This is a tricky interview question to answer! The reason it feels so difficult is because you do not want to come across to too keen for advancement or not motivated to achieve. In attention to this you don’t have a crystal ball and may, or may not, have considered this depending on your situation and level of ambition.
So, how should you answer?
Our 3 tips to consider when answering this question.
Tip 1
Make sure that you highlight that you strongly believe you will still be with the business in 5 years’ time. Remember that the business must train you up in the role and may have already gone through a lengthy recruitment process. The last thing they want is for someone to leave the business within 12 months of starting.
Tip 2
You could tell them you plan to be fully competent in the role and a highly respected and trusted member of their team.
Tip 3
You could say that in 5 years’ time you hope that you will be able to help train and mentor new starters, as and when they join. This shows you still plan to be with the company and are willing to share your expertise to help others develop and improve.
Here are our example answers:
In 5 years’ time I plan to be working with you either in the same role or having gained advancement to a higher-level position as a high performing and productive member of the team.
I plan to be a well-respected member of the team and someone that is seen as trustworthy, reliable, and capable of doing a great job on time and to a high standard.
I would also be willing to help train up new members of the team when they join by sharing my knowledge, experience and expertise – if you would like me to do so.
We hope that this advice helps you with this tricky interview question! If you need more advice just reach out to us we’re happy to advise you further.
So, you’ve got an interview lined up – so what now? Interviews are opportunities that offer great rewards if successful (new jobs can even be life changing) and we often only get one chance to impress! So, you owe it to yourself to give it your best shot!
In this blog, we aim to give tips to job seekers and candidates on achieving job interview success by remembering the 3Ps – Preparation, Professionalism and Personality.
Although interviews are only approximately 30-90 minutes of your life, the pre-interview preparation (while it can feel a bit cringe) is what takes the most time and increases your chance of being successful.
Preparation
The first P is Preparation for the interview, which might seem a little daunting but it’s something that will stand you in good stead at the interview because it shows that you are generally interested in the company, and will help you come across as more professional, knowledgeable, and that you understand the job role, and what skills and experience you can bring to it.
When preparing for an interview – where do you start? Here’s a short summary of the key items that should be on your Preparation Checklist:
Ensure you’ve looked over the job description
Consider why you want the job and why you are the best fit
Research the company to give context to your interview questions, research the role – what is involved? (especially if it’s a new role that you haven’t done before), what are the company’s culture and values? Look at reviews
Practice your speaking voice and body language – pay special attention to your smile, handshake and stride
Prepare at least 3 thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer
Conduct mock interviews with friends and family as experiencing the interview situation will help you feel less nervous
Print hard copies of your CV in case they are needed, know your work history and prepare explanations of any gaps or oddities.
Prepare travel arrangements – aim to arrive early and allow for traffic, accidents and finding your way
How will you sell yourself? Be aware of your skills, attributes and achievements.
Prepare to follow-up afterwards – thank you, overview of what really interested you about the role/company, in the final paragraph invite them to ask you additional questions and close by saying you’re looking forward to hearing from them.
Situation – Task – Action – Result (STAR)
The STAR model is very useful tool and acronym to use to help keep your answers focused especially when explaining scenario-based answers to demonstrate key competences relevant to the role. Also, it can help stop waffling and structure your answers, helping you to remember the key points such as: the situation, the task, the action you took and the results achieved.
Our second P is Professionalism – obvious right? No, many people overlook this so it’s best to swat up on interview etiquette. Here is a great blog from work.chron.com on professionalism in an interview, which we have summarised below:
First impression – dress professionally, present yourself well, don’t arrive late, cover up tattoos – the interviewer is more likely to see you as competent and capable
Convey self-confidence – good posture, greeting people with a friendly smile, saying thank you, remember you have every right to be there and it’s a two-way process (you are also interviewing them), focus on being calm, natural and confident
Show respect – act professional from the moment you arrive (even if on video call), dress smart, no chewing gum, consider your backdrop and tidy your surroundings if your interview is over video call. Never ask about salary at your first interview
The small things –polished shoes, ironed shirts, and being well-groomed all shows that you would project a professional image to the company’s clients, and it goes a long way
The next step – remember that the interviewer is thinking beyond the 30-90 minutes and will be envisaging you in the job – ensure you speak politely, communicate professionally and show gratitude.
Personality
The third P is Personality, which is what make the interview more engaging, allows you to connect with the interviewer and shows them the real you. Your true character, sense of humour and personal attributes are what can really make you stand out. Job interviews are formal situations and you should always be professional, but try not to be boring and remember showing your personality is welcomed.
The main thing is being yourself and coming across authentic and natural, pleasant to work with, and happy to be just you – this shows confidence. Don’t let the nerves get the better of you or forget to smile; let your personality shine through, it will make you more memorable.
Here’s some great pointers from megainterview.com on how to show your personality in an interview and more tips on preparation.
The main gist of this blog is that preparation, professionalism and personality are key things to remember when tackling job interviews. Practice makes perfect, and also makes you feel more relaxed, at ease, and confident.
If you need support with finding your next job role, or with help with interviews, get in-touch with us at SFR Recruitment Solutions we would be happy to help you. We wish you every success with your next job interview – go smash it!
We’ve observed lately a significant change in the way companies are undertaking candidate selection during the recruitment process. We’ve seen an obvious shift in the attributes our clients are seeking when recruiting for new roles, and we wondered whether the pandemic is partially responsible for driving this change in approach when it comes to candidate selection.
Employers are seeking certain ‘attitudes and characteristics’ to best fit their roles, not just the usual ‘quick-fix’ method (for example someone who has done the exact same job title previously). Perhaps employers are looking for an injection (no Covid-19 pun intended) of fresh talent and new enthusiasm as an antidote to general post-pandemic ‘return to work’ blues.
Why are Attitude and Character so Important Right Now?
The pandemic has caused employees to react in different ways perhaps resulting in employers re-evaluating their workforce, it has also fast-tracked digitalisation and caused a demand for new roles. Furlough has brought about change and caused some employees to rethink their careers, explore other opportunities and update their skills, for others it has demotivated them and caused resentment towards their employer and/or a general disinterest in work generally.
The dilemma most companies face is should they recruit an experienced person? Someone who demonstrates solid experience, has done a similar role and holds the necessary qualifications – they can ‘hit the ground running’ so to speak, which has its advantages.
Or, do they recruit someone ‘fresh’? When we say ‘fresh’ we do not necessarily mean young, a university leaver or someone new to the sector. Fresh meaning that they may already work in the sector and really like it, however they are ambitious and keen to advance their career or switch role.
It often boils down to what knowledge or talent a company feels it is lacking and needs to buy-in at the time of recruitment.
Here are some examples:
What is Driving this New Way of Recruiting?
Employers are thinking about the long-term, new skills and adaptability. A typical ‘quick fix’ placement may stay with the company approximately 12 months to 3 years, then move on to another competitor, or prove to be valuable and loyal employee staying for many years. It all depends on what the employer’s strategy is to recruit based on ‘experience’ or ‘freshness’, whether they need quick-fix, or if they’re willing to train and develop. It’s about getting the right balance in the team of solid experience and knowledge, and also some fresh talent.
We’re seeing a trend of clients not wanting to recruit a like-for-like job role replacement poached straight from a competitor, but they are looking to adopt a different approach for certain roles. Recruiting someone without experience of a job role should not be considered lightly, as exemplary enthusiasm will only get the candidate so far. Employers need to have in place a support structure for the new recruit including a personal development plan to help them succeed.
The Search for Gold Dust
At SFR Recruitment Solutions we’ve noticed a remarkable change in recruitment briefs seen of late. Clients are asking us to look for ambitious and energetic candidates, someone with demonstrable keenness to grow and develop, someone who is really looking to make their mark and excel within their company.
Finding ‘fresh’ candidates with ‘fire in their bellies’ who have the desired attitude, characteristics and will surely complement the company’s culture and values is like searching for gold dust. It is not something that is easily found just by looking at CVs and, that is why, companies are reaching out to recruitment partners for help.
Ensuring Recruitment Success
The benefit of using a recruitment partner like SFR is that we get to know candidates on a professional and personal level. They tell us more than what is in their CV. By talking to them we find out what their ambitions are, what type of person they really are, the type of companies they really want to work with – what ultimately makes them tick.
We considerably reduce the search time for our clients by finding them excellent candidates to interview. At SFR as well as really knowing our sector, we also work closely with our clients, listening to them and taking down a precise brief. Our clients have the advantage through using us that they can interview 2-3 exceptional candidates and not waste their valuable time on doing all the legwork required in finding them and interviewing unsuitable candidates. At SFR we don’t hard sell our registered candidates because it’s easy for us, we work hard to find the perfect candidate, after all, it’s what we’re employed to do and best at. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix, career advancer or role switcher we can help you find them. Likewise, if you think you may have the right attitude and character for one of our current roles – see our vacancies here – get in-touch.
Here at SFR Recruitment Solutions, we’re employment specialists for the Architectural Ironmongery, Doors, Access Control and Window & Door Hardware industries.
In this blog we will be reflecting on the past 12 months and how it has affected us personally as a recruitment business in the architectural ironmongery sector, also the businesses supplying the sector and their employees, as well as job seekers. What was impact for businesses? What is the impact of furlough? What should we expect to happen next?
As we take a bold step hopefully out of the pandemic once and for all, with the most vulnerable people already fully vaccinated and a plan for everyone else to follow, we are feeling optimistic about putting the pandemic behind us. Hopefully, by the time the summer comes, we will be back on track to living a more ‘normal’ life again; meeting friends and family, and visiting pub beer gardens for a nice draught pint again or whatever your tipple.
The impact for businesses
The past 12 months nobody could ever have predicted. Looking back to March last year when we experienced the first UK lockdown there was so much confusion surrounding whether businesses needed to fully close or to what extent they could continue to operate under the new restrictions. Covid-19 has been inescapable for businesses and the construction sector was no different. Obviously, retail, travel, hospitality and the beauty sector were hit the hardest, and unfortunately still remain in the dark a year on. However, many manufacturing businesses supporting the construction sector, and indeed fenestration companies, as well as architectural ironmongers and builders merchants, closed their doors which impacted the sector as a whole.
Getting back to business
For most businesses in the ironmongery trade there was a period of adjustment and contemplation of how they can ‘get back to business’ or continue to trade at all, carefully meandering through the new restrictions, while keeping staff safe and protecting jobs by the use of the furlough scheme.
On the recruitment side of the fence SFR Recruitment Solutions were massively affected by the first lockdown, with businesses closing and operating on skeleton staff, and furloughing staff there wasn’t much need for recruitment, in fact many plans to recruit were instantly put on the backburner. All we could do was support our clients and candidates the best we could during the pandemic, and let them know we are here if they needed us.
Business as normal
Many construction projects remained open during the first lockdown and were hit with a shortage of supply of materials which triggered construction product manufacturers and trade suppliers to plan how they could remain open. With limited staff onsite, trade counters open for collection only and deliveries direct-to-site, businesses in the trade soon realised that it was possible to operate.
The impact of furlough
Perhaps we all agree that the furlough scheme is one of the best things the Government has offered UK businesses. Many businesses used the furlough scheme to protect their themselves from the sharp decline in sales and counterbalancing with lower salary bills, reduced entertainment and travel costs.
This is great news for businesses still needing to use the furlough scheme to protect jobs and support their businesses, however the peak of unemployment is ahead rather than behind us which is an unsettling thought.
Embracing change and hiring accordingly
At the moment getting people back to work is the priority and not recruitment for most companies. However, there needs to be a longer-term view of how businesses plan to pick-up where they left off. The pandemic has fast-tracked digitalisation and we must plan to embrace this change and hire accordingly. For example, more people are buying online than ever before, cancelled holidays has led to a massive surge in the home improvement and DIY market. The majority of businesses supplying this trade have already seen a fruitful comeback.
How can companies best plan for the new skills they need to support growing demand and bring in-house any skills they have found themselves outsourcing during the pandemic such as assistance with online trading and marketing. For many businesses they may find that there has been a shift in the required skillsets post-pandemic, and find themselves requiring assistance with recruitment. Businesses may also be considering whether external roles can become internal or perhaps homebased permanently. Companies who feel they would benefit from some recruitment advice should get in touch with us, or check out some of our useful blogs on our website.
The furlough scheme has given many companies and their employees the opportunity to train and gain new skills. Providing staff with training whilst on furlough is a great way to enhance their skills without the pressure of their usual workload distracting from their studies. Companies should consider how they can take advantage of any new skills when bringing employees back from furlough.
The Guild of Architectural Ironmongery have seen an increase in the number of people taking online courses and diplomas with the GAI. SFR Recruitment Solutions are partners of the GAI and proud to support other members with their recruitment needs, as well as assisting students with finding their next career move.
The employees’ / candidates’ perspective
Time to think and reflect while on furlough, or working part time hours or whatever the situation employees have found themselves in: volunteering, embarking on self-employment, retraining or otherwise, employees may feel they do not want to return to their current job. For some the pandemic has brought about a need for career change, a desire to work remotely permanently, or newly acquired skills means they are now searching for a new role. SFR can support candidates in whatever change they wish to make within the ironmongery, hardware and access control sector.
We have noticed that the number of sales and marketing positions has increased and are now at pre-covid levels. There are lots of vacancies for internal sales executives and business development managers. Anyone considering a new role should check out our vacancies on our website at www.sfrrecruitment.co.uk.
Supporting candidates looking for work
We predict there is going to be a period of ‘displacement’ where employees decide to move on after furlough or unfortunately find that there is no longer a job for them. It is likely that roles alter as businesses realise the full extent of change the pandemic has brought. SFR are best placed to support candidates with their job search, we also offer help with CV writing, interview tips and preparation for video interviews. See some of our useful blogs below:
Now is the perfect time to be optimistic about reaching the end of the pandemic and putting it all behind us! If we can get through this, we really can get through anything! Let’s take our fresh perspective and get our business plans firmly back on track to take full advantage of the continuingly buoyant construction and home improvement market.
Here at SFR Recruitment Solutions, we are employment specialists for the Architectural Ironmongery, Doors, Access Control and Window & Door Hardware industries.
Companies looking to recruit for new roles, or candidates planning their next career move, should get in touch with us at SFR, we would be delighted to help. We can be reached here by email matthew@sfrrecruitment.co.uk or mobile 07512 602431.
We understand as many of us have embarked on turning a room in our home into a makeshift office this year, working from home can be both stressful and socially isolating.
Yes, the commute may be much better, and we do love being able to wear jogging bottoms, however, we can experience a lack of motivation or distractions which can make WFH rather challenging.
However, help is at hand, here are our Top 6 WFH tips, to get you out of that slump!
1- Exercising frequently
So simple but so effective, exercising, stretching, going on a brisk walk will help you clear your mind and increase productivity. It is NOT normal to sit at your desk all day and in doing so you will not only endure backache and eye strain but also you might find that your productivity will lower if you slug it out all day.
2- Regular updates/ contact your team
WFH can be so socially isolating and it’s ok to say that you feel isolated. That’s why it’s essential to keep team morale up. Ongoing communication via WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom can help departments support each other.
3- Separate your work from your relaxation
This may be slightly difficult if you live in a house share, however, either tidying your work station away at the end of the day or keeping it in a dedicated room in which you shut away, keep your work and relaxation space-separated so you can switch off! Remember to look after yourself! Step away from social media, turn off the laptop, and do something which helps you unwind in the evening.
4- Stick to your routine
Be strict with your routine. Ensure that you get up at the same time every day and switch off at the same time. During the time that you would normally set aside to commute why not read, or exercise?
5- Write LISTS!
If you don’t already write lists every day, then this is the best time to start! The power of writing lists is unmeasurable! In the morning start with a list of everything which needs to be completed that day, including times for breaks and reminders to get up and walkabout. It’s not only satisfying being able to cross things off the list as you go through the day, but it also helps you prioritise what work you need to get done so no time is wasted!
6- Listen to music!
Music is so underrated, but it really can help our mood! I personally find it challenging to work in complete silence, so if you’re like me pop on the radio to your favourite station and enjoy some music whilst completing your tasks!
That’s it! Get in touch if you have any other WFH tips, we would love to hear from you!
This season brings colour! Amazing for those that love a bit of photography or simply enjoy the outdoors. Those warm toned colours contrasted with the usually cooler weather gives us a cosy feeling whether we’re cutting about outside in our coats or sat by the window in the comfort of our homes.
Let’s face it, during British summer time it’s difficult to know whether we should be going out in a jacket or not. OR constantly having an umbrella by our side in case of a typical sudden downpour. However, Autumn usually guarantee’s slightly colder weather which means LAYERS! Putting on layers of clothes is great because it means you can take one layer off if you get too warm AND when in doubt just chuck on a jumper!
Now we’re not saying indulging in comfort food all the time is the best option, however the occasional treat is great! Autumn is actually the time where a lot of brilliant vegetables which we can incorporate into more seasonal meals are widely available! Get some inspo by checking out thesehealthy meals inspired by the comfort meals that we love!
I suppose we’ve had many of these this year, however with the cold weather slowly creeping upon us we’re forced to stay warm in the comfort of our own home. However, we can make the most of this, whether that’s getting cosy under a blanket and reading a book or watching a tv series! Light a pumpkin spiced candle and get cosy!
The holidays may be slightly different for many of us this year, however we can make the most of a difficult situation. Whether you’re preparing to celebrate Christmas, or just happy to have a little time off, the holidays are something to look forward to so we can indulge in those long-forgotten hobbies from lockdown… Now where did I put that watercolour kit?
And that’s it! We hope this made you smile, or at least amused you slightly!
This years Fire Door Safety Week ran from the 21st to the 27th of September. As a business we believe it is vital to spread awareness of Fire Door neglect in order to educate. This year we have had some brilliant webinars in support of Fire Door Safety Week from the likes of Halspan and Abloy.
Here at SFR Recruitment Solutions we have not only pledged our support but also spread awareness of how fire doors play an important part in protecting both property and life.
Please check out the brand-new Fire Door Safety Week website, pledge your support today and educate yourself on fire door safety to protect not only yourself but others too.
Matthew Robinson, SFR Recruitment Solutions Director said “We’re incredibly proud to be supporting this years Fire Door Safety Week campaign. From both a business and public point of view it is so important that we educate ourselves on Fire Door Safety neglect, to spot the signs and help to protect life!”
Fire Door Safety Week may be finished for this year; however, their message must stay strong. We ask you to check out Fire Door Safety Week’s website today!
Further information;
Take a look at the 5-step fire door check which can help you quickly assess whether a fire door is fit for purpose!
Show this infographic to anyone day you know that lives in a flat to give them advice on how to assess the Fire Doors!
Check out the Fire Door Safety Weekwebsite today for further information to educate both yourself and others. Stay safe!
Now, the sun will begin to rise later and nightfall will arrive sooner.
As the seasons change and we find ourselves swapping out flip flips for scarves we can feel our mood starting to dull.
During the colder, darker months many experience Seasonal Affective Disorder – also known as SAD. However there are ways in which we can manage our mood during the colder months. Here are our top tips.
This is easier said than done, however it’s incredibly important to get as much light as possible. Go outside, open all curtains and blinds and perhaps invest in a light therapy box which is aimed to tackle SAD symptoms. Even a simple walk in the park everyday can help boost your mood.
Many of us find that as the colder months draw in we find ourselves run down, tired and therefore less motivated to engage in social activities. However this can only lead to us feeling isolated. Therefore make plans with your friends and family! Talking to people always helps!
I know this is quite difficult. Naturally during the colder months we desire those ‘comforting’ foods such as pasta, pizza, etc. However sticking to a high carb and sugar diet causes spikes in your blood sugar levels and the crash can impact more on your mood. So ensure to have a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and omega 3-rich food.
I know, I can sense your laughter! However keeping active really does boost your mood! From doing at home exercises, going to the gym or even a stroll in the park! Also – exercise will help for better nights sleep!
Keep a diary of your habits and emotions during the colder months. By keeping track you can get an idea as to what habits have a positive or negative affect on your mood.
Since lockdown I think many of us have had the mindset of ‘GO! GO! GO!’ and pushed ourselves to get lots of things done in both our professional and personal lives which have previously been put on halt. However we should remember to take time for ourselves in order to prevent burnout. Check out our top 5 tips and remember to look after No. 1!
1- Take Some Time Off
Book a holiday, get a change of scenery and SWITCH OFF! No phone, no social media (hard, we know), chill out and focus on yourself!
2- Reevaluate Priorities
Take some time to reflect on what is really important to you. Learn to say no, focus on what makes you happy and what you should be putting your time and energy into.
3- Add Better Structure Into Your Day
Every morning set out time to write down everything that you want to get done in that day. Add how much time allowance you are going to give each task and prioritise them accordingly. You’ll find that you’ll waste less time on tasks that need less focus and you’ll likely feel more satisfied with what you’ve got done in a day.
4- Listen To Your Body
This is easier said than done but, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! Nourish it! Eat food which has a positive affect on your mood and energy levels. Drink plenty of water, drink alcohol in moderation and try to aim to exercise every week. It’s insane how much food and drink can affect your energy and mood for the day + exercise is great to boost your mood!
5- Take Time For Yourself
Self-care isn’t all about taking a Lush bubble bath, or making some super healthy smoothie, it’s so much more! Take time out to enjoy the little things, a tea break, a gentle nature stroll – any small thing that makes YOU happy!
ALSO – DO NOT FEEL GUILTY FOR TAKING TIME FOR YOURSELF!
6- Nurture Your Hobbies
Nurture and nourish your hobbies and develop new ones! Having things that are completely separate from work are so good to do! Fun projects, big or small which give you joy should be given time and attention!
LinkedIn is the platform to be on to promote yourself as a professional individual and/or your business! Here are our top 5 LinkedIn profile tips to help you get noticed!
STEP 1:
Make your LinkedIn profile pictureSTAND OUT!
Yes, I know, you’ve probably heard this a million times before, but it’s so TRUE!
Get yourself a QUALITY LinkedIn profile picture! Make sure you have a plain background, wear an outfit that you would perhaps wear for work, or for an interview and get snapping! Make sure the image is sharp and centered correctly. Have fun with the background! It could be branded, it could have bright colours! Show some of your personality, whilst remaining professional!
STEP 2:
Your headline doesn’t have to be just your job title!
Your headline description can be more than just your job title. What do you do? How do you help? What does your service provide? Think of these questions and then let it reflect in your headline. HOWEVER, do not let it be too long because you want to appear in search results!
STEP 3:
Hey, you need to be an All-Star!
You need that ALL-STAR status on LinkedIn, WHY? Because by having that all-star status you are more visible! Fill in all the details, produce a brilliant summary telling your story and get posting!
STEP 4:
Engagement is key!
Like, comment and engage with your audience. Don’t be one of those people that scrolls and reads without engaging! By engaging with people’s posts you’re starting a conversation. Furthermore, why not endorse people for their skills? You’ll most likely find that they will return the favour!
STEP 5:
Create and share relevant content!
Publish interesting content that starts conversations! Present your skills, knowledge, advice or even tell stories (real ones – of course). Engage and grow your network and you will get noticed!
