in the future.

Don’t burn any bridges as you might run into some of your colleagues or managers in the future. Do your best to make sure you preserve the relationships you’ve built as you may come into contact again. 

If you are looking for a new role or advice, please get in touch on with us on 01235 462 900 or email us at info@selective-group.co.uk.

Video interviews are growing in popularity, as they save time and costs for both candidate and employer, but would you know how to impress on camera?

Here at Selective Group we have created a handy checklist to help guide you through the process, so that you can ensure that you become a pro and nab the job of your dreams!

1. Prepare

Everyone knows that it is sensible to prepare for an interview, so you are not going into it like one of the three blind mice. Take a look at the job description and think of some questions to ask. It is also probably a good idea to research the company to get a good idea of what you are getting into.

2. Practice

Practice what you are roughly going to say. To avoid being camera shy either record yourself answering questions or ask a friend to interview you, so that you can get all the practice you need!

3. Wifi

Imagine you are all set, have prepared for the interview and then the poor connection sign pops up and the interview is ruined. Ensure that you have a good, strong connection before your interview. Close all other tabs down, to avoid a slow internet connection and try not to use a phone or tablet for better quality.

4. Background

The last thing you want is your freshly cleaned washing hanging up in the background for all to see, especially in an interview. Make sure that you set yourself up against a clear background with a neutral background as this gives the best results!

5. Lighting

Good lighting is a must. You want to make sure that you can be clearly seen by the interviewer. Natural lighting is probably best, but if not available make sure you have lights on. Do a light test before, to ensure that you nail it!

6. Camera

Positioning is important. You don’t want to be too far away from the camera and you don’t want to be so close that you can see your nose hairs. Have a happy medium and make sure that you are central to the camera!

7. Clothing

Even though you are in the comfort of your own home, it doesn’t mean you can sit there in your loungewear. Make sure that you dress smartly, like you would for a normal face to face interview. Stay away from crazy patterns…you don’t want to distract from yourself.

8. Where to look

Even though you are not in the same room it is important to make eye contact! Try to avoid staring around your room but try and engage the interviewer. Also keep hand gestures at a minimum, as this can be distracting.

9. Engage

Although it may be easy to forget that you are actually in an interview due to your surroundings, remain positive and enthusiastic about the job and the interview. Be as professional as you can and build a good rapport with your interviewer.

10. Farewell

At the end of an interview it is always important to ask several questions, this could include asking something about the next stages of the interview. This shows that you are interested in the job and that you have taken time out to think of some relevant questions. Don’t forget to thank them for their time…manners go a long way!

We wish you the best of luck with your video interview and hope you can take these tips with you for life!

If your having trouble finding the right job for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 01235 462 900 or email us at info@selective-group.co.uk.

Unless you’ve been hiding under rock, you will have seen that Conor McGregor was unexpectedly defeated in his most recent fight against Khabib.

Just like athletes, the skills and requirements of professionals are constantly changing. So maybe steak salad isn’t the ‘in meal’ anymore? Neither is Microsoft 1999. It’s important to prepare for the unexpected in any profession to make sure you’re at the top of your game.

McGregor loves to rile up the competition and draw out their worst qualities. So maybe you need to confront yourself (just without the dramatics). The way to ensure you’re the top candidate and good at what you do is to evaluate your strengths and fill in the blanks. Below, we take a look at the four key ways to prepare for the unexpected and set you apart from the competition.

1. Care about your career plan

The key way to making sure you get the most out of your career is to understand your long-term plan to ensure you are on track. This may change over time, as your career aspirations at 18 may be to become a YouTube sensation – whereas 25 year old you may look for something more concrete.

Think about your end goal and take the steps needed to reach it. While McGregor’s plan involved a lot of exercise yours may take a different route, with the latest courses and qualifications on the market.

2. Attend the weigh-in  

Even if you have had a cracking year, it’s important to undertake regular reviews. Though it’s time-consuming and may be the last thing on your to-do list, it’s key to keeping yourself on track.

It also forces you to evaluate your current role, future career path and points of improvement – so there will be no unexpected losses in the ring!

3. Keep track of your accomplishments

If you have tried to build a CV or LinkedIn profile recently, you’ll understand how difficult it can be to articulate your accomplishments. You know you’re the best in the organisation – but how do you communicate that to others without a lightweight belt?  

Every time you lead a project, deliver a great result, or receive a complimentary email, store it. Keep a record or update your CV. That way, when you need that information it will be easy to find.

4. Create your personal brand

It’s obvious that Conor McGregor knows how to create a personal brand – but this is no longer just a requirement for celebs.

Most jobs can now be applied to using your LinkedIn profile so it’s important to make sure it is up-to-date. Even if you’re not actively looking for a new role, you may be headhunted for your dream job if you have a credible social presence with your latest roles and achievements.
 

If you are looking for a new role to push you to the top of your game, please get in touch on with us on 01235 462 900 or email us at info@selective-group.co.uk.