When contemplating a career move, aspiring to a more senior position represents not only an opportunity for professional growth but also a substantive increase in responsibility and accountability. The decision to pursue a higher-level role requires careful evaluation of your capabilities and career objectives.

Evaluating your capability for advancement

A higher-level position typically entails expanded responsibilities, which may include overseeing teams, managing complex projects and making critical business decisions. Before pursuing such a role, reflect on your comfort with accountability, decision-making and leadership. Consider whether your experience has sufficiently prepared you to guide others effectively or whether further skill development, mentorship or exposure to complex initiatives would strengthen your readiness.

To assess suitability, review your current contributions and achievements. Identify experiences that demonstrate leadership, cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management. For example:

• Leading projects that span multiple teams or departments
• Mentoring or developing junior colleagues
• Successfully navigating organisational change or complexity

Understanding the scope of responsibility

Prior to committing to a new role, ensure clarity on the scope and expectations. Senior roles often involve:

• Managing larger or more diverse teams
• Handling complex, multi-stakeholder projects
• Navigating higher levels of accountability to the business or board

Engage hiring managers in a dialogue to understand success metrics, performance evaluation cadence and leadership expectations. Some questions might include:

• How is success defined in the first six to twelve months?
• How is performance measured, and how frequently is it reviewed?
• What leadership style does my manager employ?

Evaluating the total impact, beyond compensation

While remuneration is an important consideration, it should not be the sole driver of a career move. According to Tiger Recruitment’s recent salary and benefits survey, 15% of UK professionals left roles due to burnout, nearly equaling the 16% who departed for higher compensation.

Senior positions frequently come with elevated expectations, longer hours, and increased pressure. A higher salary may be insufficient compensation if it conflicts with your values, work-life balance, or engagement with meaningful work.

Strategic decision-making

Ultimately, deciding to pursue a senior role should balance capability, opportunity and fit. Consider:

• Are you equipped to manage increased responsibility effectively?
• Could additional experience or mentoring enhance your readiness?
• Does the organisation recognise your potential and support your development?
• Does the role align with your long-term career trajectory?

A deliberate and strategic approach to career advancement increases the likelihood of a successful and fulfilling transition, ensuring that your progression enhances both professional impact and personal satisfaction.

The post Assessing your readiness for a senior role appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

For years, jobseekers have been advised that sending a post-interview thank-you note is essential, a sign of professionalism that can tip the scales in their favour. But in today’s hiring market, that advice isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your level of seniority, the role you’re applying for, and even the company, a thank-you note might not always be appropriate.

So, before you hit “send”, it’s worth pausing to consider whether you should follow up with your potential new employer post-interview.

When a Thank-You Note Adds Value

If you’re interviewing for a business support role, such as a PA, or a client-facing role, a brief, thoughtful thank-you note can solidify professionalism and good communication. These are skills important to the role that you’re interviewing for, which help to further solidify your fit. It shows that you value the interviewer’s time, and it can leave a positive impression.

As Rebecca Siciliano, Tiger Recruitment’s Managing Director, says, “It’s definitely a good thing to do. I’d recommend it 100% of the time if you’ve applied directly to a role and have the contact details of the scheduler. It’s an opportunity to reiterate any responses you feel you could have addressed better in the interview, and it shows genuine interest.”

You could use the thank-you note to briefly highlight why the position excites you, or to reflect on a topic discussed that aligns with your experience. These small touches often complement other strong interview techniques that demonstrate professionalism and enthusiasm. This can be particularly effective in competitive hiring processes, where small details can distinguish one strong candidate from another. A thank-you email sent within 24 hours keeps you fresh in the interviewer’s memory and shows that you are proactive, engaged and genuinely interested in the role.

When It Might Not Be Necessary

If you’re interviewing for a role at a senior or executive level, a thank-you note is unlikely to influence the hiring decision. At this level, interviews are focused on strategic alignment, leadership capability, and long-term value, rather than etiquette or follow-up gestures.

It may also be inappropriate to reach out directly. For example, if your interview process is being managed entirely through a recruiter, it’s best to let them handle any communication. Contacting the hiring manager directly can appear as though you’re bypassing established channels or disregarding the process. Similarly, avoid the temptation to reach out on LinkedIn.

As Angela Lopes, Director and Head of the City Office, says, “I don’t think candidates should reach out to hiring managers unless they have shared their contact details and invited them to do so. Otherwise, it can create an awkward situation if the positive feedback isn’t mutual.”

Additionally, if you’re not working with a recruiter and the company has made it clear that the next steps will be taken through HR or your recruitment consultant, it’s advisable to hold off on sending a message directly without speaking to your direct contact first.

Ask Your Recruiter First

Every company and hiring process has different expectations. That’s why your recruiter is your best guide. They work very closely with the hiring manager and understand their preferences. They can advise whether a thank-you note is appropriate, when to send it and what tone to take.

In some cases, your recruiter may even offer to pass along your appreciation directly, which can be a more suitable approach for some employers or senior-level positions.

Summary

Ultimately, there’s no universal rule. A thank-you note should never feel like a box-ticking exercise, but rather a genuine continuation of professional conversation.

If it adds value, it’s worth considering. But if it risks coming across as forced, it may be better to hold back. When in doubt, ask your recruiter; they’ll know the best approach for each situation.

The post Should You Send a Post-Interview Thank-You Note? appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

The financial services industry is one of the most important to the UK, and in turn, jobs within financial services have increased significantly over the past few years. There are 1.1 million financial services employees employed in the UK. It is an industry that offers a wide variety of roles and career opportunities and, as a result, attracts large numbers of prospects. Take a look at some of the positions that are available at the moment.

As with all industries, there are pros and cons to working within this exciting space. If you’re toying with the idea of a career move , here are some of the things you may want to consider:

Benefits:

Financially rewarding

There is potential to achieve a higher-than-average income at all levels within the industry, as well as a promising career path, great benefits and bonuses. City-based firms often reward hard-working employees with wellness benefits like free gym membership, access to healthy meals and medical consultations.

Variety

No day will ever be exactly the same. The fast pace and unpredictable nature of the industry means you’ll always be busy and learning new things. There’s likely to be an exciting buzz around the office and definitely no time for clock watching.

Exposure

On a daily basis you’ll be faced with high-profile individuals and businesses. It gives you an excellent opportunity to network with new people every day, and this in turn can open lots of doors. In this space, it’s usually not about what you know; it’s who you know.

Social Scene

The financial services industry is known for its ‘work hard, play hard’ mantra. It wouldn’t surprise us if you met life-long friends in the City. And if you’re a bubbly person who loves to socialise, you’ll fit right in.

Potential risks:

Long hours

Working in financial services is not a typical 9-5 affair. Approximately one in three of all employees work in excess of 40 hours per week and a large number work considerably more than that. The work itself can be fairly high pressured and stress-inducing due to the fast pace and the demanding nature of clients and colleagues. To minimise burn-out, we strongly recommend focussing on personal wellness and encourage you to take all of your annual leave. This will help counter-balance any stress caused.

Difficult characters

In a support role you may be expected to deal with employees that will not give you an easy ride!

Competition for jobs is high

As financial services offers good promotion prospects and numerous career opportunities, this means it is a competitive industry. And you’re competing with the best of the best.

Few permanent opportunities

Due to the unpredictable nature of the economy, many of the financial services firms prefer to hire into long-term contracts rather than permanent roles. If you want to work in the City you’d need to be comfortable with this. Rest assured, those in long-term contracts enjoy all the same benefits and bonuses as permanent staff!

We believe the benefits of working in the City far outweigh the risks, but at the end of the day it needs to feel right for you and your lifestyle choices. Submit your CV and update your job requirements, to take your first steps towards a job in the city.

The post The pros and cons of a career in financial services appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Every interviewer will have their own personal preference for different interview styles. Each interview format will require a slightly different approach on your part as the interviewee. Take note of the tips below and you won’t go wrong!

1. The phone interview

Phone interviews can take on a number of different guises. From a 5-minute screening chat to 1-hour thorough conversations, each can play a crucial role in whether or not you’re successful in being invited to the next stage. Key points to consider are fairly obvious… but important! Ensure you’re located in a quiet spot where you’re unlikely to be interrupted, have strong phone signal and a fully charged phone.

2. The video conference call

Video calls are a very common interview format now. Make sure you’re in a well-lit and quiet location, are connected to Wi-Fi, and have a Plan B if technology fails you! The Plan B could be a phone call, FaceTime or Skype audio. If you’re not prepared, a poor experience of cutting in and out may significantly and negatively impact the experience.

3. The lunch interview

If you’re lucky enough to be taken for lunch on your interview, please don’t forget your manners. That means being polite to the wait staff, holding your cutlery properly and probably not ordering the spaghetti. Remember what mum used to tell you about elbows on the table? This is THE moment when it matters.

4. The panel interview

Panel interviews can be the most daunting kinds of interviews, essentially because you’re facing a firing squad aiming questions at you left, right and centre. In these scenarios, remain calm, acknowledge all of your interviewees when you speak, and maintain open body language.

5. The group interview

In a group interview, you’ll typically be asked to complete a task or solve a problem as a team. In these sorts of scenarios, you’ll need to impress in some small way. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to lead the group, but you will need to think about how you might demonstrate value in a team scenario.

6. The team interview

Meeting the team is a great way for both parties to assess cultural fit. It also generally means you’ve impressed the key decision maker, which is good. Woo the team with your personality and charm, and you’re sure to succeed.

7. The test interview

The test could take the form of presenting to a group, or it might just mean being assessed of your Microsoft office skills. Either way, these must be skills that the employer considers crucial to the role at hand. If there is an opportunity to prepare properly, take the time to do so rather than cramming and leaving it down to the wire. Get plenty of sleep the night before, and try meditation techniques for keeping any anxiety at bay.

8. The recruitment agency interview

A positive meeting or registration with a recruitment agency is essential if you’d like that agency to represent you and put you forward for roles. Be proactive and ask for feedback at the end of the interview. Then take it on board!

9. The puzzle interview

The likes of Google, Apple and other highly sought-after brands have been known to weave in puzzle questions into their interviews. An example might be: “If you’re in a small room with nothing but a bar of soap and feather, how do you get out?” Weird questions are not uncommon and can often work well to illustrate your thought process. Embrace them!

10. The traditional interview

And finally, the traditional interview. This is likely to be set in a meeting room with one or two interviewers who ask you a series of questions designed to reveal your suitability for the role at hand.

Looking for a role? Apply for a new job or submit your details with us today.

The post How to excel at ten different types of interviews appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

How do I get a temporary summer job?

As an undergraduate or recent graduate with three long summer months at your disposal, it may be tempting to pack your life into a backpack and take off, exploring your European backyard. However, this period is also a perfect time to bulk up your CV and gain valuable work experience. Could a summer temp job be in your immediate future?

Should you be considering a temporary job in London over the summer, you’ll need to start thinking about it now, as most companies will look to fill contract roles before June comes around. Here are some steps to take to give you the best chance of success.

1.Prepare your CV

There’s no point searching for a temporary summer job without a spot-on CV. As one of the most important tools in your job hunt, your CV is your chance to make a fantastic first impression, showcasing just how your skills and experience could assist a business. Make sure it’s up to date, has all relevant work experience and education, as well as anything else you think would be of interest to an employer.  Don’t forget to explain what you’re looking for and include your interests and achievements! These little details could be the differentiator between a hiring manager choosing to interview you and not someone else.

2. Register with a job agency

Recruitment agencies like Tiger often have three-month contracts over the summer in a variety of industries. In our case, submit your details to our database first before applying for jobs directly. A consultant will then follow up with a face-to-face registration if your experience is suited to their clients. Once registered, make sure you stay in regular contact and reply to any potential roles in a timely manner – the nature of temp work means roles move quickly!

3. Conduct research

Once you’ve registered with a recruiter, it could be worth looking into the businesses that are likely to advertise for summer temp jobs. A simple search on Google will reveal who has hired temporary employees in the past, as well as who has current openings. This can guide your applications, as well as demonstrate the scope of roles available to you. It’s also worth calling a range of businesses that work in the industry you want to work in to see if they need assistance over the summer.

4. Open up your network

You never know where a conversation could take you! Start focusing your efforts on meeting as many people as possible, attending university or industry events and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. It’s also worth using your existing network – do your friends and family know of any positions going? At the very least, making a concerted effort to talk to others about your job search could result in helpful advice, if not your dream role!

The post Temporary summer jobs in London appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

The introduction of AI to our lives has disrupted the way we all work, whether that’s positive or negative depends on who you ask, but when it comes to job applications, we advise steering away from the temptation of using it.

As AI becomes more accessible, professionals are resorting to using it in many areas of their jobs. AI tools like ChatGPT have over 5.19 billion visits a month, whilst sitting at number 5 of the most visited sites in April 2025.

Although there is an argument that AI streamlines the work we are doing day-to-day, it should be avoided in your job search. David Morel, Tiger’s CEO reports that he’s seen “a significant increase in employers pushing back on applicants who submit CVs generated by AI”. Simply speaking, by using AI in your job search, you’re putting yourself at a huge disadvantage behind those who don’t.

We see this all the time with candidates at all levels of seniority, and they wonder how something so useful can place you at a disadvantage. There are several reasons why this is the case.

1. AI doesn’t know you

It’s important to keep in mind that AI doesn’t know you. It doesn’t understand your work experience, motivations for applying for a role, and what makes you tick. You can feed the tool your CV and give it the information about a role you’re applying for. But we all know a CV merely touches the surface of the achievements you’ve had over your working life.

When it comes to placing someone in a new role, companies, of course, look for experience and knowledge, but they also place importance on value alignment.  An AI-generated CV isn’t something that can demonstrate your personality and how you’d fit within a team. Hiring managers want to understand who you are, not just what you’ve done.

2. AI doesn’t replace human touch

We’ve all seen those LinkedIn posts outlining how to spot AI-generated content, with a particular spotlight on the “em dash”, but what many people don’t realise is that there is so much more that gives away that a CV has been created using AI. It loses a human touch and authenticity; it’s almost crafted too perfectly and robotically. That doesn’t mean to say you should generate an AI CV and add a few mistakes to make it seem like you’ve created it. It’s more about losing the robotic tone.

3. Don’t even think about using it for interviews

The issue with using AI for interviews is that you’re going to end up with answers the same as any other candidate in the process, which isn’t going to do much for you when you’re trying to stand out. Moreover, when you’re asked skill-based interview questions, which are incredibly common in an interview, AI doesn’t understand your experience or know every example of where you have shown a certain skill. Only you can give a genuine answer about your experience.

Thinking of using AI to feed your answers during a live interview? Don’t do it. Interviewers can tell, and it instantly raises red flags. Your preparation ahead of the interview should give you enough confidence to go into the room and show the value you’d bring to a team. However, if you’re presented with a question that you’re unsure of how to answer, you can always ask for it to be rephrased in another way or explain that it’s a knowledge gap, but you’re eager to learn more.

Employers don’t want perfection when it comes to interviews, which is what AI has led us to believe. But the truth is, not many of us can keep that level of perfection up. Hiring managers want to see someone who’s passionate and eager to learn. Giving robotic answers that are fed to you during an interview isn’t going to match that brief.

4. What can AI help me with?

If you’re looking to use AI, you can explore software that offers speech feedback, which will analyse your tone and speaking voice to make sure what you’re saying is coming across as you planned. However, no analytical tool can prepare you for the natural pivots that happen in an interview, so it’s important to be mindful that this will only help you to a certain extent.

Taking all these points into consideration, it’s important to remember the value you can bring to a role and understand this isn’t something that can be described for you. If you’re struggling to convey this yourself, reach out to a recruitment agency that can support you and help you put your best foot forward.

AI can be a valuable tool at times, but your personality, potential and passion are what truly set you apart in job applications.

Explore our latest roles or submit your CV today.

The post Why AI Won’t Get You Job Interviews appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

June is Pride Month, which is much more than the flags and parades. It serves as a timely reminder to identify employers that truly champion diversity during your job search. As Kate Headford, Head of the HR division at Tiger, says, “inclusive employers will create space for you to thrive as your full, authentic self”.

Your LinkedIn feed is most likely flooded with pages posting facts, diversity figures or reports about Pride Month, but how do you spot a truly inclusive employer behind these statements?

1. From the job description

A lot of the time, the first time you’re introduced to a company is through a job description. This is a good opportunity to get a real feeling about how they portray themselves.  If you read between the lines, you can tell a lot about what a company believes. HR Magazine reports that 84% of jobseekers in the UK say they judge a company on its recruitment process.

Take note of the language they use, is it inclusive? Are they using language like “seasoned” or “native English speaker” instead of focusing on skills and qualifications?

2. Representation at all levels

One of the great things about social media is the ability to find plenty of information about your potential future employer. Use this to your advantage and search LinkedIn or look at the team page on their website to learn about the company background. Who is leading teams, who is at the top and who is in decision-making roles? Is there gender diversity in their leadership? If you see patterns with who has the ‘power’, this could be a clear indication of a company’s position towards diversity, not everyone practices what they preach.

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is not just a set of values that a company can differentiate itself with, they are expectations. Good employers shouldn’t just welcome differences, they should cultivate workplaces that allow people to thrive because of them.

3. Transparency

Transparency is key when evaluating employers that claim to celebrate diversity. Look for companies that openly share their diversity policies or publish clear statements detailing the actions they’re taking to promote inclusion and how they plan on doing this. It’s not just about what they say, it’s about what they do. This is the perfect moment to bring all your research together. You’ve identified their policies; now ask yourself, are these values reflected at every level of the organisation? Do their communications reinforce their commitment to diversity?

Moreover, look at employers who don’t claim to be doing everything right, but they’re on a journey to do better.

4. Benefits and support

Benefit packages give an insight into what businesses value. If you’re looking for a diverse employer, you want to be looking beyond a free fruit basket or pizza every Thursday. Do they offer reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities or other needs? What is their shared parental leave policy? This can be a useful insight into the policies companies value.

If you’re struggling to find what you need to decide if an employer is truly inclusive, you can also ask questions during an interview, which will give you a better understanding of the company’s approach to DEI.

• “How does the company support diverse communities, including LGBTQ+ employees?”
• “Can you tell me about any DEI initiatives the business is currently involved in?”
• “How is inclusion measured?”

Whether you’re searching for a company that aligns with your values or seeking support in navigating inclusive employers, our consultants can help.

Ready to take the next step in your job search? Submit your CV or browse job opportunities.

The post Championing Diversity: How to Identify Truly Inclusive Employers appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

The Benefits of Temp Work

In today’s fast-moving job market, more professionals, at all levels of seniority, are turning to temporary work.

There are many reasons why a professional may choose to do temp work. Some may have been made redundant, others may fit temp work around another commitment, such as a creative pursuit or parenthood, or to gain the relevant experience. Temporary work can range in length – some temp placements can be for a day; others can be for several months.

Could temping be for you? With plenty of benefits, it could just be the perfect career path.

It presents a challenge

Temporary assignments can be extremely challenging as you will need to pick up processes, procedures and policies very quickly. You will likely be required to cover a workload for a member of staff who is out of the office, so there’s a chance there won’t even be a handover. For this reason, you’ll need to be able to pick up tasks with little to no direction, using your common sense and initiative to figure tasks out.

Experience

Working as a temp will allow you to develop your skillset and gain fantastic experience, which you can then add to your CV. A broad CV that displays several skills is very appealing to employers and may well get you the job over another applicant.

Remember to regularly update your CV whilst temping, making a note of key achievements within a role. Think about what will be appealing to those reviewing your CV and try to sell yourself.

Temporary work works extremely well for those straight out of education, as it allows you to ‘try before you buy’, while building up essential experience that will bode well when you eventually decide to pursue permanent work.

Flexible working

The flexibility of temp work is what makes it appealing to so many people.  If you communicate your availability to your consultant, the temporary working world is your oyster.

As temporary working assignments can vary in length, you can choose exactly how long you’d like to work for, making your work life work for you.

Confidence boost

Starting a new job can be daunting, whether it is temporary or permanent. Taking those first steps into work is nerve-wracking. However, taking on temporary work placements means you’ll be required to do this regularly, which will increase your confidence immensely. You will build your people’s skills each time you step foot in a new office and find new ways to strike up a conversation or get to know your colleagues. Building your confidence will also help you when it comes to interviewing elsewhere for new roles.

Networking opportunities

Often, when job seekers first move to an area, they can walk straight into a great temporary job and gain experience and income quickly. Moving to a new area can be difficult, and the idea of leaving friends and family behind is a scary thought. By working as a temp, you will be meeting new people regularly. You will be constantly building new relationships and making great friends!

Paid holiday

Did you know that temporary workers also have the right to claim holiday pay? The Agency Workers’ Regulations, introduced in 2010, state that all temporary workers should receive a minimum of 28 days’ holidays a year, pro rata against the hours they’ve worked. Holiday pay is accrued at 12.07% of your gross pay. When temping through Tiger, you remain on our payroll, so your holiday pay accrues across all placements. You can usually get this paid out should you not want to use it. If you have any questions about holiday pay as a temp, feel free to get in touch with the temp team.

Opportunity

Temporary work could be that all-important foot in the door with employers. They could ask you to come back each time to cover an absence. Not only this, but temporary work could lead to a permanent position within the company. Your employer may see great potential in you and will not want to let you go. We see a high instance of candidates starting in a temporary role and going permanent. Think of every temp job as an interview and initial introduction to a company.
–
If you’re looking for temp work, submit your CV today.

The post The Benefits of Temp Work appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

When you interview for a role that you really want, you simply can’t afford to bring anything less than your A-game to the meeting. I’m sure that you will have read the job description carefully, picked your lucky outfit, and prepared your answers to their prospective questions. For some, that may be enough. But just in case, keep these tricks up your sleeve and you’ll be able to successfully convince the interviewer that you’re the right person for the job!

1. They want to bring on board someone that they like… so be nice

This is a really easy one and while it might seem simple, it works! Maintain positive body language throughout, keep smiling and ask questions where relevant. We also recommend telling little personal anecdotes to give them a window into your personality.

2. Do your research

People like to talk about themselves and the things that interest them, so you’re more likely to endear yourself to interviewers if you ask about topics they want to talk about. Have a look for your interviewers on social media. LinkedIn and Twitter are the best channels for a good snoop into their history and areas of interest. It’s ok if they know you’ve done your research on them: you could even make a bit of a joke of it.

3. Ask probing questions

We think that the best interviews are two-way conversations – don’t wait until the end of the meeting to ask questions. It’s more interesting for both parties if you answer one of their questions by rounding it off with a query back to them. Similarly, at the beginning and end of the interview you might find yourself in a position to make small talk. Feel comfortable asking about their weekends, about the office space or how they get into work.

4. Show confidence with body language

Your body language tells its own story to the interviewer, regardless of the words coming out of your mouth. From the very first moment that you enter their line of sight, try and maintain strong body language. It will speak volumes about your confidence and sets you up to impress. Stay standing while you wait to greet your interviewer; maintain strong eye contact throughout the meeting; and refrain from fidgeting your feet and hands. Some of our Candidates find that a power pose before an interview can really help as well. If you arrive early enough, take five minutes to do this in the bathroom ahead of the meeting. Stand, with your feet shoulder width apart and your hands on your hips. Look straight ahead and hold the stance for at least two minutes while breathing deeply. You’ll be amazed at the confidence kick it gives you.

5. Be totally engaged

In an interview scenario, it’s not uncommon to focus on what you’ve just said or what you’re about to say. Many Candidates struggle to simply be present in the conversation. It’s a big mistake not to engage completely with your interviewer. When they speak, focus on what they’re saying and respond accordingly. If they tell a joke, laugh. If they’re speaking on a more serious note, respond accordingly. This will leave them feeling like you’re truly enthused about the job at hand.

If you think you need a bit of extra help with your interview technique, why not try an online training course? You can also apply for available roles.

The post Five ways to outsmart your interviewer appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Your CV is essentially a written advertisement for yourself. This is the first piece of documentation that the employer and recruiter will receive, so you will need to sell yourself and make sure all crucial information is clearly listed. Make your first impression count!

Ensure your CV follows a clear layout

Start your CV with the essentials: your contact details and name. This is so very important, as you need to be contactable by recruiters. Make your name, telephone number and email address stand out at the top of the page.

Aim for a simple design – something too complicated can put people off. Use a clear font, simple headings and don’t include a photo.

Try to keep your CV to a maximum of two pages – the hiring manager will usually be very time-poor so won’t have time to review anything longer. Remember to proofread any document you send it to recruiters and employers. Look for any spelling and grammatical errors and if your CV includes bullet points, ensure they are all the same and follow suit.

Avoid the irrelevant

Be realistic when writing your CV. Keep all information relevant. If you are applying for a particular role, tailor your CV to suit the job spec. If you have covered elements in another role which may fit the position that you are applying for, make sure you mention this. By adapting your CV to match the job spec, you will be far more appealing than a candidate who may not have the experience required. When writing your CV, make sure you are always thinking about what you are writing. Avoid the obvious and ensure you do not waffle on. Try to bullet point your key responsibilities in your previous roles to stay succinct.

Mind the gap

You will need to explain any gaps in your employment history. An unexplained gap is usually a red flag and your recruiter will definitely ask you about it, as they will need to explain it to your potential employer. It doesn’t matter what your break was for – travelling, maternity/paternity or just a career break – being clear is much better than being vague.

You should also make reasons for leaving jobs clear – it could be that you felt that you were no longer busy and felt you needed a new challenge, or it may be that you were made redundant. Reasons such as these are not negatives and your consultant will appreciate your honesty.

Never, ever lie on your CV

It is common that candidates tell a fib or two on their CV. This may be in the hobbies and interests section, where it mentions that they enjoy team sports and cooking. However, others have made the mistake in lying about qualifications, salaries and achievements. Employers do carry out background checks on their candidates and if they find something that doesn’t match up, it can lead in a retracting of an offer at a later stage. The consequences are never positive, so it’s essential to make sure your CV is a true and honest representation of your experience.

Limit job-hopping

Millennials have thrown away the idea of company loyalty – most will only stick around for two years before looking elsewhere. [1] So, while having a variety of roles has become more common, there is a point where employers will start to question why your stints have been so short. There is an expectation that, unless there is a valid reason, you will remain in every permanent role for a year – if you only stay in a job for a few months, it will make you appear unreliable to your recruitment agency and employers.

One way to do this is to really think about the job before you accept an offer. Think about any reservations that you may have and why you may have such reservations. Your consultant is there to answer any questions you may have if you would prefer to avoid asking the employer directly.

You may be leaving a job due to boredom; your skills are not being utilised and the role is not busy enough for you. Before throwing in the towel, think about what you could do to help matters. Speak to your employer and explain how you are feeling. They may be able to help and give you more responsibility, making your current job more exciting and essentially will make you stay in the role for longer. The longer you stay in a position, the more reliable and loyal you will appear. If you have a hoppy CV, where you jump from roles without a second thought, it may appear that you lack engagement and struggle to get on with colleagues.

—

For more advice on CV writing, check out our Insights page. Once your CV is ready for the job hunt, get in touch with the Tiger team, or check out our job listings.

1. https://www2.deloitte.com/global/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/millennialsurvey.html

The post How to make your CV and experience stronger appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

So you’re nearly at the end of writing your CV, covering your personal statement, previous positions and education. But have you included your interests and achievements? This often neglected element can be the section that puts you ahead of the competition, showing employers a little more about you.

This is almost the hardest part of your CV to write. Your education and work history are already set out for you, but now you have to be creative and use your imagination to paint a picture of the real you. Your CV is likely to be read by people who will have no other insight into your personality, other than what is on the piece of paper in front of them. They will be reading hundreds of CVs for a particular role, and so you need to make sure you stand out from the rest by giving them something to remember you by, to prove that you are an interesting person and character, and somebody they want to meet.

Try and think of things that you’ve done that will suggest to an employer that you’re able to fit into different environments and get on with other people. Perhaps you’ve completed your Duke of Edinburgh Award or taken part in an expedition on your gap year, which will convey that you’re up for a challenge and determined. If you’ve done a flower arranging course, enjoy photography, or do salsa classes every weekend, they’ll want to see that too. Jobs may require someone with certain traits, so match these to your achievements and make it attractive. For example, perhaps they want a PA who will use their initiative, be proactive and develop within the role.

It’s also important to consider how you write your interests and achievements. Writing ‘Head of debating society’ is not as attention-grabbing as ‘Whilst running the university debating society, I organised debates with other university teams and arranged social events for the society members’. If you play a musical instrument don’t just say ‘I play the piano’; make it sound more exciting by saying ‘keen jazz pianist’. But don’t lie! If you say you love going to the theatre and you get to the interview, you’ll be stumped if they ask you what the last play you saw was and what you thought about it.

Of course, there will be some employers who don’t value extra-curricular activities as much as others, and who will be focusing predominantly on your experience. If a recruitment agency is putting you forward for a role, then utilise their expertise and knowledge of the company by asking them for advice – they will know what kind of person the company are looking for.

–

Read more about the importance of creating a great CV here, here and here.

The post Why You Should Include Interests & Achievements on your CV appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

From panels to Skype or Facetime calls, Google hangouts to coffee shop meetings, there are many different ways to be interviewed. You should be prepared for them all as part of your job search. Phone interviews, especially, are very common, not least because they’re a practical way for recruiters to screen candidates ahead of a comprehensive meeting.

That being said, a phone interview has the potential to last just as long as a face-to-face meeting – if not longer – so it definitely pays to be prepared if you have a scheduled call in the diary. In shorter phone calls, the hiring manager or recruiter may just be looking for an articulate manner and confidence, but in the event of a longer phone call you’ll likely need to elaborate on your professional experience and achievements.

Do your prep

Set aside quiet time for your interview and be sure that you won’t be interrupted. Treat it as you would a meeting, and ensure there’s no background noise such as radio, TV or children. The other potential annoyance could be a fading battery so charge up before you answer the call. Sit down five minutes beforehand with your printed CV and any other necessary paperwork you might need. It’s best to be relaxed, not flustered, when you answer the phone. If you have one, consider wearing a headset – it will make note-taking easier.

In all other aspects, the phone interview should be treated as you would any other interview. Complete your research ahead of time: Review the business online, Google your interviewer and look out for any latest news items where the business might have appeared in the press. Be prepared to ask intelligent questions about the future of the company and what your role might look like within it.

One thing to know is that a phone interview is likely to feel less spontaneous than a face-to-face meeting. The interviewer will probably have a script they want to follow and are needing to tick off the boxes. While you might feel rushed at times, it’s possible they’re getting the answers they need so just go with their flow.

Obviously, it can be difficult to gauge body language on a phone call, so it does make it a little harder to judge how happy they are with your responses. The way to get around this is to try and help them out along the way. For example, if they ask you to summarise your career, before you progress to responding ask them to stop you at any point that they have questions or would like you to expand your point. Similarly, once you’ve finished answering, clarify you’ve covered everything that they were looking for before continuing.

Let your personality shine through

Have you ever noticed you can hear a smile on the phone? Strange as it sounds, answer the phone with a smile and with confidence. It’s a first impression that will stand you in good stead down the track. Similarly, maintain a consistent level of enthusiasm throughout the interview as this will be the most effective means to project your personality.

Try not to get too flustered, and if you need more time at any point, it’s totally fine to simply state, ‘let me think about that for a second’. Once you’ve come to the end of the call and all your questions are answered, thank them for taking the time to talk to you about the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role. If you have their contact details to hand, send a quick note of thanks by email too.

Want to talk to Tiger about your next big career step? Get in touch today!

The post How to impress in a phone interview appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

If you’re reading this, you’ve most likely handed in your resignation, or you’re planning to soon. If that’s the case, you’ll be expecting a meeting with HR for your exit interview.

Volunteering your general feedback about your employer can sometimes be an uncomfortable experience, so we’ve provided eight do’s and don’ts for exit interviews to help you prepare.

What to do in your exit interview

Do: Prepare like you would for any interview

Treat this interview as you would any other and prepare accordingly beforehand. Google some exit interview questions that are typically asked and practise answering them. Regardless of why you’ve chosen to leave, it’s important to provide thoughtful answers that will help the company improve in the future.

Do: Act professionally

You should remain professional right through to the very end. It will keep the door open for potential opportunities in the future and won’t diminish your chances of receiving a positive employer reference.

Do: Discuss the positives

Try to highlight the positive aspects of the role you’re leaving, even if it’s been the worst job you’ve ever had. It can be anything from the benefits package to the office facilities. This will help to balance out any negative points that may become apparent during the course of the conversation. It also displays a high level of professionalism and awareness on your part.

Do: Exit on good terms

When all is said and done, the aim is to leave the interview room on good terms. Make it clear that you are thankful for every opportunity the company has provided. Even if there is some resentment on your part, it’s better to leave on a positive note and have a clean slate for your new job.

What not to do in your exit interview

Don’t: Vent with no constructive feedback

Your exit interview is not the time to discuss petty grievances with your colleagues. Avoid discussing colleagues unless you’re specifically asked to do so. If it does come up, stay clear of slander and only provide reasonable examples that support a valid argument. You can discuss your ‘suggested areas of improvement’ for the company, but it’s important to remain tactful in your approach.

Don’t: Brag about your new role

Your interviewer will probably ask about your reasons for leaving. While you may be jubilant about leaving, it’s important to avoid boasting as it’ll come across as discourteous. Just keep it short and to the point. For example, if you’re excited that this move is a step up in your career (with a considerable salary increase), you could mention that the new position gives you more responsibility than your existing one.

Don’t: Raise issues that the company cannot address

Any good employer will be looking to improve the workplace using your feedback. As such, you’ll want to refrain from expressing sweeping statements with no rational explanation. They’re not actionable and don’t give off the best impression of you. While preparing for your interview, try to come up with suggestions for how certain situations could be improved in the future.

Don’t: Be unresponsive

You’re probably familiar with the term, “if you have nothing good to say, don’t say it at all”? While this may be great advice in general, don’t apply it to your exit interview. Being unreasonably tight-lipped could be viewed as patronising and won’t help the process. The interviewer will respect your honesty as long as you keep it relevant to the exit interview questions being asked. If you’re looking for a job, we continue to update our live job listings daily. Make sure to also check out our insights page for helpful resources to help navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Author bio: This article was written by Check-a-Salary^[1] . Check-a-Salary provides insight on earnings collated across multiple sources for every position in the UK.

^[1] www.checkasalary.co.uk

The post Eight dos and don’ts for your next exit interview appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Perhaps you’ve recently relocated. Perhaps you’ve been with your business for a little too long. Perhaps you just need a new challenge. Whatever the reason, you know in your heart of hearts that it’s probably time to look for a new job. Making the decision to move is a big step in itself, but what next? How do you create interview opportunities? Where do you look to find out about those roles that aren’t advertised? And most significantly, what do you want?

Taking the next career step isn’t always easy. So, to help you find those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, we’ve compiled our top ten tips which will hopefully guide you towards your dream role.

1. Research

For a complete overview on your chosen sector, we can’t stress enough the importance of completing your research. Take the time to find out what you want, who you want to work for and why.

2. Self-assess and determine your USP (unique selling proposition)

Use this time to assess where you’ve been, and where you want to go. Why would someone want to employ you, and how can you demonstrate those assets in the job application process? It helps to rehearse your own perfect elevator pitch. When you can confidently exhibit your abilities and desirability, you’ll do a far better job convincing other people of them.

3. Money

If this is the job of your dreams, you may need to compromise and think seriously about what you’d consider as a minimum pay check. Find out what your market worth is and how you might compare to other competing candidates.

4. Social media

Get your social media profiles on track. Ensure all those freshers’ week Facebook photos are set to private or, better, deleted altogether.

5. CV

Spend time on your CV and your cover letter, and don’t leave it to the last minute before writing it! Again, research, craft it properly, and have it proof-read by someone who’ll give you honest feedback.

6. Network

They say success comes knowing the right people but we think you make your own luck. It’s down to you to create your own achievements! That said, it certainly doesn’t hurt to put yourself in situations where you’re more likely to meet people who can give you solid advice – or introduce you to those who can.

7. Be committed (and persistent)

This is the job of your dreams we’re talking about! Don’t be put off by rejection. Try and try again. And try again.

8. Be creative

There are lots of ways you can stand out from the crowd. It doesn’t hurt to try something a little different, providing that you think the business might be receptive to it.

9. Upskill

You might be lucky enough to already have what it takes. But if you’re not, plan your path accordingly to becoming the ideal candidate. This might involve upskilling, re-training or volunteering – speak to those in the know to find out more.

10. Work with your recruiter

A good recruiter is worth their weight in gold. Once they’re convinced of your brilliance, they’ll bat for you until they find you the job of your dreams! Ask lots of questions, take on board advice and attend training.

Securing the job of your dreams is likely to be a marathon rather than a sprint. Keep to a clear path that aligns with your goals, and we firmly believe you’ll get to exactly where you want to be. Get in touch today and speak to a Tiger consultant about your career path: we may just have the dream role for you!

The post Top ten Tiger tips to win your dream role appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

If you’re looking for a PA job in a new industry, there’s a chance that you have a sense about which sector will suit you. Have you ever stopped to wonder where these ideas have come from? Was it a film or TV show, or did a friend have a bad experience and you’ve been turned off ever since?

We have been noticing a number of candidates are hesitant to be put forward for roles at certain companies because of a misconception they have about the industry. It’s important to challenge these perceptions, as they may stand between you and your dream job!

Finance is too corporate and full of big banks

If your impression of the finance industry comes from the Wolf of Wall Street, you’re in for a pleasant surprise! The finance sector is extremely varied. While some financial services firms can still be corporate (global banks still employ a number of finance job in London), the sector also includes smaller fintech companies which are a far cry from mega-corporate offices and old-fashioned cubicles. They include creative start-ups which are using AI, social media and cutting-edge techniques to push their business and disrupt the industry.

IT is anti-social and has a lack of diversity

Many people perceive an IT office or department as a quiet place full of engineers who never look up from their computers. However, this sector includes the likes of Twitter, Deliveroo, Google and Facebook, who have been leading the way in offering fantastic benefits packages. While the sector’s lack of diversity has been well-documented, the Higher Education Statistics Agency has found that number of women graduating from computer science degrees is increasing year-on-year[1], meaning that with the right diversity hiring measures, this sector will hopefully become more balanced in the coming years.

Start-ups offer little career stability

This misconception may be true of some unsuccessful start-ups, but it shouldn’t turn you off all new companies. In fact, if they are hiring for PA or secretarial jobs, it’s likely that the company has consolidated their initial employee numbers and has grown to the point where they require administrative support. We’ve worked with some fantastic start-ups who have grown from strength to strength, only for their PAs to grow with them and become business leaders in their own right. If you’re still worried, do your research. You should be able to find out who their competitors are, how they’ve been received in the press and any investment information, which will give you a better idea of where they sit in the market.

Creative companies are full of millennials, bean bags and little work

The creative sector is made up of industries from marketing agencies to TV studios, museums to interior designers. With such varied companies, it’s not surprising that 83.6% of jobs in the creative industries are held by people aged 25 to 59 years according to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport[2], meaning that you’re going to be working with the same diverse mix of ages as in any other sector. It’s an exciting time in this industry, with creative sectors across the UK growing twice as fast as other sectors, according to Nesta[3], so you’ll definitely be kept busy as the company flourishes.

Recruitment is ruthless

Tiger is a testament to how wrong this stereotype is! While we know there are some companies who operate in this way, we’ve found that fostering a positive working environment with clear communication, a candidate-sharing policy and amazing team incentives means that successful recruitment companies don’t have to be cut-throat. If you’ve been asked to interview at a recruitment consultancy or executive search firm, it’s highly likely that you’ll have a firm friendship group, great earning potential and fantastic benefits in store.

If you’re looking for a role in a new industry, browse our active job listings to make your exciting next step!

[1] https://www.hesa.ac.uk/data-and-analysis/students/what-study

[2]https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/811903/DCMS_Sectors_Economic_Estimates_2018_Employment_report.pdf

[3] https://www.nesta.org.uk/news/creative-industries-are-driving-economic-growth-across-the-uk-on-track-to-create-one-million-new-creative-industries-jobs-between-2013-and-2030/

The post Five of the biggest candidate misconceptions about different industries appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

With several decades’ experience as a leading London recruitment agency, Tiger’s consultants have seen and heard it all when it comes to interview questions, and weird interview questions are going nowhere – in fact, they’ve become even more popular! They are now a mainstay of the process, used to see if interviewees can think on their feet, approach questions laterally and work well when faced with a difficult situation.

So with a near-sure guarantee that you may encounter something a little strange along the way, we’re taking a leaf out of Benjamin Franklin’s book, who once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Here are just some questions our candidates – and consultants – have encountered along the way. Do you have an answer for them?

1. You’ve got two doors to choose from. One, you’d have to live in the desert for six months; the other, you’d have to live in the Antarctic for 6 months. Which one would you choose and why?
2. Out of a polar bear and a snake, which one would win a fight?
3. If you had to be a fruit, what type of fruit would you be?
4. What would you write on your gravestone?
5. Tell me about your biggest mistake.
6. Can you rate the finalists of the current season of the Great British Bake Off and list each of their strengths and weaknesses?
7. If you were a biscuit, what biscuit would you be?
8. How much paint would it take to paint an aeroplane?
9. How many golf balls can you fit in this room?
10. What is your star sign?
11. What do your parents do?
12. If you were a cocktail, what cocktail would you be?
13. If we asked all your contacts on the phone about you, would their response be largely negative or positive?
14. Do you watch Love Island?
15. What’s the biggest mistake you have ever made?
16. What event in your life has made you the person you are today?
17. You are on a boat that is sinking with five other people. You can be anyone you want to be, alive or dead. One person has to be chucked over – who are you and what is your pitch to save yourself?
18. If you were on an island and could only bring three things, what would you bring?
19. What is your favourite and least favourite thing about humanity?
20. If you could take five people to dinner, dead or alive, who would they be?

How to respond

Should you be faced with a question you’re just not sure how to answer, don’t rush to respond – taking your time will show you’re not quick to jump to conclusions.
While you’re ruminating, think about the role you’re interviewing for – is there a link between your potential answer and the skills or responsibilities your interviewers would be looking for? Is there potential to demonstrate specific knowledge?

Whatever the question, make sure you have a logical explanation for your answer – even if the question doesn’t appear to be so! Rationalising the situation shows that you look for solutions, instead of focusing on the problem – a fantastic quality for any role!

It’s also worth remembering that these questions are designed to reveal your personality, so don’t be afraid to show it off. It could be the determining factor that gets you the job!

Should you be looking for a new role, we have a range of permanent and temporary roles available. View our jobs listings and apply today.

The post The ultimate guide to weird interview questions appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Finding the ideal job is the aim of every jobseeker, but there are just not enough dream jobs out there for everyone to be satisfied.

As the leading recruitment agency in London, we believe that the task is not impossible! Here are some tips to help you in your quest.

The holistic approach

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. For instance, register with two recruitment agencies instead of one, whilst at the same time, searching through other mediums. This might mean applying for jobs advertised directly by potential employers in print or online.

Where to search

Recruitment agencies are a good starting point but do your research and register with the right ones! The best way to tell this is by looking at which jobs they are advertising and reacting accordingly. As above, register with more than one but I would suggest no more than three.

Online job sites are one of the most popular places these days and will carry advertising directly from employers as well as agencies. Check job sites twice a week and try and apply as soon as a job comes live. Many employers and agencies will close the job once a certain number of applications have been received, so it’s worth getting in early.

When applying for jobs make sure you spend some time making sure your cover letter is targeted towards that specific job and entices an employer/agency to call you in for interview.

As above, spend a good amount of time getting your CV just right. Consistency, clarity, no typos, good grammar and no more than two pages in length are the golden rules.

Direct approach

If there is an employer out there you are really interested in working for, see if you can find the contact details for their HR department. Send your CV directly with a targeted cover letter that explains what positions you are interested in and why you feel that you would be suitable for the job. At the end of the day employers want to avoid paying agency fees, so you are doing them a favour.

Tenacious yet respectful

It is sometimes tempting to question an employer’s or agency’s sanity if they don’t want to see you. Don’t pick up the phone and annoy them! Wait for another job to come up and reapply, having in the meantime, tweaked your CV or cover letter. There is nothing wrong with sending a quick email asking whether there was anything specific on the CV that put them off or if they had any feedback.

Finally, it’s worth considering what your ideal job looks like. Everyone’s aspirations are very different, and before you start applying, you need to think hard about what it is you want to do. Which location would suit you best? What are your long-term career aspiration,s and what is the best step to take in your career to achieve those aims? All of these questions will inform your path and hopefully lead you on the way to your dream role!

To see how the Tiger team can help you find your dream role, get in touch.

The post How to find the ideal job appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Research around leadership styles and gender has gained traction, with Bloomberg UK suggesting that companies with more women on executive boards are ten times more profitable. In the UK, female representation in leadership positions across business, politics, and the public sector continues to increase.

According to the latest FTSE Women Leaders Review, women now hold 43% of board positions in FTSE 350 companies, but what makes women in particular excel as leaders, and how can we continue pushing for equitable leadership teams? More importantly, how can individuals early in their careers take steps toward leadership despite systemic barriers?

Emotionally Intelligent Leadership Styles

Studies conducted in the UK indicate that women frequently adopt a democratic and transformational leadership style, prioritising collaboration, mentorship, and team development. The Chartered Management Institute suggests that women tend to steer clear of authoritative approaches and are more inclined to engage in compassionate and empathetic leadership.

Research published in the British Journal of Management proves that female leaders generally excel in emotional intelligence, a trait linked to higher levels of employee engagement, job satisfaction, and workplace cohesion. This kind of leadership style is predicted to set individuals apart in an era of AI, where adaptability is increasingly desired in hiring processes and will become vital for business success.

Diverse Leadership Outperforms Competitors

The effectiveness of women’s leadership approaches has been demonstrated across various sectors. Reports by McKinsey UK have continuously found that companies with diverse leadership teams, including women in senior positions, perform better financially and have stronger organisational cultures.

Case studies of female-led businesses have shown that female leaders are more likely to place a stronger emphasis on employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and ethical decision-making. These factors contribute to improved employee retention and innovation, particularly in industries where teamwork and creativity are crucial.

Closing the Gender Leadership Gap

While the rise in women’s board representation is a landmark achievement, the picture is far less balanced when it comes to executive leadership. Only a fraction of FTSE 100 companies have a female CEO, and across industries, women are still hitting a glass ceiling when it comes to the most senior decision-making roles.

This gap is not due to a lack of capability or ambition. Many talented women still struggle to break into top roles due to outdated leadership models, unconscious bias, and a lack of structured progression pathways. However, those in earlier career stages can take proactive steps to position themselves for leadership opportunities.

How to Progress into Leadership

If you’re currently in a non-senior role and looking to progress, here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Seek out sponsorship, not just mentorship: Mentors provide advice, but sponsors advocate for you in key decision-making spaces. Identify leaders in your organisation who can actively support your career progression.
2. Develop leadership skills early: Take on projects that allow you to lead, whether it’s managing a team initiative, mentoring junior colleagues, or presenting at meetings.
3. Communicate your ambitions: Many employees assume that promotions will come naturally with hard work, but it’s essential to make your leadership aspirations known to managers and decision-makers.
4. Build a strong professional network: Surround yourself with peers and mentors who inspire you. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and engage in conversations that elevate your presence.
5. Be strategic about career moves: If your current organisation lacks clear progression pathways, consider roles in companies that prioritise internal mobility and leadership development.
6. Challenge outdated leadership stereotypes: The perception of leadership is changing, and diverse styles are increasingly valued. Don’t feel pressured to conform to traditional leadership models—your natural leadership style can be a strength.

Barriers to Executive Leadership Are Still Systemic

While individuals can take action, systemic barriers remain. Some key challenges include:

• Limited access to sponsorship: Women are less likely to receive career-advancing sponsorship compared to men, despite mentorship being widely encouraged.
• Rigid career pathways: Traditional leadership trajectories favour uninterrupted career progression, often disadvantaging those who take career breaks or work flexibly.
• Outdated leadership stereotypes: Women must often navigate narrow expectations of leadership styles to be deemed suitable for top roles.

Driving Real Change

The business case for change is unarguable. Businesses with diverse leadership teams are more adaptable to market shifts and significantly better at attracting top talent. To further push for change, business leaders can:

• Shift from mentorship to sponsorship: Senior leaders should actively champion women with high leadership potential for promotions.
• Redefine leadership norms: Recognise and reward a broader range of leadership styles beyond the traditional ‘alpha’ model.
• Offer flexible leadership pathways: Ensure career progression structures accommodate different working patterns, rather than favouring linear career trajectories.

The research is clear: gender-equitable leadership is a proven driver of business success. As more businesses dismantle systemic barriers and embed truly inclusive leadership pathways, the opportunities for women to step into executive and C-suite roles will increase exponentially. However, for those at the start of their careers, taking small, strategic steps today can lay the foundation for a future in leadership.

The post Women Now Hold 43% of FTSE 350 Board Roles, But Executive Leadership Still Lags appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

At Tiger, we feel very lucky that our management team is made up, for the most part, of strong women! However, we know this isn’t the norm and, according to research from Catalyst, only 29% of senior management roles worldwide were held by women in 2019. In the UK, we fare slightly better, with 37.2% of managers being women[1]. However, considering there are more CEOs of FTSE 100 companies named John or Dave than all women CEOs combined [2], we clearly have a long way to go in terms of gender equality in the workplace.

“There are more CEOs of FTSE 100 companies named John or Dave than all women CEOs combined”

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’ve asked some of our leaders to impart their wisdom to women entering graduate jobs and starting their careers.

Laura Glendenning, Head of Tiger Private, says: “The advice I would give to any young woman is to be yourself! You might not know quite who you are yet, or feel you need to be something you’re not to fit in, but being yourself at work is so important. It allows the real ‘you’ to shine and grow. If you can’t be you in this part of your life, you’re in the wrong place.

I wish I’d also known that failure is good, and some things won’t work out. That’s OK because that’s how you learn and progress. You’ll look back and realise even though it was tough, you learnt something valuable and it got you to where you are.

Finally – you’re going to be working for a long time! It’s hard going, so make time for you. I try to have a lunch break, leave on time and fill my week with little bits of joy. Make work part of your life, not all of it.”

Rebecca Siciliano, Managing Director, says: “No matter what task you’re given, undertake it with tenacity and positivity. I always try to put my best into everything that I do. In my experience, the people that get noticed are the ones that do the small tasks as well as the big ones.  Oh, and you are incredible. Don’t let yourself or anyone else tell you otherwise!”

Angela Lopes, Head of the City Office, says: “My biggest piece of advice for a woman looking to enter a recruitment consultant job is to always have a positive outlook in everything you do! Also, you can get anywhere you want by treating people with kindness and courtesy. If you’re passionate about this field, you should live and breathe it, because it’s hard work (but so rewarding)! It’s important to have an end goal you want to reach and know what you need to get there.

As a manager, I always try to lead by example. I never like to ask people to do things I wouldn’t do myself. When it comes to managing conflicts, it’s also important to put yourself in both parties’ shoes to understand how they feel and come up with the fairest solution. When leading a team, it’s important that you’re seen to celebrate others’ achievements, and genuinely want them to do well and succeed! Be approachable, share your knowledge and offer to help your team members when you can.”

Coralie Fernando, Head of Marketing, says: “Marketing can be quite a competitive sector to get into, particularly if you have little to no experience. Give yourself a head start by emailing companies’ marketing managers in April-May of each of your university years, asking if they’d be open to taking you on as an intern over the summer holidays. You’ll then leave university with two-three summers’ worth of marketing experience and be ahead of other applicants. You may even receive a job offer following graduation!

In the early years of your career when you’re entering a marketing graduate job, I’d advise trying to keep your experience as broad as possible. By accruing a holistic set of skills and a wide range of experience, you’ll soon find your calling. Then, if you want to, you can start to specialise in your area of passion.”

Zahra Clark, Head of MENA, says: “Always dream big! I truly believe everything is achievable if you put enough work into it. Your education doesn’t always have to be a part of the equation – if you have the skill set and the drive, it’s possible. I knew I wanted to relocate to Dubai, so I set myself a target by a certain date and stuck to it. A few people around me thought my dream was unrealistic, but you can’t listen to those people! To be able to relocate overseas, you need to put in hard work, dedication and positivity.

It’s also important to live every day with this goal in mind. It’s a good idea to network and when meeting people show them you’re passionate about your work and go about it the right way. This will mean they’re going to want to work with you and you’ll be remembered. You’ll never know when they’ll be able to help you in your career!”

We hope these words of wisdom have inspired you to take the next first step in your career. If you’re ready, submit your details or check out our live job listings today!

[1] www.catalyst.org/research/women-in-management

[2] www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/women-ftse-100-gender-discrimination-pay-gap-board-representation-chief-executive-a8244361.html

The post IWD 2020: Career tips from the women on our management team appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Are you a chef who is looking to pick up an extra shift doing the catering for a party? Are you a nanny looking to gain experience in different households? Why not put yourself forward for temp roles! Temping is a great way work around your schedules, gain experience in different environments, and earn some extra money.

In this podcast, our Head of the Temporary Division at Tiger Private, Ruth Edwards, explains how temping works for our candidates. She clarifies common misconceptions and outlines the benefits of temping in the private sector.

Are you a looking for a temp role in the private sector? Submit your details online today!

The post Podcast: Temping in the Private Sector appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

A candidate who has spent time working on a superyacht may have initially been attracted to a life at sea and the idea of sailing around the world, but there may come a time when they’re ready to be based in one place. Luckily, the polished standards of working on a yacht can translate directly to a private household of an UHNWI.

If you’re worried that the transition is too much of a stretch, don’t be! The two environments are more similar than you know. You already possess the transferrable skills to take on the challenges of a shore-based role, and you’re ready to start looking for a job in a private household.

Attention to detail

If you’ve worked on a yacht, you know that the attention to detail is as significant there as it would be at a 5* hotel: only the best will do. The standard going into a private household or working as chalet staff is the same – you have to be the invisible presence, ready to jump into action as soon as your principal leaves the room. On the yachts, you will have learnt how to look out for a fingerprint smudge on a light switch, or the pillows that need fluffing on the sofa. Your eagle eye for resetting a room will be incredibly well-received once you enter a private household.

Knowing how to satisfy the principal’s expectations  

Before a new trip, your chief steward will have provided you with a briefing on the guests, including the correct way to address them. So, you know that an English gentleman and an American billionaire might have different expectations on how you, as staff, will approach them. You understand the nuances between people of different nationalities and cultures, and know why it’s important to get them right. This knowledge will act as a fantastic base for your role in a private household. In terms of technical skills, your silver service and wine service training are likely to be called upon, so do brush up on your knowledge if you believe you might be lacking in those areas.

Understanding the importance of presentation

Your appearance, as one of the yacht crew, is extremely important – and it’s equally so when working as private household or villa staff. Generally speaking, the expectation is that there should be no visible tattoos or piercings, and no unnatural coloured dies in your hair, for example. However, if you have experience working with UHNWI, you’ll know that they may also prescribe a very specific dress code. The ability to roll with the punches and deal with unusual requests will put you in good stead in a private household.

Being familiar with the hierarchal working environment

If you’re comfortable with the hierarchy on a yacht, you will definitely be at home with the staff set-up in a private household. The chief steward equivalent role, in a domestic setting, will be your house manager, and you’ll likely be working alongside housekeepers in the place of stewards/stewardesses. Knowing the hierarchy and what each station means will make you feel at home in your new shore-based environment.

Preparing for unusual hours

Working for UHNWI means that you must be prepared to work around your principal’s schedule. If you have experience on a yacht, you’ll understand these demands because you have most likely been disturbed during your rest hours once or twice! Once you accept this as part of the job, you’ll be better prepared than most.

If you’re an ex-yachtie and you’re now looking for a shore-based role, as either permanent or temporary private household staff, Tiger Private can help! Submit your details today.

The post Five ways your yacht experience can help you transition into a private household appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

One of the most popular questions we receive from PAs and executive assistants is ‘how do I become a private PA?‘ With a reputation for being a glamourous career with the potential for overseas travel, we can see why!

However, the reality is very different. Working as a private household PA can be far less appealing than what popular culture suggests, with long hours, stressful situations and lots of admin.

Our Tiger Private team understand the intricacies of working as a household PA. In this podcast, they reveal how candidates can transition to a private PA role, while busting some of the biggest myths about the job.

—

Are you a private household PA looking for a new job? Register your details or apply for a role today!

The post Podcast: How to become a private PA appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Hiring temp to perm employees is becoming an increasingly common practice for companies looking for immediate support in their day-to-day roles. In fact, Tiger’s 2019 Salary Review revealed that the volume of temp-to-perm placements increased by 42% from 2017 to 2018, meaning there is plenty of demand for candidates who have both short- and long-term availability.

Have you asked your temp agency about opportunities for temp-to-perm jobs in London? If not, why not? With plenty of benefits, it may be worth considering as part of your job hunt!

What does temp to perm mean?

Temp to perm means starting a job as a temporary worker and then moving into a permanent role, usually within 3-6 months of joining a business. Think of it as a probation, without the waiting around – you can start working immediately, while getting a feel for the business, your role and the people you work with.

How does temp to perm work?

A temp to perm placement can happen in two ways. The first is when you are hired on a temporary contract, usually a month or longer, and then during your contract, your employer decides to offer you a permanent role. Your consultant can often advise you during the recruitment process whether this is a feasible option, but there is no obligation on your part to accept the permanent job offer.

Alternatively, many employers will advertise a role as temp to perm. This means you are accepting the contract with full intention to go permanent. Of course, should the role not be what you’re after, or the company not be the right fit, you are within your rights to leave – this is where the temporary part comes in!

During the temporary working period, you will be paid weekly by Tiger or your staffing agency. When you move into a permanent capacity, you will join the payroll of your employer, possibly shifting to a monthly pay cycle. The temporary working period also leaves time for your new employer to complete any compliance measures.

It depends on each role, but a temp to perm job will usually become permanent within the first 3-6 months. Most employers will be able to give you a timeframe during the hiring process.

Why do companies hire temp to perm?

There are plenty of benefits of hiring temp to perm candidates. It allows both parties to ‘try before they buy’ before making a formal offer. For a business, this means seeing how the employee works within the team, how they handle the role and how they fit into the company. It also means that a candidate can start while compliance measures are carried out.

Equally, taking on a temp to perm admin job in London offers the employee a chance to try out the role and company, ensuring that it’s somewhere they want to commit to permanently. It’s also a great way to get your foot in the door of a business.

Is temp to perm a good idea?

It completely depends on your circumstance! If you are looking for a permanent role, but struggling to find the right thing, taking on a temp to perm job in London is a great way to break into the business and provides opportunities to progress. That said, if you are temping around other responsibilities, or don’t want to commit long term, it may not be the right fit for you.

—

If you are looking for a temp to perm job, the temporary team at Tiger can help! Get in touch today.

The post The ultimate guide to temp to perm jobs appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Landing a new job is exciting, but the probation period can feel like a high-stakes audition. It’s your chance to prove that you’re not just the right choice but an invaluable asset to your new employer. Here’s how to make an impact and impress your new boss.

Arrive appropriately dressed

Looking smartly dressed when you arrive is important to making a good first impression. Before your first day, assess what other staff members wear to work. Some companies are slightly more relaxed regarding dress code, whereas others are far more corporate. Remember, you can never look too smart, particularly on your first day. Make sure your clothes are clean and neatly ironed. Ensure you allow enough time to get ready by setting your alarm earlier than usual.

First impressions

First impressions count, particularly during your probationary period. Make an effort with your colleagues and manager by ensuring you introduce yourself, ask them questions and pay attention to what they say.

Keep your desk tidy and clean up after yourself! You do not want to be the member of staff that everyone just thinks is scruffy. By keeping a tidy desk, you will demonstrate that you are an organised individual.

Think before you speak

When you start your new job, it’s important to take notes during training sessions. This will make the learning process much simpler as you can easily refer to your notes if you are unsure of anything. If you encounter an issue, try to work out a solution before asking a colleague – you may even discover a simpler way of completing a task.

Do try to avoid office politics. In this same vein, never say anything that could potentially hurt and offend others. Your general opinion of a current affair or news article could cause more harm than good, and this is something you want to avoid whilst in your probationary period. Keep any strong opinions to yourself and keep that all-important office equilibrium.

Be sensible

Timekeeping is extremely important. Allow yourself plenty of time to get to work. This way you can settle at your desk with a coffee and complete basic admin and your emails before the working day commences. You’ll be ahead of the game, making the rest of your day that little bit easier.

Can do attitude

Enthusiasm is key when starting a new job. Keep a clear head and make sure you are ready to take on the day with enthusiasm. If you are on top of your workload, do not be scared to ask your bosses if they require any additional help. Even if they do not, they will certainly appreciate that you are keen to help and to broaden your knowledge within the company.

The post How to impress your new boss during your probation period appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Interviews can be daunting, but it is important to remember the client has chosen to meet with you because they believe you have the necessary skills and experience, and might be right for the role. If you keep this in mind to settle any nerves about your abilities, you can focus on showcasing your other strengths – the soft skills, work ethic and values that will prove to the employer that you are right for the role.

Below I’ll highlight my suggestions on how to set the best first impression in interviews, from my experience as a recruitment consultant at Tiger Private.

Punctuality

It sounds obvious, but punctuality is essential. It will ensure you can perform to the best of your ability in the interview without feeling flustered or panicked about the time.

With train strikes, traffic jams, road works and signal failures, lots can get in your way! Check your route the day before and on the day of the interview and leave plenty of time for your journey. You must remember that the client does not know you, therefore, if you are late for your first interview, it is easy for them to assume you are always late and always unreliable. If you are running late, don’t panic – most clients are understanding, just be sure to communicate with your consultant. Clients are much more likely to be forgiving if we can pre-warn them.

Sometimes, being too early can be a cause of frustration for clients. If you are more than five minutes early, use the time to make certain of the meeting spot and gather your thoughts over a quick walk around the block, or a coffee.

Appearance

Interviews are formal occasions, so it is best to reflect this in your appearance, even if the job you are interviewing for does not require formal dress. The client will appreciate the effort you have made on your presentation. A smart appearance will give the impression you are prepared, professional and fully invested in the opportunity.

Preparation

Prior to your interview be sure to do any research and understand the job description. You will find the benefits are threefold. Firstly, it will help you to feel more confident, especially when you see parallels between your experience and the requirements for the role. Secondly, it will help you to choose which parts of your skillset to highlight when talking with the client. Finally, the client will be impressed that you have spent time understanding the requirements for the role, it will be a signal that you are engaged, switched on and interested in the job.

Avoid technical hiccups!

Increasingly, first-stage interviews are held online via platforms such as Zoom, WhatsApp video and FaceTime, as they are convenient and time efficient. Making a good first impression via video relies upon logistics to help eliminate technical issues. Use this checklist to ensure you are prepared: check your internet connection, ensure your laptop/mobile is fully charged, find a quiet place to have the call where there is a neat, professional backdrop (aim for a plain white wall whilst sitting at a desk, avoid bedrooms or a backdrop of a bed).

Confidence

My final tip is: be yourself, smile, and remain engaged. If you have followed the previous four recommendations, your chance of any mishaps will be low, so you should feel at your most confident and prepared. Remember, Tiger put you forward for the role because we feel you are a good fit for the position, so take that self-belief into the interview!

–

For more advice on job hunting, check out our jobseekers resources page. If you’re just starting out your search, register with Tiger today.

The post Five tips to make the best first impression in interviews  appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Five key PA duties explained

If you’re considering becoming a personal assistant, you’ve come to the right place. Tiger has specialised in securing jobseekers their dream PA job for over two decades, so our understanding of the position is second to none.

PA roles and responsibilities have been highly valued across a number of industries for decades. The future of the PA role may always be evolving along with the many changes in technology and work culture but, at its core, the position remains the same: ensuring the Principal you’re assisting has everything they need to perform at their best. So, how does a personal assistant go about achieving that?

The gatekeeper

The amount of incoming calls and emails they receive will depend on the seniority of your Principal but, regardless, answering these will play a significant role in your PA duties. You will be tasked with filtering out unnecessary distractions and prioritising enquiries for your Principal to respond to. So, you’ll need excellent verbal and written communication, as well as relationship-management skills when in regular contact with clients and other business partners.

The diary manager

Senior-level staff can jump from meeting to meeting, office to office throughout the day, so naturally it can be difficult for them to remember their schedule. They’ll rely on you as a PA to manage their diary: booking meetings, phone calls, lunches and more, but also ensuring that they have enough downtime to travel or attend to personal tasks.

The travel booker

Management and executive-level staff will often be required to travel nationally or internationally for meetings and conferences. As their PA, it will be your responsibility to arrange everything surrounding these trips including visas, taxis, flights, hotels, meeting rooms and restaurants. Writing a well-planned travel itinerary, as well as the ability to respond quickly and effectively to cancellations, schedule changes and other issues, will make you an invaluable assistant.

The expense manager

Hand-in-hand with arranging travel and accommodation is dealing with expenses. You’ll be entrusted to ensure all bills are correct and paid for on time, and keep an up to date log of these and all other business expenses related to your executive. It’s thus crucial that you have a good head for numbers.

The MS Office wizard

Your manager/executive will regularly be moving between meetings covering different subjects. They may even be giving presentations. A personal assistant will help ease the transition by preparing notes, reports, PowerPoints and other documents for their Principal ahead of time. The best PAs are skilled with a variety of software useful to this task, such as Microsoft Office suite. If you lack confidence in these programmes, there are many online courses you can take to get up to speed.

There are many more ad-hoc tasks you’ll be required to undertake as a PA, which you can find out about in our PA job description. You may even want to look into PA courses to really get to grips with the role. Alongside mastering these daily PA roles and responsibilities, the most important challenge of a personal assistant job is to learn the preferred working style, rhythms, and quirks of your manager. If you can click with them and march to the same beat, you’ll be able to anticipate potential problems and distractions ahead and clear them from the path, keeping everything running smoothly.

If you’re ready to take the next step and apply for PA roles, submit your details today. And be sure to read our tips for PA interviews to prepare yourself!

The post What does a Personal Assistant do? appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Hands up if you use social media on a daily basis. And yes, LinkedIn counts.

We’re guessing at least nine out of ten of you do; social media has become such an intrinsic thread in the fabric of our personal and professional lives. In the world of recruitment specifically, scoping out a prospective employee or employer is common practice. Social media networks allow an employer to gain a glimpse of you outside the confines of a traditional resume, and this will often proffer a deeper insight into your personality and character.

If social media plays such a significant role in determining your next successful career move, it goes without saying that you need to get it right. So, before you like, share or tweet your next post, consider the following tips beforehand:

1. Keep it positive

While it may sound obvious, it’s really important to keep your profile from promoting any negativity, especially about former or current employers. If you use Facebook to moan about your job, chances are you’ll do it about your prospective employer as well, and that is something they clearly won’t appreciate!

Equally, being offensive is a big no-no. Social media is not the right platform for any racist or sexist jokes. Put yourself in the shoes of an HR manager and think about what may be considered a red flag. If in doubt, don’t post it.

2. Don’t abandon your professionalism

Yes, Facebook and Instagram are great ways to share holiday snaps, a memorable concert or delicious meal. And there’s nothing wrong with using your personal accounts to share special moments. But… Photos of you looking drunk and dishevelled won’t fill prospective employers with confidence about your work ethic or dedication. Similarly, always check for grammar and typos before you post.

3. Ensure you’re accurate and consistent

Don’t assume that your potential employer will only be looking on LinkedIn to check the facts against your CV. Chances are they will also have a gander at Facebook, Twitter and Google+. The story you tell on each site should be the same, although it’s fine to tailor the information to each as you see fit.

4. Embrace the relevant networks to you

Just as a number of employers will make a decision not to hire an employee based on what they find online, so too can that information influence them to make the hire. Social media can hugely benefit job seekers and it’s quite normal for hiring managers to find positive information on your profile that will lead you to be hired for the job at hand. If you’re in a creative industry, consider signing up to Pinterest and Instagram for example. LinkedIn is of course a standard in the professional world and we would recommend any candidate be active here (even if you’re not looking for a new role right now).

5. Make it work for you

Don’t focus too much on hiding or removing content; instead, work to build a really strong profile that strengthens your application and is representative of your skillset and experience.

If you have no reason to hide the fact, let your networks know you’re looking for a role. Include a link to an online CV if you have one, tweet about your job search and establish yourself as an expert in your field. LinkedIn offers an easy post publishing tool that can be used to your advantage – write opinion pieces in your field or offer best practice advice. There is a plethora of tools available to you. Ensure you make the best use of them!

It’s not the time to be shy when looking for a new role. Get out there and let people know about you, on and offline. Give to your social networking communities, participate in group discussions and share your professional expertise. We promise you, it won’t go unnoticed.

Get in touch with us today to talk about your next career move.

The post Five social media mistakes you definitely don’t want to make appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

In the age of Facebook statuses, Instagram selfies and Twitter rants, maintaining a clean social media presence can be harder than first thought. However, when it comes to the recruitment process, it’s essential that your online presence correctly represents your personal and professional brand. Here are a few things to check before you register with a recruitment agency and begin the job hunt:

1. Privacy is key

Facebook, Twitter and Instagram change their settings constantly, so even if you think your privacy settings are high, things could have changed.

On Facebook, the easiest way to check what other people can see is the ‘view profile as’ button – it’s hidden in the bottom right-hand corner of your cover photo.

Filter through your Instagram profile to check there aren’t any pictures that could appear compromising to an unknowing eye. If there are, and you don’t want to delete them, switch your settings to private.

Instead of scrolling through your entire Twitter feed, head to your settings to download your archive. It has a record of every single tweet you’ve sent out, meaning you can go through and delete any that you wouldn’t want your boss or colleagues to see. This includes any previous complaints or gripes about your previous companies – nothing leaves a bad taste in an employer’s mouth more than corporate criticism.

You can also make your profile private by ‘protecting your profile’. This allows you to control who is following you and hence, who can see your tweets.

2. Check your profile picture and cover photo

While you may love that shot of you with a martini in hand, it doesn’t scream professionalism. Ensure both your profile picture and cover photo don’t show you drinking alcohol or obviously drunk; lounging about in your swimmers; in a selfie, or most obviously, doing anything vulgar or offensive.

Revise your LinkedIn

By now, it’s generally understood that any HR professional or recruiter worth their salt will check a candidate’s LinkedIn whenever they apply for a role. Therefore, it’s incredibly important to make sure your profile is as current and professional as possible. Check that your profile picture is either a headshot on a plain background or a business casual shot of you in action.

Review your professional experience to make sure that all your job responsibilities, achievements and qualifications are up to date. Going forward, it’s also worth considering adding information regularly – it’s easier to do when fresh in your mind, instead of in bulk when looking for a new position.

Finally, don’t forget about the extracurriculars. It’s worth mentioning any volunteering experience and if you can speak any additional languages – they could be the elements that set you apart from other candidates when it comes to hiring time.

4. Google yourself

There’s only one sure-fire way to ensure you know exactly what an employer could find – completing the search yourself. By taking the time to filter through the first few pages of a Google search, you’ll be able to address any possible surprises before they pop up.
–
Finished the cleanup and now ready for the job hunt? Check out our vacancies here.

The post How to clean your social media for the job hunt appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

If you’re working with a recruitment agency to find a job, they’ll tell you that preparing for an interview is an essential requirement if you want to receive a job offer. Among other tasks, there’s the reading through the job description, familiarising yourself with your CV, considering your answers to potential interview questions, and the list goes on.

Equally important is the researching of your potential employer. Why? For one, you should want to know who you’ll be working with and the kind of people they are. Secondly, in the interview this knowledge will earn you points that may lead to a successful offer.

Here are some of the areas you should consider looking into prior to your big meeting:

1. Check out the competition

There’s no better way to find out where your future employer’s market position is than by looking at their direct competitors. The easiest way to do this is by using Google to look up companies in their industry. You can also see a quick snapshot of their competitors by clicking through to the company profile page on LinkedIn and reviewing ‘similar companies’ on the right hand side. This will then give you a sense for what the company’s key points of difference are.

Read up on the industry as whole and you’ll be sure to impress your interviewers if you can talk knowledgeably about their sector as well as where you believe their company fits into the picture.

2. Look at their company culture

Company culture plays an incredibly important role in helping you decide how you’ll fit in with your future bosses and team members. Start following their social media channels and see how they engage with their audiences. This will give you a flavour for the personality of the firm. Secondly, go to Glassdoor, a site that collects staff reviews; you’ll be able to see the positive and negative comments of previous and current employees. All this will give you an overview of the business’s values and vision. Again, the info will be useful for you to know anyway, but will also help you steer the conversation towards areas you know are important to them, or away from potential prickly topics.

3. Delve deeper into their finances

Exploring the financial health of the business will give you an indication of their future direction. If they’re a larger firm, they may have an investor section on their website with press releases and financial details relating to revenues and company risks. The info for smaller businesses and start-ups might be a little harder to find, but if you dig deep enough you should be able to discover something that will be useful for you.

Once you’re armed with this data, take from it what you need. Hopefully it will give you the confidence to know that the business is going in the right direction; it should also furnish you with some key facts with which you can impress your interviewer.

4. Who the key players are in the company

Look at who the company bosses are and their backgrounds. Just go straight through to the ‘about’ page and do your research on the directors and management team. It might also be an idea to follow them on twitter to find out what they’re saying as well. Understanding the senior management better will reveal the business’s influencers, which in turn informs the values and inherent company culture.

5. Who their clients are

By having an understanding of the customer, you’ll be better placed to appreciate why they do what they do and how they go about it. Demonstrating this insight in the interview will almost certainly stand you in excellent stead with your interviewer.

If you’d like to talk to us about how we can help you in your job hunt, get in touch today.

The post Five ways you can research a company’s background before an interview appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

When it comes to communicating effectively, the saying ‘treat people how you would like to be treated’ doesn’t always ring true. We all respond differently to different ways of communicating, so as a personal or executive assistant, to get the best out of your manager you should understand this difference and change how you interact accordingly.

This is your emotional intelligence (EQ): the intangible social skills needed to communicate effectively and one of the top traits of a personal assistant. It is more than just a management buzzword and in today’s business environment it is arguably more important than IQ – research has shown that people with average IQs outperform those with the highest IQs 70% of the time¹.

Those in executive assistant jobs and personal assistant jobs tend to have high EQs as they need to be comfortable with seamlessly modifying their emotions, accommodating egos and being flexible with the individual they are supporting. This will help you to establish an effective partnership, which is ultimately better for the company and your job satisfaction.

EQ is particularly useful when dealing with a difficult executive. In these situations, you will be required to call on all the skills of a PA to get the right information out of them. Learning how to tolerate a lack of communication and being able to get to the bottom of unclear directions will ensure you have a productive working relationship and could even secure you influence. Here are some important points to consider:

Understand what matters to your Principal

As the eyes and ears of senior management, it is a PA or EA’s job to understand what motivates them. An executive’s job is to protect the primary objectives of the business – i.e. its financial position or its public reputation. So when communicating up, always make it clear how what you are saying relates back to the key areas of the business (and what could happen if it is not actioned) to get the best results.

Ask the right questions

When asking for information, always be specific so there is no risk of ambiguity and be assertive to convey a sense of urgency. Whether you are communicating in writing, on the phone or in person, asking the right questions will get you the right answers. Use your one-to-one time effectively by preparing well and leading with the most important points you need decisions to be made upon. You can ease the decision-making process further by anticipating the options available to the executive, leaving them with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ decisions to make.

Leave the detail for in-person meetings

Long emails rarely get read by time-short executives, so keep the detail for when you have your next meeting with them, instead of attempting to get answers in writing. Always follow up decisions made during conversations with an email, so you are both clear on the next action points.

Be self-aware

Be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses. You could inadvertently be contributing to a breakdown in communication by not understanding the areas you could improve upon. It is useful to regularly undertake a self-assessment, not just in preparation for your appraisal, so that you can identify the areas you might need to dedicate more time to. This can help you to address areas of concern with training before it affects your working relationships.

—

If you’re an aspiring personal assistant, read more about what a PA does in their day-to-day job, and for more expert advice on the role, read our guide to becoming a PA. When you feel ready to explore new employment opportunities, register with us today or apply for jobs directly on the website.

¹Research from Emotional Intelligence, Why It Can Matter More Than IQ (1995), by Daniel Goleman

The post Personal assistants: how to get what you need from a non-communicative executive appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Many businesses want to be known as great places to work. They want to set themselves apart from their rivals not just with their products or services, but with the culture of their organisation. Luckily, these differentiations can make it easier for you to spot which organisations might fit you best. Use these simple steps when interviewing, to help you find the best place for you.

1. Pay attention to what they’re asking you

If culture is important to a business, this will be reflected in your interview questions. Your interviewer may ask about your personality, your hobbies, your likes and dislikes, and could even throw in some curveball questions. While these lines of inquiry may not always show if you’re any more or less capable of fulfilling the duties of the role, they can give an indication of how likely you are to thrive in the environment the business has created. If your interviewer simply asks about qualifications and professional experiences, then it could be an indication that cultural fit is less important to them. Either way, be sure to have answers prepared that help to paint the picture of who you are. If personality is important to them, you must be able to display yours.

2. Dig a little deeper

You should also prepare some questions to ask them about the culture. For example, is there a social side to the business? How do they make staff feel supported? What opportunities for development do they offer? Any of these can tell you a bit about how the business wishes to project itself and if you think you’d fit in well. After-work drinks can be a good indication of a social team. Businesses offering staff the chance to learn new skills can mean that career progression is more likely. Tailor these questions around what you are looking for in a business. Hopefully the organisation will be a good fit.

3. Discuss the company goals

The story goes that when President Kennedy visited a NASA facility in the 60s to see first-hand the progress America was making in the space race, he happened upon a janitor cleaning up. Kennedy asked him what he was doing, to which he replied: “I’m helping to put a man on the moon.” It’s unknown how much truth there is to this tale, but it’s a great example of how a common purpose can inspire an entire workforce. For this reason you should ask about wider company goals. While your interviewer’s answer may not be quite as anecdotal, it will give you an indication of what matters to the organisation. Many businesses now try to inspire a higher purpose in staff rather than simply chasing a healthy profit margin, this can be a great way to gauge the culture. Some companies hope to make ground-breaking developments, others wish to leave the world in a better shape than they found it. Whatever their purpose is, it could help you realise if you would be a good fit for the business.

4. Take a tour

This is probably best left until the second interview, but it’s sometimes worth asking if your interviewer can show you around the business to give you a feel for the working environment. You’ll be able to take note of things like dress code, desk space, the facilities on offer and the mood of the office. If staff are in shorts, gathered round a pool table, sipping on complimentary beers, it’s likely to be a ‘work hard-play hard’ culture where having fun is important. If they’re in suits, sat in pods, eyes glued to a spreadsheet, it could indicate that results are more important than recreation. Both styles of business can work, and there are candidates to fit both environments. If a quick look around flags up any warnings to you, it’s better to know now than a week into the job.

If you’re currently looking for a new role, get in touch today to find out more about identifying the right cultural fit for you.

The post How to spot a great culture at interview appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

On New Year’s Day, we typically make our resolutions for the year ahead – eat healthily, drink less, go to the gym, get a new job, get a promotion, earn more money. But, more often than not, life goes back to normal on January 2 and your resolutions go out the window!

Perhaps you’ve been in a job for a while and now you need a change, or feel you deserve a promotion, or maybe you have been putting off the job search and now it’s time to get on top of it. Did you graduate last year and take a bit of time off, and now it’s time to take the next step and start your career?

Whatever the reason, it is easy to make these decisions in your head, but it is just as easy to put off doing anything about it. It’s often scary thinking about your future and next steps, but how will you find yourself the perfect job if you aren’t proactive? Here are some tips that will hopefully point you in the right direction and allow you to achieve your goals and keep that resolution!

Have the right attitude

Now you have made the decision to make a change in or start your career, you need to be positive and have a good attitude about yourself and what you’re trying to achieve. Don’t think of it as an inconvenience; think of it as an exciting challenge. Make goals and stick to them and you’ll start to feel more confident.

Which direction?

If you’ve just graduated, you will have been thinking about where you’re headed, but may not have yet decided on which profession you’d like to go into. Or have you been in the same industry for a year and feel it’s just not for you? It’s important to think about what you want to get out of a job, and what you are actually good at or enjoy. Write a list and then look at it, thinking about different industries and roles, and what might be suitable for you. If you’re a real people person and like a fast-paced environment, perhaps sales is something you’d look into. Maybe you love organisation and diary management? A PA role could be up your street.

Set career goals

Think of the year ahead and what you want to accomplish and when. Make realistic goals and write them down. What do you want to have achieved in six months’ time? Do you want to have had a promotion? Do you want to have improved your work performance and therefore make a better impression on your manager? Whatever your goals are, make sure they’re realistic and attainable. You’ll only get disheartened if you make unattainable goals and don’t reach them.

Revamp your CV

If you’ve made the decision to take the next step with your career, then it’s vital that your CV is up to date and up to scratch. It is a very competitive market out there and you need to make sure that you stand out from the crowd. To a potential future employer, until they have met you, you are words on a piece of paper, so you need to ensure those words are enticing enough to make them want to meet you. Think about the roles you are applying for. What experience and skills do you have that will put you in good stead for this role? Have you made sure these are clearly outlined on your CV, and have you listed everything that is relevant? If you are applying for a PA job, for example, make sure you list everything that an employer would want to see from a PA. Do you have experience in diary management, office management, arranging travel and minute taking? If so then make sure these are clearly stated on your CV. If you are applying for a few different roles, you may need to tailor your CV so it complements that role. Once you have a good, solid, well laid-out CV under your belt, you’ll be heading in right direction to get to goal number one!

Recruitment agencies

It’s all well and good searching on job sites for the right role, but you can often be trawling through for hours, sending lots of applications, to no avail. Signing up to recruitment agencies will increase your chances of finding a suitable role. Recruitment agencies should always be willing to offer career advice  and upskilling to brush up on your skills. Always keep in touch with your agency, bringing them up to date on your progress and enquiring about any suitable roles they may have. Keep an eye on their jobs pages as well which will be updated regularly.

Ace your interview

If you have followed the steps above, then you should now be at the stage where you’re being put forward for interviews. This may be something you are used to if you’re further into your career, or it may be completely alien to you and therefore very daunting. What sort of questions are they going to ask you? What questions should you ask them? How should you present yourself in the interview? When you have got this far, you really don’t want to let yourself down. If an agency has put you forward for the interview, give them a call and ask if they have any advice for you. Make sure you do your research on the company and have some good, sensible questions for them about the role. Think of some questions that they may ask you and prepare some potential answers. Remember to be polite and enthusiastic, go in with a strong handshake and show how eager you are to work with them, and how they would really benefit from having you on their team.
—
There is no doubt about it – the new job resolution is not an easy one, but it is definitely achievable if you put your mind to it and put the effort in! Tiger can help you on your journey – get in touch today!

The post New Job resolution, but Don’t Know Where to Start? appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

For students, temp work can offer more than just monetary benefits. From flexible working conditions to the opportunity to bolster your CV and reference list, taking on something temporary can pay off in more ways than one.

Here are just some of the reasons to consider temping while studying:

1. Income

Perhaps most obviously, taking on a temporary role offers a way to make some extra cash. With living expenses continuing to increase, having an income, even just for a short while, can make a huge difference to your lifestyle and relieve any financial stress from potential tuition fees.

2. Experience

There are some things university can’t teach. Temporary work offers an opportunity to garner some real-world experience without committing to a permanent position. Soft skills such as time management, customer service, team work and communication are translatable across a variety of industries and after graduating, will indicate to prospective employers that you are more than capable of taking on a permanent role.

3. References and a stronger CV

The very nature of temporary work means it can brief and so, having a collection of temping experiences on your CV won’t put potential employers off. In fact, it could work in your favour, with an increased pool of possible references and an indication that you could adapt to a variety of situations. It also shows to any prospective employers that you are reliable and keen to take on more responsibility.

4. Flexibility

Committing to a part-time or casual job may require continuing to work during busy academic periods such as exams or assessment periods, adding additional stresses and pressure. With temporary work, you can commit to time periods that suit your lifestyle, deciding precisely when you work and how much you’d like to take on.

5. Career Testing

Temporary positions are needed across a huge variety of businesses, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to figure out what you like and don’t like about particular industries. For example, law students who temp in a law firm over a summer may discover that in fact, law isn’t what they want to do. By switching their major, they end up saving time and money in tuition fees and are one step closer to deciding what career they’d like to pursue.

6. Networking

Creating and maintaining relationships while temping can prove to be incredibly beneficial when looking for a position post-study. Having a network of knowledgeable professionals from a diversity of industries means a strong contact book to call on when the permanent job search begins, as well as a foot in the door at organisations you may have already worked for.

While balancing work and study may seem too arduous, especially at times of academic pressure like exams or assessments, temporary work offers the best of both worlds. With the flexibility to choose when you work and the opportunity to bolster your CV and reference list, temping can open doors to your preferred industry long before your permanent job search begins.

Looking for a temporary role? Our expert team of consultants can help, so register or get in touch to find out more.

The post Six benefits of temporary work while you’re studying appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Updated 31st March 2020

Does being stuck at home mean that the steps you were taking to find a new role have plateaued? You may be surprised to learn that this enforced downtime can give you the opportunity to take stock and actually boost your career prospects. If you’re looking for a job in London during lockdown or a period of self-isolation, here are our tips to help you use this time to your advantage.

It’s time to evaluate

Juggling a job and your personal life while taking the next step in your career requires compromise. Each element takes up a huge amount of time. The result is that job hunting can become a tick-list exercise, crammed into any remaining time in the day, rather than a conscious and deliberate process.

Now is a fantastic time to actually evaluate what you really want from the next step of your career. Ask yourself about your goals and aspirations in order to make a solid plan. You may even take this opportunity to find out more about yourself and which roles may actually suit you. 16 Personalities offers an excellent personality test[1] to help reveal which careers play to your strengths.

Tips to help you find a job while at home

Not only can career evaluation reveal ideas you hadn’t considered, it can also highlight gaps in your experience or skills. Contrary to what you may think, your job hunt shouldn’t just focus on finding your next job. If you take this approach, your skills tend to stagnate and you may be unable to reach for career success in the long-term. The good news is that downtime presents a great opportunity to do things which, once recruitment activities are back in full swing, will put you in a better position than before.

Take an online course

Trying to squeeze extra training into everyday life is hard. However, now you have time to sign up for extra development options which will hopefully help in finding a job. There are a plethora of online training providers with many currently offering their courses at lower prices or even free. Excellent providers include:

• New Skills Academy: Provides several courses covering everything from secretarial/administrative basics to public speaking. You can also get up to 65% off all courses using the code TIGER at the checkout.
• Udemy[2]: Over 100,000 courses on anything and everything from programming software to leadership skills.
• Future Learn[3]: An eclectic mix of courses aimed at broadening your skills and helping your career development.

Professional reading

Expanding your professional knowledge by reading about your role and industry can help bring greater depth to what you do. Not only that, if you’re actively looking for a new role, then relevant reading brings you two more benefits: you’ll be prepared for future interviews and you’ll identify ideal employers!

Career admin and CV advice

How often do you find yourself sending off your CV knowing it’s not quite right for the role advertised, but you haven’t had time to customise it properly? Luckily, you now have time to spring-clean your recruitment admin so this won’t happen again.

Here’s our biggest piece of CV advice while in self-isolation – use this time to update your latest experience, skills and achievements. You can also create a small suite of cover letters relevant to different jobs or niches, ready for customisation in due course. It’s also a good idea to research potential employers, consider questions to ask at future interviews and prepare your own answers to common questions. Don’t forget to take the time to tidy up your social media, paying particular attention to LinkedIn, as this is the first place employers are likely to look when they see your application.

Career development projects

In the last few years, there’s been a major change in what future employers look for. No longer are they satisfied with a list of duties and skills – recruiting managers also want to see evidence of these.

There are a number of different side projects you can take up which provide evidence and will elevate your skills. They don’t always need to be directly related to your career, but the important thing is that they showcase skill acquisition.

Examples of worthwhile projects to keep you busy:

• Create an online presentation about your profession aimed at sixth formers or university students
• Write a paper or article about a development in your field and publish it on LinkedIn
• Become a volunteer on a helpline and improve your communication skills

Keep in touch

With everyone stuck at home, it’s actually a good time to network. You can arrange video meetings, pick up the phone, or even fire off emails. Importantly, don’t forget to keep in touch with your recruitment agency. Keeping them in the loop will help ensure that you’re ready to go when there’s a fantastic job for you to apply for.

Downtime doesn’t have to feel unproductive. In fact, in career terms, using downtime wisely is an opportunity you should grab with both hands! Use it effectively and you’ll be perfectly positioned to take the next step in your career.

If you’re looking for more CV tips, interview advice or other blog posts to help you during the lockdown, our Insights page can help.

Author bio: Andrew Fennell is the Founder of CV-writing advice website StandOut CV [4] – he is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to websites like Business Insider, The Guardian and FastCompany.

[1] https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test

[2] https://www.udemy.com/

[3] https://www.futurelearn.com/courses

[4] https://standout-cv.com/

The post Five tips to boost your career prospects while in isolation appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

When it is time to wow your potential employers, it can be difficult to set yourself apart from the rest of the candidates. Once you get your foot in the door with an interview, it is time to make your impression. First impressions count, remember to dress the part and greet those you are meeting with a polite smile and a handshake.

Prepare yourself

As soon as your interview time is confirmed, you should start your preparation. Study the job spec as well as the company website – your research is integral to your interview. The way to wow your potential employer is to show that you care – brush up on your knowledge, and prepare questions which you can ask yourself. Importantly, you should always prepare answers for conventional interview questions, as well as competency based questions asked in interviews. The night before your interview, ensure you get a good night’s sleep, lay out your clothes and allow yourself enough time to get ready. Plan your travel and allow yourself plenty of time to get to your interview.

Positive mind

Positivity is key when job hunting – employers want staff who are happy to pick up any role necessary. A can-do attitude can be the most beneficial tool, so aim to be a part of the yes movement and reap the rewards. Be attentive throughout your interview, and always check your posture – by slouching, you could appear disinterested and bored. Carrying out a SWOT analysis on yourself can be very useful – this way you can break down your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and work on your weaknesses and see what you can improve. Be yourself, be genuine. Think of your best qualities, and be sure these come across within the meeting.

What to say

Of course, you should know how to present yourself in an interview, and though it may seem obvious, never mention salary expectations within the first part of the interview unless asked. Always ask whether there is room for career growth within the company – by asking this question, it shows your potential employer that you are keen to grow, not only in your career but within their organisation. Another important question to ask is about their current training opportunities. Again, it will show you are looking to further your skills at their company.

Ask about the company culture and where your role would sit in its current structure – this way you can get a better understanding of the team and how you would fit in. Often you will be asked complex questions, it is always best to clarify this question rather than answering it in a way that you are unsure.

Get social

Social media is crucial to modern day business. Get active on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn – most companies run their own social media accounts, so set up professional social media accounts and get following recruiters and potential employers. LinkedIn, in particular, is a powerful tool in the job hunt.

You need to make the most of these social media platforms, as these present a huge opportunity to sell yourself to a huge market. That said, it’s worth spending time thinking about the way you will come across when publishing status updates and tweets. Though posts can be deleted, it can never be guaranteed that they have not been seen. Having an active presence online is of great importance, but remember to keep it professional.

Experience

Be sure to discuss your experience in great detail. Your experience is what will help you get the job. If you have an impressive portfolio of work, take it to the interview with you to show your interviewer what you can do. Explain what you can offer the company and relate your experience to your potential responsibilities.

And breathe…

Yes, interviews can be nerve racking, particularly when you are very keen on a role. Interviewers expect candidates to be nervous in an interview, so if you really want to stand out, try not to be! Be the person who enters the interview room with confidence – polish your shoes and walk in with perfect posture, ensure you carry yourself well. Breathing is so important when being interviewed. Keep your breathing regulated as it will keep you calm and ready for any question asked.

Be confident, yet modest – the interviewer does not want to listen to a candidate bragging. Most importantly, believe in yourself! It is a great achievement for an agency to put you forward for a role. You are the person they are wanting to see, which is a huge positive and something to be proud of.

The post How to stand out from the crowd appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Sitting up there with Mad Men’s Peggy Olson and Bond’s Miss Moneypenny as one of the most iconic assistants in modern pop culture, Suits’ Donna Paulsen is a role model for many a personal assistant. Known for her unwavering loyalty, outstanding memory and exceptional problem-solving skills, there’s plenty to admire. Here are just five of the lessons we’ve learnt from her over the last seven seasons.

Always do your homework

Donna never approaches a sticky situation without being prepared. Harvey relies on her to supplement his arguments and often, it’s her knowledge that gets a case over the line. That said, homework isn’t just about a quick Google – Donna is constantly observing her environment and recognises what type of questions to ask and who to direct them to when necessary.

LESSON: Research, research, research. Before a meeting or important event, make sure you read over every email, print off any material you think you might need or even ask a colleague some questions – the more you know, the better.

Making mistakes is not the end of the world

In season 2, Donna somewhat accidentally destroys important evidence for a case against Harvey. She loses her job, endures a mock trial and (almost) ruins her relationship with her boss. However, when everything is said and done, she works incredibly hard to get back to where she was, eventually returning to her position. She remained confident in her abilities to do her job and proved her worth to the firm.

LESSON: Don’t be put off if you make a mistake. Dedicate yourself to finding a solution and don’t lose faith in your capacity to do your job – there’s a reason you’re in the role you’re in!

Don’t be afraid to hold your own

While there is value in being a ‘yes’ person, it’s not always the right solution. Donna regularly stands up for what she believes in and isn’t afraid to share her honest option. She isn’t one to agree immediately with her superior and will challenge Harvey, Mike and Louis when she believes they are making a bad decision. As a result, she is respected in the workplace for both her opinion and her knowledge.

LESSON: Have courage in your conviction and don’t be afraid to hold others accountable. If something doesn’t sit well with you, consider speaking up. This doesn’t have to be in a public place – requesting a chat with a manager could be all it takes.

Network and connect

No matter your role, a little black book is one of the most important tools in your arsenal. Between organising two tickets to the ballet and a dinner with Mikhail Baryshnikov for Louis and finding out the dirt on opposition lawyers for Harvey, there is no information Donna can’t find through her connections.

LESSON: Take every opportunity to network. You never know when that person you met six months ago could help you out.

Staying cool, calm and collected

Donna is notorious for approaching every situation with composure – nothing can ruffle her feathers. She’s able to think clearly, focus on solutions and get the job done, often before Harvey has even asked. This proactiveness and ability to stay calm in the face of adversity is what makes her perfect for the lawyers of the firm.

LESSON: If something goes wrong or you’re not sure what to do, take a second to pause. Breathe, think and then act – approaching a situation with a clear head is only going to help, not hinder!
—
Dreaming of being the next Donna Paulsen? Need a Donna in your life? Tiger can help!

The post Five lessons from Suits’ Donna Paulsen appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Increasingly, employers are putting their administrative staff on three months’ notice as opposed to one months’ notice. The motivation behind this is partly a reaction to the evolution of the PA role, and partly a fear of being ‘left in the dry’. Additionally, where we’d previously seen line managers altering an employee’s notice period after having been employed for a year or two, we’re now seeing the three month notice period being incorporated into contracts at offer stage. But how well will an extended notice period be received by future employers when you wish to find a new job?

Is this good or bad for candidates?

On the face of it: great! You have more job security and are safe in the knowledge that your employer will pay you three months’ notice should they ever request you to leave. On the flipside, it may have severe implications at the point you want to progress your career with another business.

My view in most cases is that the latter point outweighs the former. Put it this way: at the administrative level, three months’ notice will preclude you from 90-95% of jobs you apply for. Quite simply, employers want to hire someone who can start either immediately or who are on a maximum of one months’ notice.

Essentially, the administrative market is very different to the executive market where extended notice periods are far more commonplace. It is much more fluid and fast-paced; Candidates simply move jobs more frequently at a business support level compared to an executive level.

Employers putting support staff on three months’ notice realise that it could cost them more, but there is a greater opportunity cost to them by tying someone in for a longer period of time who is able to recruit their replacement and complete a full handover.

What does it mean for you?

Sadly, this puts candidates in a very difficult position because most (quite rightly) don’t want to hand in their notice until they have secured a new position. However this is exactly what job seekers are having to do in order to find another job. Hiring managers just won’t consider candidates with extended notice periods. Employers also frown at two months’ notice, so in effect you have 6 weeks to find a new position – not three months from the time of your resignation.

While there is a real risk of being out of work for a period of time if you can’t find something immediately, remember that temporary work is always an option should you not find a new and perfectly-timed permanent job. Additionally, my advice would be to negotiate any suggestion of a three months’ notice period at offer stage. In many cases it might not be appropriate to challenge this, but unless you do, you may risk running into problems down the line.

If you’d like to contact Tiger for career advice, get in touch today.

The post Is three months’ notice a good or bad thing? appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

As with any industry, there are highs and lows in a recruitment agency in London. Some months, we have jobs coming out of our ears, and others it’s a little slower.

If you ever find yourself searching in a tougher market, the first thing to remember is everyone is in the same boat! Don’t take it personally if you have had real problems with your job search, sometimes it can be a result of market ebbs and flows and general economic changes.

The best way forward is to make sure you are presenting yourself in the best light. Make sure your CV is up-to-date and has no spelling or grammatical errors in it. Apply to roles that appeal to you, but don’t be despondent if you don’t get a response. Agencies can’t get back to everyone, even though they will do their best to.

When you visit a recruitment agency, be clear and concise about what you are looking for. The temptation is to say that you are interested to hear about everything, although you are actually better off being as specific as you can be. It means that when you are added to the agency’s database, consultants researching for a brief are more likely to be drawn into your profile if they are working on a job at a level and in an area that you have expressed an interest in.

If you are unsuccessful with the position you have applied for then keep an eye on the agency’s website and apply for a vacancy if it appeals. If you don’t hear back from them, despite that fact that your skills and experience matches the role, don’t be concerned. The secretarial market, as we all know, is so personality based and in a tough market like this, clients expect agencies to get this just right. It is not a negative if you are not considered for a role based on personality fit. It means the agency understands the type of company culture best suited to you and is trying to match you to that.

If searching for a job outside of an agency, look at the job boards once a day and apply for any direct adverts that look appealing. Speed is key here. Companies advertising directly usually do so because they want to avoid agency fees. What they don’t bargain for is the size of response they are going to get! Therefore you are far more likely to be considered if your CV is one of the first they receive.

Finally, use LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+ and Twitter. Companies will advertise jobs through these mediums.

For extra reach, try and connect with as many recruitment consultants that you can. Clients trying to avoid agency fees are also doing this and searching through consultant’s contacts when trying to fill roles. Consultants are in a difficult spot because they don’t want to decline an invitation to connect from a client, but at the same time don’t want to give them all their contacts for free. The former overrides the latter, so this is a great way for you to be found by employers.
—
Tiger is always at hand to help you in your search. Get in touch today to see how we can help.

The post How to search for a job in a tough market appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Looking for a job can be a long and sometimes, frustrating process. Between perfecting your CV, going through the interview process and starting a new position, it can be full of peaks and troughs, and take longer than first anticipated. While we endeavour to simplify the process, there are some things you can do to help your efforts in the process.

Five of our consultants explain just what you can do help find your next dream role.

The post The secrets to finding a new role appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

It’s not uncommon for candidates to misunderstand the role of a recruiter. Sometimes our clients engage us because they don’t have the time to recruit, but more often than not it’s because we’re the experts who know how to find the best person for the job. Our clients pay us a fee to present a strong shortlist of candidates to them. That means that when we meet you we’re looking for the signs of a candidate our clients will like. When we interview you, we will create a mental list of all the companies who might want to meet with you.

That said, know that we always act on your behalf too: nothing makes us happier than being able to place our candidates in rewarding roles. If we’re impressed by you, we’ll do absolutely everything within our power to find you the job of your dreams. These are the secrets we wish all our candidates knew:

1. We’ve already completed our background research

Be wary of your online and offline imprints. We often complete Google searches of our candidates ahead of meeting them and certainly ahead of introducing them to our clients. If we can easily retrieve photos of you emptying buckets at full moon parties in Thailand, we’ll probably hesitate to put you forward. Make sure you delete your online photos and anything else that could incriminate you!

Similarly, it’s entirely possible that people within our network have worked with you in the past, so always act with integrity. You never know what may come back to haunt you!

2. We don’t want to hear that you’re a perfectionist

Try and give us something genuine to hold on to rather than a rehearsed response you’ve been using in all your other interviews.

3. It’s about the whole package

Yes, your skills are important. Yes, you should be qualified for the job. But we also want to like you. Try not to let nerves get the better of you so much that you’re unable to show off your personality in interview. Show confidence, smile and tell personal anecdotes to win us over.

4. Demonstrate enthusiasm

Showing enthusiasm for your career aspirations and for the job vacancy at hand will put you in very good stead. We want to work with passionate candidates who really care!

5. We rarely place candidates in roles for which they applied

Don’t get us wrong, this doesn’t happen because we wish to mislead you. Nor is it because we advertise imaginary roles. The main reason is because, quite simply, we often notice qualities about you that mean you’ll be a better fit for something else. Our shortlists are usually created from a mix of pre-registered Candidates – both actively and passively seeking – and those who may have applied for a different role.

Don’t wait for us to advertise a job before reaching out to us! Register so that we can get in touch with you when the perfect opportunity becomes available.

The post Five inside secrets of a recruiter appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

When most of us walk out of a job interview, it’s not uncommon to breathe a sigh of relief. Regardless of whether it went well or not, it can be tricky to judge the right protocol with following up. Is it better to do nothing, and wait for interviewers to get in touch with you? Or is it preferable to send an email? Or call? If so, how many times should you phone to follow up?

Ask the question in interview

At the end of the day it’s best to ask your interviewer in person, especially if they haven’t defined what the next steps will be. If they are an inexperienced hiring manager they may have neglected to outline the process and set your expectations. It is absolutely acceptable to ask questions at the end of a meeting with a potential employer, and one of those can definitely be, “In terms of next steps, how would you like me to approach any follow up?”

Say thank you

If you have their contact details, within 24 hours you should email your interviewer/s to thank them for their time. This note should not appear to be applying pressure to them to make a decision and if it feels appropriate, you could pop a personalised thank-you note in the post instead of an email. This could be along the lines of:

Dear [first name],

Thank you again for your time earlier today. I really enjoyed meeting you and learning more about the [job title] role. Needless to say, I’m thrilled to be considered for the opportunity.

Wishing you all the best and take care,

[your name]

I’ve met hiring managers who have refused to call a candidate back – even if they were fantastic – because they wanted to ‘test’ the candidates’ manners first.

Do as you’re told

The worst thing you can possibly do is not follow their guidance. This means that if your interviewer does indeed say: “Don’t call us; we’ll call you”, do as they’ve asked. Unfortunately, there exist a number of businesses who don’t consider their candidate care as a priority which means that they may not treat unsuccessful candidates as they should be treated. Even if that’s the case, you’ll do yourself no favours by calling every week for an update and reminding them of the fact.

De-brief with a friend

After your interview, write down all the details from the meeting that you can remember and find a friend to de-brief with. An external perspective can play a crucial role in helping you to gain a different point of view, and may offer insights that you hadn’t thought to consider. Any additional viewpoints will only serve to paint a more complete picture, and may well assist you in being better prepared for the next interview you attend.

After your second and third interviews

The same rules apply for the next stages of the process! Don’t forget your manners and ensure you say thank-you to the people who have taken time out of their day to meet with you. It might be prudent to call your referees at this stage to ensure they’re ready in the event they are contacted.

Don’t stop looking

Until you’ve signed on the bottom line, there’s no guarantee you’ve secured the role. Keep an ear to the ground and an eye on the job boards for any other positions that might be suitable. If you’re interviewing for multiple roles, be transparent with everyone you’re dealing with. They will appreciate your honesty and, if anything, will expedite the recruitment process to accommodate you.
—
If you’re looking for a new role, get in touch with our consultants today.

The post A guide to interview follow up appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Thanks to technological advancements and shifting societal attitudes, the employment landscape has shifted irreversibly in the last 10 years. However, with the advent of the millennial and Generation Z workforces, as well as the encroachment of AI and automation on working processes, the workplace of the future is set to transform even further. So how can you futureproof your career? These four soft skills are a great place to start.

Critical thinking

While computers may be able to solve simple tasks, there will be an ongoing need for candidates to think outside the box. Successful workers will look beyond the basic data, identifying issues and working through traditional roadblocks to present and implement innovative solutions. They’ll take the time to assess all options, filtering through the information on offer to identify the most pertinent details and then translate their findings into actionable results.

Develop your critical thinking skills by working on your curiosity – get into the habit of asking questions, looking into issues further and seeking advice from decision makers. This will encourage a critical mindset.

Creativity

A human’s ability to think creatively is a key differentiator compared to technology, making it one of the most important skills to develop and nurture in the future. Employees who aren’t afraid of challenging the norm will thrive, as it allows them to bring something new or unique to the table. Businesses will look to hire talent that can help them develop and innovate in imaginative ways, so those who can work with abstract ideas and create original content will be in demand!

Don’t think your role is particularly creative? It’s a myth! Every role has room for ‘outside-the-box’ thinking; it’s simply a matter of identifying where processes and procedures can be improved and then having the courage and determination to look at solutions from a different angle.

Collaboration

Team work makes the dream work and it will be no different in the future workplace. Knowing how to work with, manage, inspire and develop other people will only benefit your career, as it allows you to create meaningful connections, motivate others and maximise productivity. There is power in numbers, so it’s essential you build the social intelligence required to build relationships and work across interdisciplinary teams. This is especially true for diverse teams – a 2017 study found that diverse teams have a 60% improvement on decision making and outperformed individual decision makers in 87 out of 100 cases.¹

Learnability

The most successful employees of the future will demonstrate a desire and capability to be constantly learning, picking up new skills and knowledge to ensure long-term employment. Considering up to 65% of the jobs Generation Z expect to perform don’t actually exist yet, it’s essential you are comfortable with constant self-improvement, seeking out the opportunity to develop your understanding wherever possible. This, in turn, will encourage progression and ongoing career success. The most innovative companies will also recognise this, embracing and nurturing a learning culture wherever possible.

–

Looking for a job that will help you develop these soft skills? Submit your details today! We have a wide range of temporary and permanent positions available across all support functions.

1. https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/experts/research/diversity-drives-better-decisions

The post Four skills you need for the jobs of tomorrow appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Regardless of whether or not you’re actively looking for a new role, your elevator pitch should be a constant in your professional toolkit. It’s the 30-second spiel that essentially summarises who you are, what you do, and why you’re great at your job. The art of an elevator pitch lies in being able to reel it off effortlessly to anyone, no matter where you are.

Why is it so important?

Regardless of whether you’re talking to a stranger in a queue, at a cocktail party or on a plane, elevator pitches can provide perfect strangers a valuable snapshot of your profile. Having heard your elevator pitch, they should be left with an impression of a confident professional who excels in their field. Who knows where it might lead?

These are our five steps to perfecting a winning elevator pitch:

1. Know where you’re going

If you don’t know where you’re going or what your professional goals are, no one else will be able to help you get there. Don’t be shy about your ambitions – both short-term and long-term. Talk to people and ask for advice about how best to achieve them. Only then might you start to see doors opening for you.

2. Write it down, cut it down

Write an A4 page summary of your experience to date, the ways in which you shine in your role, and where you want to be. Read it and then cut out any unnecessary detail (including industry jargon) until you’re down to half a page. Then, repeat until you have a quarter of a page. Once you’re down to the bare essentials, summarise it again in a few key bullets. We recommend including:

• Your most recent role

• At least one key achievement

• Your USP

• What you want to do next

3. Tailor the pitch to them, not you

As an example, it might be quite easy to say, “I’m an office manager with a strong background in financial services.” But consider rephrasing to along the lines of: “I’m an office manager with a track record of identifying operational efficiencies and reducing support staff turnover by up to 25%.” Spot the difference?

4. Practise, practise, practise (and solicit feedback)

Like any kind of job search preparation, it pays to practise. Try a few different variations of your elevator pitch and ask those close to you what their thoughts are. Remember that you’ll need to potentially tailor this to the person you’re pitching to. Your elevator pitch to a senior colleague, for example, might be slightly different compared to that of an acquaintance you meet at a party.

5. Nail it with confidence

Incredibly, a huge number of us are incredibly shy about selling ourselves. We’ll rave enthusiastically about our colleague, our sister or our mentor, but when it comes to ourselves many of us struggle to articulate our strengths. More often than not, this is particularly true of women! If you’re struggling to unearth your areas of excellence, ask those you work closely with for their feedback, and then weave this into your pitch.

An elevator pitch is likely to be a tool you draw from your toolkit at the most unexpected moments, so it pays to be prepared! Practise your pitch to ensure you’re always ready to show off your best self – you never know where it might take you.

If you’re actively looking for a role, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch or apply for a role today.

The post How to craft the perfect elevator pitch appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

At Tiger, we speak to jobseekers about their interview experiences on a daily basis. We’ve already covered the weirdest, most out-of-the-box style interview questions, but what about those that throw you for a loop? In celebration of Halloween, we’ve put together a list of the questions which often spook jobseekers. Whether you’re going for a receptionist job in London, or a senior management role, these questions may get the better of anybody!

What are your greatest strengths or weaknesses?

Possibly the most common question on our list, but it doesn’t mean it’s easy to answer! You may get stuck because you don’t want to sound arrogant when pointing out your strengths, but you also don’t want to highlight any flaws! The interviewer wants you to answer honestly, but knowing the skills required for the role is important here. Chose one of these as a strength to highlight, and back it up with an example.

If you’re asked about your greatest weakness, don’t mention any of the required skills of the job! Choose something that won’t directly impact the role you’re interviewing for, and follow this up with the steps you’re taking to improve.

What’s the most creative thing you’ve ever done?

This question can be scary if the role you’re interviewing for isn’t particularly creative! In this sentence, ‘creative’ could be substituted for ‘logical’, ‘sensible’, or any other word which doesn’t relate directly to the role. While this may put you on the spot, try and keep the answer relevant to the workplace. This may be as simple as the last time you solved a problem by thinking about it in a creative way. If necessary, ask for a minute to think about what you want to say!

What’s a common misconception about you?

This can be a tricky question as you want to give the interviewer the impression you’re open and honest!  However, interviewers ask this because they want to know that what they see in the interview is what they’ll see in the office! You should emphasise a misconception which wouldn’t affect you in a workplace environment. For example, you’re organised and like to plan your workday, however outside of work you love to be spontaneous.

If I called up your boss and asked them about you, what would they say?

Depending on the work situation you’re leaving, this may be a daunting question! Don’t panic – the interviewer wants to learn two things: how you assess yourself, and how you talk about your superiors. In short, don’t focus on your negative performance and don’t speak badly about your manager! Instead, use this question to reflect on a new skill you’ve recently acquired so you can talk about how your manager could say you’re open to learning and improving.

Tell me about a time you failed.

Employers want to know that their future employees can hold themselves accountable if they’re responsible for a mistake and want to learn from them. Tell a clear story of a time you made a small mistake, and finish by explaining what you’ve learnt from the experience. Don’t focus on an example which will make you look careless or one where you were responsible for a major disaster.

If you’re looking for more interview tips and tricks to land your dream role, Tiger publishes regular insights to help!

The post Which questions spook you in an interview? appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Let’s be honest, the job search is not a holiday. Often tedious and time-consuming, it can be hard to maintain positivity. That said, you must be persistent and do not let rejection get you down. The key to job hunting is being both realistic but optimistic.

Keep Calm

You may see a role online that may not have been run past you by your recruitment agency. There could be a reason behind this. It could be that the company may not be right for you and what you are looking for, or it may be that the person or team that you would be working with do not have the right personality fit. That said, do express your interest to your consultant – it never hurts to ask.

Remember, whether you are applying for a job through a recruitment agency or directly, job applications and CVs will be vast and arrive in high volumes each day. Just because you have sent your CV forward for a role, it may not mean that you will successfully achieve an interview, let alone secure the job. Be patient – there are hundreds of other candidates out there and some may fit the job spec and requirements slightly more than yourself.

There are hundreds of people who are actively looking for a new job. Although this may feel somewhat disheartening when going for interviews, there are also hundreds of jobs which arise each day. Never focus on just one job as you will only be disappointed should your candidacy not be successful.

Targets

Set yourself realistic targets. Never go to a recruitment agency requesting a 50% pay rise on your last salary – it is a high expectation and extremely unlikely. Be open minded and flexible; your recruitment consultant will be able to discuss excellent opportunities that you may have discounted by setting such high expectations. Seek advice from your recruitment consultant, they will be able to advise you on what salary to expect and which industries would suit you. Do not be scared to pick up the phone and ask them!

When going for an interview at a potential employer, remember that you may have to return for a second, or even a third interview. Use your time wisely and set yourself the target of securing the next interview. You have your foot in the door and now it is your opportunity to push that door open and walk through.

Check In

Always keep in contact with your recruiter or potential employer. You will want to be kept in the know. However, you do not want to become a stalker! By checking in with your recruitment consultant, you will demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm in a role which you may have applied for, or even interviewed for. Following an interview, always provide detailed and thorough feedback to your recruitment agency. This displays a keen interest in the role and shows that you have listened to the interviewer. Your feedback will be passed on to the potential employer and could be the reason as to why you are selected over another applicant. If you are yet to hear back from your recruitment consultant or interviewer, it will not hurt to check in and see if they are able to provide any feedback for you. Feedback from the interviewer is crucial to your job search, so treat it as constructive criticism. Never feel disheartened when facing rejection from an interview; learn from your mistakes, as this will only strengthen your interview skills and tactics.

Although it is important to check in and follow up with your recruitment consultant, never become too much. Your recruitment agency will be working on a high number of positions, not just the one you have applied for. So try to avoid chasing and contacting too regularly. A consultant should always contact you as soon as they receive feedback from a client, whether it be positive or negative. This will then be passed on to you immediately.

Positivity

Try not to get upset, should you not get your own way when applying for jobs and interviewing. The best thing to do when job hunting is to stay positive. Avoid holding a grudge against your recruitment agency/consultant or even your interviewer. There will be a reason behind every decision made. You are relying on your consultant to find you that dream job, and being bitter could jeopardise your chances in achieving employment with your dream job or company. A consultant will always remember when a candidate has behaved negatively towards them.

When registering with your agency, remember to display your positive attitude. No-one likes a negative Nancy! When registering, your consultant will be getting to know you and acting as though they are wasting your time will certainly not help to achieve your employment goals. When you have reached interview stage, you must again display a positive and motivated attitude to the interviewer. Be the person that everyone wants to be around, rather than the one that everyone wants to avoid.

The post 4 things you must remember when searching for a new job appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Finding a new job can be terrifying, but did you know recruitment agencies are here to make your life that much easier? Most recruitment agencies cover permanent, temporary, contract, part time and full time roles, so proving you’re working with those in your industry, they should be able to help you on your job search.

It is important to find the right recruitment agency for you, as a lot of agencies specialise in specific sectors or industries. For instance, if you are looking for PA, secretarial or administrational work, then Tiger Recruitment would be the perfect agency for you. Ensure the agency/agencies you approach has a good reputation and are both reliable and responsive to enquiries.

The process

Here at Tiger Recruitment, we strive to source the best candidates in the market. To ensure this, we request an online registration and CV first of all – this is to know a little more about you, your achievements, interests, working experience and most importantly, your wants and needs in your new role. When you have send over this information, we will review it and if we think we can help you, we will contact you to register in person at the Tiger offices.

This is where you will go through your CV, speak about your experience in depth and discuss which roles you are ideally looking for. Once the registration process is complete, our team of experienced and professional consultants will contact you as and when roles come in. If you are happy for your CV to be put forward, and the client would like to meet with you, the consultant will then set up an interview for you. This is where you take over and wow your potential employer!

Occasionally an agency may not have a role suitable for you at the exact time of application and registering, but do not lose hope – most agencies will keep a record of your CV and will contact you as and when the perfect role comes in. An agency cannot guarantee to find you a new job within 24 hours, but they certainly will try their best to find you exactly what you are looking for.

The consultant meeting

The meeting with a consultant is your first step, so it’s important you impress them. If your consultant sees that you are well presented, turn up early for your interview and are competent and proactive, they will be able to put you forward for most roles. Dress to impress for your meeting (smart business wear is recommended) and ensure your body language is positive, keeping eye contact and avoiding slouching. Occasionally a recruitment consultant will offer friendly advice regarding your CV or some interviewing hints and tips – never feel embarrassed or insulted, they are just trying their best to help you find your dream job.

Be a realist

When meeting with a consultant, or even when you are interviewing for a position, be realistic, speak about your skills but be sure to not sugar coat the truth. Never lie on your CV; employers do check and it could land you in a very awkward situation. Make sure you make the most of your meeting, speaking about the skills that make you stand out from the crowd. If it is a creative role, why not put a portfolio of your work together to show off exactly what you can do?

Make sure you set a realistic salary target – understand that if you are currently on £20,000 per annum, you cannot suddenly jump to a high-end salary. That said, if you show interest in roles with career progression, you will be well on your way to that higher pay bracket.

What is temping and is it the right option for me?

Temporary work suits many candidates; those who are looking to do something with their spare time, those who require extra income and those who have other commitments and cannot always work regular working hours every day. Temp work is a common occurrence and most agencies will source work regularly. When you have registered with an agency, a consultant will contact you as and when a suitable role comes in. Do not lose faith in an agency if you do not seem to get a call every day – a client will contact an agency when they require a temporary employee and it may not be every day that you are available. The beauty of temp work is that you can accept or decline any offers a consultant offers you depending on your availability. When you have been placed in a temporary position you will need to keep track of the hours you have worked and record this on a timesheet. Your agency will then pay you directly into your account, usually at the end of the working week. Temp-to-perm is also a great way to get your foot in the door of a company. This way, you can trial a company without a fixed contract, as well as wowing your potential employers into giving you the role on a permanent basis.

How to keep in the know

Make sure you keep up to date with your recruitment agency – the best way to go about this is online. Always check your agency’s website to see the current roles they have on their books – it does not hurt to ping across an e-mail to your consultant to check in and mention that you are interested in a particular role. Another way to keep up to date with the latest roles is to follow your agency on their social media platforms. Most agencies have profiles on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram– agencies often post about their current roles, and it is so simple to keep an eye on this on your news feed and get in contact to express your interest.
—
If you’re on the hunt for a role in the business support sector, feel free to get in touch with the Tiger team.

The post Candidates, this is how recruitment agencies work appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

As you spend hours poring over your CV (don’t make these CV mistakes), half a day on a covering letter and still more time trawling through the online job boards, you might not realise that this hard work could all be undone in a matter of seconds – if your actions don’t match up to the character traits you’ve listed on your CV.

When it comes down to the wire between two candidates in an interview process, it’s these traits and interpersonal skills – rather than your technical knowledge – that could make or break your success. We reveal the four areas to be mindful of when looking for a new role.

Respect your employer

In your descriptions of current / previous employers, it goes without saying that you should never disrespect or be too negative. What you might not have realised is that this also applies to your treatment of them during your job hunt. A light-hearted ‘Oh, I’ll just call in sick to make the interview’, implies a carelessness that is unlikely to be well received by your prospective new boss.

Whilst it can be challenging to search for a new role in full-time employment, be assured that any disregard for your employer will be viewed as an indicator of your future actions.

Keep each interaction professional

Your CV and cover letter are probably fantastic. Free of typos and grammar errors, they played a major role in securing your placement on the shortlist of a great position. Ensure the same level of care goes into each and every interaction with your recruiter or hiring manager too.

If you’re communicating by text message or email, double check it before you hit ‘send’ – or better, ask a friend to review it as well. Avoid being too chummy; use ‘Good morning’ rather than ‘Hey buddy’; and keep all communication to the same tone you would have used in the creation of your CV.

Everyone is a referee

In the world of work, everyone is a referee. Expect anyone and everyone to be asked for their opinion of you, so ensure you conduct yourself appropriately at all times! Don’t save your ‘A’-game for the only person you think matters. Everyone, from the receptionist at the recruiting firm, to the tea lady at the prospective employer’s office, could volunteer or be called upon for their opinion of you.

Work on your small talk

Incredible though it may be, small talk could be the clincher in the decision to hire you. Small talk forms a critical part of the rapport-building process (not to mention being indicative of your interpersonal skills), so think about how you might address it when the time comes. A little forethought will go a long way in the creation of some light conversational topics. These could prove useful in filling any silences when you’re being escorted from reception to an interview room, for example, be it with a recruiter, HR manager or hiring manager.

When you’re looking for a new role, each and every interaction should be treated with care and attention. Reflect those behaviours and personality traits listed on your CV in all of your actions. Even if you don’t secure the role, your integrity will be well-regarded and is highly likely to serve you well down the track!

Looking for a new role or some additional training to make it over the line? Get in touch with us today.

The post Actions speak louder than words: Match your CV to your behaviour appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

Secretaries, PAs, EAs and professional administrators are, for many businesses, the true unsung heroes. Without support staff to manage diaries, coordinate business travel, and generally keep everyone organised – many businesses would fall into disarray within hours. Their tasks are more often than not completed under extreme pressure, juggled with various other responsibilities and prioritised to tight deadlines.

The majority of candidates we meet on a daily basis have incredibly challenging roles.

Fewer have the skills to meet these challenges.

Fewer still can communicate these attributes in an interview scenario.

But when these traits are key to securing a fantastic role, you’d probably agree that it’s helpful to know which are the most sought after, and how you might communicate them to prospective employers. If you have a little work to do, just speak to us about training: upskilling shows initiative and will be favourably regarded by prospective employers!

1. Calm under pressure

The EAs, PAs and secretaries we see who are at the top of their game all have this in common. Supporting senior management means no day is ever the same. Demands are made of you (sometimes seemingly ridiculous), but you know that even the toughest problems have solutions. Remaining calm under pressure will also likely mean you’re a creative thinker who can think on your feet.

Interview tip: As you describe previous roles and responsibilities, don’t forget to weave in examples of the ways in which you might have been performing under pressure, giving details of deadlines and responsibility.

2. Multi-tasker

It’s 10am on a Tuesday, you have to get these meeting minutes typed up but a client has unexpectedly turned up while your boss is in a meeting. Their partner has also just called you with a home emergency. How do you manage, all the while with the phone ringing and email requests flooding the inbox? You do, because you can multi-task.

Interview tip: Unprompted, describe a typical day in the office, ensuring you outline the breadth of the tasks you’re responsible for and the timeframes in which you complete them.

3. Eye for detail

This one goes without saying, but really consider how you normally approach your work: Do you double check and triple check diary invites, email addresses, and meeting agendas before they’re finalised? It may sound ludicrous, but realistically your role requires attention to detail because you’re working with highly senior executives who demand nothing less than perfect.

Interview tip: If faced with a behavioural-based question, describe in detail the planning and preparation you’d take on before completing a task.

4. (Another level) organised

With conflicting priorities to manage, an ever-growing to-do list to stay on top of, and three inboxes to maintain, your organisational skills are on another level. Every single minute of your working day is productive – even the walk between meetings. That might mean compartmentalising, it could involve delegation or it’s possibly just your own zany way that no one else understands but works for you.

Interview tip: You could show off your organisational expertise by describing it. But frankly, it will be evident to anyone by being ten minutes early for your interviews, by your calm demeanour, and by producing a clean notepad and pen as you take a seat.

5. Technical prowess

You’re the boss of Word shortcuts, PowerPoint graphics and Excel formulas. No one knows Outlook like you do, and you can even draw on a bit of shorthand when need be. You enjoy learning new features of the MS office suite because you know that it’s the best way to be most efficient in your role. It makes you an invaluable person to have around, not to mention the go-to person in a crisis.

Interview tip: Keep your skills testing results up-to-date, upskilling if needed, and offer to share the results with your interviewer.

Want to know how you can further develop these skills and be the go-to candidate of choice for our top-tier clients? Get in touch to find out more.

The post Five key Attributes of Great Secretarial Staff appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

If you’re one of the few professionals who find themselves logging on on December 27, finding a positive spin on your situation may seem almost impossible. However, as stormy as the cloud may appear, there are plenty of silver linings to working between Christmas and New Year’s.

Write your to-do list

First and foremost, this typically quiet period means you’ll have plenty of time for doing those things you keep putting off. Take the time to write a comprehensive to-do list and methodically work through it – not only will the time pass quickly, but you’ll hopefully start the new year with a completely fresh slate.

Secure face time with your boss

If your supervisor or manager is also working over the Christmas period, now is the time to organise a one-on-one catch up. With fewer people online or in the office, you’ll face less competition for their time, and will be able to have a proper catch-up, covering the year in review, the year ahead, any scope for promotions or professional growth or any ideas you have for a new project. Similarly, you’ll also have unprecedented access to any mentors or senior staff, meaning there’s potential to pick up some valuable lessons.

Complete training

Lessons can also come in the form of upskilling. With some extra time up your sleeve, now is the perfect time to complete that online course you’ve been eyeing off, or finally reading that industry-based book you’ve had on your bookshelf for six months. If you haven’t already done so, familiarise yourself with current literature, trends and technologies in your industry, ensuring you’re completely up to date. Whatever you learn you’ll be able to inject back into the business, making for an incredibly beneficial use of your time.

Look ahead

With the new year just days away, the last few days of December are ideal for making sure your diary is completely up to date. Fill out your appointments for January, block out any trips you’ve already booked and make sure all your leave requests are with the relevant people. While you’re there, take some time to set some realistic goals for the year ahead, setting benchmarks along the way.

De-clutter your inbox

After all this, if you still have hours to spare, it’s time to conquer your inbox. Filter and file relevant emails and review any important communication to ensure there isn’t anything you’ve missed in the run up to December 25.

All of these tasks have one common goal: starting next year as fresh as can be. By clearing your desk both literally and figuratively, you can wave goodbye to the year knowing that come January, you’re ready to conquer whatever the year throws at you.

Scared of the January Blues? Here’s how to keep feeling productive well into the first month.

The post How to be productive between Christmas and New Year’s appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.

So you’ve decided to take the plunge and commit to a full-time virtual assistant job. Whether it’s the chance to work flexibly from home, or you’re looking to diversify your workload, a VA job is a fantastic option for administrative professionals.

However, before you hand in your notice and commit to becoming a virtual assistant in London, there are a few things to put in place.

Branding

It may not be the first thing you think of but it’s essential that anyone offering VA services has a strong brand to go with it! The market is quite saturated, so it pays to have a recognisable name and identity before you begin. Think about your name – will you operate under your given name or will it be something that describes your services instead? Do some research into what’s on the market – if you choose something that’s too similar to another brand, you will struggle to compete on a Google and social media search.

It’s also worth thinking about your visuals. Will you have a logo, or rely on images? What colour scheme will your branding be? Getting this sorted before going out to clients will ensure an authentic brand identity from the very beginning.

Charges and services

Before you start quoting on virtual assistant jobs, it’s important to establish a pricing matrix. You may choose to charge by the hour, by the project or as a flat fee, depending on the type of work you’re completing. You need to consider how much you need to charge to not only cover living expenses, but other compulsory elements like tax, National Insurance and pension.

It is inevitable that some clients will try to bargain with you, so it’s important to know how far you’re willing to drop in order to still make a living. Some virtual assistants in the market do have very low prices, so it may be tempting to try and compete. But, at the end of the day, you need to make every task worth your while!

It’s also important to establish the scope of your services – as a London-based virtual assistant, what exactly will you be offering? Is it just straight administration, or can you assist with other tasks, such as copywriting or website design?

Legalities

A virtual PA job in the UK may have its benefits, but one of its pitfalls involves either engaging an accountant or taking charge of your finances yourself. You’ll need to decide whether you want to trade as a limited company or sole trader, what to do with VAT and how to make sure you have all the necessary records come tax time.

Technology

There’s no point offering your VA services if you can’t actually deliver on them. Make sure you have the appropriate technology to keep connected with clients and complete tasks required. This includes video conferencing tools such as a camera and microphone, all Microsoft Office software and a fast and consistent Internet connection. It would also work in your favour to be well-versed in mobile technology so you can work on the go, with access to a wide range of apps.

This is also the point you can get your website going – this should include a summary of your services and your experience.

Business Development

You’ve got the brand, know how much you’re charging and are all teched up. It’s time to find your first virtual assistant job! This can be a long process that requires a multi-faceted approach, so it’s worth starting this before you resign from your full-time role.

Social media is a VA’s best friend so as soon as you confirm your branding it’s time to get networking! Start with Twitter and LinkedIn – these are the two platforms that are most likely attract your target audience. Let your existing network know about your new venture – they may not require your services in the near future, but could know someone who could.

On your website, add some blog posts or create short videos – whatever you think will attract your audience’s attention. You could also build an email list so that you can keep any leads warm. Perhaps consider offering a free service to incentivise signing up?

Alternatively, consider signing up with a virtual jobs agency like Tiger Virtual. They will contact you as and when roles emerge.

Once you build that base of clients, make sure you ask for referrals or testimonials – this will allow you to attract ongoing business, reducing the need for proactive business development.
—
Tiger Virtual recruits for virtual PA jobs in the UK. Submit your details today to make sure you’re on our database.

The post How do I become a virtual assistant? appeared first on Tiger Recruitment.