Girls Night Out – Hales Bury St Edmunds are raising money for St Nicholas Hospice

The girls at Hales Group Bury St Edmunds branch are raising money to support St Nicholas Hospice by taking part in “Girls Night Out“ on Saturday 4th March.

Charlotte Romer, Hales Managing Consultant, commented: “We are walking in memory of our family and friends that have been supported by St Nicholas Hospice. This cause is very important and close to our hearts.“

The Girls Night Out takes place every year, and allows people to walk in memory of their loved ones. Starting at 6pm, everyone will meet in Bury St Edmunds, ready in their pyjamas and bunny ears to walk between 6-11.2 miles.

To donate, please click here.

All money raised will go to St Nicholas Hospice Care within the communities of West Suffolk and Thetford. For more information visit www.stnicholashospice.org.uk

Hales Group Charity Work

Hales Group are committed to working with charities to give something back, and have recently raised money for MIND, Dog’s Trust, EACH, Cancer Research, and Macmillan Cancer Support

We focus on fundraising efforts that can go towards making a difference to communities and the individuals within them. View our previous charity events here.

National Apprenticeship Week: From Apprentice to Managing Consultant, Megan’s Success Story at Hales Group  

National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of apprentices and their impact on businesses. At Hales Group, we are proud to support apprentices and help them grow in their careers.  

Today, we would like to share the success story of Megan, who joined Hales Group in November 2014 as an Apprentice and is now a Managing Consultant for the Diss branch.  

“I came to Hales Group after leaving Sixth Form looking for a full time position. I interviewed for a few of their clients alongside interviewing for Hales Group directly. They were able to offer me a Recruitment Resourcer Apprenticeship working in the Diss office.“

Megan’s Journey

Throughout her apprenticeship, Megan was supported by her colleagues and managers, who provided her with training, guidance and feedback. She was given opportunities to work on various projects and assignments, which helped her to develop her skills. Megan also gained valuable experience in client relations, candidate sourcing, and interview preparation.  

“I chose to do an Apprenticeship because this is my first full time position since leaving Sixth Form. It was an opportunity for me to learn the industry and learn about the role on the job, with all the support provided by Hales Group.”

After completing her apprenticeship, Megan was offered a promotion to Recruitment Consultant. She continued to work hard and to demonstrate her abilities and commitment, which led to several promotions and recognition awards. Today, she is a Managing Consultant for the Diss branch, responsible for leading a team of consultants and driving business growth.  

Megan’s success story is a great example of the value and impact of apprenticeships on both individuals and businesses. It shows how apprentices can acquire the skills and experience they need to succeed in their careers, and how companies can benefit from their talent, enthusiasm and potential. 

National Apprenticeship Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and support apprentices like Megan, and to encourage more young people to pursue a rewarding career in the recruitment industry. 

Want to start your recruitment career with Hales Group? Contact Kloe at kloe.mitchell@halesgroup.co.uk to find out more about our latest vacancies or click here to contact your local branch.

Watch: Megan’s Apprenticeship Story

Find a job you love this Valentine’s Day

Looking to find a job you love this Valentine’s? Hales are here to help!

Finding the right career match can bring you fulfilment and a sense of belonging. However, just like dating, the process of finding a job you love can be a little overwhelming.

But don’t worry, our experienced Consultants are at the ready to help you navigate the job market and find your perfect match. 

Here are some job search tips to help you land your dream job: 

Make a great first impression 

Just like a dating profile, your CV and LinkedIn profile are the first things a potential employer will see. Make sure they’re tailored to the role you’re applying for, professional, and highlight your skills and qualifications. For tips on how to write a champion CV, click here. 

Network, network, network. 

Just like meeting new people can lead to a romantic connection, connecting with others in your industry can lead to new job opportunities. Attend networking events (virtual or in-person), join professional associations, and reach out to friends and colleagues for recommendations. Follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook.

Be open to new opportunities. 

Sometimes the best job opportunity comes from the least expected place. Be open-minded and don’t limit yourself to just one type of job or industry. 

Show your enthusiasm. 

Employers want to see that you’re passionate about the job and the company. Make sure to research the company before your interview and come prepared with thoughtful questions and ideas. 

Seek guidance 

Like a friend or a relationship coach can help you navigate the dating world, a recruitment agency can help you navigate the job market. Our team of Consultants will work with you to understand your skills, experiences, and career goals and connect you with companies that are a great match for you. So, why not register with Hales and book your Career MOT today?!

More than just recruitment 

Hales are not just in the business of matching people with jobs they love. We’re more than just recruitment.

Jobs near me 

Looking to find a job you love? Register with Hales today. Click here to contact your local branch or view our latest job opportunities here.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at Hales!

Hales Managing Consultant raised over £400 for Mind Charity

Hales Managing Consultant, Emma Eaglen, has successfully completed the Move For Mind challenge in January, and raised a total of £436 for Mind.

Emma shared, “I’m not the most “active” person so taking on this challenge was quite a big thing for me but wow, I’m so pleased I did.”

“I am buzzing to have completed it and just so grateful for the support and generous donations. They really are a fantastic charity and was worth every minute of exercise“, she continued.

If you’re living with a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is, having access to the right information is vital. Mind Charity are there to fight mental health and support you in so many ways.

To see how they can help, visit www.mind.org.uk.

Hales Group Charity Work

Hales Group are committed to working with charities to give something back, and have recently raised money for MIND, Dog’s Trust, EACH, Cancer Research, and Macmillan Cancer Support

We focus on fundraising efforts that can go towards making a difference to communities and the individuals within them. View our previous charity events here.

Hales Managing Consultant takes on the challenge to Move For Mind

Hales Group Managing Consultant Emma Eaglen has taken the challenge to Move For Mind.

Emma commented: “I decided to challenge myself this month and support a charity that I personally think are amazing”.

Emma is raising money and awareness in the fight for better mental health by completing 31 minutes of activity for 31 days in January. 

In 3 years Move for Mind has almost raised £1million in the fight for better mental health. But access to mental health support is still too often determined by where we live or who we are. At Mind, were dedicated to ending this injustice, and supporting people disproportionately affected by mental health issues. 

The cost-of-living crisis is affecting all of us. Thats why Mind is determined to do more than ever before to help the people struggling the most. Poverty and mental health problems have a 2-way link. It’s a link that needs to be broken and why your generosity now is more important than ever. 

If you’re living with a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is, having access to the right information is vital. Mind Charity are there to fight mental health and support you in so many ways. To see how they can help visit www.mind.org.uk  

If you would like to support Emma, please click here to donate. 

Common Recruitment Agency Myths Busted

For job seekers, a recruitment agency is often seen as a valuable job resource, helping them find employment opportunities. However there are also many misconceptions surrounding the use of staffing agencies.

In this blog we’ll explore some of the most common myths about recruitment agencies.

Myth #1: Recruitment agencies only work with temporary or low-skilled positions

False! While many recruitment agencies specialise in temporary or contract work, they also work with companies across other industries. Many agencies have clients who are looking to fill permanent, full-time positions, including managerial and executive roles.

Myth #2: Working with a recruitment agency means you’re not as valuable to an employer

This is not true. Many employers use recruitment agencies to help them find the best candidates for their open positions. Working with a staffing agency does not make you any less valuable to an employer.

Myth #3: You have to pay to register with recruitment agencies

As a candidate, you should never have to pay to work with a recruitment agency. These agencies are paid by the employer to find candidates for their open positions.

Myth #4: Recruitment agencies only care about making a placement and will try to fit you into any job

It is true that recruitment agencies make their money by placing candidates in jobs however, they should also be concerned with finding the right fit for both the candidate and the employer. A good staffing agency will take the time to understand your skills, experience, and career goals and only present you with opportunities that align with those factors.

Myth #5: Working with a recruitment agency means you’ll have less control on your job search

False! While recruitment agencies will handle some aspects of the job search, you still have control over which job opportunities you pursue and which ones you don’t. It is important to communicate with the recruitment agency and let them know what you are and are not interested in.

Jobs near me

Looking for job opportunities near you? Contact your local Hales branch today or click here to view our latest jobs.

New year, new job. Reasons to begin your job search now

New year, new job? The new year is fast approaching and soon we will say goodbye to 2023, and hello to 2024.

Maybe you have a New Year’s resolution to find your dream job in 2024? If so, now is the perfect time to begin your job search so you can get ahead of the competition.

Don’t sit around waiting for opportunities to come to you! 

Stay ahead of the competition  

Applying to jobs before the New Year will enable you to stay ahead of the competition. While others are winding down for the holidays, you can show your motivation and commitment by powering on.

Show your dedication while applying for jobs.  

Another benefit of applying early is that you will stand out from the crowd. Rather than following other people’s lead, applying early can help you catch future employers’ eyes.   

Temporary and permanent roles  

During the festive period, many companies offer temporary and seasonal work and as the year comes to an end, many of those agency staff will be moving on to different employment. This is a great window of opportunity for you to find a role within the industry you desire.  

While you are doing your job search, it is also important to consider applying for temporary work. Although you may only want a permanent position, temporary positions can be a great way to build your resume and develop your employability skills.

Temporary positions can offer you experience in many industries, flexible hours, great rates of pay, and help minimise any employment gaps you might have. You may also be given the opportunity to extend your contract, or even have the option to make the role permanent.

Work hard and put in the effort to prove to yourself and your future employer that you are worthy of staying there.  

If you need any advice with your job search and want to find your perfect new role in 2024, you can book a Career MOT with one of our Consultants who can discuss the following: 

• Your career history 
• CV improvement advice 
• Your key skills and how we can help with training and assessments 
• Which roles and sectors may be well suited to you 
• Interview tips and techniques  
• Salary benchmarking 
• Updates on local employment opportunities 

So, if your New Year’s resolution is to find a new job in 2024, why delay? Start applying today and have the chance to start your new year with a new job!

Click here to find out more about our latest job opportunities.

Earn Some Extra Cash Before Christmas

Christmas celebrations are set to be different this year as the cost of living crisis sees millions of households cut back on unnecessary expenses.

Whether you’re looking to earn extra cash to cover the growing cost of living, or save money for Christmas, a seasonal or temporary job could be the answer.

Flexible Hours

Seasonal or temporary job isn’t just about making extra money and getting experience; it’s also flexible. You can work shifts at most temporary jobs, so you can make them fit into your busy schedule.

Good rates of pay

Companies in sectors like manufacturing, logistics and warehousing usually offer better rates of pay than minimum wage, and some offer considerably more. Most of the time, overtime and bonuses are options, so you can end up earning a lot more money in a short period of time. There is also a possibility of getting double pay or time and half for working Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

Varied roles

Regardless of your skills and experience, there is a seasonal or temporary job that is perfect for you. The most common temporary roles that we have here at Hales Group are: Warehouse Operative, Forklift Driver, Administrator, and Production Operative. To find out more about our latest seasonal or temporary jobs, visit www.halesjobs.co.uk or email jobs@halesgroup.co.uk

Is hybrid working here to stay?

The CIPD is urging employers to continue to develop and set new ways of working and ensure all workers, regardless of where they work, are treated and rewarded fairly and consistently.

New data from the CIPD shows that more than three-quarters of businesses have embraced hybrid working through a mix of formal and informal arrangements. However, employers are torn over whether the move to new ways of working will last or if organisations will go back to pre-pandemic ways of working. In response, the CIPD is urging employers to seize the moment to develop and embed new ways of working that will ultimately benefit organisations and their people.

The survey of over 1000 senior decision makers by the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, found that the bulk of employers who can offer hybrid working – a mix of workplace and home working – are embracing it.

More than three-quarters of respondents’ organisations (78%) allow hybrid working, through either formal or informal arrangements. Just 8% don’t, and 13% said it wasn’t generally applicable for their job or sector.

• Over half of respondents (54%) expect hybrid workers to be in the office for a minimum number of days either each week (43%) or each month (12%).
• Two fifths (44%) said there were no minimum expectations to come in.
• (34%), or three days (32%).
• 59% of senior decision makers agreed business leaders and managers in their organisations were more likely to trust people to work from home and be productive following the pandemic, compared to before COVID-19.

While the research suggests that hybrid working is working well in many organisations, some challenges or resistance are being felt.

Ben Willmott, Head of Public Policy at the CIPD said: “The post-Covid future of work is still undecided. Now’s the time for employers to engage with their people and continue to refine and embed new ways of working that suit both the organisation and the workforce. Developing effective hybrid working arrangements can help employers attract and retain a more diverse workforce while enhancing employee wellbeing, work-life balance and productivity.”

Hybrid working won’t suit everyone or be possible for many workers, so employers must ensure there is consistency and fairness in how they manage, reward and promote those who can work from home and those who attend the workplace every day.

How to support employees dealing with loneliness

Loneliness is a hugely significant topic when talking about health and wellbeing because in the UK, nine million people are suffering from loneliness. So how can it impact a business and how can you support employees who are suffering from it?

According to the charity Campaign to End Loneliness, loneliness can be seen as one of the biggest health concerns we encounter. The symptoms of loneliness can include emotional withdrawal, feelings of self-doubt and insecurity, anxiety, sleep disturbances and depression.

Loneliness bears significant financial risks for businesses. One estimate puts the cost to businesses at £2.5 billion every year. Staff turnover accounts for £1.6 billion (64 per cent) of this, while lower productivity carries costs of £665 million (26 per cent.) People experiencing loneliness can feel disengaged and disconnected from their work and colleagues. This can cause them to become emotionally detached from the business.

Managers and HR teams should create space for employees to talk about their wellbeing by checking in regularly, even if it’s an informal conversation, as these can help enable employees feel more comfortable about opening up.

People with social connections at work tend to be more engaged and loyal employees because these relationships help to build a company culture based on trust and respect.

EAPs also provide around-the-clock confidential support for a wide range of problems employees might be facing. Employees can get advice, information, and counselling for anything from mental health, relationship problems and stress issues to childcare, debt, and legal worries.

Signposting means making people aware of what support may be available to them. Charities that can support lonely people include:

• Mind and The Samaritans, which both have helplines providing non-judgemental support and advice
• The Mix, which supports people aged 13-25
• The Silver Line and Age UK which supports older people
• WAY and other specific charities that can help people with grief and bereavement

Hales Group are proud to offer all of our staff, including our Temporary Workforce, access to our 24hr Employee Assistance Helpline.

#morethanjustrecruitment