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As we approach the end of 2024, our latest LinkedIn poll sought to uncover the primary professional goals of our network for the upcoming year. The responses we received provide a clear indication of shifting priorities in the modern workplace as we head into 2025. An overwhelming 64% of respondents identified 'Better Work/Life Balance' as their top professional goal for the new year. This significant majority underscores a growing trend among professionals prioritising their well-being and personal time equally with their career ambitions. It reflects a broader movement towards achieving a healthier balance between professional responsibilities and personal life, emphasising the importance of mental health and overall life satisfaction. 'Career Advancement' still remains a priority for many, with 21% of the votes, showing that climbing the professional ladder continues to be important but perhaps balanced with a desire for quality-of-life improvements. Surprisingly, both 'Skill Development' and 'Networking' received the same level of focus, each garnering 7% of the vote this month. This suggests that while continuing education and expanding professional connections are still valued, they may currently take a back seat to more pressing concerns related to personal well-being and career progression. These poll results highlight a critical shift in professional goals as we move into 2025, with a notable emphasis on achieving a sustainable work/life balance. This insight is invaluable for employers and HR professionals as they plan support systems and corporate cultures that align with the evolving needs of today’s workforce.

Interviews are often the most nerve wracking part of the job seeking process and whilst you might be happy that you got the interview, you might wonder if it went as well as you’d hoped. This is a natural reaction to something as important as your career but there are several key signs that suggest your interview was a success, let’s take a look at them. Positive Body Language and Engagement We can usually tell when we get on well with someone and you can also read subtle signs in the interviewers body language which could mean that you left a good impression. Were they leaning forward, engaging with you and seeming interested in what you had to say? Did they respond enthusiastically to your answers? These are all good signs. The Interview Takes Longer Than Expected Interviews are typically structured to a strict timeframe to allow the interviewer to see multiple people and find the best candidate for the job. If your interview has gone over the allotted time but it doesn’t feel rushed, this is a really good sign and means that the company is open to learning more about you and sees potential. Natural Conversations If you have built up a natural rapport with your interviewer and the interview doesn’t seem like a basic question and answer session, this bodes well. If the interviewer also shares information about the company culture, team and future plans with you at this stage, it’s a sign they see you becoming part of their company. Next Steps Discussion If the employer takes the time to explain what the next steps of the process are going to be during your interview, asks about your availability for further stages or lets you know about their onboarding process, these are all good indicators that you are being strongly considered for the role. Introduction and Highlighting the Benefits Another sign that your interview has gone well is if your interviewer introduces you to other team members or key decision makers during the course of your interview. This shows that they personally have deemed you a good fit for the role and could be looking for a second opinion before they make a hiring decision. The interviewer could also begin to highlight the benefits of you working for their organisation, they might mention the ‘perks’ of working for the company, any career progression opportunities or just that it’s a great place to work. They could be trying to sell you the role within the company which often means they think you are a strong candidate.  Whilst the above points aren’t a guaranteed measure of success, they are really encouraging signs that your interview has gone well and that you have made a good impression on the company. If you are currently navigating the job market and need some professional support and guidance, we can help, contact us for advice and information on our current vacancies today.

In our November LinkedIn poll, we explored what factors are most valued by employees for their company’s year-end celebrations. As we wrap up another year, understanding these preferences can help organisations plan events that genuinely resonate with their teams and enhance company morale. The results clearly highlight 'Recognition / Awards' as the leading priority, with 44% of respondents indicating that acknowledging individual and team achievements is the most important aspect of year-end celebrations. This underscores a significant trend: employees value recognition of their hard work and contributions over the course of the year, seeing it not just as a reward but as essential to their satisfaction and motivation. ‘Food’ emerged as the second most crucial element, garnering 33% of the vote. Good food can turn any gathering into a memorable event, suggesting that catering choices play a pivotal role in the overall enjoyment and atmosphere of corporate events. ‘Venue’ was also a notable factor, with 22% of participants considering it important. The setting of a celebration can deeply influence the event’s ambiance and how the festivities are perceived and enjoyed by the staff. Interestingly, 'Entertainment' received no votes, indicating that while enjoyable, entertainment might not be a priority for employees when compared to other aspects like recognition, food, and venue. This could suggest a shift in what employees consider valuable at corporate events, with a stronger emphasis on elements that reflect direct appreciation and tangible rewards. These insights are invaluable for any company looking to boost employee morale and retention through meaningful end-of-year celebrations. By focusing more on recognition and awards, companies can not only make these events more impactful but also reinforce a culture of appreciation that resonates throughout the year.

White fonting is a practice used on a CV where a job applicant includes extra phrases or keywords in white text which is invisible to a human reading the CV but readable by Applicant Tracking System software, otherwise known as an ATS. These keywords usually relate to job titles, certain skills or experience which the candidate doesn’t possess but match with what the company software is primed to look for. This might seem like a clever tactic but white fonting can actually harm your job prospects and could even damage your professional reputation. Here are some reasons why it’s wise to avoid white fonting on your CV and our top tips on how to land your ideal job without using it. It’s Considered Dishonest White fonting is professionally viewed as deceptive to a prospective employer and whilst it might help you bypass the initial stages of a job application, hiring managers will spot inconsistencies between your CV and the information you provide in your interview and reference checks. Employers could also question your honesty and integrity which will quickly remove you from the running. Technology is Getting Smarter Technology is always evolving and what you might get away with today could be different tomorrow. Many systems are now being programmed to spot white fonting and other tactics, causing you to be flagged before you even get to talk to a human being at interview stage. Irrelevant Matches White fonting often involves elaborating on skills and experiences you don’t have so whilst this might get you through the initial screening, you could end up being considered for roles that don’t match your real-life skills and experience. This potentially wastes your own time as well as the recruiter’s and could make getting through an interview difficult for you.  Reputation Damage Even if white fonting gets you through the first stages of the application process and the ATS software, it could still come back to bite you at a later stage. Employers could begin to question your skills or qualifications when it becomes apparent that you can’t carry out the claims made on your CV. Recruiters in your area could also work closely with each other so your reputation could precede you. With all this in mind, we have put together some much better ways to get noticed on your job applications. Use Relevant Keywords Tailor your CV to match the job description, but only use terms that genuinely reflect your experience. The ATS software will still recognise these keywords if they are presented naturally within the content and will significantly improve your chances of getting an interview with the employer. Showcase Transferable Skills We always encourage that you highlight any transferable skills you have, even if you don’t meet all the listed skill criteria in the job advertisement. Use your genuine achievements to demonstrate how you can bring high value and integrity to the company. Customise Your CV to Each Application Always tailor your CV to each individual job application and though this might take more time initially, it’s a tried and tested method and will show that you have thoughtfully considered how you will be an asset to the company and how you see yourself fitting into the role. Whilst white fonting might seem like a harmless shortcut to your ideal job, it’s a risky move. Authenticity and trust are key in the job market so always stay true to yourself. If you need some support in finding and applying for a job, our expert team can help you to stand out and support you every step of the way. Contact us here .

This month, we sought to understand what keeps employees committed to their workplaces. Through our monthly LinkedIn poll, we explored the various factors that influence employee retention, an aspect crucial for organisational stability and success. The poll revealed that 'Work-Life Balance' is the predominant factor, with 46% of respondents highlighting it as the biggest influencer in their decision to stay with their current employer. This underscores the growing trend where employees prioritise flexibility and a manageable workload that allows them to harmonise their professional and personal lives effectively. 'Company Culture' also emerged as a significant retention driver, receiving 31% of the vote. This result points to the importance of a positive, supportive, and inclusive workplace environment that aligns with employees' values and fosters a sense of belonging and engagement. Interestingly, 'Competitive Salary' was seen as the key factor by only 15% of participants, suggesting that while remuneration remains important, it might not be the primary reason employees choose to stay at a job if other needs are not met. 'Career Advancement' received the least emphasis, with just 8% considering it as the crucial factor for retention. This could indicate a shift in focus towards immediate job satisfaction over long-term career progression opportunities within the company. These insights are invaluable for employers looking to enhance their retention strategies. It's clear that focusing on creating a balanced, supportive workplace culture can be more effective than merely offering competitive salaries or career advancement opportunities. At Shepherd Stubbs Recruitment, we recognise the importance of these factors and are dedicated to helping our clients and candidates find the right fit that supports both their professional growth and personal well-being.

There is no doubt about it, job hunting is tough, especially when you’re dealing with rejections. It’s natural to feel disheartened when you’ve spent hours perfecting your CV and attending interviews, only to receive the dreaded “Thank you for your interest”. The key to your success lies in how you handle these setbacks and keep up your momentum. Here are our top tips on staying motivated and keeping up the momentum after job rejections, let’s dive in. It’s Not Personal Rejection is very rarely a reflection of your abilities. There could be many reasons why you didn’t get the job, maybe they found someone with just a bit more experience or a better cultural fit, it doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. In the competitive job market, rejection is part of the process. Keep reminding yourself that every rejection is just a step closer to “You’re hired!” Seek Feedback If possible, ask for feedback. Some employers are happy to give you an insight as to why you weren’t selected, which can be a valuable tool for you moving forwards. You might need to simply tweak your CV, brush up on interview techniques, or develop specific skills. Constructive feedback helps you improve and get you ready for your next opportunity. Focus on What You Can Control Rejections can make you feel powerless, but there are always things you can control. Focus on enhancing your job search strategy. Polish your LinkedIn profile, expand your professional network, or sign up for online courses to boost your skills. Taking positive action keeps you proactive and helps progression. Create a Solid Routine Job hunting can take a lot of energy, so it’s important to structure your day to maintain motivation. Set aside specific times to apply for roles, update your CV, and practice interview skills. Treat the job search like a job in itself, this will help you stay organised and prevent burnout. Celebrate Wins Got an interview? Updated your CV? Received positive feedback? Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small. Each one is progress, and keeping a positive mindset will help you stay on track. Stay persistent and believe in your potential. The right opportunity will come along, and when it does, you’ll be ready to grab it! Remember, rejection is part of the journey to finding the perfect role. Keep going! If you need some tailored support in your job seeking journey, our team can help. We have over 35 years’ experience in the recruitment space. Contact us here .

This September, we delved into the factors that keep professionals committed to their current roles. Through our monthly LinkedIn poll, we asked our network: "What motivates you to stay in your current role?" The responses provided a clear view of what truly matters to employees in today's job market. Dominating the poll, 'Company Culture' was identified as the primary motivator, with a significant 50% of the vote. This result emphasises the growing importance of a positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment. It reflects a shift towards valuing how the workplace feels and functions over more traditional factors, suggesting that a strong company culture is not just appealing but essential for retaining talent. 'Job Security' followed as the second most cited factor, garnering 33% of responses. In an ever-changing economic landscape, the desire for stable and secure employment remains a critical concern for many, highlighting its role in influencing employee loyalty and satisfaction. Surprisingly, 'Career Progression' accounted for only 17% of the vote, indicating that while important, opportunities for advancement might be taking a backseat to more immediate workplace satisfactions like culture and security. Remarkably, 'Remuneration / Salary' received no votes in this month’s poll, a striking insight that challenges the conventional wisdom about monetary compensation being a top motivator. This result suggests that today's workforce may prioritise emotional and career stability over financial incentives. These insights are invaluable for employers looking to improve retention strategies. At Shepherd Stubbs Recruitment, we understand the importance of aligning recruitment practices with the evolving priorities of the workforce. By fostering environments that emphasise culture and security, businesses can better meet the needs of their employees, ensuring long-term engagement and loyalty.

Choosing the right recruitment agency can have a huge impact on the success of your job search and help you to find the perfect opportunities but how do you find an agency that’s best suited to your career goals and experience? Here are some things to think about. Define Your Goals Before approaching a recruitment agency, it’s important to have a good understanding of what you’re looking for in your next role. Are you seeking permanent employment? Do you have specific skills, qualifications or industry experience that you want to leverage? Knowing what you want, and need will help you to find an agency that can fully support your job search. What’s Their Track Record? Look for an agency that has experience in your field. Recruitment agencies that specialise in your industry are more likely to have established relationships with employers in your sector and can connect you with relevant job opportunities quickly. Ask the agency about their success rate in placing candidates with a background like yours to ensure they can best meet your needs. Understand the Process A good recruitment agency will have a clear and efficient process for matching candidates with suitable employers. Find out how they source job openings, screen and select the candidates they present to employers. The right agency will take the time to understand your qualifications and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with roles that suit you.  Review Testimonials and Communication Styles An excellent way to see if a recruitment agency is effective is by browsing testimonials from other job seekers they’ve helped. Think about how the agency has communicated with you too as good communication works both ways and is an essential part of successful job searching. Do you feel comfortable with how they handle interactions? Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Our experienced team is here to help. We specialise in connecting job seekers with the right opportunities and work closely with candidates to ensure a smooth and successful job search. For over 35 years, Shepherd Stubbs has been a trusted partner for job seekers across various industries. We have built strong relationships with employers and have the knowledge and resources to help you find your perfect role.

In our continuous effort to delve into the dynamics of professional development, this August, we explored the importance of continuous learning within the workplace through a LinkedIn poll. The question posed to our network was, "How important is it for yourself or your company to support continuous learning?" The results were overwhelmingly positive towards the value of ongoing education and skills development. A substantial 50% of the respondents deemed it 'Crucial for Success,' highlighting that for many professionals and businesses, continuous learning is not just a benefit but a fundamental component of their strategy for growth and competitiveness. Further supporting the strong inclination towards learning, 33% stated it was 'Somewhat Important,' acknowledging that while not the sole factor, continuous learning significantly contributes to personal and organisational achievement. Interestingly, 17% felt that continuous learning was 'Not Very Important,' suggesting some divergence in how essential ongoing education is perceived across different sectors or individual career paths. Notably, no respondents believed that it was 'Not Necessary At All,' underscoring a universal acknowledgment of at least some level of importance to continuous learning in the workplace. These insights not only reflect a prevailing pro-learning stance but also underscore the critical role of learning and development in adapting to changing industry standards and innovations. At Shepherd Stubbs Recruitment, we understand and champion the necessity of fostering an environment where continuous learning is encouraged and facilitated, ensuring both individuals and organisations can thrive in an ever-evolving market landscape.