Infinity Recruitment

Blog

  • Getting back into work after a career break

    Many people at some point in their working life will take a career break, whether it’s to have children, to travel or just to have a bit of respite. Whatever the reason when you decide go get back into work it can seem pretty daunting and you can be left feeling a little lost at where to start.

    Sometimes after a career break easing yourself in gently can be the best option, this may be through taking on a bit of volunteer work or casual work that could then increase and lead to part time hours. This means that it won’t be such a shock to the system as taking up a nine till five job five days a week.

    It’s also a good opportunity to really think about what you’d like to do career-wise and if it’s time to make a career change then after a break is a great chance to give something new a try.

    Sometimes if looking for work seems a bit daunting then the best place to start is a recruitment agent as they can help you to find a suitable role for you based on your skill set and past experience. They will also be able to give you help with your CV and advice with regards interview techniques and application form completing.

  • Self-employment in the construction industry

    The decision to become self-employed may be one that fills you with an equal mix of fear and excitement. There are so many unknowns: Will there be enough work? Will I be paid on time? What will I do if I’m away on holiday? The benefits of being your own boss for many people outweigh the disadvantages especially within the construction industry where often different trades are working in conjunction.

    The first consideration when setting up your business is where to source the supplies needed. Trade accounts can be set up which will enable you to buy materials and tools you need and pay for them on a monthly basis. This will help to stabilise cash flow a common problem with self-employment.

    A further recommendation would be to set up a payment schedule if possible. This means that an amount of money is paid initially to cover material costs then an agreed amount is paid as different stages of the construction. A final sum is paid on completion.

    Prompt payment of invoices can be encouraged by an incentive such as a reduction in the total cost or a penalty for late payment.

    With a few safeguards put in place, self-employment can be both rewarding and enjoyable.

     

     

     

  • Improving your interview techniques

    Having an interview for a job can be daunting. You may have not been to one before or maybe you have been to a few but still get butterflies in your stomach every time. Going to an interview can be even more nerve wrecking if you really want the job as you may fear that something you may say will scupper your chances.

    When preparing for an interview practice can make perfect. Obviously you will not know the exact questions that you are going to be asked in the interview but there are a number of common questions that you can pre plan for. Questions such as “why do you want the job” and “why do you think you would be good in this role” are often asked by potential employers.

    Go through your CV and highlight any areas you wish to highlight or areas you think they may question you on so you are ready.

  • Working abroad

    If you have always wanted to see other parts of the world, but do not have much money saved up then why not consider a working holiday. Many people would love to spend a few month or a year in Australia, USA or South Africa but struggle to save up enough money for travel, accommodation and food when there, let alone entertainment and drinks etc.

    There are a number of companies out there that specialise in finding work for people in other countries allowing them to explore other areas whilst still getting paid. The job opportunities are endless and include positions such as bar work, au pairs, tour guides / reps and many more. There really is something for everyone, even if you are looking for a role in an office or accountancy firm for example, you may still be able to get a good wage whilst you’re working abroad.

     

  • Finding out a salary for a new job

    It amazes me how many jobs are advertised without stating the salary or will say salary dependant on experience. I think that all jobs should give an idea of a salary on the advert even if it is just an approximation and is a band between two amounts.

    No one can be expected to take a job without knowing what they will be earning but sometimes the salary is not even mentioned in an interview.

    If you have applied for a job that does not state the salary and then you get called for an interview, then you will need to be prepared to ask. Do not make it your first question when in the interview, hold fire until the end as they may well cover salaries and holidays etc in the interview.  If when you find out the salary, it is too low for you, don’t feel bad about saying that unfortunately you would not be able to continue with the application as the salary is less than you were looking for. If you are the right candidate for them then you may find that they offer you more money.