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  Jul 3, 2020

  Virtual hiring: Tips to…

  Interviews can be extremely stressful, especially when the interview is online. But now with social distancing rules being implemented, it is highly unlikely face-to-face interview will be taking place anytime soon. This means, for all those job hunting at the moment, it’s time to get good at virtual interviews. But don’t worry, here are just a few tips to help you ace your next online interview: Prepare Just like with a normal interview, you need to ensure that you are prepared for any question they throw at you. Make sure you thoroughly research the company. This includes finding out what products or services it offers as well as its achievements. If there is anything specific you would like to ask or mention during the interview, make a note of it that you can see during the interview. This will remind you to ask or mention it as during an interview; it is easy to forget some of the points you want to bring up. Do a test run We’ve all been in the situation when you sit down for a Skype or Zoom meeting and for reasons you can’t figure out the audio or video isn’t working. This can often make the meeting awkward. Therefore, to avoid this, it is a good idea to do a test run with the program you will be using. This will ensure that your..

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  Jun 29, 2020

  How to improve your…

  This is the final blog of the ‘Employee well-being’ blog series. The first blog 'The importance of employee well-being at work' focused on why employee well-being at work is an important focus. In this blog, the focus will be on initiatives that can be implemented to improve employee well-being within the working environment. Implementing employee well-being initiatives does not need to be costly; it just needs to be effective. By implementing employee well-being initiatives, employees will see that the company does care about them, which in turn will translate into a more productive and loyal workforce. Here are just a few ways you can help to improve the well-being of your employees: Flexible work hours Employee well-being is about the overall quality of life of a person. Therefore companies need to remember that work is not an employees entire life; they have friends, family and hobbies. All of which requires time and energy. However, it is often the case where work responsibilities can get in the way of these more social aspects of our lives, and as a result, our well-being can be negatively affected. By implementing flexible working hours, employees will be empowered to alter their work habits to fit their social needs which helps to cultivate a more healthy work-life balance. It also shows your employees that you trust them. If employees can work at their own pace..

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  Jun 17, 2020

  The importance of employee…

  In recent years, the well-being of employees has become imperative. With companies around the globe being encouraged to implement workplace initiatives to improve employee well-being, many have been slow to put these initiatives into places. However, it is important to understand the benefits of focusing on your employees' well-being at the workplace. Employee well-being is more than just about their mental well-being; it is about optimising the health of all employees. Well-being extends beyond mental and physical health into happiness and job satisfaction. Well-being within the workplace does not need to be an expensive investment but can produce impressive results such as: Increased motivationBuilds morale Brings teams together and helps them work together Decreases work-related stress Here are a few more reasons why employee well-being is important: Increased productivity Low staff productivity can have hugely negative effects on a company. If an employee is not doing any work despite being sat at their desk, it is a waste of their time as well as a waste of money for the company. However, employee well-being can directly improve the mental and physical health of a workforce, which therefore leads to increased productivity. For this reason, employee well-being should be a priority for all businesses because a happy workforce is a productive workforce. Less employee absence Companies that value and prioritise workplace well-being will see a reduction in employee absences because of..

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  Jun 10, 2020

  A winning CV: Tips

  This is the second blog in a two-part series. The first blog entitled ‘A winning CV: What to include’ covered what sections and information should be included in your CV. This, the second and final part of the series, will focus on tips for creating a winning CV. Due to the competitive nature of the job market, it is highly likely that hundreds of applications will be sent in for one job opening. Therefore as a job hunter, you need to do everything you can to make your CV stand out in the right way. Here are some tips for creating a stand out CV that will shine: 1. Include all relevant employment information It is vital for any CV to include all of the relevant employment information. This is your chance to show your potential employers all of the previous experience you have and the skills you gained from that job. Your previous employment history is the first place a hiring manager or recruiter will look to see if you are a good fit for their job. Therefore, don’t miss out on any relevant experience you may have gained as having it on your CV could be what sways the hiring manager or recruiter to choose you. 2. Use keywords This is extremely useful if a computer is going to be the first critic of your CV as it..

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  Jun 3, 2020

  A winning CV: What…

  Professional Sourcing has a strong reputation for highly developed recruitment expertise within our specialisation areas. We develop strong long-term relationships with our loyal clients. Allow us to help you deal with your frustrations of a lengthy hiring process. You are on the hunt for a new job. You’ve got the skills and the experience, but for some reason, you haven’t received any offers. This might be because your CV is just not up to scratch. Until a potential employer meets you in person, the only thing they have to go off of is your CV. It is for this reason that you need to have a CV the represents you best, and that stands out from the rest of the CV’s piled on the manager’s desk. A CV or Curriculum Vitae is a document that markets yourself to potential employers. It should tell them about you as a person, your professional experience, your education, skills and achievements. Your CV allows you to highlight why they should hire you over the other applicants. Writing and putting together a winning CV is easy if you know what to do. So to help all of those job hunters out there, here is a list of what your CV should include. 1. Personal details The first thing the person reading your CV should see is your name and professional title. This is the first..

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  May 23, 2020

  Disciplinary Hearings: Employer rights…

  This is the third blog in the 'Disciplinary hearings' series. The first blog entitled 'Disciplinary hearings: The process' covered the process a disciplinary hearing needs to follow in order to be a fair hearing. This, the second part of the series, focused on the rights of the employees during a disciplinary hearing. This, the third blog in the series, will explore the obligations of the employer during a disciplinary hearing and provide a checklist for the process. If an employer decides to pursue disciplinary action against one of their employees, a disciplinary hearing should be arranged. To conduct this process fairly, the employer has certain obligations they must adhere to as well as steps they should take before the hearing takes place. Rights of the employer To take disciplinary action It is the right of every employer to protect their business from harm; therefore, when an employee is suspected of committing misconduct, the employer has a right to take disciplinary action. This is because misconducts can lead to damaging of reputation, financial losses, among other things. To keep a record of what is said during the hearing During the hearing, the employer has the right to send in a representative in that will not take part in the hearing but instead take down notes. This also forms part of the employer obligations as records should be made of all disciplinary..

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  May 22, 2020

  Level 4 lockdown: returning…

  On the 1st of May, the national lockdown was eased to level 4. This meant that more industries were granted permission to return to work; however, under strict regulations. It is absolutely vital for employers and employees to adhere to these regulations as the health of all those working at the company directly depends on it. Since the easing of the lockdown, over 1.5 million workers were expected to return to work. To ensure that workplaces are safe and minimise the risk of transmission of the COVID-19 virus regulations have been provided which all businesses must obey. According to the Disaster Management Act of 2002, which has been modified for the current pandemic, the following regulations must be adhered to when returning to work: Organisations must draw up a return to work plan. This will include the date the company will open as well as it’s operating hours, a timetable entailing the phased return to work of employees, the steps taken to prepare the workplace and a list of those working remotely or who cannot return to work as they are vulnerable to the virus. Inspections at all workplaces must be conducted to ensure safe and hygienic conditions.Employers must screen workers when they report for work. They must look at for symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat, redness of eyes and difficulty breathing.Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms must inform their employers..

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  May 13, 2020

  Disciplinary hearings: the employee’s…

  This is the second blog in the series. The first blog entitled 'Disciplinary hearings: The process' covered the process a disciplinary hearing needs to follow in order to be a fair hearing. This, the second part of the series, will focus on the rights of the employees during a disciplinary hearing. Employees facing disciplinary action are entitled to a range of rights to ensure they receive a fair hearing. These rights were founded on the right to fair labour practice and are laid out in the Labour Relations Act of South Africa. The rights of the employee are as follows: The right to a sufficient amount of time to prepare a defence. A sufficient amount of time is, as a rule of thumb, 48hrs from the time the notice of the hearing is given. This period of time may need to be extended depending on the number and complexity of charges. The employer is obligated to notify the employee of the date, time and location of the hearing. Employees have a right to fully understand the charges. Therefore sufficient details need to be given to the employee of the charge in order to prepare. The employer needs to provide the accused with the documents that will be used in the hearing. This will satisfy the employees right to documentation.A hearing must be held before any disciplinary action is taken, therefore..

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  May 12, 2020

  Disciplinary hearings: The process

  A disciplinary hearing is a meeting between an employer and an employee held when the employer wishes to discuss an allegation of gross misconduct of the employee. This meeting is used to decide what disciplinary action will be taken if it is needed. This is an extremely sensitive and stressful process for all of those involved; therefore, specific procedures need to be followed to ensure a fair disciplinary process. But what are those procedures? It isn’t exactly explained in your welcome letter when you join a company. So here is a quick guide the proper steps that need to be taken during a disciplinary process for both employers and employees to they are given a fair hearing. Step 1 Issue the employee with a notice to attend a disciplinary hearing This notice must state the date, time and place where the hearing will take place. A detailed description of the charges against the employee must be clearly and explicitly stated on this notice as well, including the date and time of the incident. The employer needs to hand this notice to the employee with enough time to prepare; this excludes weekends and public holidays. The employee needs to be given at least 48 hours to prepare before the hearing. Step 2 Conduct the hearing on the proposed date and time The employee has the right to decide whether or not..

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  Apr 28, 2020

  Reimagining the workspace post…

  Workers around the world have been adapting to the new way of working remotely during the subsequent lockdowns globally. While this has taken some time for workers to adjust to, businesses may be making some of the recent changes made to processes more permanent, even post COVID-19. Business leaders around the globe have seen ways in which some of the changes over the past few months have actually been beneficial for business. Flexible working With everyone except for essential workers being forced to work from home, organisations have been able to see that not everyone has to be at the office in order for work to be done efficiently. Therefore, workers could see more flexible working hours and conditions post-COVID-19, as businesses may allow more people to work from home more often. This will be a huge step for businesses as working from home used to be considered the second-best option to working from the office. It was viewed like this as employers thought workers were likely to ‘slack off’ when working from home. However, the forced lockdown has seen many employers proved wrong when it comes to working remotely. This will also benefit workers as less money will need to be spent every month on transport. During this lockdown, employees around the globe have figured out whether they are more or less efficient when working for home, this could,..

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  Apr 16, 2020

  TERS application process

  This is the second blog in a two-part series. The first blog entitled 'TERS relief during lockdown' covered the theory surrounding the COVID-19 Ters benefit and who qualifies for it. This, the second part of the series, will focus on the actual Ters application process and what documents are needed for the application. The COVID-19 Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) has been introduced in light of the current COVID-19 outbreak and national lockdown. This relief scheme aims to financially assist employers so that they may continue to pay their employees during a temporary lay-off or reduced working hours. The application can be submitted individually or by employers on behalf of their employees. The Department of Employment and Labour has urged employee to rather submit the application for their employees to reduce the number of individual applications which could overwhelm the department. When applying for the Ters benefit, the following documents must be submitted with the claim: UI19 and UI2.7 forms which must be completed by the employerA UI2.1 form which must be completed by the employeeA UI2.8 form. This is a bank form which needs to be completed by the bankA letter from the employer confirming that Temporary Lay-off or Reduced Work Time is due to the CoronavirusA copy of the employees' ID document To apply for the TERS benefit, applicants must email . Applicants will then receive an automatic..

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  Apr 9, 2020

  TERS relief during lockdown

  This blog, the first in a two-part series, will cover the theory surrounding the COVID-19 Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (COVID-19 TERS) and who qualifies for the benefit. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and subsequent national lockdown, many businesses have been forced to temporarily lay-off their employees, leaving them with no income and no way to find another source of income. However, these employees that have been temporarily laid-off are able to apply for the UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) relief benefit in order to receive some money to help them pay bills and buy food during this nation-wide lockdown. The South African government announced that the fund would help both employers and employees who need financial help through the COVID-19 TERS. This is a special benefit created under the Unemployment Insurance Fund, which aims to provide emergency relief to employers so that they may be able to continue paying their employees in the event of temporary lay-offs. UIF will come into play during the lockdown when an employer has no other option but to close down during the lockdown and subsequently has to temporarily lay-off its employees. This means that the employees will not be paid for the duration of the lockdown. Employers can also claim if they need to introduce reduced working hours which results in employees only getting a portion of their usual monthly salary. The Unemployment Insurance Act,..

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  Apr 3, 2020

  Guide to an employer’s…

  Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the South African government has implemented a 21-day lockdown. It is vital for employers to be properly informed on what their options are during the lockdown and what the implications are of the lockdown on their business and employees. When it comes to the financial situation of businesses and what can be done in terms of the employees, employers have options including: Forced lay-off Short-time working Short-time working is when the employees working hours are reduced; however, they are still employed. This was an option before the 21-day lockdown was announced; however, unless the business operates in one of the essential industries or if the employee can work remotely, it is no longer an option. Annual leave An option that many employers seem to be opting for is to grant employees paid leave for the number of leave days they have available. This means that employees will still be paid until their annual leave days run out. Once the employees leave days, have run out, it is up to the business to decide what will happen. They can decide that the rest of the outstanding days will be considered unpaid leave or the company can decide to start deducting days from the employee's sick leave, family responsibility leave and other types of paid leave until they become depleted or the lockdown is lifted. Lay-off This..

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  Mar 26, 2020

  How the Coronavirus will…

  Infrastructure China has focused on sub-Saharan Africa in the past few years, and between the years of 2014 and 2017, Chinese policy banks loaned $19 billion to infrastructure and energy projects within Africa. More specifically, in the context of China’s need for natural resources and in line with the Belt and Road Initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative aims to link Africa, Asia and Europe, but COVID-19 has significantly impacted activity around this initiative. A recent report by Baker McKensie and Economist Corporate Network states that in order for BRI to remain a key player in global infrastructure development, the core of the initiative must be set around sustainability. This sustainability must encompass the protection of the health of not only those involved in the initiative but the communities surrounding the projects currently underway. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals COVID-19 is expected to place a significant amount of strain on the ill-prepared healthcare system in Africa due to the lack of medical supplies and laboratory capacity. However, the World Health Organisation stated that they are equipping 36 African countries with virus testing kits, aided in training healthcare workers, and provide personal protective equipment to healthcare workers. In addition, African countries are establishing quarantine centres and stocking up on medical supplies. The global pharmaceutical sector is being exhausted with the increased demand for pharmaceutical ingredients resulting in a shortage of these ingredients, if..

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  Mar 25, 2020

  How the Coronavirus will…

  Africa’s supply chain is intrinsically linked with China’s, and with the decrease in demand for Africa’s raw materials and commodities, has come a decline in access to manufactured goods and industrial components for Africa. In the beginning of March 2020, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development stated that “the annual global GDP growth is projected to drop to 2.4% in 2020 as a whole, from an already weak 2.9% in 2019, with growth possibly even being negative in the first quarter of 2020,” and global markets plummeting in the days to follow. Despite this, the Chinese growth is expected to rebound as soon as the second quarter of 2020, but for now, to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on the economy, the Central Banks have cut interest rates and injected liquidity into the banking systems of some countries. In addition, the World Bank committed $12 billion to aid developing countries in overcoming, or lessening the blow, of the impact of COVID-19 and contain the spread. The World Bank also announced an addition to the Pandemic Emergency Finance Facility began a pandemic bond in 2017 with the intention of aiding developing countries should a pandemic reach certain conditions and thresholds – however, thus far, these conditions have not been met, and the bond has not been released. Financial Institutions Global financial institutions are evaluating the economic impact of the Coronavirus,..

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  Mar 23, 2020

  Employers: rights and responsibilities…

  According to the World Health Organisation, “Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).” Social distancing is a preventative measure being implemented globally, as no cure has been found for Coronavirus yet. However, this leaves many employers and employees in limbo between their health and safety and their careers or businesses. Is it unethical and negligent to insist all employees come into the office if they do not have a medical certificate from a medical practitioner confirming the infection? Is it an overly cautious and unnecessary risk for your company’s success to make all employees work from home? Do you have a right to ask to work remotely, and if so, what are the requirements and process? Luckily all these answers are spread across South African legislation. It must be noted, however, that because this is a first-time detectable human virus, labour laws are not absolute and can be relaxed upon agreement between employer and employee. Additionally, indulgences may be granted, and contractual obligations waived to ensure the virus does not affect the employee’s income and revenue. Nevertheless, employers must abide by the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993..

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  Mar 19, 2020

  Employees: Your Rights in…

  COVID-19 has created a crazed global paranoia, that is affecting all walks of life. Every person under the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa has the right to health and safety. If you do not have the Coronavirus but are in a panic about being infected, you do not automatically have a right to remote working, unless the employer affords you this opportunity. If not, the employer and employee can agree on taking sick leave, absence without leave, or annual leave. Other than this, employers must provide all sanitation measures possible in the workplace. If you do have the Coronavirus, the period of leave, the severity of the illness, the nature of the employees' job, and the employment type of the employee are all considered when deciding on whether or not the employer should grant you leave. The requirements for a medical certificate are that it must be issued and signed by a qualified medical practitioner. With regards to claiming sick leave, section 22 of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act 75 of 1997, sick leave is based on a ‘sick leave cycle,’ meaning that for every 36 months with the same employer, the employee is entitled to the number of days the employee would work during a 6 week period, which if the employee works five days a week, is 30 days sick leave. Below is the Basic..

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  Feb 25, 2020

  Pro-sourcing Criminal Records

  What is the first emotion or word that comes to mind when you read that word? A criminal record is a title behind your name for life, and one thing that can make going overseas extremely difficult or, in most cases, impossible. The scariest part of it all is that you can get a criminal record from small things that nobody really knows about, or don’t know the consequences of. In less severe cases, a person may be offered to pay an admission of guilt fine before they appear in court. This may seem like the easy way out of being imprisoned, and the cheaper option, but that does constitute a criminal record. It must be noted, however, that paying to be released on bail and paying an admission of guilt are two different things entirely. As soon as the police take the accused’s fingerprints, open a docket, and the accused pays the admission of guilt fine, the accused becomes convicted of a crime. However, this criminal record is not permanent and only lasts ten years. The crimes that constitute an admission of guilt fine are actions as simple as illegal parking, speeding, etc.. All of the above is not absolute and is subject to circumstances and the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977. How do I know if I have a criminal record? You can apply for a Police..

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  Feb 17, 2020

  Business in Africa: Digital…

  What is the first emotion or word that comes to mind when you read that word? Underdeveloped, poor, low-resourced? If the emotion or word that came to mind was developing, improving systems, increased interest of businesses to extend into Africa, improving healthcare systems and education; well done. Africa is center stage at the moment, for once, and a lucrative opportunity that should not and cannot be missed for businesses. The healthcare in Africa was sub-par to say the least, but a goal has been set to improve this system. Of course, for this to happen, medical devices and healthcare professionals are in huge demand. To put this market into perspective, Market Research Future recently published a report stating that by 2023 the Africa Medical Devices Market will reach 104 billion rand from 72 billion rand in 2017. The reason for this exponential growth is because of the increasing middle-income group, increasing number of medical tourists, increasing healthcare expenditure, creation of hospitals, more incidences of lifestyle diseased and more government support and programs. Africa comes with unique challenges and opportunities; there is a disproportionate amount of young people in Africa – over half of the population is under the age of 25, which means that there is a guaranteed customer base that will continue to grow, whereas in Europe the workforce will decrease by just under 15% by 2050. However, the..

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  Feb 12, 2020

  Business Platform for Women…

  A study in 2016 by the AfDB found that 70% of women are financially excluded. In addition to this, the COMESA (Common Marketing for Eastern and Southern Africa) Secretary General stated that there are more women than men in the African population, and women play a larger role in key sectors such as agriculture and trade. Yet, they face a financial gap of close to R245 billion. In an attempt to combat such inequality, on the 28th of February in Zambia, a business platform connecting 50 million women entrepreneurs across Africa was launched, named The 50 Million African Women Speak Platform (50MAWSP). This purpose of this platform is to empower the women in Africa, allowing these women to access real-time information on handheld mobile devices. It provides financial and non-financial information, and a way to increase networking, improve business skills, and share knowledge and information with other women. “With this platform, you have your own space as an entrepreneur to post your merchandise and advertise it free of charge.  Alternatively, it could be the place where you connect with suppliers or even business mentors. All these features, ladies are available to you at absolutely no cost.” Zambia First Lady The initiative of three regional economic communities supported by the African Development Bank. The roll-out plan for this platform is to stretch out over 38 countries that are members of the..

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  Feb 5, 2020

  4 Ways to Boost…

  LinkedIn is the new watering-hole for corporations looking to expand their team; but much like any social media, increasing your following is not something that happens without making a concerted effort for it to. So, we compiled a few pointers for how to crank those profile views right up. 1. Update your photograph so that it is always a ‘current’ photograph Despite everybody fighting against physical appearance constituting to employment decisions, it is still very much a reality. Just like a dating app, you get a little bit suspicious if the age of the applicant and the photograph do not seem to match. However, always remember that this photograph is not anything like any other social media or dating app. It is the same as an ID photograph – head and shoulders, but make sure you look friendly and employable, not like it is your mugshot. Also, make sure that this photograph is high quality. 2. Your cover image is your billboardYour profile picture is stock-standard, but luckily LinkedIn did provide a space for a little creativity and personalisation. Taglines, web-addresses, an artwork you created, work you are proud of that is visually appealing – anything that says a lot about you at a glance. If your dream job’s CEO was standing in front of a billboard, what would you put on there for her to choose you, or at..

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  Jan 29, 2020

  Flexible Work Schedules: Can…

  Flexible working schedules is a topic that has attracted considerable attention in the last few years. In fact, in the US, flexible working has increased by as much as 91% over the past decade. But what is this phenomenon, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of this system? A guide to flexible work schedules Flexible working is a system of work that includes working from home or flexible start and end times. Flexible working serves as an alternative to the traditional 9-5 structure which used to be the norm.  There are several different types of flexitime options available, including part-time working, working from home, compressed hours, flexitime, job sharing or phased retirement. Modern technology, changing job roles and social roles are making it more attractive and more possible to work at more unconventional hours and from locations outside of the office. As an employer or team head, you might be considering implementing flexible hours at your workplace. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of a flexible system. The pros: Flexible working shows that companies value the needs of staff.Can reduce commuting times and costs for employeesEnables employers to handle more business outside normal office hours.Can reduce employee turnover and increase employee morale and commitmentLeads to increased feelings of personal control over schedule and work environmentReduces tardiness and absenteeism The cons: Some employees may not work efficiently without..

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  Jan 23, 2020

  How to Stand Out…

  In today’s economic climate, job-seekers and employees are facing a number of challenges, not least of which is the fact that it can be difficult to secure employment. The reality is that there are more suitable candidates than there are positions, which is leading to tough conditions for jobseekers. Whether you’re unemployed and looking for a job, or someone who is employed but looking for a new position, the job market can seem fraught with problems and filled to the brim with other applicants just as qualified for the job as you are. As a job seeker, you want to stand out from the crowd, ensure that your resume is impressive and your application is memorable. That’s why we’ve set up these four handy tips to help you stand out and succeed when looking for a job. • Improve your skills In a competitive job market, your skills are critical for setting your application apart from that of other applicants. Leadership skills, business skills, technological skills and more could potentially be very valuable when you’re opening yourself up to securing new employment.   Upskilling yourself does not necessarily have to be an expensive process- do some research to find out whether nearby universities or colleges offer short courses, whether your employer offers support for training or investigate free or inexpensive online courses. • Networking is crucial The old saying: “It’s..

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  Jan 15, 2020

  A Guide to Social…

  When you’re applying for a new job, pre-employment background checks are often part of the process. From credit screenings to criminal records, employers want to ensure that the candidate they are considering is professional and well-suited to the job. But there is one background check in particular that many job seekers are wary of; social media background checks. Why do recruiters or employers use social media background checks? Employees want to ensure that prospective employees are suitable for the position and that they are unlikely to post images or posts on social media platforms that can pose risks to the employer. Once employed, social media misconduct by employees can pose risks to the employer, including: Reputational damageLoss of intellectual propertyIT system and software damageHarassment or discrimination claims Employers often use search engines and social media to discover information about current and prospective workers, while a large number have resorted to using specialists to ensure a thorough screening process whilst also remaining unbiased and staying on the right side of the law. For jobseekers, having shared or been included in certain posts and images can potentially damage their chances of finding employment. Of course, employers are not allowed to discriminate against current employees or prospective employees based on information such as gender, age or sexual discrimination. What information can damage your chances of employment? Employers often use social media checks to..

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  Jan 6, 2020

  How to prepare for…

  It’s a common process that can make most people sleepless with worry: a job interview. If you have a job interview lined up, there are some steps you’ll want to take to prepare and boost your chances of success.  Read on to find out how you can best prepare yourself for a job interview. • Practice makes perfect This step may seem strange, but can be very valuable when you’re preparing to be interviewed: take some time to practice answering interview questions and set up a list of some of the common questions you might be asked during the interview. If you can, get a friend or family member to ask you a few interview-style questions. This will help ease some of your anxiety and give you a chance to prepare your answers. 2. • Research the company Before you head out to the job interview, it’s important to find out as much as you can about both the company and the position you’re interviewing for. Conducting prior research on the company will enable you to answer interview questions about the company, as well as ask your own questions about the company to find out more about them and investigate whether the company and company culture are a good fit for you. • Dress to impress What you wear is a critical part of interview preparation. Select your clothing with..

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  Oct 23, 2019

  What is the 4th…

  It’s the new term that’s been dominating industry talks and circulating across various media. But what is the 4th Industrial revolution and what will it mean for the job-sphere? What is the 4th Industrial Revolution? The 4th Industrial revolution refers to the current & developing environment in which new technologies and trends are changing the way people live and work. Developments like the Internet of Things (IoT), Virtual Reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are all to play a part in the changes that are being wrought. What does this mean for jobs? The prospect of a future in which robots and computer systems can perform many human tasks is one which is concerning to many- but this new era may also bring in many exciting new developments for employees. These new technological developments – like AI and automation- will require people to adapt to them and learn how to enhance the existing processes with the new technology. Jobs that require a high level of physical work or repetitive tasks are more at risk of being affected. Industries reliant on human characteristics are harder to replace and will be less affected, as skills like creativity and empathy are harder to replicate through machines. These skills and several others are likely to become more in demand and more appreciated. The most significant change will likely be the birth of new..

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  Oct 15, 2019

  The Do’s and Don’ts…

  Whether it’s your first interview in years, your first interview ever or even your 12th job interview this month, job-hunting can be a nerve-wracking experience. What to wear, do and say can make any job-seeker anxious. Avoid some of this anxiety by reading through and applying this list of handy do’s and don’ts to any interview! DO prepare in advance Before the interview, be sure to do your homework and read as much information as you can about the company and prepare some questions about the company to ask during your interview.  Interviewers want to hire employees who are interested in the organisation and position, and who are likely to go the extra mile. DON’T dress inappropriately Your outfit will often serve as a critical first impression- and we all know how lasting first impressions can be. Dress in business attire even if the office environment is very casual- if you’re unsure about what to wear, rather aim for more formal clothing. DO plan your travel time It’s important to confirm the street address of the interview location, and research how to get there and how long it will take you. If relevant, ask the interviewer beforehand about public transport or parking. Being late to an interview is a definite no as tardiness instantly creates a poor impression. Ideally, you should arrive 10-15 minutes early but if you are running..

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  Oct 9, 2019

  How Leaders Manage Workplace…

  In the working world, disputes and differences between employees are inevitable and managing this conflict often falls to the office managers or employer. Conflict resolution is an important skill that all managers should master and which can mean the difference between a productive and healthy workspace, or one that is disrupted by poor teamwork and negative interactions.  If left unresolved, this conflict can destroy morale, disrupt your productivity and potentially lead to high turnover. If you’re in charge at your workplace, it’s critical that you understand and know how to manage these issues- whether petty squabbles or serious disputes, it’s vital that you manage and control the issue at hand.  Here are 5 top tips to manage conflict in any workplace: Let people tell their side of the story This may sometimes seem counterproductive, but it’s important to let people get their story out and voice their concerns. Allowing people to speak their mind might lead to increased conflict, but it will allow you to understand their mindset, the issue at hand and how to turn it around to ensure a peaceful resolution. Understand boundaries Conflict can easily get out of hand if you don’t know the boundaries and limitations of your employees. It’s vital to understand how your employees work, what they respond to and how they deal with conflict. Respect differences People are different, and every employee will..

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  Oct 4, 2019

  Employee Time Management: How…

  There just aren’t enough hours in a day… Sound familiar? For any modern working person, this popular saying will likely ring true: managing your time has is a notable challenge that most employees will struggle with during the course of their careers – it is not, however, a challenge that they need to tackle alone. Management, HR and managers can play a pivotal role in alleviating time-related problems and ensuring that employees can effectively utilise their time and talents. Here are five steps you can take to help employees who are struggling with time management. Uncover the source of the problem (and try to find a solution!) If your workforce is experiencing a significant time management issue, there is likely an underlying problem causing the issue. It might be that noisy distractions are causing a nuisance, office space is cramped making distractions frequent, workplace changes are causing job uncertainty or various other issues. If possible, try and resolve the problem. Set clear expectations and timelines Employees need to have a clear understanding of work priorities and deadlines. Unclear timelines can lead to employees procrastinating and putting off important tasks. Significant deadlines need to be communicated and all employees need to understand which tasks take precedence over others. Teach new techniques and implement changes Time management training and techniques can assist employees in knowing how to manage their time more effectively..

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  Sep 27, 2019

  The Difference between Contract…

  Modern businesses have varying employee needs, with different employment types suited to different positions and divisions, and many companies employ both contract and permanent workers. Contract and permanent employment types have different advantages and disadvantages for both employer and employee, and offer job seekers different contract types. Here is a quick run-through of these two contract types: Permanent Employment This contract is an indefinite contract where the employee is taken on by a company until the employee wishes to leave their position or the contract is terminated in some way.  A permanent contract implies open-endedness, with no set date. A permanent contract employee is entitled to all forms of benefits provided by the specific organisation.  Permanent employees are often eligible for benefits such as medical aid contributions, car allowance, training, sick leave, holiday pay, provident fund and death and disability benefit. These additional perks of permanent employment can dramatically reduce employees’ outgoing expenditure and increase their monthly disposable income. The recruitment of a permanent worker is generally an arduous and in-depth process, requiring multiple rounds of interviews and extensive background checks. Organisations looking to hire a permanent worker are more likely to place significant focus on their growth potential and the ability to integrate well into the existing workforce. Contract Employment Contract work has a start and end date and involves the hiring of a contractor or contract worker. Contract..

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  Sep 20, 2019

  Growing Industries in the…

  Political uncertainty, economic challenges and environmental changes… South Africa and the rest of the world have definitely experienced some trying times in the past few years.  In this fast-paced  modern world, the world of work has had to adapt quickly to keep up, with a number of fields experiencing rocketing growth and phenomenal advancements. In South Africa, we’ve seen this in some unexpected, as well as the predicted, areas. These industries has seen some incredible growth and a wealth of exciting opportunities for job-seekers; definitely job sectors to watch.  Here we highlight 3 fast-growing fields: Software development A quickly advancing and competitive field, the software development sector has seen phenomenal growth in terms of employment opportunities in the past few years. The advancement and growing popularity of modern technology has been a vital part of this growth, and the world of software development has grown in leaps and bounds. Location wise, we’ve also seen greater flexibility and changing opportunities for software engineers and developers in South Africa. In earlier years, software jobs were almost solely focused in South Africa’s economic hubs,  but this is no longer the case: well-paying software jobs can now be found all over the country. Tourism and hospitality With a government endorsement as one of the key sectors of the South African Economic Growth Path, the tourism and hospitality field is sure to see a boost..

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  Sep 13, 2019

  How to motivate your…

  In any workforce, and in any industry, there are some days that employees will feel dispirited and unmotivated. As an employer or manager, it’s essential to encourage and foster a motivated and positive workforce. A highly-motivated workforce is one that performs well, promotes low staff turnover and protects the reputation of your company.  Here are five ways that you can motivate your workforce: Don’t micromanage No-one enjoys working when there is someone constantly peering over your shoulder or checking your work. Micromanaging can lead to employees feeling as though you do not trust them or question the quality of their work. Check-in on projects, and remain interested in employee’s work, but don’t constantly monitor what they’re doing and how they’re doing it. Recognise team accomplishments Everyone wants recognition for their achievements and hard work, and the acknowledgement of a job well done can go far. As the manager or boss, it’s crucial that you know when employees have performed well, and what they’re getting right. Make sure that you recognise and appreciate their hard work. Incentivise Incentives are a great motivation booster! Incentives don’t always have to be expensive either. Smaller incentives like an extra paid day off, a lunch outing, or gift cards. You can even implement an employee rewards system to inspire employees and foster some light-hearted competitive spirit! Act on suggestions and ideas As a manager or..

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  Sep 6, 2019

  A Guide to Background…

  For most job applications, interviewees are used to multiple interviews, aptitude tests, personality tests and more- but one aspect takes place behind the scenes: background screening. Also known as background checks, this is an important step that can dictate who gets hired. During the interview process, interviewers can request permission to perform background checks or can set background checks as a condition of employment. Companies cannot conduct background checks without the consent of the candidate. From a company’s perspective, background screening forms a crucial part of the recruitment process and can save businesses money. Background checks protect companies from untruthful or suitable applicants, and can often be more in-depth than job seekers expect. Here are some the background checks that recruitment agencies or employers can implement: Credit check This is one type of background check that many job seekers are blithely unaware of. Prospective employers can request insights into your credit history. Credit checks are used to ascertain whether the candidate has a history of poor payments, loans or blacklistings due to poor financial decisions. This is especially crucial for positions where the candidate is in charge of handling money or has any say in financial decisions. Qualification check Many employers will verify the authenticity of the applicant’s stated academic history, and can easily do so by making use of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) database. Reference checks Reference..

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  Aug 13, 2019

  How to Combat Fraud…

  It may be an uncomfortable topic to discuss, but fraud and corruption are unfortunate realities which can be found in any workplace. Fraud and corruption are dangerous threats to economic stability, employee morale and the wellbeing of the company. No industry or service sector is automatically exempt from corruption, and it’s critical that both employees and employers work together to prevent corruption. The most effective ways to combat fraud and corruption are through awareness and prevention.  How you implement this awareness and prevention will depend on whether you are an employee or employer. What should you do, as the employer? As an employer, it’s important to understand where fraud is likely to occur and why people engage in fraudulent behaviour. If you’re the employer, it’s essential to lead by example and present clear guidelines that discourage fraud and corruption. As an employer or manager, it’s valuable to: Establish clear protocols Foster open communication Create systems of review Establish checks Take corruption claims seriously There are a number of steps that companies can employ to prevent and fight fraud, which include: Implement staff awareness, education and training to enable staff to recognise the signs of corruption and fraud. Utilise ongoing management oversight. Segregate duties, to prevent one person from completing entire transactions alone. Create a work environment where employees feel comfortable raising concerns. Establish clear lines of delegated authority and responsibility...

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  Aug 6, 2019

  How Continuous Learning Can…

  The work environment has become increasingly competitive- Increased financial insecurity and rapid changes have brought in a wave of challenges that mean that employees can no longer rely only on their work performance or original education. Employees and organisations are seeing changes across workspaces, and they need to enact changes in order to bridge the gaps in terms of skills and knowledge. Occupations and industries are changing at an incredible rate and experiencing fast-paced developments- with the emergence of automation, artificial intelligence and the gig economy changing playing pivotal roles.  For many employees and job seekers, these changes may incite worries about staying employable – as new skills are needed to keep up with most jobs! In today’s world, continued career growth relies on picking up new knowledge and skills, and staying up to date with new developments in your job field. These days, career development is a lifelong process, and continuous learning forms an important part thereof. What is Continuous learning? Continuous learning is the concept of always expanding your knowledge to gain new skills and expertise. Career-wide, continuous learning is all about broadening and advancing your skill set in response to a changing environment and new developments. How can continuous learning boost your career? It keeps you up to date It can motivate you It can make you more adaptable to change It can expose you to new..

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  Jul 26, 2019

  What is the Gig…

  The term ‘gig economy’ has quickly become one of the latest buzzwords, slung around in news articles and morning talk shows, and yet, this concept is nothing new. Workers have been taking on on-demand or freelance jobs for centuries, but it’s only now that this has grown to the extent that it’s changing the very nature of the workforce. The gig economy refers to a labour market characterised by freelance, flexible on-demand work: a market where workers are paid for each ‘gig’ they do, rather than receiving a regular salary for a nine-to-five position. This new trend in jobs has been partly led by the rise of digital and the changing needs of businesses. South Africa’s rates of freelancing work have risen, with temporary employment going from 2.6 million in 2017 to 3.9 million in 2018. In the UK, 15.6% of the workforce make up the gig economy, while in the USA that figure is at 34%. Many businesses have taken note of the trend, and implemented changes to take advantage of this new development or have taken steps to incite workers to stay on permanently, with measures including the use of temporary workers and implementing more flexible workspaces for employees. South Africa’s unemployment challenges have made this style of work attractive to many job seekers. However, the reality is that South African labour laws have not been adapted to..

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  Jul 19, 2019

  The Do’s and Don’ts…

  Negotiating a pay rise can be a delicate and challenging task, requiring a healthy dose of preparation and a bit of courage! If you’re looking to request a pay increase, here are some do’s and don’ts to implement with this often-tricky task! The DO’s Do have a plan for getting the raise you deserve. Be ready with a pitch to convince your boss why you deserve a raise- what do you bring to the company? Where have you performed well, and what are your skills? Do track your accomplishments throughout the year, so that you have a list of your achievements and successes to share when it comes to asking for a raise. Do gain an understanding of the negotiation process and plan accordingly. Do focus on your future with the organisation. Do consider enlisting the help of a mentor or experienced colleague that you trust. Do know your worth! Conduct research to check for roles similar to yours, in the same geographic area and performing the same tasks. Make sure you understand the going market rate for your position and put your target salary slightly higher than that- but not too high. Do consider other options, such as stock, executive benefits, flex time, bonuses and increased vacation times. Sometimes, when a company is unwilling or unable to raise your salary, they might still be willing to negotiate bonus incentives...

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  Jul 12, 2019

  How to Stay Motivated…

  Staying motivated within the exacting and competitive job sector can be challenging. Demanding jobs, difficult bosses and poor work conditions often contribute to a feeling of misery in your career. Staying motivated therefore needs to be a mindful task- one which can drive your own happiness as well as contribute to your career growth! Here are six great tips for staying driven in your career: Stay positive Don’t view your job as hard work- think of it as an essential part of taking you where you want to be. It will be easier to stay motivated as you view your job as a larger piece of the puzzle. Create small, manageable goals Big projects and deadlines can quickly feel overwhelming and impossible to resolve- that’s why it’s important to take tasks one at a time and set up smaller, manageable goals on the way to completing a large task. Goals give direction and make it easier to find meaning in work. Be open to feedback Feedback- especially critical feedback- is crucial in improving yourself and improving your performance! Feedback is a needed learning opportunity and will ensure that you stay on track with continuous improvement. Set break times Modern technology has made it too simple to stay connected to work, with the global accessibility afforded by skype, emails and mobile phones and it’s easy to get sucked up in workplace..

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  Jul 5, 2019

  How to Ace Your…

  Congratulations, you got a new job! Now you just have to survive your first day - and whether it’s your first day of working ever, a new company or just a different department, the first day at any job can be stressful!  To ensure that you have a positive first-day experience, it’s good to do some preparation to ensure that everything runs smoothly, which brings us to these tips for success on your first day at a new job! These handy hints will guide you through your first day and set you on the track for success! First impressions matter From your smile to your shoes, people remember their first impressions! For the first day at a new position, you want to ensure that you impress from the word go! Make sure your outfit is appropriate, clean and neat. Be friendly with everyone you meet, remember names, and try to connect with everyone you can- even if it’s just a 30-second greeting in the hall. Plan your commute So simple, yet so important.  Arriving on time, particularly for your first day on the job, is vital. Before starting a new job, be sure to map out the best route to your new workplace. Have a look at the public transport options and schedules, or if you’re driving, the roads and potential commute issues. Try and plan so that you can..

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  Jun 26, 2019

  Tips for Securing Your…

  The transition from being a student to a full-time worker can often be quite taxing – and a big part of that is often the job search itself. Don’t underestimate your CV Your CV is critical when searching for a job. Ask for help when compiling a CV: contact family members or friends who have created CV’s before, or if you’re enrolled at a University or College, contact the career office for help. Avoid silly errors like spelling mistakes and ensure that all information is accurate and up to date. Your CV is the first impression that prospective employers will get of you, so you want to be sure it sets a good precedent! Network Networking is invaluable when it comes to job-hunting, enabling you to build up contacts and gain guidance while searching for a job. An indirect approach is often best, reaching out to contacts for information and advice rather than directly asking for a job. Don’t forget to tell friends and family members that you’re looking for a job- you never know who might know of an open position or valuable contact! Keep growing During the job hunt, don’t become complacent and only rely on your previous training and experience. If you have the time and resources, search for new learning and training opportunities. Sign up for short courses, seek out internships or learnerships or try to..

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  Jun 19, 2019

  How job-seekers can survive…

  The world is on the precipice of the fourth Industrial revolution- changing the ways people approach careers and even life. The fourth industrial revolution, which has been brought about by incredible advances in technology, will change the way we work, live and relate to one another. These changes will affect massive changes in many sectors of the job market. The fourth industrial revolution will likely lead to job cuts across certain sectors, as machines replace several human skills. The jobs most at risk are those that do not require specific skills or training, placing low-skill workers at risk. Certain careers are more likely to be well-suited for the changes brought by the fourth industrial revolution and a number of fields have been identified as showing potential for the future. These are: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Automation, Cyber Security, Big Data and Data Analytics Biotechnology, Biomedical Science & Biomedical Engineering, and Healthcare Climate, Energy, Natural Resources & Environment Liberal Arts, Design & Creative Technologies Education and Skill Training How should job-seekers prepare for this new development? Many experts recommend that people seek out skills that can survive the fourth industrial revolution, skills acquired through multi-disciplinary education where human and social sciences understand science and technology, and vice versa. Workers need to stay updated with the latest skills and technology and ensure that they are knowledgeable about their fields. Skills that will..

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  Jun 12, 2019

  How to Recruit Top…

  In the contemporary business environment, having the right team is essential to business success- you want individuals that are hard-working, experienced and can think out of the box! As a firm, you want to attract the best and brightest out there, which means that you need to tailor your recruitment process to find and hire the top talent available. Doing so can be an incredible boon to your business- ensuring that your company performs at its best. Here are five strategies for recruiting the top talent within your industry! Identify your needs Before you even initiate the recruitment process, it’s vital to identify what your business needs. What skills and qualities are must-haves for candidates? A clear plan will help you write a job description that stands out and attracts high performers. Advertise your company culture Job-seekers are increasingly aware of the corporate culture within workspaces. Millennial and Gen-Z candidates are more concerned with the culture and spirit of the workplace than previous generations and are actively seeking professional environments where they feel emotionally and spiritually fulfilled. Promote your company culture during the recruitment process and advertise all the benefits of working at your company. Utilise your contacts Don’t just limit yourself to traditional job boards and postings but engage with contacts and recruiters to let them know you’re seeking candidates and let them know the type of candidates you..

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  Jun 5, 2019

  Dress for success: Interview…

  “So, what would you describe as your greatest weakness?” Interviews can be quite stressful- from arriving on time to sharing articulate and well-thought-out responses to complicated questions; there are a lot of things to consider when preparing for a job interview. Your physical appearance is the first thing that people notice about you, paving the way for your entire interview experience and informing the first impression people get: this, in turn, is hugely dependant on what you’re wearing. When you’re looking for a job, it’s vital that you show off your best side to recruiters. Here are 5 top tips for how to choose appropriate interview wear! Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. That is to say, keep it classy and professional. Dress similarly to present the boss at the job you’re seeking, with a polished and tidy edge. If you’re unsure, opt for overdressing rather than underdressing. Keep it industry-appropriate Different jobs have different needs. What works for one industry does not necessarily work for another. Do your homework about the company to gauge the style of dress you’ll need. Keep it cautious When choosing an interview outfit, err on the side of caution: rather dress too formally or conservatively, than arrive and realise you are completely underdressed! Pay attention to detail Keep your look polished and neat. Neatness is often seen as a..

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  May 27, 2019

  How AI is Changing…

  How AI is Changing Recruitment Artificial intelligence (AI) is making inroads in the recruitment industry, providing recruiters and employers with a way to boost the traditional and often tedious way of finding and hiring suitable candidates. Here are X ways AI is changing the recruitment process. Automates candidate selection AI automates the way recruiters find and hire potential candidates, simplifying the complex search for the right fit. AI virtual assistance can assist in identifying skills matches, analysing the capabilities of potential candidates, and assisting with interviews. It’s all about finding the perfect fit for the employer. Leads to quality hiring Quality hiring contributes to decreasing staff turnover, which is a critical requirement for employers. Recruiters can use AI technology to filter through applications and detect the best possible quality leads. The candidates with the highest potential will be ranked first before less qualified prospects. Saves recruiters’ time  Recruiters can save more time by narrowing down the candidate list to the most viable options for hiring. AI makes the process of sifting through job applications faster by selecting candidates that match the given specs. The technology can also provide insights into each candidate in less time than Provides Valuable Analytics AI technology can also gather and assess the data of each candidate. Recruiters can take full advantage of insights they may have missed otherwise. The most promising candidates are selected from..

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  May 24, 2019

  How Efficient is Your…

  How Efficient is Your HR Department? HR professionals face numerous challenges that can reduce their efficiency and performance in the overall recruitment process and employee welfare in the organisation. Here are some of the challenges. Managing Employee Relations Human resources deal with the constant need of looking for new prospects while keeping employees happy and engaged at work. Don’t ignore the latter. Listen to employees’ pain points and give them a platform to make their voices heard without judgement. If your HR department spends a lot of time and effort sifting through complaints and mediating internal disputes to ensure harmony in the office, it is time to look closely at how employee relations are managed and what can be done to ensure better communication and workplace conflict resolution. Dealing with Employee Turnover A high employee turnover often leads to huge costs in terms of productivity, hiring processes and training. Make employee retention a priority to keep the organisation cost-effective and benefit from continuous and sustainable performance. If you struggle with high employee turnover, ensure the workplace is professional and pleasant enough to curb unwanted conflict, negativism and absenteeism. Introduce initiatives to reward employee performance and foster career growth opportunities. Manual Data Management The fastest way to make HR more efficient is by automating the tedious everyday manual task such as data entries, which will free your department more time to..

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  May 16, 2019

  Flexible Working, the New…

  Flexible Working, the New Norm for Employees Flexible working agreements may be the key to attracting and retaining top employees, and prevent further loss of critical skills, professional workforce and executive talent in South Africa. Here is why flexible working is becoming such a big attraction in recruitment. The global picture Flexible and remote working policies are no longer a perk, but an essential tool to assist with employee recruitment and retention. Employers who offer flexible working arrangement attest that productivity increases in their business as a result of greater employee flexibility while reducing capital expenditure and lowering occupational health and related risks. Globally, 50% of employees are working outside of their main office headquarters for at least 2.5 days a week, a massive shift in the general employees’ working habits. Organisations worldwide have started to introduce flexible working as a priority measure to attract and retain employees, as reported by global research. South Africa and flexible working The statistics don’t lie. 86% of South Africans would choose a job that also offered flexible working when faced with two similar job offers, and 66% are ready to give up working for prestigious companies in favour of more flexible work arrangement for a less-known business, according to the latest independent IWG Global Workspace Survey. The study showed that South Africa is catching on to the need for flexibility to retain talent...

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  May 9, 2019

  Open-plan Offices: Not Such…

  Open-plan Offices: Not Such a Good Idea? Although open-plan workspaces are becoming a norm for most South Africans companies, a recent CareerJunction survey found out that office workers are more likely to prefer closed or sectioned-off spaces to avoid stress triggers, interruptions and background noises. More than 70% of the 2000 surveyed workers who use open-plan desks in their companies are uncertain or ambivalent about the benefits of the open-plan working space, believing it causes more harm and stress than good in the workplace. Focus and privacy before collaboration Although open-plan offices are intended to increase collaboration among workers, most South Africans interviewed prefer to get their work done in peace, away from distractions and interruptions, and seem to value privacy more than open interaction. Over two-thirds of office workers who participated in the survey admitted that they struggle to focus on their work tasks, while 60% mentioned they do not have any option to work in private and undisturbed by colleagues aside from the open desk. As a result, an overwhelming number of workers chose to wear headphones to cancel out the background noise, and only approach other colleagues if urgent or necessary. Three-quarters of respondents admitted they wouldn’t bother colleagues in emails or instant messages unnecessarily. Conflict management and office politics The open-plan work desk situation amplifies major irritating factors in the office, such as personal phone calls,..

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  Apr 29, 2019

  6 Effective Employee Retention…

  6 Effective Employee Retention Strategies Creating a positive working environment within your organisation plays a fundamental role in effective employee retention. Follow these seven employee retention strategies to keep excellent work ethic, retain quality staff, and maintain team consistency. Create a culture of appreciation Employee recognition goes a long way toward making work meaningful. How do you communicate with employees to let them know their work is appreciated? If recognition only happens in an annual performance review, you are missing out on a major employee retention tool. Give good behaviour special recognition Identify praiseworthy behaviour you would like to see in your organisation, acknowledge it and encourage it.  Include participation at company events and meetings, and incentivise these as part of your employee rewards program. Focus on professional development Candidates must be aware of the opportunities provided in the field of learning new things and developing skills. Provide opportunities for employees to develop their potential and show what they can offer in long-term beyond their current responsibilities. Improve your recruitment process Introducing assessments in the process of recruitment could ensure that an employee’s beliefs and behaviours are in alignment with their employer’s core values and company culture. Ensure employees know and understand your company’s culture. Make employee autonomy a reality Give employees space for initiative and creative thinking. Schedule recurring internal events that enable employees to think creatively. Some companies..

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  Apr 23, 2019

  The Secret to Retain…

  The Secret to Retain Employees? Build a Great Place to Work Smart companies make employee retention a high priority to attract and retain talent. In our previous blogs, we have shown that employee retention goes beyond cool office perks. So what lies behind nurturing a work environment that helps hire and retain the best people in business? When companies receive the ‘great place to work’ labelling, it is because they do their best to include their employees’ needs and invest in these important principles: Responsibility An employee’s responsibility is one of the best drivers for organisational success. Employees who feel a direct link to company performance will be better motivated to produce high-quality work and seek opportunities to go the extra mile. Define clear responsibilities and requirements for each employee role and allow your people to see the lasting impact their role has on the organisation. Use career milestones and concrete metrics to help employees work towards greater success. Flexibility Employees value flexibility in the workplace and the opportunities offered by the company to take time off and unplug from their daily work routine. Work-life balance is important for employees to recharge and become more productive when returning to work. Provide flexible work arrangements such as work from home, flexible work hours, and generous holidays and vacation time. In return, employees will respond by being more energetic and productive at..

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  Apr 16, 2019

  Why Investing in Leadership…

  Why Investing in Leadership Helps with Employee Retention Why is it so hard to retain people once they had been hired? Who is it to blame for employees quitting their jobs? Several surveys and researches point out to the management’s fault. I have recently read about a US workplace study where participants were asked what one thing they wished they could change about their manager, and whether they would still be in the same job if they had to repeat the experience. If you had to do it over again, would you say yes to working for your current manager? The majority said a definitive ‘no’ and wanted their current manager to quit. Think about it for a moment. Would your answer be different? Would you say a resolute ‘yes’ to your manager? For recruiters and employers, these studies are minegold. They show one of the many reasons employees choose to quit their jobs, if not THE main reason. If it’s not about the work itself and the company, then it’s about the people in charge. This fact is even more evident when employees choose to leave a job after changes in management and leadership, such as having a new manager to respond to, who affects the entire dynamics of the existing team. When good people leave because of bad management, the company pays the ultimate price. Employee retention in..

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  Apr 8, 2019

  The Latest HR Recruitment…

  The Latest HR Recruitment Trends in South Africa South Africa’s largest annual HR Recruitment Trend Survey released its 2018/2019 results in March, showing an important shift in organisational talent acquisition strategies. HR recruiting strategies now focus on digital transformation, automated software solutions, employer branding and employee diversity. Attracting and sourcing high-skilled talent remains the top priority for employers, despite the notorious shortage of skills in the country. Most companies surveyed agree that the company’s positive branding and image appeal can improve the success rates of attracting and employing the best talent in the market. Online job portals and social media (specifically LinkedIn) remain the preferred digital channels in recruitment, with companies showing increased interest in social media for HR. The most important change is that recruiters are embracing digital solutions and moving from manual candidate screening and sourcing to recruitment management systems capable of automating and speeding up these tasks. In particular, companies are investing in AI-enabled HR software and intelligent business solutions to optimise their requisition-to-hire process and cut down recruitment costs. In a nutshell, the HR survey highlighted the following: 93% of organisations believe artificial intelligence (AI) will play an important role in the recruitment process within the next few years 59% of businesses view the sourcing of highly-skilled talent as the most important in talent acquisition 46% of organisations find a shortage of skills to be their..

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  Mar 27, 2019

  How to Recruit and…

  How to Recruit and Retain High Performers Keeping high performers happy and engaged in the workplace is a challenge for companies recruiting these types of highly-motivated individuals. Research suggests that high performers thrive in an environment that supports them, within a culture that appreciates and can sustain high performance. In this blog, we look at what companies can do to retain high performers. Develop an Open Environment High performers are looking for an environment that allows them to be themselves and exercise their creativity and problem-solving skills. An open, collaborative and trusted space will ensure that they have the autonomy and authority to continue performing in their roles and build innovation within the organisation. To retain top performers, remove any barriers that can stifle and discourage them from giving their best – think office politics, hierarchy, red tape and bureaucracy. The more transparency and honesty, the better the chances to keep performers engaged at work. Empower with Challenging Roles Highly-driven employees will seek a job position that challenges their interests, provides them with learning and networking opportunities, builds their capabilities, and allows space for growth and career advancement. High performers are interested in roles where they can use their leadership or mentorship skills, while still growing in their role and seeking a mentor to access more knowledge in their field of expertise. Offer meaningful and challenging roles where these performers..

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  Mar 20, 2019

  How to Identify and…

  How to Identify and Attract High Performers Attracting top talent is not only about recruitment methodology. Research suggests that high performers thrive in an environment that supports them, within a culture that appreciates and can sustain high performance. In this blog, we look at the main characteristics that identify high performers. Identify High Performers High performers are individuals who operate at a different pace in a company and stand out from the crowd. Usually, these types have a high degree of emotional intelligence (EQ) and empathy and perform well under pressure and deadlines. Unlike most employees, high performers make a point to motivate others and instil performance in the people around them, despite being often seen as highly competitive. They know their value and are prepared to negotiate to be paid at the level they are worth. Generally, high performers express their desire to perform in all aspects of their lives. Maintaining a good work/life balance means that they often prefer to work outside of the traditional 9 to 5 norms, achieving results nonetheless. There are no ‘one-size-fits-all’ recipes, standard requirements or specific demographics for high performers, which makes it the more difficult to identify these candidates, but not impossible. Attract High Performers Recruiters and employers use background checks, career history, references and other analytics to establish individual reputation and potential for high performance. For example, high performers are candidates..

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  Mar 13, 2019

  High-tech Innovative Strategies in…

  High-tech Innovative Strategies in Recruitment Employers find it more and more difficult to attract top talent and high-skilled employees in a competitive job market. Investing in digital tools to aid the recruitment process can change that and improve the recruitment process. A recent 2018 Global Candidate Preferences Survey compiled by the Fortune 500 HR company ManpowerGroup provided some insights into innovative recruitment strategies. Finding the Right Skills for the Job Matching the candidate’s desired skills to the required jobs is crucial for employers and recruiters. Often, there is a serious gap between what is needed and the skills available in the market. According to the ManpowerGroup report, 45% of employers are concerned about finding the right skills, an increasing problem in industries where the skills gap continues to widen, and high-skilled people are predominantly scarce. Africa is no exception. Luckily, advanced technologies can help bridge this gap, and reduce the talent shortage. The survey showed employers and recruiters are investing in digital tools to prospect, screen and engage candidates, ensuring accuracy and consistency in the recruitment process. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) Artificial intelligence-powered bots can effectively cover the time-consuming searching and screening part of a recruiter’s job, leaving time for more strategic tasks. Bots will be able to navigate through hundreds of CVs and identify the most likely candidates with the necessary hard and soft skills according to predetermined requirements...

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  Mar 6, 2019

  Survey Focuses on SA…

  Survey Focuses on SA Employee Engagement and Experience Employees’ expectations and the level of engagement in the workplace are constantly changing due to today’s connected working environment. A recent survey set out to find out how South Africans perceive employee engagement based on their own experience at work. According to the online survey conducted by Wyzetalk with BusinessTech, employees seek meaningful work, flexibility, autonomy, mentoring and collaborative communication. Employees expect to be engaged differently. Unfortunately, in most cases, the employee experience is nothing more than a corporate buzzword. Some concerning findings of employee experience among the more than 2410 survey respondents include the following: 41% reported general poor communication from the top management 43% cited a lack of interdepartmental collaboration and integration 41% believed the focus was more on sales and production than people Nearly 50% felt they couldn’t voice their opinions and provide feedback 25% believed the overall communication in their companies is inefficient 68% said their companies mostly use traditional channels such as email or intranet Only 14% mentioned collaboration tools widely adopted by their companies 9% said their companies still rely on printed collateral like posters and noticeboards 33% felt that a positive employee experience was not a priority Only 27% reported the company’s willingness to improve the employee experience 57% believe they are more productive when they feel valued by management 27% said working for a..

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  Feb 27, 2019

  3 Ways to Drive…

  3 Ways to Drive Employee Engagement Did you know that only 15% of employees worldwide are engaged in their work, despite most organisations worldwide investing billions in employee engagement tools? This is according to the Gallup State of the Global Workplace report, and other market research that confirms a general poor employee engagement in the workplace. In this blog, we are looking at what we view as the three Fs of great employee engagement: fulfilment, flexibility and focus. Fulfilment shows that employee engagement is largely driven by psychological benefits such as emotional well-being, social fit and cultural identity. Employers need to foster their employees’ self-esteem and sense of belonging in the company. Fulfilment, empathy and social identity should not be overlooked, according to a . The key to employee engagement is the psychological fulfilment derived from human connections and meaningful work opportunities. When employers identify these key psychological benefits, they can work towards including them in engagement programs, strategic briefs, and teambuilding sessions. Flexibility Gone are the days when compensation packages, salary raises and benefits inspired employees to do their best work. Employers need to consider a different approach to emphasise the work-life balance aspect in the modern workplace. Flexible work arrangements balance employees’ life and working needs, allowing them to be more productive in their environment of choice, cope better with emotional and mental health, improve their relationships, and..

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  Feb 20, 2019

  The Main Reason Employees…

  The Main Reason Employees Leave Companies Employee turnover is a persistent issue in some organisations, leaving top management and HR recruiters with a serious question: why are their employees leaving, and what can be done to make them stay? Companies are spending money to spice up the office and outdo other companies in terms of salary bonuses and other benefits. Sadly, a new Google-inspired office setup or cafeteria design, games rooms, casual Friday drinks and teambuilding fun won’t help. While employers are investing in office perks and cool workplace features to boost employee retention and engagement, they ignore a more important fact. A high percentage of employee turnover is a symptom of a deeper problem. “Employees are less engaged today than back in the sixties when a steady job was the key to engagement,” writes Roberta Chinsky Matuson in her opinion piece an article viewed by more than a quarter of million LinkedIn fans in just two days! So what do employees want, and why the low engagement and the desire to leave a job? Here is the real reason employees decide to leave: bad leadership. This is the root cause of employee turnover. Understanding the way management and leadership impacts the employees’ everyday work is the first step to address this nagging problem. Studies consistently show that employees don't leave companies. They leave their bosses. If employee engagement is..

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  Feb 14, 2019

  Career Paths in Cybersecurity…

  Career Paths in Cybersecurity Intelligence Cybersecurity is evolving rapidly due to the increasingly complex cyber threats and attacks on enterprises and nations worldwide. Not surprisingly, the domains of cybersecurity intelligence and cybercrime investigation offer lucrative opportunities for professionals already involved in IT security and law enforcement. Security Analysts - Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity Management A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in cybersecurity focuses on the protection of digital information for businesses, consumers, and the government. It combines the technical aspect of cybersecurity with critical thinking and practical skills such as ethics, data management, analytics, basic investigation techniques and forensics. The most popular careers for BA cybersecurity graduates include information security analysts/managers and network security administrators. The finance, banking, insurance, and defence industries offer the most career opportunities for security analysts. Forensic Specialist - Bachelor of Arts with Cybersecurity Intelligence Cybersecurity intelligence covers cyber defence protocols for national security and foreign policy. It is as a highly niched area for cybersecurity experts and analysts invested in protecting financial or government defence systems from dangerous hackers. Forensic specialists with a cybersecurity background can work alongside law enforcement to lend their specialist knowledge to track and apprehend cyber criminals. They can also provide consulting services for law enforcement agencies. Cybercrime Expert – Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice with a Cybersecurity Focus Law enforcement specialists and graduates with interest in criminal justice can adopt a..

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  Jan 31, 2019

  5 Fantastic resources for…

  5 Fantastic resources for continuous learning Professional Sourcing has previously addressed the value of continuous learning, and in this article, we will be discussing five resources or institutions that you can use to undertake your foray into continuous learning. University courses Many Universities across South Africa offer a host of well-managed short courses, many of them taught online. The University of Pretoria, the University of Kwazulu-Natal, Unisa, the University of the Free State, as well as many others, offer short courses. Online teaching platforms The web offers a wide variety of sites that provide trustworthy courses, many offered entirely online. Platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, edX and Academic Earth, provides users courses in various specialised fields. Youtube Whether it’s learning a new language, viewing a production process, watching How-to videos or talks by experts in their fields, Youtube offers a wealth of information and knowledge. Youtube channels that promote learning include Ted-ed; TED-talk’s response to educational videos, National Geographic; the quintessential information source turns to Youtube to offer fans even more insight, or CrashCourse, a channel that addresses economics, US politics, anatomy, philosophy and more! The library Though some may regard libraries as old-fashioned and obsolete, they continue to offer value to those who take the time to engage with their local library’s materials. Many libraries host talks from authors and can source books and magazines that will further..

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  Jan 21, 2019

  What is continuous learning…

  What is continuous learning and why is it important? The phrase “continuous learning’ has quickly become a hot topic; trending on social media and most likely, attracting discussion in your workspace. But what is continuous learning? Also known as lifelong learning, continuous learning refers to the constant expansion of skills and skill-sets through education and increasing knowledge, and by expanding your skill set in response to a changing environment and new developments. The contemporary world is facing continuous, accelerated change, ensuring that knowledge has become obsolete more quickly than ever before. Continuous learning is therefore essential to your future success and requires self-motivation and persistence. Continuous learning is vital because it may help you to remain relevant, prepare for the unexpected, boost your profile, grow your confidence, foster innovation and change your perspective. Many people believe themselves to be finished with education once they have received their degrees or diplomas. This way of thinking is counterintuitive to growth and successful living. These days change is a given, and all skill sets need to be updated and improved regularly. How to undertake continuous learning Firstly, consider approaching your workplace. A large percentage of employers have indicated that they are conscious of the benefits of lifelong learning, and they may be supportive of your educational aims. Businesses often have expansive resources at their disposal, which may assist you on your path to..

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  Jan 10, 2019

  Which industries offered the…

  Which industries offered the highest salary bands in 2018? As we ease into 2019 and look back on 2018, we get the opportunity to assess the year gone by. 2018 was marked by political turbulence and financial scandals, which affected the economic climate. Whether this will continue to have financial repercussions for this coming year is yet to be seen, but for now, we can reflect on the world of work in 2018 and how employees were compensated. Salary bands can often reveal the financial environments of different industries, offering employees the chance to measure up their compensation against others in their industry as well against that of employees in other sectors. As markets fluctuate and the world experiences economic strain, it may be valuable to assess the salary band of the industry that you’ve chosen. These three industries below offered employees the highest salary bands in 2018. Architecture and Engineering The architecture and engineering field encompasses jobs like mechanical engineering, engineering drafters and architecture. This industry has starting salaries from R16 181, for the position of engineering draughtsman. Environmental engineers, at the other end, can earn R75 941 per month. Junior and intermediate positions could potentially have amassed monthly salaries of up to R52 969. Finance Finance is a well-paying industry, raking in R68 281 per month for a senior financial management role and R14 305 for the lowest..

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  Jan 4, 2019

  Career paths with the…

  Career paths with the best opportunities Choosing which career to pursue can be a challenging and exhaustive task. One needs to consider your aptitudes, knowledge and interests. Beyond that, it’s important to understand the financial realities and the future demand needs of the industry that you are considering. Before delving into a trade, it’s worthwhile to take the time to assess whether your future job sector is stable and sustainable in the long term. In the South African careers industry, the following career paths demonstrate the best projections for stability and growth opportunities, while also displaying high demand currently The medical field The field of medicine is fast growing and vast. Growing technology is changing the way that the medical field operates and is improving various facets of this field. Jobs in the medical sector are not necessarily restricted to those of a traditional doctor- there are many other sectors in the health industry, including medical engineers, technical specialists, medical device sales, radiology, physiotherapy, dietetics, occupational therapy and nursing. Technology sector With fast-paced growth and incredible innovations, technology is an exciting and promising field. As the field is continuously growing, the industry regularly generates new opportunities. This field is also suitable for freelance work, and currently offers positions for employees in information technology, robotics, smart factories, connected supply chain, web development, app development, and desktop support. Marketing and sales The..

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  Dec 27, 2018

  How to prevent fraud…

  How to prevent fraud and corruption in the workplace Part 2 of our series on fraud and corruption. Fraud can often seem like a distant, theoretical concept that has no direct impact on our lives- and yet, they do. When it comes to fraud and corruption, the actions of all personnel have a significant effect on the business. It is vital that all companies have a fraud prevention plan in place, and that employees are aware of this plan. Fraud can come in many forms but can be compartmentalised according to three categories: asset misappropriation, corruption and financial statement fraud. It is important to understand that fraud and corruption come in different forms, as this will make them easier to identify and counter. A key deterrent of fraud and corruption is prevention and awareness. This includes the processes of denial or opportunity, effective leadership and oversight, pre-employee screening and auditing. These processes have been deemed effective in curbing fraud and corruption. All employees must be encouraged to maintain and embody the company’s ethics, and values and managers must lead by example. There are several steps that companies can implement to fight fraud, which include: * Know your employees: familiarise yourself with your employees to identify potential fraud risk. * Set up a fraud reporting system: Give employees a safe way to report suspicious activities and make them aware of possible..

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  Dec 16, 2018

  How do you determine…

  How do you determine the legitimacy of a Recruitment Agency? Looking for a job can be quite the task, as any job seeker will tell you.  Seeking the services of a professional recruitment agency is one of the best ways to cut down on your time and stress, and to ensure that your CV lands on the right desk. But how do you know which agency to trust?   It is vital to confirm that you will be using a reputable company, to ensure that you find the right job as quickly as possible. Ask the right questions, check the processes, review their online behaviour; and you’ll be on the right track to identify your ideal agency. The right questions: Before signing up with an agency; do your homework and be sure to ask them some important questions. Ask the agency: Have you placed any previous candidates with your client? Tell me more about the company? How would you describe the culture of the company and what are the benefits of this position? What is the growth potential of this role?   These questions will determine whether the agent has real knowledge of the company and its’ structures. Please tell me more about the position? Listen out for any technical insights from the recruiter. How long has the agency been operating? Be sure to confirm this information online. If they can’t answer..

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  Dec 13, 2018

  5 Tips for landing…

  5 Tips for landing your first job As the year winds down, many recent graduates will find themselves fresh out of university and clutching their shiny degrees. And, most likely, looking for a job. For young graduates preparing to enter the job market, it may be very daunting at the start. After having sent out countless resumes and attending numerous interviews without an answer, many graduates become dispirited. If you’re a young job seeker, don’t despair. Here are five handy tips to guide you through the job-hunting process: 1. Sort out your CV Your CV is the first impression that prospective employers will get from you, it is, therefore, vital that you deliver the best CV that you can. Create a logical structure for your CV, make sure it contains all the relevant information, showcase all your relevant qualifications and experience, get someone to proofread your CV. Spelling and grammatical errors can result in recruiters and potential employers binning your CV very quickly. It's highly likely that you can approach your student institution for assistance with compiling and editing your CV. 2. Search for opportunities Job hunting is typically that, a hunt. When looking for a job, keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities, network, and do your research. There are many useful professional organisations you could join, which provide networking events, industry news and the possibility of finding..

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  Dec 6, 2018

  Fraud and Corruption –…

  Fraud and Corruption – what is the effect on future employment opportunities? Fraud and corruption are hot topics when it comes to the world of business and governance in South Africa, with employment an important issue in the debates surrounding these issues. As of July 2018, the percentage of the labour force that is unemployed sits at 27,2%; up by 0.5% since the start of the year. A recent survey demonstrated that the majority of today’s youth believe that corruption threatens their employment prospects. With corruption rampant and financial security threatened, it remains critical to assess and evaluate how corruption and fraud can influence our businesses and future employment opportunities. Fraud within government sectors should also not be overlooked, because when corruption and fraud affect the government, it can have widespread effects on businesses. Service delays, lack of essential services, untrustworthy officials and poor infrastructure can all influence sectors of the financial environment. Recruitment freezes or retrenchments As companies experience losses due to fraud and corruption, it inevitably leads to budget cuts, often focused on the employees. This can lead to retrenchments or the freezing of the recruitment process. Fewer investments When a business or country is perceived to be corrupt or fraudulent, it is likely to influence the investment opportunities for that entity. Corruption, or even rumoured corruption, can lead to shareholders losing trust in the business and dissuade..

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  Nov 28, 2018

  All You Need to…

  All You Need to Know about Social Media Background Checks There is no doubt that the new digital age is reshaping our future and the future of the workplace. Not only are people extremely reliant on technology, but social media and the Internet have become very big factors influencing searches in the job market. With over 3 billion people using social media worldwide, social media background checks are becoming more and more prevalent. Patricia Koekemoer, Managing Director of Professional Sourcing, explains social media background checks as “a new “tool” that employers use to check out everything about a person’s online presence before hiring.” Many employers use search engines and social media to discover information about current and prospective employees. It appears as if they are going beyond merely contacting references. In some cases, the information obtained from social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, has been used for firing existing employees or prevented the hiring of certain new candidates. There is not a shadow of a doubt that the exploding use of social media has put a large amount of interesting information in the public eye. A legitimate reason to use the web for background checks is to see how applicants present themselves to the public. Although some people believe that the private life of a potential employee should not interfere with their professional life, most HR or managers have..

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  Nov 17, 2018

  Are Reference Checks Important…

  Are Reference Checks Important for Employers? There have been many recent, controversial discussions surrounding references on CVs. A reference check is when an employer contacts a job applicant's previous employers, colleges and other sources to learn more about his or her employment history, educational background and qualifications for a job. As an employer, a fundamental question to ask is “Is it a waste of time getting in contact with these references?” Hassanah Rudd, talent acquisition manager at NBN Co, believes that reference checks are useful in many ways. They help to uncover how a candidate performs in the workplace as well as the management style that can be used with the employee to achieve the best results. “At the end of the day, references are invaluable. You absolutely should do them. You should include them as part of the process, and it should round out the experience you’ve had with the candidate to that point,” Rudd says. It appears as if the consensus amongst career experts is that checking references is an essential multi-purpose activity with numerous benefits. Having an effective process for checking references may accomplish one of two things: It may reassure the hiring manager of the positive things that he or she already knows about the applicant; or It may uncover things about a potential applicant that the hiring manager did not know and that may prove..

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  Nov 14, 2018

  Taking a Sabbatical: Employer’s…

  Taking a Sabbatical: Employer’s Perspective Firms are often very reluctant to allow employees to take a sabbatical. A study done by Fierce Inc, a global leadership development and training company, shares the three common fears faced by employers when it comes to offering a sabbatical. Reduced Productivity Employers are often concerned about how they will cover someone’s responsibilities if they are out of the office for an extended period of time. Productivity will most likely suffer if there is not a strong remaining workforce or a lack of effective delegation. Cost Sabbaticals can be rather costly for businesses. The organisation may still agree to pay for the original employee while he/she is on sabbatical. Additional expenses may be incurred to hire temporary workers and deal with the effects of a downturn in productivity. Apprehension about the reason for the sabbatical Employers are less likely to allow a sabbatical if the worker does not have a set reason or plan for wanting this time off. The benefits or disadvantages of providing sabbaticals depend on the reasons for taking the extended leave. Most employees want the opportunity to spend time with their family, learn new skills or take the time to travel and relax, all with the objective of recharging their batteries. Patricia Koekemoer, MD of Professional Sourcing, believes that it is important that employees have a clear reason and direction for..

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  Nov 8, 2018

  Will a Sabbatical Hurt…

  Will a Sabbatical Hurt My Career? Since Professional Sourcing is a recruitment agency, we often get asked about our thoughts on employees taking sabbaticals. A “sabbatical” is defined as “a year or a shorter period of  from work which allows for study,  or .” Some career experts consider this to be a productive way to have a “career break,” while others strongly believe that it is a career destroyer. The first thing to do when considering taking a sabbatical as an employee is to confirm whether your work contract or workplace allows you to take one. It can be done by checking the company policy. For many employees, there is no automatic right to time off, other than their holiday entitlement. Companies are often very reluctant to give sabbaticals. Some professionals believe that sabbaticals are advantageous for the following reasons: Improvement of educational qualifications/completion of further studies Ability to travel and experience new things Increase in research Improvement of health due to the additional rest Research has shown that academics who take sabbaticals report higher satisfaction levels and lower levels of stress. However, sabbaticals do not always achieve what they are set out to do. “I never believe that taking a sabbatical period adds value to your career, unless if it is for completing studies or taking an extended maternity period,” says Patricia Koekemoer, MD of Professional Sourcing. Her concern lies in..

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  Oct 24, 2018

  The Trend of Self-employment

  The Trend of Self-employment “Self-employed” is the state of working for oneself as a freelance or the owner of a business rather than for an employer. Hundreds of workers are leaving corporations and becoming self-employed. Taking the route of self-employment presents a new set of challenges, even for experienced professionals. Self-discipline, motivation and the ability to adjust to pursue real opportunities are just some of the necessary factors to run a successful business of your own. Currently, over 10% of South Africa’s workforce is self-employed. According to a report released by the International Labour Organisation, the most common answer for why people are self-employed is “to gain greater independence”. Due to the difficulties faced in the job market in South Africa, another dominant cause of the rise in self-employment is the lack of finding jobs. Further reasons include unhappiness at traditional jobs, desire for greater flexibility, choice of own workspace or constant conflict with bosses or colleagues. Over the last few years, there has been a significant mindset shift and with it has emerged a workforce which values flexibility over stability. It has led to a large increase in entrepreneurial activity in the country. Another interesting trend is that millennials are some of the biggest contributors to this self-employment and studies show that many of them are choosing self-employment as a career option. Here are some of the necessary characteristics..

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  Oct 17, 2018

  The Difference between Permanent…

  The Difference between Permanent and Contract Employment Businesses use different types of employees to meet various labour needs. Apart from part-time and full-time positions, one of the major differences between types of employees is those who have permanent positions versus those who do contract work. Both types of employment have advantages and disadvantages for the worker himself or herself and their respective employers. Expected duration of the relationship between worker and employer Contract work involves the hiring of a contractor, who is also called an independent contractor or contract employee. This person works for the business on a finite basis. Therefore, contract work generally has a set time frame. It means that the worker usually has an agreement with the employer to work for the duration of a particular project. An example of this would be an employer who hires a graphic designer to work on a project-by-project basis, rather than bringing the designer on to work at the office. The contract can be for a one-time project or an agreement that allows the business to hire the designer frequently without writing a new contract each time. Permanent employment suggests open-endedness, with no set end date. It also includes fixed-term contracts (where you will be contracted through the client/employer's payroll). For permanent positions, you will most likely be eligible for full employee benefits offered by the employer. Many businesses use..

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  Oct 10, 2018

  Social Media, a Reliable…

  Social Media, a Reliable Tool to Find Jobs Due to the new age of technology and the digital world that exists, social media has become an effective platform for prospective job seekers to find jobs. Most employers and recruitment agencies use the Internet as a source to find the right candidates, which means that it has become a new trend in an applicant’s job search strategy. Online social network sites have thus become an essential forum for advertising one’s skills. It allows for the establishment of a person’s brand and helps with the identification of job opportunities. It puts a potential employee’s skills and experience into the public domain and provides opportunities to network online with professionals from all kinds of different employment sectors. LinkedIn This article cannot be written without a mention of LinkedIn. LinkedIn can be a valuable tool in your job search as businesses, recruiters and head-hunters will use LinkedIn to search for candidates for particular jobs and then approach them directly. Your LinkedIn profile is like writing an online CV. LinkedIn is not a replacement for a conventional CV, but it has become a very useful, if not essential, complement to it. Facebook Facebook reported in 2016 that they had 1.59 billion active users. This successful social networking website can also aid with job searches as it allows users to create a personal profile, add other users as friends and exchange messages with..

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  Oct 3, 2018

  Corporates and Their Long…

  Corporates and Their Long Hiring Processes Put Off Candidates Every industry has its unique requirements when it comes to the process of hiring new employees. There appears to be a maddening shift in the hiring process as it has become a much longer ordeal. It only adds to the stress and frustration experienced by job hunters. This trend is unusual and seems counterintuitive due to the high demand for skilled talents matched with high levels of unemployed workers. According to a Forbes article, one would think that this war for talent would lead to employers acting faster, and not slower, to ensure that they secure the best candidates. However, it appears that this long-winded process is not only problematic in South Africa. It has been described as a “global epidemic”, as studies reveal that this lengthy process is the norm in North America, Germany, France, and Australia. Glassdoor Chief Economist, Andrew Chamberlain, provides some answers as to why the interview process is taking so much longer in recent times: Employers require more comprehensive interview processes The gain in popularity of screening methods such as group presentations, IQ tests, personality tests and drug tests The need for specialised and technical workers requires a more careful vetting process Companies are being very cautious and want to avoid a costly hiring mistake Although this appears like a rather doom and gloom situation for..

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  Sep 26, 2018

  What Skills Do You…

  What Skills Do You Need for a Career in Cybersecurity? To become an expert in cybersecurity you will need some or all of the following certifications and skills. for competency in the design, implementation, engineering and management of information security programs. . Certifications are available in several categories including Security Administration, Forensics, Audit, Management, Legal, Software Security and GSE. are professional certifications available in IT Audit, Security, Governance and Risk. CompTIA Security covers essential principles for network security and risk management. There are also other ‘soft skills’ that are required to work in this field. Communication Skills Cybersecurity professionals must have strong written and verbal communications skills. Jobs in the field require the ability to communicate clearly and concisely. Integrity and Discretion By its very nature, working in the cybersecurity field requires sensitivity to an organisation’s security vulnerability issues and be able to tackle those issues in a way that engenders trust. Programming Skills A variety of scripts and programming tools are required to design effective security programs and analyse cyber-attacks and breaches. Experience in system and network programming is a must. Understanding of Security Principles An understanding of basic security principles, such as privacy, confidentiality, authentication, access control, and others, results in a greater chance that systems will be less vulnerable to failures and attacks. Risk Analysis Cybersecurity personnel must be able to assess a client’s particular security needs..

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  Sep 19, 2018

  Why Cybersecurity Training is…

  Why Cybersecurity Training is Important Cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems including hardware, software and data from cyber attacks. With the interconnectedness of today’s world, this field is becoming ever more important. A threat analysis done in the US in 2017 revealed that cyber attackers rarely rely on their advanced computer skills but rather on simple human errors by individuals using computer systems. In a recent Forbes article online, a cybersecurity expert advised that even people who do not work in the IT field but who use computing devices for work purposes should have cybersecurity training so that they understand how minor mistakes or simple oversights can lead to disastrous effects for the company if sensitive information is leaked. This kind of training can be beneficial for both companies and the individual. Highly specialised cybersecurity experts are crucial for the wellbeing of a company. If you are thinking about stepping into this field, what are the opportunities available to you? Ensuring cybersecurity requires coordinating information from different systems including, but not limited to: Application security Information security Network security Disaster recovery/business continuity planning Operational security End-user education What are the types of cybersecurity threats that can be expected? Ransomware is a type of malware that involves an attacker locking the victim's computer system files, typically through encryption, and demanding a payment to decrypt and unlock them. Malware is any..

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  Sep 12, 2018

  What You Need to…

  What You Need to Know about Cybersecurity “Cybersecurity” involves the protection of internet-based systems, including hardware, software and data, from cyber attacks. Effective cybersecurity will reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and protect organisations and individuals from the unauthorised exploitation of other networks and technologies. All Internet-facing organisations are at risk of attack. Cybersecurity threats include Ransomware, Malware and Phishing.  You may ask yourself, “What are the effects of a cyberattack?” Firstly, they can disrupt and cause considerable financial and reputational damage to even the strongest organisation. Secondly, they are generally aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information. Cyber-attacks may also come in the form of extorting money from users. Lastly, all these attacks undoubtedly interrupt the normal business processes. The most effective strategy to either minimise or mitigate the effects of a cyberattack is to build-up a solid defence of cybersecurity technology. It is therefore vital that all businesses and their employees have at least a basic understanding of cybersecurity. However, according to Cisco, a worldwide leader in IT, “Implementing effective cybersecurity measures is particularly challenging today because there are more devices than people, and attackers are becoming more innovative.” It is therefore important for organisations to hire IT specialists. They are needed, not only to deal with cyber-attacks but also to safeguard companies in the cyber-world. Digital Forensics Global recruitment has stated that “The cybersecurity market across the..

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  Sep 5, 2018

  High Demand for Software…

  High Demand for Software Developers and Testers Every time a person or company uses a computer, cell phone, tablet, video game system or software programme, they must be thankful to software developers for making such activities possible. Software developers and testers both play a significant role in the modern world of technology today. “Software development” is the umbrella term that refers to the overall process including numerous tasks, such as computer programming, documenting, repairing and testing and concerns both the creation and the maintenance of applications and frameworks. The responsibility of software developers is the design of computer programmes and operating systems for businesses to use on a daily basis. It includes anything from word processors, games and e-mail to websites. Reasons as to why software developers and testers are in such high demand: They are the heart behind the making of computer and mobile applications Computer software is a very specialised skill Businesses need design and testing of efficient and user-friendly systems Many aspects of our lives are reliant on computer software They are needed to design software to meet consumer needs They support companies to integrate software systems into their businesses Software can be a source of competitive advantage According to Computerworld, the number of software developer vacancies are expected to increase by up to 30% by 2020. Hessam Moussavi, a lead civil engineer, has elaborated on this..

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  Aug 29, 2018

  Boost Employee Morale with…

  Boost Employee Morale with Day-to-day Support Managing customer and client issues have always been at the forefront of any business. The old saying goes “The customer is always right” or “The client comes first.” This approach sometimes goes against the wellbeing of employees and often leaves them feeling sidelined and dejected. Treating employees well is key to providing good service to customers, but many businesses often forget this. However, solving the pain points of employees can go a long way in boosting workplace morale. So how are you supporting your employees? Companies often think of employee support in terms of things, fun perks, benefits, transparency and team building activities. But it is often the day-to-day support that employees appreciate more. Stay Current Are there any social issues happening that could affect your staff’s performance? Things like strikes are all too common in South Africa. Taxi strikes leave may people stranded and unable to get to work on time. If you have advanced notice of this, maybe you can arrange alternative transport at a safe pick-up and drop-off spot. If teachers are on strike and parents are scrambling for someone to take care of their kids, you can turn it into a “bring your kids to work day”. It will be one less thing your staff have to worry about. Accommodate Different Cultures The work and school calendar are centred around public..

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  Aug 22, 2018

  Staying Positive in the…

  Staying Positive in the Workplace It is well known that when people feel happy when they are at work, they are likely to be more productive during the workday. While being happy all the time would be ideal, it’s not realistic. Life gets in the way. Apart from the stress from work, you may be dealing with family and financial issues that may creep in and distract you from being at your best. Researcher and author Shawn Achor is an advocate for happiness and positive psychology. He is one of the leading experts on the connection between happiness and success and has authored two books dealing with this subject. He says, “Only 25% of job success is predicated on a combination of intelligence and technical skill. Based on positive psychology neuroscience, we have found that 75% of your long-term job success revolves around three other factors: the belief that your behaviour matters, the social connection you feel at work and home, and the ways that you view stress—whether our leaders help us view stress as a threat or as a challenge.” Achor has some practical tips to stay positive: Start your day by identifying three things for which you are grateful. Write at least one email thanking or praising someone each day. Avoid comparing your current happiness level with how happy you have been in the past. Instead, focus on..

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  Aug 15, 2018

  Career Options in Information…

  Career Options in Information Technology The world of computers and technology was once reserved for a privileged few, and it was unthinkable to imagine a computer that could fit in your pocket. Today, whether it’s on a mobile phone or a tablet or even a desktop computer, almost everyone has access to a computer with Internet. Most industries are becoming more and more dependent on computers, and there has never been a better time to get into tech. From developing apps, websites and games to helping companies beef up their cybersecurity, there is a myriad of options when it comes to deciding on a career in information technology. So which are some of these options available to you? Software Programmer If you like learning new coding languages and creating new tech features, this may be the ideal career path for you. Programmers produce apps, improve on existing code and come up with new features, among other things. Understanding languages such as C++, Python, Java and Ruby will open up a world of work. Games Developer This area is one of the cooler aspects of computer technology. You are still using code, but you are now able to turn that into an amazing looking game. This career path is that it also combines artistic fields like illustration and writing in addition to the tech stuff. As a games developer, you will..

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  Aug 8, 2018

  Building a Career as…

  Building a Career as a Business Analyst At the core, business analysts are problem solvers. They very often are interested in both business and the problems it faces and how to solve those problems using computer technology. A business analyst will define the needs and problems within a business, corporation or organisation by studying its overall business and information needs. They usually work in the IT department and implement computer or technology-based solutions to improve the way the company, government or organisation can move forward to achieve its goals. A few things a business analyst does during their day will include: collecting and analysing information to determine the actual needs and problems of the company mapping out possible solutions and facilitating communication between departments working with the development team to custom-designs IT solutions constantly monitoring new systems to ensure it meets company’s goal There are many pathways to becoming a business analyst, and it never hurts to acquire as much training as possible. The basic education requirements to become a business analyst is a Bachelor of Science degree with a heavy emphasis on mathematics and information technology. This can be completed at various South African universities. Some universities of technology also offer a national diploma/bachelor of technology degree in information technology and computer science. Apart from these educational qualifications, you will require a number of ‘soft skills’ which will include..

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  Jul 25, 2018

  Lucrative Careers in the…

  Lucrative Careers in the Financial Sector The financial sector has a reputation for being a lucrative career choice with many high-paying jobs. Here are some of the jobs you can expect to find in the financial sector. Cybersecurity Specialists If you want to keep your business's computer systems safe, a cybersecurity specialist is a person to call. In today's financial world, client information is kept on computer servers, and it's more important than ever to be able to protect this information from cyber attacks and scammers. The cybersecurity specialist will focus on finding risks and possible leaks in cloud servers, mobile devices and payment software, among others. Business Analyst A business analyst's role in an organisation is to interact with stakeholders to define their business needs and create systems to achieve their goals. They may also identify and analyse problems within the business. The analyst will then offer guidance and advice to stakeholders on what would best suit the needs of the organisation in the present and the future. Actuary Actuaries are trained to evaluate the likelihood of future events using numbers to find ways to manage risks. Actuaries need a combination of analytical skills, business knowledge and an understanding of human behaviour to reduce the likelihood of future risks or to reduce the impact of undesirable events. Financial Analyst Various organisations such as banks, businesses, pension funds and insurance..

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  Jul 18, 2018

  A Few CV Mistakes…

  A Few CV Mistakes to Avoid In a tough job market, standing out from a crowd of applicants can be difficult. Hiring managers scour hundreds of CVs to find the perfect candidate for a job. It means they sometimes have only 10-20 seconds for a quick scan of each CV and simple mistakes could ruin your chances of getting to the next round. If you want a better chance of landing an interview, let your CV give potential employers a good first impression of you. One size does not fit all For better responses, take the time to adjust your CV for each role that you apply for. It makes things easier for recruiters and will clearly show your interest in the position. Ensure that the relevant skills and education for each position is highlighted to increase your chances of being shortlisted. Grammar and spelling errors Many recruiters and hiring managers will not excuse bad grammar and spelling. Get another person to look over your CV for any obvious mistakes. Don't let a spelling mistake jeopardise your chances of landing your dream job. Unprofessional email address If you're still using a funky email address from your high school days, it's time for an upgrade. Recruiters don't want to see email addresses like funkychicken681248@gmail.com or babelicious@hotmail.com. Grab a free email address with your name and surname and use it exclusively for..

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  Jul 11, 2018

  Make Your HR Department…

  Make Your HR Department Function More Effectively HR professionals are often faced with tedious, time-consuming tasks that can hinder their effectiveness in driving an organisation forward. They also have to keep employees happy and sometimes play the middleman in internal disputes. With all these responsibilities, making their jobs as smooth as possible should be a priority. The following are a few pain points HR administrators face daily. Employee relations People often complain in the workplace. This requires the HR professional to be a peacemaker and to ensure harmony in an office. HR pros must also bear in mind that people are not machines and a purely analytical approach will not always work. Use logic, yes, but also remember that employees prefer a more human approach and want to feel like their voices are being heard. Manual data entry If you're only using spreadsheets and inputting information by hand, you're asking for trouble. Not only does this eat away at your time, it doesn't integrate well with other systems for your payroll, recruitment processes or leave requests. You can get rid of this headache by using software designed for human resource management processes. Managing leave requests Having to coordinate leave requests of each employee in the organisation while keeping everyone satisfied can be a chore. Putting clear systems into place to handle holidays and sick days will help the HR department..

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  Jul 4, 2018

  3 Ways to Foster…

  3 Ways to Foster Employee Loyalty Employees are the backbone of a company and fostering loyalty should be among the top priorities for any organisation. Loyalty is sometimes taken for granted and assumed to go along with the salary but it takes more than money to keep employees committed. Do your employees feel as if they are just another face in the crowd or do they go home at the end of each day knowing that they are making a difference through their work? Truthfully, not much could be accomplished without them so why not take the time to ensure their loyalty and commitment to making a success of your business? Here are three ways to inspire loyalty among workers. Communication Employees may not need to know every little detail concerning the workings of the company, but they still want to be kept “in the loop”. Most importantly, employees should always be the first to find out about big announcements from management and not through the media. Clear and honest communication with employees will make them feel trusted thereby inspiring greater loyalty. Culture What is the atmosphere like in your company? Having different personalities and attitudes under the same roof for 8 hours a day or more is bound to cause some friction. Being able to diffuse difficult situations takes a fair amount of diplomacy and skill. When employees know..

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  Jun 27, 2018

  The Role of Automation…

  The Role of Automation in the Recruitment Process How will automation affect the recruitment process in the future? Just as intelligent bots and automation stand to replace millions of jobs involving repetitive tasks in various industries, the same advanced technologies pose new opportunities and challenges for the HR and recruitment industry. Industry experts focused on collaboration and social technologies in the workplace predict that, although it will take some time to be integrated into large businesses and enterprises, technologies like bots and artificial intelligence will become commonplace in most companies by 2025. Moreover, automation could replace at least 24% of HR and recruitment positions by 2022, based on subsequent analysis in several HR departments. Traditionally, human resources include talent acquisition, administrative work and employee retention. According to HR.com, recruiters spend most of their time with talent acquisition, pre-screening and scheduling candidates. In reality, these tasks take more time than face-to-face interviewing candidates. However, bots can automate talent acquisition processes. Bots can be successfully used for pre-screening research, interview scheduling, qualifying candidates, thus allowing for more time for HR personnel to interview qualified candidates and make better hiring decisions. In a recent survey aptly titled The Global Role of the Recruiter, a majority of recruiters interviewed said that the prevalence of big data, artificial intelligence and bots had changed the way they recruit, providing valuable insights, freeing up more time, and improving..

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  Jun 20, 2018

  Building a Career in…

  Building a Career in Project Management Project management offers a variety of career opportunities in different types of organisations and industries including engineering, IT, construction, finance and business. A good project manager needs to possess the technical skills, knowledge and understanding to be able to manage projects in any particular industry or environment. Fortunately, these skills can be obtained through a combination of education and practical experience. While project managers need to have the relevant qualifications and skills to manage projects from start to finish, experience plays a vital role. From voluntary work to managing small-scale projects, every step and opportunity is important in gaining relevant experience. Usually, the role of project management involves managing and controlling operations within the budget and timeframe specified, but it can also include business analysis, strategic input and data/systems management (the latter specifically in the IT industry). For example, a career in construction project management will focus on planning, overseeing and executing the operational tasks, while a business project management position will require working on business-related projects, including how the project affects the overall business strategy. A career in project management can open doors to both local and international opportunities. Project managers can work for a local company involved in exciting international projects or for a local branch of a multi-national entity. Given the relevant qualification and extensive experience accumulated over several years, senior..

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  Jun 20, 2018

  4 Innovative Ways To…

  4 Innovative Ways To Boost Employee Engagement Want to encourage employee engagement within your organization? Start by engaging your team members personally, encouraging one another and building each other’s confidence. When employees feel a sense of purpose within their role, they bring enthusiasm, passion and energy into the work they do. They are more motivated, committed, loyal and typically higher performers producing better results for both the customer and the company. Be part of an engaging hub that evokes creative ideas and inspires an engaging culture. Boost your employee engagement by bearing in mind these four approaches. Encourage innovation to boost employee engagement Your employees have great ideas. Often, they have ideas that management doesn’t and approach things from a unique perspective, so why not utilize this great input. Experimenting and creating a space where it is okay to make mistakes and be bold enough to learn from them is what will encourage company growth and engagement. Take action Managers and team members have all the tools they need to find a focus, build a plan based on real-world inspirations from companies like yours and collaborate on effective action. With retention and productivity strategies becoming a key consideration for organisations, employee engagement is high on the schedule for business leaders today. Make sure you’ve got inspiring leadership Competent, passionate and hands-on leadership is critical to employee engagement. Showing a genuine..

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  Jun 13, 2018

  Career Trends: Risk Analyst,…

  Career Trends: Risk Analyst, a Lucrative Career Choice As the global marketplace becomes more complex and susceptible to increasing business and economic risks, the role of analysts becomes a vital and very lucrative career choice. While an analyst’s responsibilities depend on the employer’s business and area of specialisation, the job entails assisting companies to protect their assets and resources and make better business decisions. Risk analysts, particularly, advise on market challenges and opportunities, and excessive exposure and risks. Common focus areas include credit, market, operational or regulatory risks, but some analysts can assess multiple areas. Market Risk Analysts Market risk analysts assess how external financial conditions, for example, interest rate changes or commodity prices, impact the company’s financial performance. By working with financial and trading organisations, they conduct market research and provide informed opinions on significant trades, portfolio and investment risks. Operational/Internal Risk Analysts Operational risk analysts identify and investigate potential losses and problems caused by internal factors like management, staffing, or business system vulnerabilities. These risk analysts propose solutions to directors and senior management to avert management, reputational and political risks. Credit Risk Analysts Credit risk analysts work for banks, credit card companies, investment companies and credit rating agencies to determine if clients are likely to default on loans. They gather information on revenues, current debt obligations, inventory and credit history, and make recommendations on loan terms. Regulatory Risk..

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  Jun 12, 2018

  The Global Impact Of…

  The Global Impact Of Economic Trends On Entrepreneurial Activity In SA The global impact of economic trends on entrepreneurial activity in South Africa is taking a turn. South Africa’s economy is vulnerable to global trends, yet conscious of both local and international economic trends, as they undeniably play a role in the success of their company. “We need to change the way we view entrepreneurship as a country, getting over the mind-set that entrepreneurship is a back-up plan, rather than an inspiring and viable career choice is a major concern.  Entrepreneurship should be celebrated and rewarded and these exceptional individuals should be rewarded for their contributions to the economy. This is probably one of the most effective methods of getting more South Africans interested in entrepreneurship as a career.” “Local business owners needed to be vigilant in tracking issues affecting the current economic environment, as well as larger global developments that could potentially influence the growth and success of their companies.” He predicts rather slow economic recovery in the near future, both from a local and an international point of view and in his opinion there is always opportunity for entrepreneurial activity in South Africa. Joubert says that the purpose of the national Entrepreneur of the Year workshops is to educate entrepreneurs and business owners on how economic trends can affect them going forward. “The South African interest rate environment..

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  Jun 7, 2018

  5 Effective Employee Retention…

  5 Effective Employee Retention Strategies To Remain In A Winning Team Creating a positive working environment within your organisation plays a fundamental role in effective employee retention. To keep excellent work ethic, retain quality colleagues and consistency, consider these 5 retention strategies. A clear job description Ensure a clear understanding of what employers want in an employee and what a candidate perceives of his job role make sure this is presented in the job description. Create a culture of appreciation Employee recognition goes a long way toward making work meaningful. Assess your current communication tools: Do employees have easy ways to send frequent peer-to-peer recognition? If recognition only happens top-down in an annual performance review, you’re missing out on a major employee retention tool. Emphasize professional development and learning Candidates must be aware of the opportunities provided in the field of learning new things and developing skills. This demonstrates potentially what they can offer in long-term and not just what they can do for the company NOW. Analyse Workspace Culture Introducing assessments at the time of recruitment could be an apt tool to ensure that employee’s beliefs and behaviours are in alignment with their employer’s core values and company culture. Make employee autonomy work for you Schedule recurring, internal events that enable employees to think creatively. Some companies do yearly “hackathons” where staff brainstorms encourage new ideas. Another example: Google’s..

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  Jun 6, 2018

  Gauteng and Western Cape…

  Gauteng and Western Cape Top Regional Salary Averages While Gauteng salaries are not significantly higher than the national average, the province remains the preferred professional location to work for earning potential, followed by the Western Cape. Digging deeper, some sectors reveal considerable average remuneration differences among provinces. Recent research by jobs portal Career Junction showed that Gauteng salaries are up to 10% higher than in other provinces, with considerable average salary differences in the warehousing and logistics (21%), and admin and office support (13%). Professionals earn well above average in most sectors in the Gauteng province, while in Western Cape average salaries fall within or slightly below the average, except the finance sector where salaries are far below average (up to 23%). In Kwazulu-Natal, too, the average salaries are below the national average mark. In the marketing sector, for example, salaries are between 35% and 37% below average. Other sectors falling below the national average remuneration include IT, finance, admin, and office support sectors, where salaries are between 25% and 29% below average. The highest salary increases reported at regional levels included accounting jobs, data capturers, customers support agents and call centre operators. Customer service personnel reported increases from 26% to 42%. In the accounting field, cost and management accountants, payroll and wages, and accounts payable and receivable consultants reported remuneration growth between 18% and 26%. However, most average salary..

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  May 24, 2018

  The highest paying jobs…

  The highest paying jobs in South Africa Some of the highest paying jobs in South Africa come across as no surprise. Jobs that garner the highest paying salary across the country, are found mainly in 10 major sectors throughout South Africa. Research shows that the top - paying jobs in South Africa are in the field of the engineering sector and focused primarily on senior civil and structural engineering earning an average salary of R70,300 a month or just over R843,610 a year. Aside from engineers, other top-paying positions are commonly found in the Finance and ICT sectors, as well as within the medical field. According to Jobmail.co.za amongst the best paid positions are architects, software engineers, accountants, petroleum engineers, and computer and information systems managers. Additional high paying jobs include lawyers, specialist doctors, air traffic controllers, and airline pilots. The average salary of an airline pilot is R372,001 per year and a highly qualified and/or experienced pilots can even expect to earn a lot more than that. For doctors, the average general practitioner earns about R476,000 per year and this figure skyrockets as you specialise. Some of the other job professions throughout South Africa that attain some of the highest paying salaries are Chief investment officer which is a job title for the board level head of investments within an organization. The average annual salary for an individual that..

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  May 16, 2018

  6 Tips For Your…

  6 Tips For Your Job Interview Want to walk into your dream interview and walk out with a smile? Here are 6 tips to make that dream a reality. Click here to read our 6 Tips to your road to success. Research the industry and company An interviewer may ask how you perceive his company's position in its industry, who the firm's competitors are, what it’s competitive advantages and how it should best go forward. Avoid researching several different industries and instead focus your job search on just a few industries. Clarify your "selling points" and the reasons you want the job Prepare to go into every interview with three to five key selling points in mind, such as what makes you the best candidate for the position. Have an example of each selling point prepared. Anticipate the interviewer's concerns and reservations There are always more candidates for positions than there are openings. Interviewers look for ways to screen people out. Put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself how you would be of value to the position and bring a positive contribution to their corporate culture Prepare for common interview questions Be confident. Think about which questions you're most likely to encounter. Then prepare your answers so you won't have to fumble for them during the actual interview. Line up your questions for the interviewer Come to the interview..

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  Apr 24, 2018

  Nervous about Your Next…

  Nervous about Your Next Interview? Know the Don'ts Whether you are actively looking for your next career move or not, it pays to know and share the Do’s and Don’ts of job interviews to be prepared just in case. We have rounded up our best advice from our recruiters to give you a head start. Interview DON’Ts Don't make negative comments about previous employers or professors (or others). Don't make excuses. Take responsibility for your decisions and your actions. Don't falsify application materials or answers to interview questions. Don't treat the interview casually, as if you are shopping around or doing the interview for practice. It is an insult to the interviewer and the organisation. Don't give the impression that you are only interested in an organisation because of its geographic location. Don't give the impression you are only interested in salary; don't ask about salary and benefits issues until the subject is brought up by your interviewer. Don't act as though you would take any job or are desperate for employment. Don't make the interviewer guess what type of work you are interested in; it is not the interviewer's job to act as a career advisor to you. Don't be unprepared for typical interview questions. You may not be asked all of them in every interview, but being unprepared will not help you. A job search can be hard..

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  Apr 18, 2018

  The Best Employers and…

  The Best Employers and Work Perks in South Africa The Top Employers Institute regularly releases an updated list of the best certified top employers to work for. Curious to find out what South African companies were considered this year? A global certifier of excellence in employee conditions, the Top Employers Institute selects and recommends prime working organisations based on employee conditions, work environment, employment practices and talent developed in the respective organisations. The companies were evaluated across nine key areas, which included: talent strategy, workforce planning, onboarding, learning and development, performance management, leadership development, career and succession management, compensation and benefits, and work culture. The study found that these top organisations tend to provide their employees with substantial work perks and programmes aimed at employee skills and talent development beyond the expected work benefits. Furthermore, the research uncovered new HR and people development trends, where organisations are adopting a more empowering collaborative relationship between employers and employees. There is a growing recognition among Africa’s top employers that people development is not a top-down strategy, according to Top Employers Institute’s findings. Employees are allowed to take over ownership of their careers and work development. The top ten new companies included this year in the Top Employers in South Africa were: Old Mutual Ernst & Young (EY Africa) SAP Tata Consultancy Services Microsoft Nestlé South Africa Accenture Orange Business Services – South..

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  Apr 11, 2018

  Top 10 Most and…

  Top 10 Most and Least Stressful High-Paying Jobs in SA What makes some careers less stressful than others? Several companies embarked on thorough research to find out how job remuneration compares in relation to the amount of day-to-day stress as the average employee experiences in his chosen profession. Mental wellness advocate Pharma Dynamics conducted a survey aimed at measuring job-related stress based on several known stress triggers. The online survey, which included almost 2000 local workers, uncovered the most stressful jobs in South Africa and was published by Business Tech. The work stress triggers and factors included the physical and mental demands of a job, long hours, travel requirements, deadlines, dealing with conflict, exposure to public pressure, and other specific risks associated with a particular profession. Based on the above, the most high-stress rating jobs that are well-paid in South Africa were listed as: Pilot Hair Stylist Farmer Film Director Nurse Police Officer Corporate executive CEO Doctor Singer A top of the highest-paid jobs, but less stressful considering the criteria above, included the following careers: Chemical Technician Food scientist Mathematician Economist Statistician Biomedical engineer Agricultural engineer Physicist Information Systems (IS) manager Actuary The salaries used as a benchmark in the research were based on a combination of Payscale, Mywage and StatsSA data. Globally, The Occupational Information Network (ONE) has also released its findings on the least stressful jobs worldwide. Models, technicians, agriculture workers, couriers, tapers,..

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  Apr 4, 2018

  Nervous about Your Next…

  Nervous about Your Next Interview? Know the Do’s Whether you are actively looking for your next career move or not, it pays to know and share the Do’s and Don’ts of job interviews to be prepared just in case. We have rounded up our best advice from our recruiters to give you a head start. Interview DO’S  • Dress appropriately for the industry; rather be conservative to show you take the interview seriously. Your grooming and cleanliness should be impeccable. Know the exact time and location of your interview; know how long it takes to get there, where to park, and allow yourself time to find a restroom to freshen up Arrive early, preferably 10 to 15 minutes before the interview’s scheduled time, or earlier if the event or employer instructs you to do so. Treat other people you encounter with courtesy and respect. Their opinions of you might be solicited during hiring decisions. Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and have a friendly expression when your interviewer greets you. Listen to be sure you understand your interviewer's name and the correct pronunciation. Even when your interviewer gives you a first and last name, address your interviewer by title (Ms, Mr, Dir.) and last name, until invited to do otherwise. Maintain good eye contact during the interview. Sit still in your seat; avoid fidgeting and slouching. Respond to questions and..

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  Mar 28, 2018

  Global Employee Engagement Levels…

  Global Employee Engagement Levels Reach All-Time High Employee engagement around the globe rebounded to an all-time high of 65% after last year’s reported decrease, particularly driven by a major surge in engagement on the African continent and in the Asian markets. These were the findings of the latest 2018 Trends in Global Employee Engagement report recently published by Aon, with Africa leading the reported employee engagement growth. According to the company, the concept of employee engagement is often confused with satisfaction or happiness but is best defined as the employee’s psychological investment in the organisation and the motivation to produce extraordinary results. Companies with above-average engagement levels will see better employee productivity, lower turnover rates, and higher customer satisfaction scores. The above factors can significantly contribute to improved financial performance. For example, Aon research also shows that a five-point increase in employee engagement links to a three-point increase in revenue growth in the subsequent year. The research shows that employee engagement on the African continent climbed from 61% to 66% in 2017. Overall, employee engagement has improved by 15 percentage points in Africa since 2012. The growth in employee engagement is a positive sign that employers in Africa’s largest economies, namely South Africa, Nigeria, Algeria, Morocco and Egypt, are becoming more successful in attracting, promoting, and retaining the right talent. The continent had the biggest increase in the five regions..

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  Mar 21, 2018

  Will Companies Still Consider…

  Will Companies Still Consider a Job Seeker with a Criminal Record? What are the chances for job candidates in possession of a criminal record to secure employment? In this post, we look at the risks and opportunities involved. If the criminal record is founded and related to the job function the person needs to perform, for example, an arrest for fraud and embezzlement, the candidate should not be given a position in the banking or financial sector. Similarly, a transport driver under arrest for drinking under the influence should not be hired in a driving-related job. However, if the crime committed has got nothing to do with the offence, the candidate should not be prevented from being considered for employment. Unfortunately, I know of many professionals who were given a criminal record for minor offences. Having a criminal record attached to their names is preventing them from accessing the desired employment opportunities. Even a minor offence, such as being caught speeding, can attract a criminal listing and decrease or limit your chances of employment. Although driving may not be part of your job requirements, you will find that you are not considered for a relevant position because of having a criminal record. In another case, one of my candidates has been awaiting a pending offer from a client for the past eight months. He cannot be appointed until his name..

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  Mar 14, 2018

  The Most Sought-after Developer…

  The Most Sought-after Developer Skills by SA Software Companies The demand for software developers in South Africa is on an upward trend and continues to rise, as local recruitment experts report high demand for IT developers in both Gauteng and Western Cape regions. The most coveted developers use the .NET, Java and JavaScript programming languages, according to developer-specific online recruitment platform OfferZen. There is also an increase in demand for UX Designers, Python, and PHP developers in Cape Town, while the need for .NET developers in Johannesburg seems to be greater than in Cape Town. Meanwhile, according to online platform CareerJunction, every fifth vacancy on the platform was allocated to a role in software development since the beginning of the year. The most sought-after jobs in development on CareerJunctions listed C#, Java and .NET among the required skills, with C# skills regaining popularity in recent months. The jobs platform has experienced an increase in demand for software developers, particularly regarding senior developer vacancies. The seniority of developers seems to play a major role when it comes to recruitment. Furthermore, demand for senior roles in the industry is in a higher proportion compared to other careers and industries. Software companies prefer senior developers compared to junior and intermediate-level developers, as indicated by the number of vacancies across various skill levels. According to CareerJunction, every third software developer vacancy requested a senior professional..

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  Mar 7, 2018

  What to Do When…

  What to Do When Employees Want to Leave for a Higher Pay Any change in staff is inevitable at some point – but it also can become costly for businesses and employers, as it directly affects companies’ bottom lines. Perhaps the most common reason for leaving a job is the promise of a better offer and payment elsewhere. In this post, we look at how to retain employees who are financially motivated to counteract the likelihood of staff reductions as a result. If a higher pay is an employee’s main motivation for switching companies, prepare to consider a comprehensive remuneration package and make sure the employee understands what is included in this package. Consider modern work schedules and the increasingly important life-work balance and wellbeing of the employee. Add some additional benefits on top of the traditional compensation such as: Flexible schedules Remote work privileges Health assistance and wellness programs On-site child support and day-care facilities Services and travel discounts Employee assistance programs Provide employees with an annual statement of total compensation that shows all of their wages and benefits offered. This move will assist employees to fully appreciate their remuneration package and rewards for doing their work. Include the following, if applicable, in the remuneration statement: Employer contributions to retirement Other contributions to benefits Educational and other assistance Paid time off (PTO) Stock options and other gains It also..

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  Mar 6, 2018

  The Importance of CCMA…

  The Importance of CCMA Dispute Conciliation (a Constitutional Court Judgement) Is the conciliation stage of a dispute completely “off the record?” Not so, says the Constitutional Court in a Judgment handed down on 27 February 2018. “Conciliation is just a waste of time”; “ Ag, I am not going even to bother attending the conciliation” and “what is the worst that can happen to us if we do not go to the conciliation?” are typical responses from employers who receive notification of conciliation from the CCMA. Every employer also has a pre-printed objection to the con-arb process at the ready, and even a hyperlink icon placed on the desktop for even quicker access for the filing of an objection, so that the con-arb process will only just be a conciliation. The recent Constitutional Court decision of September & others v CMI Business Enterprises cc [2018] ZACC 4, however, zoomed right into the underbelly of the conciliation process, and important lessons should be learnt. The brief facts of the CMI matter are as follows: The employees lodged two referral forms with the CCMA. The first was that of an unfair labour practice and the Skills Development Act, and the second related to alleged unfair discrimination in terms of the Employment Equity Act. The matter was unresolved and was referred to the Labour Court. The employees alleged in their Court papers that..

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  Feb 28, 2018

  5 Exciting Career Opportunities…

  5 Exciting Career Opportunities in Engineering Recent challenges in infrastructure delivery, power and water supply in South Africa has strengthened the demand for employees with relevant qualifications and high in-demand science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills. There are various career paths to consider for engineers, a sought-after profession among top employers in South Africa, according to the Engineering Council of South Africa which sees STEM as scarce skills in the country (hence your chance to shine in the industry!) There’s no doubt the country needs engineers with innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. Employers are also keen to recruit and develop STEM talent through bursary programs for candidates with science and engineering degrees. Specialisation in one of these fields offers great rewards and satisfaction for candidates equipped with the right STEM skill set. Mechanical engineers develop and improve mechanical systems used in a variety of industries from manufacturing to automotive. This career demands good physics and materials science knowledge. Electrical engineers work on various components and electrical system with diverse applications such as computers, electronics, robotics, or power station supplying. It demands familiarity with electricity conduits and principles. Civil engineers focus on the design and maintenance of infrastructure, as in roads, structure walls and bridges. This exciting career option requires strong maths and physics skills. Chemical engineers oversee the operation and design of plants and equipment needed to make industrial..

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  Feb 14, 2018

  Why Digital Recruitment is…

  Why Digital Recruitment is the Best Way to Reach Candidates Most organisations have moved to digital recruitment as their primary recruitment method, and for good reasons. In this blog, we look at online and social as the industry’s preferred tools for recruitment. Online Recruitment The advantages of online recruitment include a wider reach than traditional methods, cost-effective access to a larger pool of candidates, and minimal time investment for HR departments and recruitment agencies. The industry is inundated with online job platforms freely open to recruiters and candidates. Although these have a wider reach and are easy to use, they do pose challenges. Companies are left to sift through hundreds if not thousands of submitted CVs. The distinction between qualifying and non-qualifying candidates still needs to be done. Relying on a highly specialised professional recruitment agency which offers online recruiting is an attractive proposition for companies who need further screening and sorting quality leads. Did you know? Professional Sourcing has invested in an online recruitment system that allows candidates to apply to specialised jobs directly on its website. View job specifications, upload and submit your CV to our portal. Social Recruitment Social recruitment has exploded. LinkedIn Jobs and Facebook Job Ads are making waves in the industry, disrupting the more traditional recruiting methods, and streamlining online recruiting even further. It is easy to see why social recruitment works. Recruiters can..

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  Feb 7, 2018

  Global Technology-Driven Recruitment Trends

  Global Technology-Driven Recruitment Trends Technology has changed the way recruiters worldwide search for and hire talent in this dynamic industry. Expect to recruit or to be found in different ways as the trends change the face of recruitment. HR Analytics Thanks to big data and business intelligence technology, HR analytics, also known as people or talent analytics, is making inroads in recruitment. HR analytics refers to the collection and analysis of growing data generated online, which may include candidate profiles, statistics, social media data, and so on. These large sets of data need to be filtered and interpreted for the benefit of HR department and recruiters. HR analytics will be instrumental in the future to conduct more efficient, productive and accurate talent hiring and retention. Talent Pools Online recruitment where companies or recruitment specialists provide applicants with the option to submit their resumes has undeniably generated the most productive way of building a candidate database or talent pool. Talent pools for future recruitment needs are increasing in popularity as companies open the door to candidates who have expressed their interest in registering or working with the business. It does not matter if the business has vacancies, or if the candidate is actively searching for a new position (also see ‘passive recruitment’ below). Building a talent tool gives organisations and recruiters quicker access to suitable candidates in the future, and reduces..

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  Jan 24, 2018

  Workplace Trends We Love…

  Workplace Trends We Love in 2018 Workplace environments have changed over the years to incorporate the cubicle, the open-plan office setup, and the co-working spaces. Here is a selection of office trends we can expect this year. Multi-functional Layouts Dynamic and unconventional workspaces focused on community and collaboration are still a prevalent office trend, particularly in startups, young organisations, and creative enterprises. Multi-functionality and mobility are key: the employees are encouraged to mingle and share ideas. This type of layout is conducive to informal meetings and other activities such as meditation or yoga. It is not surprising to find lounge rooms and unusual work zones with sit-stand desks, modular furniture and benches. Employees have plenty of options thanks to well-appointed communal areas. Co-working Spaces The co-working environment is here to stay. Shared or communal working space allows for greater flexibility and mobility. Besides, it is a more cost-effective option than the traditional office lease and offers benefits such as admin, cleaning, and maintenance. The co-working space works well with millennial employees who want open and collaborative environments and for the cash-strapped startups and entrepreneurs looking for networking opportunities. Brand Identity Design The classic office has gone through a makeover far from the cookie-cutter design of yesteryear. A lot more emphasis is placed on individual style and branding in the office space, through the clever use of colours, wallpapers, graphics, lighting..

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  Jan 17, 2018

  The Gender Pay Gap…

  The Gender Pay Gap Debate Beyond 2017 When the South African branch of a global car distributor tweeted last year in September that women earn 27% less than men, it sparked another viral debate on the already hot topic of gender pay gap, which shows no signs of slowing down in 2018. Stats SA: South African women earn 23% less than men A 2017 research named Pulse of the People, conducted in April and May by market research firm Ipsos in South Africa revealed that women are paid a quarter less than their counterparts. The research was carried on over 3500 random employed people nationwide. Women earn about 73% of what men earn on average, noted the report, a conclusion adopted by the said dealership, which prompted further investigation into the matter by Africa Check, published by . The figures are similar with the findings of the labour statistics at Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) and its Quarterly Labour Force Surveys, which capture and analyse earnings data from 30.000 active households across the country. Based on the data compiled by Stats SA, women earned 23% less than men, with the specification that average incomes tend to be considerably higher than median incomes, which may explain reported differences in various statistics. How can the gender pay gap be addressed by HR and preferably minimises across most industries? A new HR regulation..

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  Jan 10, 2018

  Outlook 2018: Top-paid Jobs…

  Outlook 2018: Top-paid Jobs and Skills in South Africa A recent job and skills survey across South Africa revealed the top highest paid jobs and sectors based on salary reviews compiled in the last quarter of 2017, and what to expect in 2018. The most sought-after and top-paying industries remain the IT, financial, and engineering sectors. Mid-level and senior positions are high in demand for IT management, financial management, financial analysis, chartered accounting, plant management, technical business architecture and civil engineering. Careers in environmental engineering and health, safety and environment (HSE) are becoming increasingly popular, entering the top 10 highest paid jobs in the survey. Popular intermediate and senior positions report salaries ranging from R30k to R80k. The salary ranges represent a monthly cost to company (CTC) remuneration and serve as an indication of the average salary offerings for each occupation. The salary ranges are based on actual salary packages posted with vacancies advertised between April and November 2017 on the CarrerJunction job portal. The relevant data was collected from a 20000+ monthly job pool for the measurable period. The most in-demand skills reported by employers in 2017 include software development (ICT), middle/department management, sales consulting, financial and project accounting, and systems/network administration (ICT). Scarce skills likely to be in high demand in 2018, based on the industry trends and the employers’ projected staffing requirements, are software development, business analysis,..

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  Nov 29, 2017

  Direct Hiring or Contracting…

  Direct Hiring or Contracting in Technical Recruitment? Hiring skilled software developers, technicians, and engineers to meet competitive market demands can prove difficult if the talent pool is not easily available. When technical expertise is required, employers have the option to choose between a contractor versus direct recruiting. So how do employers decide between contracting and direct hire placement in such a competitive marketplace? Given the nature of the high-tech economy, rapid advancements in technology and growing market demand to fulfill projects, it is not surprising that employers often hire contractors to do the job. A trial period may be involved in the contracting to ensure the person performs as expected and fits within the culture of the company. There are both advantages and drawbacks when contracting work in specialised fields such as engineering. Contractors can provide specialist expertise and lend their skills set to the technical team working on the project, but they can also be on a constant lookout for a more permanent solution to cover their needs, e.g., benefits such as health insurance or medical aid. Hiring directly is a good option to avoid the above. As a rule of thumb, It is recommended to hire skilled engineers directly, especially when the technical skill set is scarce and can be a serious advantage to the company working on critical projects. Of course, hiring directly comes with its own..

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  Nov 22, 2017

  The Importance of Background…

  The Importance of Background Checks in Executive Recruitment Over the past year, several reports have surfaced to expose candidates hired in high-profile positions in the private and public sectors. It is why background checks are still in high demand in South Africa. Overstating or misrepresenting educational qualifications is close second after criminal checks, according to Managed Integrity Evaluation (MIE). MIE conducted over 600.000 criminal checks and more than 460.000 qualifications verifications from January 2017 to date. Annually, close to 10% of background checks show criminal or pending criminal records, while slightly over 15% of candidates verified indicate fraudulent or misrepresented educational backgrounds. The number of fakes or misleading educational qualifications is on the rise, according to MIE, reflecting the anxiety and desperation of candidates trying to secure highly-qualified positions in a tough marketplace. Interestingly, international qualifications are the most prone to fraud or inconsistency (43%) compared to qualifications from African institutions (34%). Secondary qualifications and national tertiary education remain highly misrepresented. Successful background checks are vital to minimise the potential reputational and financial risks in business resulted from hiring applicants with fake or wrong credentials. Furthermore, it becomes an imperative in today’s digital economy where media exposure, social media reporting and public consciousness are on the rise with regards to business ethics. Employers and recruitment agencies need to make use of comprehensive background screening and verification services in the recruitment..

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  Nov 15, 2017

  3 Things to Consider…

  3 Things to Consider When Hiring IT Professionals The technology industry is rapidly evolving – and so are the demands of IT jobs and the requirements needed for employers to target skilled candidates in the industry. We look at a few factors companies need to have in mind when recruiting IT professionals. Contract versus Full-time Position As the IT talent pool diversifies and the online it marketplace increases, the employers have a serious decision to make in the recruiting process: should they consider contract work or full-time position? It is no longer about just performance and skill, but also the kind of employment these professionals are engaged in, whether it is freelancing, part-time or full-time work. Specialisation versus Development In light of the above, freelancers and contracted IT professionals tend to have more defined specialities because of the nature of their short-term work. In contrast, long-term employment is a premise for developing further skills and career advancing possibilities in the IT sphere. Long-term IT employees are expected to develop with the company’s requirements and direction. In the case of developers, for example, the role may require employees to learn additional programming languages to better serve the needs of the employer. Hence full-time IT roles may require further training and development, whereas a contract position will need specialised solutions and work completed upfront. Employers should carefully assess the nature and requirement..

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  Nov 8, 2017

  Signs You Might Need…

  Signs You Might Need a Career Change How can you tell if it is finally time to change careers? Should you stay or should you take a leap of faith? We uncover five reasons that it might be time to look out for other career opportunities. You are exhausted – physically and mentally A tell-tale sign that you may need to move on is experiencing frequent exhaustion, stress, and chronic illness. If your health takes a back seat and your moods are not improving, you need to take a deeper look at the work itself or perhaps the toxic environment at the office. The solution? Shifting careers, opting for a less stressful but more rewarding job, or switching from a full-time to part-time position can help you get back on track. Your heart is not in the work anymore Your work involves daily tasks and responsibilities, and the use of various skills; could be presenting, reporting, networking, marketing, sales etcetera. Perhaps you are mastering (or not) the daily work and the skills required to perform, but your heart is not entirely in it (read: you could not care less). Holding on to a job just because of the paycheck and benefits and nothing more can lead to inside struggles and depression over long-term. The solution? Choose a career where you feel comfortable and passionate about the work you do. Boredom..

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  Oct 25, 2017

  3 Ideas to Create…

  3 Ideas to Create an Employee Wellness Plan for Your Business Healthy employees are critical for company performance and well-being. Does your company have a comprehensive employee wellness plan? Moving employee wellness programmes to the background, cutting costs or discarding any wellness interventions can greatly affect a company’s productivity, creativity, and presenteeism levels. On the flip side, the lack of wellness initiatives in the workplace translates into a loss of quality of life, health risks and more stress for your employees. Yet, in many cases, employee wellness interventions are still among the first to be downscaled or cut away – perhaps even before the advertising budgets! Below are a few ideas to implement to bring employee wellness back on its track, or rethink your company’s wellness efforts in assisting your employees bring their best at work. Comprehensive Health Screenings At a minimum, enforce a comprehensive health screening initiative in your organisation. The goal is for every employee to have a clear indication of their current health status and stress levels. Make it a regular exercise – quarterly, for example, and include the minimum health tests to determine blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels. While these screenings are usually conducted in certain industries with a high risk of incidents which could affect health and safety (think of industrial profiles and construction), any organisation of any scale can benefit from performing these..

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  Oct 18, 2017

  How to Support Employees…

  How to Support Employees in the Workplace Employee support means giving the people who work for your business the right tools to get the job done. When employees have everything they need to perform, their job satisfaction levels increase dramatically. All employee support strategies should take note of the employees’motivations to perform and excel in the workplace using the adequate resources at their disposal – tools and equipment. An important aspect of this strategy, and too often neglected, is the acknowledgment that employees need moral and mental support from their superiors, managers and company owners. Thus, employee support starts with the employer’s attitude and the belief that employees are valuable assets that contribute to the company’s success. What is your company doing to promote a better setup for its employees? Get started by implementing and maintaining a few noteworthy employee support strategies. Keep employees in the loop. The more information you share about the company, its mission and the activities that need to be done, the more valuable the staff’s contribution becomes. Be clear on job responsibilities and accountability. Help staff to understand what their jobs entail and mean for the growth of the company. Give employees productive and challenging work. Meaningful activities and valued input are key to job satisfaction. Provide the right tools and equipment for the job. Remove any obstacles and barriers standing in the way of..

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  Oct 11, 2017

  3 Effective Talent Retention…

  3 Effective Talent Retention Strategies Hiring good people in your organisation is one part of the job; the other, perhaps even more important, is keeping them actively engaged and working for you. It is why employee retention strategies are vital to the success of your business. Use the following best practices to build strong employee relationships and retain your top talent. Invest in Relationship Training from the Top Employee relationship strategies focus on how employers treat people and how they behave with each other. Start developing effective relationships from the top level of the organisation, right down to the bottom. People work for and report to their supervisors. Therefore it makes sense for managers and senior staff to have the knowledge and training necessary to work effectively with people on an individual level, as well as with subordinate teams. The manager-employee relationship can be the key to retain employees in your organisation, as most people want to have a good relationship with their supervisor. Talk to Your Employees Sometimes the best strategy to retaining employees working for you is to have an honest discussion with them. Start asking questions and listen to what they say, then act on the findings at your discretion. Ask WHY your employees work for you to get a better understanding of what attracts people to your company, and to positively reinforce their working goals. Use..

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  Oct 4, 2017

  How to Support Disability…

  How to Support Disability Employment Awareness Held every October, US National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is an opportune time to educate a wider recruitment audience about disability employment issues and celebrate workers with disabilities. NDEAM is led by the U.S. Department of Labour’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), and its campaign encourages organizations of all sizes and in all industries to participate in the awareness initiative. This year’s theme, “Inclusion Drives Innovation,” celebrated diversity and innovation in the workplace. According to the , “smart employers know that including different perspectives in problem-solving situations leads to better solutions. Hiring employees with diverse abilities strengthens their business, increases competition and drives innovation.” In South Africa, various initiatives have been launched in support of disability employment, providing career and employment opportunities for disabled job seekers. Companies and recruiters are increasingly making inroads to promote equal employment opportunities. Below are a few ideas to drive awareness in your organisation and support disability employment nationwide: Implement a disability education program for staff, clients, and partners Set up posters and leaflets in your organisation to promote disability employment Foster a more inclusive workforce Consider hiring disabled candidates for specific, suitable positions Recognise disabled staff for their skills and abilities in the workplace For more specific ideas on supporting NDEAM, visit . Did you know? Professional Sourcing has various career opportunities and job vacancies for disabled..

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  Sep 20, 2017

  The 3 Types of…

  The 3 Types of (Dis)Engaged Employees: Which Type Are You? While management and leadership agree on the fact that employees are one of the most important assets of an organisation, there is still much to be done about employee engagement in the office. The harsh reality is that the majority of the workforce is simply not engaged in their work. They are either adding minimal value or actively working against the organisation. In fact, only 15% of employees worldwide are engaged in their jobs, according to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report. Engagement means that they are emotionally invested in committing their time, talent and energy in adding value to their team and advancing the organisation’s initiatives. The report has even identified three types of employees in an organisation based on the (dis)engagement levels. Engaged (15%). Engaged employees are enthusiastic about their work and feel that their talents are leveraged in their respective roles. Loyal and committed, these employees are happy to take responsibilities outside of their job description to excel further and show their leadership qualities. Engaged employees will remain with an organisation much longer than their disengaged counterparts. Not Engaged (67%). The majority of employees are relatively satisfied with their job, performing the minimum requirements to meet the needs of the customers, but they are not as connected to the company’s overall mission and vision. According to Gartner,..

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  Sep 6, 2017

  Why Invest in Employee…

  Why Invest in Employee Wellness for Your Business Employee wellness is important to organisational success, as long as business follows a strategic and integral approach to wellness, according to in South Africa. The study found that local employers recognise the benefits of investing in the wellness of their employees, and feel that employees appreciate these benefits that positively impact their health and well-being. “In our experience globally, CEOs and other C-suite executives are becoming more aware of the impact of wellness and its benefits on the business as a whole, allowing wellness to become recognised as an increasingly strategic issue,” says Barry Vorster, PwC Leader of People & Change. Here are some noteworthy benefits of implementing an employee wellness program from an organisational point of view. Create Long-term Value for the Organisation The impact of wellness programmes on the organisation’s bottom line depends on the company objectives, its strategic approach to wellness, and the employer’s efforts to engage with the staff and promote wellbeing in the workplace. According to Vorster, employees who enjoy higher levels of well-being are likely to be more engaged, as are those who believe that their employer cares about their well-being. The extended potential benefits of investing in wellness go beyond employee engagement and productivity at work. Wellness initiatives can lead to attract and retain the best talent, build the company reputation and brand, and create..

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  Aug 23, 2017

  Managing Employees’ Time Efficiently

  Managing Employees’ Time Efficiently Managing and retaining talent is the cornerstone of human resources strategies in any organisation. But there is another operationally focused component that can make a huge impact on the bottom line: time management. Managing employees’ time in the workplace can significantly impact business profitability. The process doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require active investment in effective time management solutions. In an article published in HR future magazine, HR industry specialist at NGA Africa Rob Bothma advocates for the use of technology to effectively manage your human resources and to address time management issues. Below are a few steps he recommends for organisations to implement to manage their employees' time better. Capture and Access Accurate Time Data The first step in this process is to have accurate data on the overall time schedules worked by employees, and preferably the time consumed for every activity and responsibility included in the work. Time recording facilitates accurate job costing that will make the identification of abnormally high-cost processes and inefficient operations much easier to identify. This exercise alone can save the company significant costs and hassles. Furthermore, management needs to access relevant time data whenever needed with ease. Making this information easy to access and share with all relevant parties, for example by storing the data in the cloud, is a great choice. Automate and Streamline Operations..

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  Aug 9, 2017

  Is a New Company…

  Are you changing jobs or looking for another opportunity to expand your career? Finding a great place to work that creates long-term value and engagement is not easy, and you shouldn’t treat the process lightly. There are steps you can take to validate your choice and make sure your new company is a great outlet to enhance your skills and potential. So how do you know if the next opportunity is worth your attention? How do you find the right workplace for you? You may know what you expect as financial reward, benefits or bonuses, but the following considerations are more important than you think. Company Environment and Culture Company culture has been the buzzword in the industry for the last couple of years. Beyond the hype, a company’s atmosphere and its environment do have a great influence in determining whether you shine at your new job, or you don’t. Although you may be tempted to compare at this stage a more traditional workplace with an open, flexible setup (think Google and Silicon Valley), the company’s structure and its organigram are not necessarily the best determinants of its culture – its people and the way they interact are. Lynda Gratton is a professor at London Business School and best-selling author of ‘Hot Spots: Why some teams, workplaces, and organisations buzz with energy and others don’t.’ In an article published in..

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