Eventus, Author at Eventus Recruitment Group

24Apr

How to choose a company to work for

When you are looking for a new job, it can seem instinctual to focus your search on a specific job title and position. However, whether you are looking for an entry-level position or a Senior role, finding a great position goes way beyond the job description.

When deciding between potential employers, whether that be company culture, opportunities for growth or the size of the company – there are several things to keep in mind when you are choosing a company to work for.

What key factors should you consider? Here are 4 pieces of advice to help you decide the best company for you to work for:

Development Opportunities

Career progression can take many forms, this could be in the form of being awarded more responsibility in the role, moving up the career ladder in terms of promotion.

What you need to decide is what do you want from your career? Write down a list of career goals and put timescales on these! Next, research your potential new employer’s success in progressing their staff. Do they have a history of progression within the company?

Company Culture

Do you want to be employed by a firm that does not match your own core values? Probably not! You want a company that will align with your values, fulfil you, and make you feel a sense of purpose. So how do you a firm is right for you?

Do your research – Check websites such as Glassdoor, Trustpilot and ReviewSolicitors
Make connections with past and present employees and ask to share thoughts if they do not mind.
Check the News and social media – what are the firm doing / what is going on with them.
Ask specific direct questions at interview – what does success look like? Can you give me examples of internal growth?

Salary and Benefits

Know what you are worth. Do research on the average salary for the position, considering your experience, your education level, and the place in which you will be working. From there calculate a yearly salary you feel will the fair based on your situation and will be fair but keep some room to be flexible – do not be shy about this.

Employee benefits go beyond the regular salary pack. These can make or break an employee’s decision to join a firm. They can come in many different forms, holiday allowance, workplace pension, discounts available via specific perks, maternity and paternity and flexible working. Make a note of what benefits are important to you, what is key or what will be key for you in the long term.

Do the firm’s employee benefits align with your personal needs?

Big or Small company: what is right for you?

Choosing the right firm is a huge decision. You will likely spend a third of your life working, which means you will want to choose a company that ticks as many boxes as possible.

So, what is right for you?

Although the culture of each company will vary regardless of its size, there are a few things you should bear in mind when looking for your perfect fit.

Why a big company might be right for you?

You may want to work within a clear structure.
You could benefit from a big brand reputation.
Benefits package may be more in line with your needs or requirements.

Why a big company might not be right for you?

You may not want to wait around for changes to be made.
You may want to know everyone you work with.
You may want a bit of variation to your role opposed to a set structure.

Why a small company might be right for you?

A varied role – High Street practices tend to offer more variety based on client needs.
Small tight knit team.
Your successes may be more easily noticed.

Why a small company might not be right for you?

Is there a clear path for your career development? Is this defined?
Do their company benefits align with what you need, or do they just offer the basics?
Would the team be too small? Would you prefer more interaction on a wider scale?

Making the final decision on the right company for you to work for

Ultimately this is a personal choice based on you as an individual. Regardless of the business size you choose to work for the important thing is to make sure you have done your research. You understand the business and they have passed your internal tick box test. You have weighed up the pros and cons (Yes make a list), and lastly, you are comfortable and confident in your decision.

Written by Simon Scott, Senior Recruitment Consultant specialising in the Legal sector in South Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

"I can’t speak highly enough of the service I was provided by Eventus, specifically Amy Watson. Amy kept me updated throughout the recruitment process, ensuring that I was well equipped and providing me with the confidence required to be successful in securing a new job. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Eventus again for in the future and would highly recommend them to both friends and family."

Liz, Placed Legal Job Candidate

17Apr

Managing Stress Linked to Work and our Careers

We all experience stress from time-to-time and our careers is one of the biggest factors contributors to our stress levels. If we don’t prevent or manage stress in the workplace, it can lead to burnout and effect relationships with our colleagues, as well as our friends and family outside of work.

Understanding the stress response

Stress is a normal physical response to situations that make you feel threatened or upset your balance in some way. Your body responds to this in several ways that include both physical and mental adjustments. This ‘stress response’ is your body’s way of protecting you from the threatening situation; it helps you stay focused, energetic and alert. When under physiological or psychological stress, your body reacts by releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones increase your heart rate, raise your blood pressure, change the digestive process and increase the level of glucose in the blood stream, all allowing you to prepare for‘ fight or flight’. Your perception of pain is reduced due to the release of endorphins and appetite is reduced to allow you to concentrate on the situation at hand. These adaptations will normally resolve once the threatening situation is over.

Unlike our ancestors whose stressors had a more definitive beginning and ending (hunting and defending), what many of us experience today is longer term stressors, such as long working hours or financial stress. Sometimes we are experiencing stress and we don’t realise it, particularly in work. For example, working to deadlines, taking on too much or regularly being distracted mid task can trigger our body’s stress response.

These ‘chronic’ stressors, which have long term adaptations on your body, are more risky because abnormal levels of hormones are being produced for longer periods. This can result in impaired memory and concentration, an increased risk of high cholesterol (due to the release of cortisol in the blood) and therefore coronary heart disease.

Other symptoms of stress include muscle tension, migraines, tension headaches, sleep loss, and changes to your digestion, eating and drinking habits.

If stressors in the workplace are not dealt with or continue for prolonged period of time they can lead to burnout. Furthermore, they can affect your health and your life outside of work.

Ways to manage work-related stress

As the days are getting longer and the weather warmer, it’s the perfect time to take steps to reduce and prevent work-related stress.

Identify triggers

Reflect on what’s causing you stress. Is there something specific that’s making you feel this way? Identifying the source of stress can help you find ways to manage it better.

Get organised

Research has shown that a disorganised workspace can actually lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. On the other hand, having a neat and organised desk can help to improve our productivity and give us a sense of clarity. Being able to quickly identify what items are on our desk can help to save us time and reduce the amount of stress we experience. Taking the time to organise your desk, clear away clutter and get rid of unnecessary items can help you stay on top of tasks, think clearly and feel more in control.

Review your to-do list. Write lists, put tasks and deadlines on a calendar, use sticky notes – whatever works for you to stay in control of your tasks. Prioritise the most important tasks first and you will benefit from a feeling of accomplishment once they are complete. Delegate any tasks you can if you are feeling swamped and have people who can help you. Personally, at the end of the day, I like to create a to-do list for the next day, so I know exactly what I have on. Doing this always helps me to switch off, as I know everything is written down. So, I’m not worrying that I might forget to complete a task.

Take breaks

Take regular breaks. Try to step away from your desk every couple of hours. Even if it is just to get a drink. I was recently reading about someone who every hour takes a minute just to pause and how doing so helps them not to get stressed and focus better for the rest of the hour.

Exercise

With the weather starting to improve go for a walk on your lunch break. Getting outside into the fresh air will help you to relax and refocus for the afternoon ahead.

Incorporating physical activity into your day can help you release tension and clear your mind of any worries. Also, it helps to prevent disease and improves the immune system, boosting energy levels and improving sleep too. A brisk walk in, running, yoga or playing five-a-side with your mates – any exercise will help. There are plenty of ways to get moving and many of them won’t cost you a penny. Go to your local park or check out exercise tutorials on Youtube.

Spending quality time in nature is great for your mental health and exercising releases endorphins giving you a natural high. Reducing stress, balancing your mood and helping you feel more positive whilst absorbing Vitamin D. If you work from home, go for a walk or sit outside at the end of the day, to create separation from work and home to help you switch off.

Rest and Get Plenty of Sleep

Have a set sleep routine and try to get between 7 to 9 hours sleep a night. Not getting enough sleep negatively affects our mood, memory and judgement. If you struggle sleeping try having a bath before bed, reading a book or listening to music or calming sounds.

Book Annual Leave – Make Plans

Arrange something to look forward to outside of the workplace and book your annual leave in advance. Having plans to do something different outside of your day-to-day routine, gives you something to look forward to and can make stressful days easier to manage. Whether it’s catching up with friends, going on holiday, ticking an activity off your bucket list or a day to do the DIY project you’ve been putting off – it all counts. Despite being busy at work I enjoy this time of year, as I know my summer holiday is booked and just around the corner.

Take five and breathe

Taking a few slow, deep breaths can help you get your heart rate under control and lower your feelings of stress. Mindfulness or meditation are good too. There are many great apps out there like Headspace and Calm.

Zone Out

Take your mind off your stressful situation by tuning into something you enjoy. For example, watch your favourite TV show, listen to music or podcast, DIY, sewing or learn something new. This will give your mind time to rest.

Focus on the little things

When life seems stressful, take time to focus on the little things that make you feel happy. Each day reflect and pick out three things you are grateful for that day. This will help you focus on the positives and help you feel in the moment. Remember to be kind to yourself.

Speak Up

If you are struggling with stress at work or finding it difficult to juggle work and other commitments, speak to your manager or HR. They might be able to remove some work from you or make adjustments to support your work-life balance.

Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you’re struggling to manage with stress. Talking to a counsellor or therapist can help you develop strategies to cope with stress in the long-term. Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programmes, which allow you to access counselling sessions.

By managing stress, you can become more productive and successful in your work. It also creates a healthier, happier working environment for everyone.

How the Eventus Recruitment Group can help

If your employer can’t do any thing to relieve stress in the workplace, it might be time to see what other job opportunities are available. We understand that job searching can be stressful time too. So, we are here to be a friendly face and we do everything we can to take the pressure away from you. We offer support at every stage of the job search process, from CV writing, arranging job interviews and interview preparation, to negotiating and managing job offers. To view our latest job vacancies, click here or contact us here for a confidential chat. We can also speculatively approach companies you are interested and other employers in your area on a no name basis.

If your team has too much work on, we are here to help you to find the right people who can help. We recruit for all job functions and levels in the legal and finance sectors. Always, we tailor our services to meet your individual recruitment needs. Whether you are looking permanent or temporary staff, we can help. Find out more about our services here or contact us for a confidential discussion.

What do our clients and candidates say?

"Siobhan from Eventus Recruitment Group was very professional and I would highly recommend her and the company to anyone seeking employment. Siobhan went over and beyond the call of just finding me a job by constantly keeping in contact with me, discussing any position before forwarding my CV and wishing me well when I went for the interview. I got the job and she followed up to make sure my first few days went well. The ladies that interviewed me also commented on what a pleasure it was to deal with Siobhan. I completely agree with your 100% towards Client Commitment, Candidate Commitment and Working With Integrity. I cannot thank you enough for making me feel like number one all the time, thank you."

Beverley, Placed Legal Candidate

"I have used Eventus, and Amy Watson in particular, for a number of years and have always found them to be friendly, helpful and professional. They really take the time to understand the firm, and the roles that we are looking to fill, so that only candidates that fit our requirements are put forward. I would have no reservations in recommending Amy and Eventus."

Adrienne, Mewies Solicitors

Written by Emma Guy, Marketing Manager at the Eventus Recruitment Group.

14Apr

Enhancing and Improving Your Retention Strategy

Why have a retention strategy?

It is estimated that to replace an employee it can cost, on average, between 6-9 months’ salary. This covers recruitment costs and training expenses relating to the new employee. On top of this, there will be a loss of productivity with having to hire and train a replacement.

Furthermore, with so many companies experiencing skill / staff shortages, it’s important now more than ever that we hold on to our top talent. The ongoing talent shortage has seen 63% of HR leaders say that they are worried about their staff retention, which has resulted in more businesses (62%) being proactive in retaining talent through redeployment and reskilling programmes who might otherwise have been made redundant. (LHH, 2023)

How do you retain employees?

We speak to professionals daily about what is making them unsettled in their current role and what they would like from their future employers. Reflecting on this unique insight, here are some practical suggestions to enhance your retention strategy…

Employee Development Plans

Employees who have training and progression opportunities tend to be more competitive, more engaged and adapt better to organisational changes. An Employee Development Plan can support this and is a document focussing on work-related skill development, owned by both the employee and the line manager. They contain an analysis of skills, knowledge, goals, aspirations and training needs in order to progress. Be clear on how to progress and what they can achieve by doing so. It will also identify how you will support them with training. Don’t be afraid to change training needs as the requirements of both the organisation and the employee develop. Remember the EDP is owned by both the employee and the employer, and both should be responsible for monitoring its suitability. To read more about Employee Development Plans, view our article here.

Consult With Your Employees

Give them a voice. If your employers feel heard, they are more likely to feel valued. This could be as simple as asking them about their role in the company, what matters to them in the workplace and what would make their job easier, to asking for their opinions on projects or for their ideas on business development. To read our top tips for ensuring employees feel valued click here.

Employee Benefits

Employee benefits are more important than ever in a retention strategy, with rising inflation and cost-of-living. We speak to professionals everyday and we have seen an increase in the importance of great benefit packages to job searchers recently, particularly with rising inflation. There are so many employee benefits that can be offered to support employees financially, including healthcare / insurance, discount schemes, annual salary reviews and flexible or hybrid working if commuting costs are high. Here at the Eventus Recruitment Group we review our employee benefit package annually to ensure it still meets the needs of our employees. As specialist recruitment consultants, we work with businesses in your sector and region, so we know what your competitors offer to their employees. Do not hesitate to contact us here or call us on 01524 34400 for a discussion about employee benefits and what similar businesses in your sector are offering.

Recognition and Appreciation

Professionals need regular positive and constructive feedback on their performance. People who don’t receive recognition of their good work are twice as likely to leave. Appreciation works wonders in the workplace as it boosts morale, teamwork and productivity; all of which support employee retention. Adopting a simple employee appreciation scheme can build appreciation into every working day or even ask your employees how they like to be recognised for their hard work. For more ideas on showing appreciation to your employees view our blog here.

Get advice on your retention strategy

At the Eventus Recruitment Group we take a unique approach to recruitment in that we put our clients and candidates interests at the heart of what we do. We take time to get to know more than just your job requirements, we get to know you personally, your business and your company culture. This allows us to give tailored advice and support on more than just your recruitment strategy and make a real impact to your business. If you would like some advice or support on your recruitment and retention strategies, please do not hesitate to contact us here or call our head office on 01524 34400 for a confidential chat.

"Excellent service received by both Amy & Lucy. They both fully understand the businesses and the candidates we require both academically and culturally. They both always go above and beyond. 1st class service received."

James, Watson Woodhouse Solicitors

How to ask for a pay rise

How to ask your boss for a pay rise

The prospect of asking your employer for a pay rise can be daunting. However, if you feel that you deserve it, there are steps that you can take to ensure you have the best chance of success.

Firstly, it’s important to be confident in your own abilities and the value you bring to the company. Make sure you have a clear understanding of your job role, responsibilities and the metrics you have achieved since your last pay rise.

Before you schedule a meeting with your employer, have a clear idea of the salary you would like to request. Research salaries for similar positions in the industry and compare your skillset and experience to show why you deserve a pay rise.

During the meeting, be polite and professional, and explain your reasons for asking for a pay rise. Give examples of your achievements and the benefit on the business. Your employer may ask for evidence, so be prepared with the necessary information.

Finally, be prepared for the answer your employer gives. It may not always be the result you want, but be open to alternatives, such as additional benefits.

Asking for a pay rise can be intimidating. However, if you are confident in your abilities and have evidence to back up your request, you can improve your chances of success.

What to do if your pay rise is refused?

It can be very disheartening when you don’t get the pay rise you asked for, but don’t despair! Here are a few tips to help you deal with the situation:

Don’t take it personally

Focus on the facts. You may not have met the criteria or the timing may not have been right. Speak to your manager and try to get to the bottom of why you weren’t successful this time. Ask for a timescale as to when it will be reviewed again.

Think about what you really want

Is it more money, or more responsibility or improved working conditions? Consider other options that may not involve a pay rise but could still bring you job satisfaction. For example, hybrid working.

Get Feedback

Ask your manager for advice on how to progress your career and what you could do to increase your chances of a successful application next time.

Find out what other job opportunities are out there

If you aren’t happy with your employer’s decision and you know that other employers are paying more for your skills and experience, it could be time for your next career move.

Remember, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t get a pay rise. With a little bit of perseverance and determination, you can make your career goals a reality. If you would like you see some salary reviews for your area, or would like a confidential chat about legal or finance job opportunities, contact us here.

Written by Siobhan Courtney, Managing Director of the Eventus Recruitment Group and Legal Recruitment specialist.

Beverley, Legal Candidate

16Mar

Burnout – signs and ways to overcome it

What is burnout and its effects in the workplace?

Burnout is becoming an increasingly common issue in the workplace. It occurs when an individual is overwhelmed by the demands of their job, leading to mental, physical and emotional exhaustion.

I recently saw an article detailing how Gen Z employees are feeling burnt out. “Employee stress levels are on the rise, with the younger generation feeling the greatest impact”, according to the Cigna 360 Global Well-Being Survey 2022. It surveyed nearly 12,000 employees across 15 countries – including the UK, Australia and the US – saying that 91% of Gen Z participants between the ages of 18 and 24 feel stressed, compared to 84% on average. The report said that unmanageable stress impacts almost a quarter (23%) of Gen Z-ers, with 98% experiencing symptoms of work burnout. Meanwhile, Millennials between 25 and 34 were not far off behind, with 87% saying they were stressed.

This got me thinking about how do we know if we are near feeling “burnt out” and how to manage it if we’re already there?

Signs and symptoms of burnout

It’s important to recognise the signs of burnout, such as feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated and anxious. Signs to look out for that may indicate you are burnt out:

Feeling constantly exhausted and drained
Struggling to focus on work
A lack of motivation and feeling overwhelmed
Increased irritability and frustration
Poor sleep quality
Feeling like there’s no point in completing tasks
Feeling anxious and not wanting to go into work

Burnout in the workplace

Burnout is a state of mental, physical and emotional exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It is common issue in the workplace – no matter your industry or role. It can be difficult to identify, as it often creeps up on you over time. It’s key to remember that it’s ok to take time to look after yourself and to give yourself space to recover.

Identify the cause of your burnout

it’s important to identify the cause of the burnout and address the underlying issues. This could be lack of sleep, work stress, lack of support, or a number of other things. Once you’ve identified the cause, you can take steps to address it and reduce the risk of burnout in the future.

Manage your workload

Firstly, take on a manageable workload. Make sure you’re not taking on more than you can handle and be aware of your own limits. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, speak to your manager about taking on fewer tasks or delegating some of your work.

Make time for yourself

The first step is to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and take some time out to relax. This could be a few hours or days, depending on how severe the burnout is. Schedule regular breaks throughout the day and don’t be afraid to take a day off if you need it. Take this time to focus on yourself and do something you enjoy. Additionally, try to make time for activities outside of work. Such as spending time with friends and family, binge watching your favourite TV programme or taking up a hobby.

Talk to someone

Talking to a family member, friend or mentor can help you to process your emotions and make you feel more supported. Make use of any wellbeing initiatives that your company offers. Many company health insurance schemes include health checks, which can include mental health. Acknowledging and addressing burnout is the first step to finding a solution.

Set realistic goals

Make sure that your goals are manageable and achievable. Celebrate the small wins along the way! Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go to plan.

Finally, be sure to look after your physical and mental health. Exercise regularly and make sure you’re eating nutritious meals. Don’t forget to take time to relax, such as listening to music or meditating.

Look after yourself

Establish a balanced lifestyle and look after yourself. Selfcare is so important in overcoming burnout. This may include getting enough sleep, relaxing, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.

Remember that it’s ok to feel burnt out and that it’s important to look after yourself.

Get direct support

Are you experiencing burnout or are experiencing unnecessary stress at work? If you would like to see what other career opportunities are available in the legal or finance job markets, view our latest job vacancies here. Alternatively contact us today for a confidential chat here. With your written permission we can speculatively approach firms you are interested in and other employers in your area on a no-name basis, to find you the perfect role. Furthermore we offer support at every part of the job search process, from CV writing, arranging interviews to managing the offer stage and negotiating contracts. So, you can sit back, relax and know your job search is in safe hands.

Succession Planning: Top Tips and Advice

Succession planning is an important part of any organisation’s long-term strategy. The development of the firm and future leadership team isn’t something that can be left to chance. A succession plan ensures that the right people are in the right positions and that those positions can be filled when required.

How to begin Succession Planning

Firstly, you need to identify the positions and areas that would suffer the most if a Solicitor, Head of Department or Partner was to leave. Which positions and areas would have the most impact and would affect the business goals and security of the firm?

Succession Planning – Identify the skills of jobs roles and your team

You also need to consider the core skills of the leaders and key people in your firm that you will lose if they were to leave and who has those skills or the foundations to build upon that want to develop within the firm. This means identifying and nurturing talent, creating opportunities for learning and development, and creating a culture of continuous improvement and growth. It is also important to have a sufficient timeline in place to train a person up. For example, if you know a key member of staff is going to retire soon.

It’s important to continuously identify any vulnerable positions, such as a Solicitor who has moved to Associate and is now ready to take on a Head of Department role. Is such a position available within your firm? What is the risk of them leaving and taking that role with another firm? By keeping these questions in mind you can help to minimise the impact if they were to leave. Will the skills for each role change or will your business needs change in future? By planning ahead and identifying any potential skill gaps, will ensure you are full prepared for the future. It will also minimise any potential productivity losses if someone was to leave or job roles were to change.

Succession Planning – Assess your workforce and identify any gaps

Next you need to understand your team as individuals and their aspirations. Who wants to progress and what are their long-term ambitions? Not everyone wants to be Head of Department or a Partner. So, you need to establish who wants to progress and discuss their goals during 1:1s and annual reviews.

Succession Planning – Mentoring and Coaching

Incorporating mentoring and coaching into the personal development of your employees is another great strategy. The transfer of knowledge, skills and experience is essential and benefits both parties. As an employee, it is rewarding when your employer can see your potential and invests time into developing that further.

Succession Planning – Building a network

If you don’t have the skills within your business or your employees don’t want to train and take a step up, start building a network of professionals. LinkedIn is a useful tool for this and can help you to get your brand noticed to support succession planning. Connect with professionals who have the skills and experience needed for the job roles within your succession plan. You don’t need to give a reason as to why you have connected with them. Which is useful for when you are succession planning for roles years down the line and you don’t want to talk publicly about your plans at present. Regularly post on your personal LinkedIn profile and company profile about working at the company, updates to your employee benefits, company achievements and events. Furthermore share testimonials from your employees about working at the company and apply for workplace awards. For example, Great Place To Work, Best Companies to name a few. Increasing brand awareness is so important in case you need to hire as part of your succession plan.

Regularly evaluate your Succession Plan

Evaluating your succession plan regularly will ensure that you have a strategy. However, you need to remember to be flexible and adaptable to changing needs and circumstances. Of course, you may not have someone within your team to progress into certain roles and that’s where we, as specialist recruitment consultants for the legal and finance sectors, can step in. In order to support your recruitment it’s essential for us to really get to know your firm including the values, culture and vision for the future. This will ensure we find the right people for your firm. Having placed from Partner level to Legal Secretary we have the experience and knowledge to support your succession planning and expansion. We always take the time to get to know your firm along with the skills and experience for each individual vacancy so we understand exactly what you are looking for.

Succession planning – A continuous process

Ultimately, succession planning is about more than just having someone in place who can take over a role when needed. It should be a continuous process that reflects the organisation’s values and goals. It’s also about developing a pipeline of talented individuals who are ready to step up and take on a new challenge. Also keep in touch with your recruitment partner to ensure they keep you updated with those candidates you’d want to hear about who are currently active in the market.

If you would like some direct advice on succession planning, we are here to help. Contact us here, email info@eventuslegal.com or call 01524 34400.

Written by Nikki Phillips, Senior Recruitment Consultant specialising in the legal sector

"Eventus is our default provider because they understand our business. Time has been taken over the long term to really understand the various elements of the services that we provide, which means that the candidates they provide are capable of delivering what we need when we need it. In addition, we feel that we can pick up the phone at anytime to discuss potential developments and we know that Eventus will always take a long term view of our requirements and put our business needs first."

Sharif, Ormrods Solicitors

07Mar

Eventus Recruitment expands legal division with new training programme and two new hires

The Eventus Recruitment Group have expanded their legal division and launched a new training programme to encourage talented professionals to take up a career with them in recruitment. We are delighted to welcome Simon Scott and Elle Clarke to our ever-expanding team and are excited to see what the future holds.

Now a team of 11, here at the Eventus Recruitment Group, we are dedicated to providing enhanced employee benefits, incentives and offering flexible working to our employees. Simon has joined our fully remote team and Elle has joined our Wilmslow office.

Simon Scott has joined the Eventus Recruitment Group as a Senior Recruitment Consultant with over 10 years of recruitment experience. The most recent 8 of which have been within the legal market. So, he is excellently placed to further develop their offering within the South Yorkshire and East Midlands market.

Elle Clarke has joined us as a Recruitment Consultant within their Wilmslow office, working alongside their finance recruitment specialists Jo Hood and Shelley Gilchrist. Elle will be focussing on the legal market within Cheshire, Staffordshire and North Wales. Whilst new to recruitment, Elle has worked in the Wilmslow area for the past 3 years for a highly regarded estate agency and has long wanted to make the move into recruitment. Elle joins our brand-new extensive training programme, which has been developed utilising their directors’ many years of recruitment experience in partnership with a business adviser.

Siobhan Courtney, Managing Director of the Eventus Recruitment Group, said: “Simon joins us with a wealth of experience and we are delighted that he chose Eventus Recruitment Group for the next stage in his career. We are incredibly excited to see what the future holds for him, and as mentioned we are just so pleased that the future will be with us.”

“Elle has joined us on our new training scheme and she is the perfect person for this due to her previous sales experience and her super enthusiasm and integrity. Having had a large insight into law in her previous role she is best placed to join the legal team based out of our Cheshire office. A huge warm welcome to both Simon and Elle.”

After a successful 18 months helping businesses in Law and Finance fill staffing shortages and providing confidence to professionals to take the next step in their careers during uncertain times, we are excited to be expanding their offering further into Cheshire, North Wales, South Yorkshire and the Midlands with the help of Simon and Elle.

About the Eventus Recruitment Group

Due to our unique approach to recruitment, The Eventus Recruitment Group are the recruitment partner of choice for many businesses in the Legal, Finance and Accountancy sectors. We help private sector organisations with a range of recruitment services across the UK. From permanent and interim recruitment to targeted campaigns on a retained basis.

Our award-winning recruiters support businesses and professionals throughout every stage of the recruitment process. Ensuring that exceptional talent and skill fit are matched to the perfect job opportunity, whilst ensuring the best possible outcome for both client and candidate. To find out more about the Eventus Recruitment Group and our services click here or contact us for a confidential discussion.

“Nikki headhunted me when I wasn’t even looking for a job. She explained the opportunity without being pushy. Was supportive through the interview and offer process. Kept in touch during notice period. Rang to wish me luck the week before starting and checked I was OK after starting. Excellent service, best I’ve had in 22 years in legal. We’re already working together again on my new vacancies.”

Steve Bradley, Practice Manager

24Feb

Ways to make your employees feel valued

People are a company’s greatest asset and it can only be as good as the people it keeps. As a result, it is essential to make your businesses’ employees feel valued in the workplace. Valued employees are more satisfied and motivated, which in turn leads to increased productivity, creativity, improved morale and teamwork. On top of this, a valued workforce leads to higher employee retention, which is key a element of a successful business.

As Henry Ford said: “Coming together is a beginning…Keeping together is progress…Working together is success.”

How to make your employees valued

Valuing employees can mean different things to different people, so it is important to tailor your approach to each individual. Here are a few ways to make employees feel appreciated and valued:

Acknowledge their contributions

Make sure to thank your employees for their hard work and dedication. You can provide a platform for your colleagues recognition. This could be through employee of the month awards, peer-to-peer recognition or simply saying ‘thank you’ for a job well done.

Invest in their continued professional development

Checking in with your employees regarding career goals and progression is key. You can determine what steps are needed to get them there and support them in doing so. Investing in an employee’s professional development is an effective way to show that you value the individual.

Regular communication

Communicating with employees frequently and clearly can ensure that they feel heard. Employers can also provide transparency and listen to their opinion; this will make employees feel trusted and an integral part of the company.

Provide feedback

Regular feedback is essential to ensure employees are on the right track. Offer constructive criticism and praise to give employees the guidance they need to be successful and feel valued.

Give your employees a voice

Let them have a say in the business. Regularly ask for their opinions and provide them with regular updates on business performance. Allow your employees to approach you with their ideas. Always thank them, and provide them with recognition if you use their idea and if you don’t provide them with the reasons why you aren’t using it at this time. Regularly asking for feedback and listening to staff’s ideas and concerns can also help to make them feel heard and appreciated. Have a open door, hold discussions and / or anonymously survey employees regularly.

Offer rewards

Nothing motivates employees and makes them feel valued more than recognition and rewards. Offer incentives such as bonuses, company events, gift cards and flexitime to motivate and reward employees for their efforts.

Review your benefits

Providing your employees with the employees benefits that will enhance their way of living is a excellent way ensure your employees are valued. Ask them what they want and what will be beneficial for them. For example, flexible working hours can be a great way to give employees autonomy and make them feel appreciated.

Support

Providing employees with the tools and support they need to do their job successfully can make a large impact on feeling valued. This could be through clear expectations, adequate training and flexible working hours.

By implementing these simple steps, you can make sure your employees feel valued and appreciated.

As Stacy Sherman said “If you don’t appreciate and value your employees, your competitor will. They are looking for great talent.”

Get expert Advice

We are award winning recruitment specialists in the Legal, HR, Finance and Accountancy sectors, who go above and beyond traditional recruitment by offering an all-round consultancy service. Including, tailored specialist advice to enhance job searches, recruitment and retention strategies. Contact us today for a no obligation, confidential discussion.

James, Watson Woodhouse Solicitors

Networking for Business and Career Success

How to Network for Business and Career Success

Love it or hate it networking is an essential part of many of our careers. Networking is not only good for business, but it can also be useful for if you find yourself looking for a new job too. On the flipside, if you are a hiring employer, there is potential to meet future employees at networking events. Furthermore, networking is great for brand awareness, both personally and for your business.

Networking for Career Success

Networking is a key part of any successful career. It provides the opportunity to meet potential employers and colleagues, develop new skills and learn from other people. It can also help to increase our visibility, build our reputation and strengthen our contacts. By getting to know more people in our chosen field, we can gain valuable insights into the industry, stay up to date with the latest trends and find out what is happening in our area of expertise. You might even gain some new business!

Networking for Building Relationships

Networking can also open up new opportunities and help us to establish relationships that can last a lifetime. It can help us to make new contacts and to build relationships with those already in our industry and those who can help us in our careers. For example, recruiters.

The value of networking shouldn’t be underestimated. By building relationships and meeting new people, we can open the door to new opportunities and help to further our career.

Personally we enjoy it – getting out there meeting other professionals and sharing ideas and feeling part of a community where you can recommend each other’s businesses.

Top Tips for Networking

Not everyone is keen and it can be quite difficult at first. So, we thought we’d share some top tips for making the most of networking events:

Networking Tip 1: Do your research – Check out the event agenda, list of attendees and any other information available about the event. Check out LinkedIn and who has attended past events. This will help you identify the people you want to talk to, so you make the most of your time.

Networking Tip 2: Prepare – Prepare some topics in advance so you have something to talk about. Have a few questions in mind that you can ask to help start conversations.

Conversation Starters for Networking

Some good questions to use as conversation starters at networking events include:

What do you do?
How did you get into that industry?
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
What are you working on right now?
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far?
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you started?
What do you enjoy most about networking events?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Networking Tip 3: Have a good introduction – Introduce yourself and what you do. We’re not looking for war and peace but a brief overview of what you do and how you can help. Share a little bit about who you are as a person so people can get to know you. For example, any interesting hobbies? Take business cards if you have them.

Networking Tip 4: Ask questions – Don’t be afraid to ask for advice and insight from experienced professionals. This is a great way to learn and build relationships.

Networking Tip 5: Follow up – Make sure you stay in touch with the contacts you’ve made. Connect with them on LinkedIn and send them a message to thank them for their time. Then, be sure to stay in touch and keep the conversation going. Also, take some photos and create a post on LinkedIn about the networking event, what you learnt and enjoyed. Tag the organisers and people you met in the post. It will help promote the event, create further engagement with the attendees and boost your online presence. To read more on boosting your professional online profile and presence, read our blog here.

We hope you have found this article helpful. Let us know your thoughts on networking and comment below with your tips for networking.

Elizabeth, Solicitor

09Feb

Self-awareness during a job search

“Self-awareness”; a phrase which connotes personal development or growth, aspirations, and one’s own potential. All of which are, by and large, true. Equally true, I would say, is the idea that self-awareness is a valuable tool that can be cultivated and used to benefit one’s own job search.

Self-awareness can be defined as having an understanding of your personality, behaviours, habits, emotional reactions and motivation. It’s about being conscious of what you’re good at while acknowledging that you still have things to learn.

So, with that in mind, just how can “self-awareness” be used during a job search?

First things first, identify your skills

Before embarking on the search for a new job, it’s worth asking yourself the following question: “What can I bring to the table?” This seems, at least on first blush, a simple question. However, it’s a question that you need to answer honestly, and that requires some critical self-reflection.

When applying to a job, it’s important to effectively sell yourself. So, make sure that you consider what skills you have, and how you can best utilise them for your new employer.

Apply your skills to the work environment

For example, are you good at business development? If so, how do you develop business leads? What skills do you use to create and progress good working relationships? What figures (financially speaking) have you brought into the business because of your commercial acumen? Will these business relationships come with you to your new role? If not, what plans do you have to develop new leads and avenues to explore?

Always reflect on how your skills are applicable to a work environment and the job role you are applying for. Give examples of how you’ve utilised and applied your skills in the workplace, and the outcomes.

Identify your Soft skills

Also consider and be aware of the soft skills you have. Are you good with people? If so, how have you used this to your strength? Have you garnered repeat business because you’re personable? Again, if so, how much business, and what is it worth in monetary terms? Equally, if you’re good with people, how have you used this to help the already existing team? How do you boost morale?

In summary, at the start of your job search it’s important to analyse your skills and be aware of how your skills align with advertised job vacancies. This will ensure that you will only apply your roles where you skills align with the job.

Be Aware of your Weaknesses

Also important throughout the job search is having awareness of your weaknesses. Being self-aware, understanding your weaknesses and how to turn them into an advantage, will stand you in good stead throughout your job search. Don’t be surprised if the interviewer asks you about your weaknesses. We all have weaknesses, so embrace them!

What about the job for you?

So, you have a clear sense of self, or indeed, “self-awareness”. What next? I would argue that you need to use your self-awareness to determine the sort of job for you. You ought to be considering job opportunities that you are confident you will thrive in. Afterall, you spend so much your life at work. You ought to find a working environment that will allow you to thrive in it.

Not only does self-awareness allow you to make an informed decision about the next role that you will find yourself in, but it stands you in good stead for the future. For example, suppose you do find a role that you take a great deal of satisfaction in, and you are good at it, but for whatever reason, you find yourself wishing to move into a new role after a few years. Having that steady role on your CV shows that you don’t just move from job to job, and further contributes to the longevity of your working career.

Conclusion – The importance of self-awareness during a job search

Self-awareness is an absolute must have when you’re looking to move jobs; even when you are weighing up the sorts of jobs that you can apply for; or indeed the sort of job you may wish to accept, if you are in the fortunate position where you are given multiple job offers.

Being self-aware throughout the job search process is conjunctive to how you come across to potential employers. Additionally, having self-awareness is vital to your performance throughout the interview stage and your overall success to acquiring a new job.

By being able to take a step back from yourself, and then critically assess yourself, you can go a long way to ensuring that you find the right job for you.

Get Support with your job search

We’re here to be a friendly face and help you at every stage of your job search. To find out more about how we support professionals in the Legal, HR, Finance and Accountancy sectors, click here. Alternatively click here to arrange a confidential, no obligation discussion with our recruitment specialist for your sector and region.

"Nikki contacted me after seeing my cv online. I had been really unhappy at my job and was worried about staying in the legal profession due to this. Nikki had a job opportunity for me within a day and arranged an interview for the next day. Nikki rung me on the day of the interview to help me prep, after the interview and then kept in contact with me even after starting the job. She helps you through every step of the process and has helped me gain a position at an amazing firm and I couldn’t be more thankful. She genuinely cares and doesn’t sugarcoat opportunities to make them seem better than they are. Everything she told me is true to this day and I couldn’t recommend her more!"

Kimberley (Placed legal professional)

How to increase productivity at work

Do you ever finish your workday feeling like you weren’t able to accomplish everything on your to-do list? If this is you, then don’t worry as it is something that many of us experience from time-to-time, and in this article we will explore ways to increase productivity in the workplace.

Not completing our set daily tasks, with new competing priorities coming in, is often a regular occurrence to many of us who work in high pressured working environments. However, if you don’t feel in control of your workload, it can cause unnecessary stress, decrease your productivity and lead to burn out.

Many of us strive to be productive at work, but it can be difficult to maintain the motivation to do so, particularly in high pressured working environments and when our workload piles up. There are numerous ways to increase productivity and efficiency at work, and it’s important to remember that not all methods work for everyone. Here are some tips to help you stay focused on the task at hand, increase productivity and manage your time in ways that are conductive to your productivity.

Decorate and Personalise your Workspace

Add pops of colours or live plants. Use bright coloured post it notes, notepads, calendars etc… Take time to organise your workspace and files. Doing so will help you stay on track and get things done more efficiently. Add personal items to your desks, like photos to give you some relief in stressful moments.

Establish a comfortable workspace

It will help you feel more organized and efficient. Make sure you have a comfortable chair, a well-lit desk, and all the tools you need to get the job done.

Establish a routine

Making sure you stick to a regular schedule can help you stay focused and organised.

Create lists and use weekly planners

Create a plan for each day. Make sure to break down your tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and set specific goals for each task. This will help you focus and stay on track.

Don’t multitask

Attempting to do too many things at once can be overwhelming and lead to mistakes. Focus on one task at a time.

Limit Distractions

Put personal technology in your bag or a drawer. Turn off email notifications to help you concentrate. However, have set times to check your emails to ensure you don’t miss anything urgent.

Take regular breaks

Frequent breaks are important for staying energised and productive throughout the day. Take a few minutes to step away from your desk and give your mind a break. Go for a short walk, make a drink or grab a healthy snack.

Set yourself realistic goals

Setting achievable goals can help to motivate you and keep you on track.

If you are unhappy at work or are looking for your next legal or finance job opportunity, click here to find out about the support we can offer you. Alternatively click here to contact us to arrange a confidential careers consultation.

Kimberley Fisher

We’re a Finalist for a Red Rose Award

The Eventus Recruitment Group are ecstatic to be a Finalist for the Professional Services Award at the 2023 Red Rose Awards. What a fantastic way to start the new year and a great follow on to their recent Business Support Services Award win at The Bay Business Excellence Awards.

The Red Rose Awards are the region’s largest business award ceremony, and they celebrate the most innovative, impactful and successful Lancashire businesses. It is an absolute honour to be a Finalist and included on this list.

Siobhan Courtney, Managing Director of the Eventus Recruitment Group, said: “It is an absolute honour to be named a finalist for a Red Rose Award. Having been a judge in previous years, I’ve seen first-hand the huge impact that being part of the Red Rose Awards has on businesses.”

Here at the Eventus Recruitment Group, we’ve had a strong start to 2023 with some fantastic new job vacancies coming in, proving once again the resilience of the legal and finance job markets. On top of this we’ve welcomed Sam Heraghty to the Eventus team as a Resourcing Consultant last month, and she is already making an impact to the job search of legal professionals. Furthermore, we will be welcoming a further two Recruitment Consultants to the team at the end of the month.

We are now keeping our fingers crossed and looking forward to the awards ceremony on Thursday 9^th March, where the winners will be revealed.

A recruitment service with a difference

Working with integrity, as recruitment consultants we always do these three things:

Get to know you – We take time to get to know you personally. For businesses we will get to know more than your job requirements. We will find out about you, your business, company culture and goals. For legal and finance professionals, we will find out more than just what you are looking for in your next role. We will get to know your background, career, interests, and motivations.
Put our clients and candidates first – We only place a professional in a company if it is 100% the right decision for both them and the hiring firm. Our bespoke service, and through us getting to know our clients and candidates, enable us to quickly establish the perfect match for talented professionals and businesses.
Tailor our service – Our team of experienced recruitment consultants will offer you unique insights into the recruitment industry and your candidate / job search tailored to your requirements. Always working with confidentiality and discretion, we add value to the selection process through impactful guidance and support. Similarly, we offer realistic, honest and straight forward advice to both candidates and clients.

Find Out More

If you are hiring, click here to find out more about our recruitment services and how we can help you find talented staff to help grow your business. Alternatively, if you are job searching in the legal and finance sectors, click here to find out more about the comprehensive support we can offer you in securing a new job that is perfect for you.

"The team at Eventus Legal always take time to fully understand the needs of the business and each role they are involved with, putting forward only those candidates who closely match our requirements. Feedback from successful candidates sourced by Eventus Legal has been excellent and they offer full support throughout the whole process from initial stages to job offer."

Marsden Rawsthorn Solicitors

"I initially contacted Eventus Legal to help me secure a new role…I was introduced to Nikki Phillips, who was keen to assist. She was friendly, pro-active and determined to help me. Nikki was amazing throughout the whole process. She certainly went above and beyond! She even communicated with me out of hours! Nikki swiftly assisted me in securing a new role and was there for me throughout the whole process. I could not recommend her enough!!"

Elizabeth Bolton (Placed legal candidate)

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