With the volcanic eruption in Iceland and the resulting ‘ash cloud’ wreaking havoc on international travel and stranding Brits across the world, many businesses have been counting the cost of missed orders, undelivered stock and more importantly absent executives.
The delays left many companies without staff for a week and with an unprecedented backlog of flights, many employees could be away for a further seven or fourteen days. This has left many companies wondering how they are going to get the work done and what to do about absent staff.
The eruption of Eyjafjallajökul brings about intense pressure of unplanned absenteeism in the workplace but with good direction and motivational tactics, companies can cope as they “muck in and get the job done”.
If you are struggling to keep the ‘ash cloud’ disruption to a minimum, here are some management suggestions from executive jobs site, TheLadders.co.uk:
1. Communication is essential – it’s important to keep lines of communication open between worker and employer - agree a regular method of staying in touch.
2. Be flexible – where and if possible a flexible approach to matters such as methods of working may be effective. The handling of travel disruption can be an opportunity for an employer to enhance staff morale and productivity by the way it is handled.
3. Use information technology – Technology enables work to continue, even if you are stranded in Mauritius. Use internet cafes, laptops or mobile devices to communicate with managers to get work done whilst overseas.
4. Pay – Remember, employers are not legally obliged to pay staff who have been unable to get to work because of travel delays (unless the travel has been business related). However check contractual procedures in place for this, as discretionary payment for travel disruption might also be of use.
5. Be fair - Even if businesses are damaged by the effects of absent workers they should still ensure that any measures they take are carried out according to proper and fair procedure. This will help maintain good, fair and consistent employment relations and help prevent complaints to employment tribunals.
‘Even in the best run company, extreme circumstances can cause a great amount of disruption. Now is a good opportunity to think about how to deal with future scenarios. Think about issues such as alternative working patterns or staff cover at short notice and put policies in place,’ says Derek Pilcher, Managing Director of TheLadders.co.uk.
Wednesday, 28 April 2010
DEREK PILCHER INTERVIEWS LABOUR MP ABOUT EMPLOYMENT ISSUES
With just over a week to go until the general election, political party manifestos have been getting released almost on a daily basis, with all of the major organisations saying they will boost employment as the recession recedes. As with any run–up to voting, a lot of these documents are promising big things, but when it comes to executive careers, who will be the ones to deliver?
Last week I got the chance to talk to David Kidney, Labour MP for Stafford and Junior Minister with the Department of Energy and Climate Change, to get his views on how his party will stop unemployment levels climbing and generate more opportunities for high–profile jobseekers.
Many opinion polls are predicting a Conservative government to be elected on May 6th, but Mr Kidney knows a little bit about usurping the Tories, having beaten none other than current leader David Cameron to the Stafford seat in 1997. His victory was a big one for Labour as the constituency had previously been predominantly Conservative.
Commenting on the Labour Party's aims for the future, he said the organisation will be taking a "more active role" in the employment market. "We will be directing more help towards companies in areas where there is going to be growth in jobs, such as the low–carbon economy, manufacturing [and] the life sciences," he remarked. According to the politician, unemployment levels have peaked and there are now good indications that vacancies are continuing to rise in a range of sectors.
More importantly, he highlighted what a Labour government will do for executive candidates searching for top–level positions. "In terms of wanting there to be good–quality jobs throughout the economy and throughout the country, we are very keen on stimulating each region of the economy," Mr Kidney explained. It is important that there isn't a skills exodus in the country, he added, so developing high–profile opportunities in all areas is particularly vital.
His comments may be encouraging news for some of you who are hoping the general election may invigorate the jobs market.
Has Mr Kidney's remarks swayed you one way or the other? What qualities do you think a political leader should possess? Please take the time to fill in our quick questionnaire on what you expect from a future leader.
Last week I got the chance to talk to David Kidney, Labour MP for Stafford and Junior Minister with the Department of Energy and Climate Change, to get his views on how his party will stop unemployment levels climbing and generate more opportunities for high–profile jobseekers.
Many opinion polls are predicting a Conservative government to be elected on May 6th, but Mr Kidney knows a little bit about usurping the Tories, having beaten none other than current leader David Cameron to the Stafford seat in 1997. His victory was a big one for Labour as the constituency had previously been predominantly Conservative.
Commenting on the Labour Party's aims for the future, he said the organisation will be taking a "more active role" in the employment market. "We will be directing more help towards companies in areas where there is going to be growth in jobs, such as the low–carbon economy, manufacturing [and] the life sciences," he remarked. According to the politician, unemployment levels have peaked and there are now good indications that vacancies are continuing to rise in a range of sectors.
More importantly, he highlighted what a Labour government will do for executive candidates searching for top–level positions. "In terms of wanting there to be good–quality jobs throughout the economy and throughout the country, we are very keen on stimulating each region of the economy," Mr Kidney explained. It is important that there isn't a skills exodus in the country, he added, so developing high–profile opportunities in all areas is particularly vital.
His comments may be encouraging news for some of you who are hoping the general election may invigorate the jobs market.
Has Mr Kidney's remarks swayed you one way or the other? What qualities do you think a political leader should possess? Please take the time to fill in our quick questionnaire on what you expect from a future leader.
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
TEEING UP FOR WORK
Phil Mickleson’s success at the US Masters will no doubt have swayed many men towards the local golf store or course for a leisurely 18 holes. In today’s hectic business world golf isn’t viewed as just a mere leisure sport, it’s the alternative boardroom where
managing directors, executives and sales managers meet customers and potential clients in the hope of securing deals and important partnerships.
Golf is a complex game in itself, but when you throw a business element in to the mix it can be a recipe for success or disaster. From picking your partner, choosing a caddy, order of play, even the clothes you wear – every decision about the game should be clearly thought through in the same way you would a boardroom meeting.
Executive careers site TheLadders.co.uk has compiled a list of the unwritten golf laws for a game of golf for business:
1. Pick the right players
You are not playing to win the US Masters. You want to play with decision-makers, not the golfers who can shoot the lowest scores so choose the players who are most important to your business.
2. Don’t play to win or lose
To win, or not to win – that is the question. The answer is: play to your ability, fair and square. Gauge the personality of your partner and determine how intense he or she is about the game. If you decide to play a match, use the handicap system to establish even ground. An intentional "tank job" can be insulting to a potential client. But a flagrant sandbagging can be even worse.
3. Patience is essential
Don't discuss business before the 5th hole or after the 15th hole. Like golf itself, you're in this for the long haul.
4. Play Ready Golf
Par is less important than pace of play. Playing golf in the business circles is like a "six-hour sales call," that includes post-round drinks or dinner. Six hours on the course is way too long.
5. Know Thy Partner
The "platinum rule." Don't do unto others as they would do unto you. Treat people as they want to be treated. Pay attention to the personality. If your playing partner is solemn and serious, act accordingly. The same goes if he's a garrulous goofball. Remember: though the course isn't a stage, you're still performing. Just as you get to see them in an informal setting, they get to see you too.
6. Focus on Results
And by results that’s not the score. Before the round, think about what you hope to get out of the day, outlining your goals and how you plan to meet them. It's a vital component to playing golf for work, as key to good performance as a pre-shot routine.
7. Play for the 20th Hole
Don't feel like you have to have everything wrapped up by the end of the round. Sign your scorecard before you worry about signing a deal. Your first priority is making sure your playing partner has fun. Spare the formalities, unless they're called for.
managing directors, executives and sales managers meet customers and potential clients in the hope of securing deals and important partnerships.
Golf is a complex game in itself, but when you throw a business element in to the mix it can be a recipe for success or disaster. From picking your partner, choosing a caddy, order of play, even the clothes you wear – every decision about the game should be clearly thought through in the same way you would a boardroom meeting.
Executive careers site TheLadders.co.uk has compiled a list of the unwritten golf laws for a game of golf for business:
1. Pick the right players
You are not playing to win the US Masters. You want to play with decision-makers, not the golfers who can shoot the lowest scores so choose the players who are most important to your business.
2. Don’t play to win or lose
To win, or not to win – that is the question. The answer is: play to your ability, fair and square. Gauge the personality of your partner and determine how intense he or she is about the game. If you decide to play a match, use the handicap system to establish even ground. An intentional "tank job" can be insulting to a potential client. But a flagrant sandbagging can be even worse.
3. Patience is essential
Don't discuss business before the 5th hole or after the 15th hole. Like golf itself, you're in this for the long haul.
4. Play Ready Golf
Par is less important than pace of play. Playing golf in the business circles is like a "six-hour sales call," that includes post-round drinks or dinner. Six hours on the course is way too long.
5. Know Thy Partner
The "platinum rule." Don't do unto others as they would do unto you. Treat people as they want to be treated. Pay attention to the personality. If your playing partner is solemn and serious, act accordingly. The same goes if he's a garrulous goofball. Remember: though the course isn't a stage, you're still performing. Just as you get to see them in an informal setting, they get to see you too.
6. Focus on Results
And by results that’s not the score. Before the round, think about what you hope to get out of the day, outlining your goals and how you plan to meet them. It's a vital component to playing golf for work, as key to good performance as a pre-shot routine.
7. Play for the 20th Hole
Don't feel like you have to have everything wrapped up by the end of the round. Sign your scorecard before you worry about signing a deal. Your first priority is making sure your playing partner has fun. Spare the formalities, unless they're called for.
Friday, 16 April 2010
Spring Clean your Career
The sun is making regular appearances, and it’s still light at 6pm – all early signs that summer is on its way. The start of summer is a time when everyone wants to get in to shape and look their best, and that includes your career.
Employment experts at TheLadders.co.uk believe that the spring is the perfect time of year to get your career credentials in order, clearing out the old CV, dusting off the portfolio and creating a shiny new presentation of your qualifications for that perfect job. With this in mind, the executive jobs site has compiled tips for anyone planning on doing a summer career clean out.
Five tips for a career summer clean out:
1. Evaluate - Firstly evaluate your job situation and put together a list of career goals for what you want to achieve in the short and long term. This may be the time when you realise that you want new challenges in your current role or explore other avenues.
2. CV – dig out your CV if you haven’t looked at it in a while there will surely be new experience, skills and even qualifications to include in this document which is essential to any job search. If you have a portfolio of results make sure you add any new achievements. Or you can save time by using a CV writing service, this will put your document in the hands of professionals who will be able to tweak it so you are presented in the best possible light.
3. Networking – Go through all your networks to ensure your details and experience are up-to-date. Networking is also a good way to find potential roles through your current contacts, recruiters and potential employers so it’s important to keep your details current.
4. Wardrobe – TheLadders recently revealed that 60% of bosses would not give a position to a candidate because of their attire, so what your wear is another essential element to job success. This doesn’t mean you have to get rid of your entire wardrobe but just going through to ensure you have the classic pieces you may need for a job interview ie. Tailored suit, long sleeved collared shirt, black leather shoes etc.
5. Knowledge – while many people see spring as the time to kick-start a health and fitness routine, it’s also a good time to brush up on your career skills too. Investigate what training opportunities are available in your industry and what courses you can take to help boost your career chances.
Derek Pilcher from TheLadders.co.uk says, ‘It doesn’t matter whether you are currently employed or on the job hunt, it’s important to keep all your documents, online professional profiles and even your wardrobe up to date. It doesn’t matter whether you are a Sales Manager, Marketing Director, CFO or Managing Director you never know when a new opportunity will arise or when you will need to look for a new role.’
Employment experts at TheLadders.co.uk believe that the spring is the perfect time of year to get your career credentials in order, clearing out the old CV, dusting off the portfolio and creating a shiny new presentation of your qualifications for that perfect job. With this in mind, the executive jobs site has compiled tips for anyone planning on doing a summer career clean out.
Five tips for a career summer clean out:
1. Evaluate - Firstly evaluate your job situation and put together a list of career goals for what you want to achieve in the short and long term. This may be the time when you realise that you want new challenges in your current role or explore other avenues.
2. CV – dig out your CV if you haven’t looked at it in a while there will surely be new experience, skills and even qualifications to include in this document which is essential to any job search. If you have a portfolio of results make sure you add any new achievements. Or you can save time by using a CV writing service, this will put your document in the hands of professionals who will be able to tweak it so you are presented in the best possible light.
3. Networking – Go through all your networks to ensure your details and experience are up-to-date. Networking is also a good way to find potential roles through your current contacts, recruiters and potential employers so it’s important to keep your details current.
4. Wardrobe – TheLadders recently revealed that 60% of bosses would not give a position to a candidate because of their attire, so what your wear is another essential element to job success. This doesn’t mean you have to get rid of your entire wardrobe but just going through to ensure you have the classic pieces you may need for a job interview ie. Tailored suit, long sleeved collared shirt, black leather shoes etc.
5. Knowledge – while many people see spring as the time to kick-start a health and fitness routine, it’s also a good time to brush up on your career skills too. Investigate what training opportunities are available in your industry and what courses you can take to help boost your career chances.
Derek Pilcher from TheLadders.co.uk says, ‘It doesn’t matter whether you are currently employed or on the job hunt, it’s important to keep all your documents, online professional profiles and even your wardrobe up to date. It doesn’t matter whether you are a Sales Manager, Marketing Director, CFO or Managing Director you never know when a new opportunity will arise or when you will need to look for a new role.’
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
Half past late can affect career success
Broken down car, tube or bus delays, a sick pet or broken heel - unfortunately these excuses still won’t make being late acceptable if a new study is anything to go by. According to a report released last week, Brits place a high level of importance on punctuality and 62% of Brits think being late is inexcusable and employment industry experts agree that being on time is essential to securing a new role.
The study by WatchShop.com found the 44% of Brits consider being more than five minutes late as unacceptable. Tardiness creates stress for the latecomer too as 48% feel frustrated and 33% of Brits feel panicked by being late. However when it comes to being early, 34% agree that we should arrive at least 25 minutes early with a further fourteen percent claiming that you can never be too early for an appointment.
Derek Pilcher from executive jobs site TheLadders.co.uk agrees that being late is unacceptable, especially when meeting a potential employer for the first time as it shows them you are serious about the position and respectful of their time.
‘Arriving late to a job interview can be a real deal breaker for prospective employers. It doesn’t matter whether you have the credentials or experience of Steve Jobs, your tardiness will be engrained in their minds and could ultimately affect your chances.’ says Pilcher.
TheLadders.co.uk has put together five pieces of advice to avoid job interview tardiness:
- Always arrive at least five minutes early for job interviews. This will show your commitment to the role, but also give you time to settle yourself before going in to the meeting.
- Always plan for transport delays whether it be traffic or train issues you should always allow for closures or holdups. Give yourself an extra half an hour to an hour to get there, and find the offices even if it means you are there with plenty of time to spare it will save you the embarrassment of a late arrival.
- Have a back-up plan if your usual transport route is closed. Make sure you check all available options before heading out in case there are accidents/delays or closures.
- Take a map with you – don’t forget that once you get out of the tube, train, bus or car you still need to allow yourself time to actually get to the offices. Make sure you have a map of their location – you can generally find one on the company website.
The study by WatchShop.com found the 44% of Brits consider being more than five minutes late as unacceptable. Tardiness creates stress for the latecomer too as 48% feel frustrated and 33% of Brits feel panicked by being late. However when it comes to being early, 34% agree that we should arrive at least 25 minutes early with a further fourteen percent claiming that you can never be too early for an appointment.
Derek Pilcher from executive jobs site TheLadders.co.uk agrees that being late is unacceptable, especially when meeting a potential employer for the first time as it shows them you are serious about the position and respectful of their time.
‘Arriving late to a job interview can be a real deal breaker for prospective employers. It doesn’t matter whether you have the credentials or experience of Steve Jobs, your tardiness will be engrained in their minds and could ultimately affect your chances.’ says Pilcher.
TheLadders.co.uk has put together five pieces of advice to avoid job interview tardiness:
- Always arrive at least five minutes early for job interviews. This will show your commitment to the role, but also give you time to settle yourself before going in to the meeting.
- Always plan for transport delays whether it be traffic or train issues you should always allow for closures or holdups. Give yourself an extra half an hour to an hour to get there, and find the offices even if it means you are there with plenty of time to spare it will save you the embarrassment of a late arrival.
- Have a back-up plan if your usual transport route is closed. Make sure you check all available options before heading out in case there are accidents/delays or closures.
- Take a map with you – don’t forget that once you get out of the tube, train, bus or car you still need to allow yourself time to actually get to the offices. Make sure you have a map of their location – you can generally find one on the company website.
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