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Navigating Hiring Concerns Amidst Economic Shifts in Q3 and Q4 2023

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Employer Resources > Employment Trends 2023 > Navigating Hiring Concerns Amidst Economic Shifts in Q3 and Q4 2023

Navigating Hiring Concerns Amidst Economic Shifts in Q3 and Q4 2023
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In the ever-evolving landscape of talent acquisition, staying attuned to economic factors that shape the job market is paramount. As we step into the third and fourth quarters of 2023, our clients are rightfully concerned about how prevailing economic conditions might impact their hiring strategies. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) study offers insights that shed light on these concerns.

Addressing the Generational Homeownership Disparity

One of the key findings from the ESRI study underscores a striking generational gap in homeownership rates. A staggering gap of over 40% exists between individuals aged below 40 and those aged 40 and above. This divide holds implications for the workforce, as younger professionals face distinct challenges in achieving homeownership, potentially influencing their job preferences and mobility.

Rising Rent as a Middle-to-Higher Income Concern

For middle-to-higher income earners, the burden of rent has emerged as a significant concern. The study indicates that 16% of individuals in this income bracket allocate more than 30% of their earnings to rent payments. This figure surpasses the 9% average seen elsewhere. These rising rental costs might prompt professionals to seek job opportunities that provide better financial stability and growth potential.

The Living Arrangements of Young Adults

A noteworthy trend identified in the study is the living arrangements of young adults aged 25-34 in Ireland. More than one-in-four individuals in this age group are living with their parents. This finding could indicate the financial challenges faced by young professionals, potentially influencing their decisions about employment, relocation, and career advancement.

Eurostat’s Insights into Housing Market Dynamics

Eurostat’s House Price Index offers a comprehensive perspective on the housing market. Coupled with the ESRI study, this data provides a more holistic understanding of economic factors influencing job market dynamics. Housing affordability, particularly for younger professionals, plays a pivotal role in shaping their decisions about job opportunities and mobility.

Housing price statistics July 2023 visual

Labor Productivity, Earnings, and Costs

Amid these housing market dynamics, the realm of labour productivity, earnings, and costs comes into focus. The Central Statistics Office (CSO) reports a notable increase in average hourly earnings across economic sectors from Q2 2022 to Q2 2023. This rise, from €26.72 to €28.07, underscores the evolving financial landscape for workers.

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Comparing these earnings with the average hourly labour costs in Europe from Eurostat’s 2022 figures, it’s apparent that Ireland ranks among the core EU countries with higher labour costs. However, a deeper dive into Eurostat’s Q2 2023 figures reveals an intriguing insight: Irish workers exhibit impressive productivity levels, ranking among the most productive in Europe. Additionally, Ireland’s minimum wage ranks fifth, trailing behind Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg.

600px Estimated hourly labour costs 2022 EUR map

Implications for Hiring Strategies

For key clients navigating the third and fourth quarters of 2023, these economic insights bear substantial weight. The generational homeownership divide, rising rent concerns, and shifting living arrangements of young adults all influence the talent pool’s priorities and preferences.

Advise

Employers must also be attuned to the evolving labour landscape. The rise in average hourly earnings signifies changing expectations regarding compensation. Furthermore, Ireland’s position in the European labour productivity landscape underscores the value of its workforce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as economic factors continue to shape the job market, key clients should adopt a nuanced approach to hiring strategies. By recognizing the interplay between generational housing challenges, labour costs, and workforce productivity, businesses can tailor their offerings to attract and retain top talent in the competitive landscape of 2023 and beyond.

Multitasking: Strategies For Administrative Professionals

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Mastering Multitasking: Strategies For Administrative Professionals
Summary:

The pursuit of multitasking prowess in the professional world is widespread, with employers often valuing the ability to manage numerous tasks at once. Nevertheless, research reveals that true multitasking can be a challenge for many. While Dictionary.com defines multitasking as the simultaneous performance of multiple tasks, studies suggest that our brains are wired for monotasking – focusing on one task at a time. The American Psychology Association (APA) asserts that attempting complex multitasking hampers productivity, contrary to its intended efficiency. A 2001 study by Rubinstein, Evans, and Meyer demonstrates that task-switching, especially with intricate tasks, consumes time and diminishes effectiveness. The study highlights the potential for more efficient multitasking by interchanging tasks of similar familiarity. Cognitive tasks merge well with routine activities, as seen in task batching, a technique where similar tasks are grouped for focused completion. Prioritizing tasks and embracing a one-task-at-a-time approach further enhances productivity. In conclusion, mastering multitasking demands strategic techniques like task batching, combining cognitive and routine tasks, and prioritization. While true multitasking’s efficacy is debated, adopting the right strategies empowers administrative professionals to excel in their roles.

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Introduction:

“Must be an excellent multi-tasker”, “proven track record of managing multiple projects at once.” As recruiters we have seen this ‘requirement’ by employers featured in multiple job advertisements over the years. However, studies have shown that many of us struggle with multitasking in our work.

Dictionary.com defines multitasking as “the performance of multiple tasks at one time.” However, case studies have expanded this definition to include “the ability to swap between tasks efficiently to complete the (work)”(Law et al, 2006). While it can be challenging to perform two or more tasks concurrently, medical professionals have conducted case studies which confirm that “we’re…wired to be monotaskers, meaning that our brains can only focus on one task at a time.”

Multitasking vs Productivity:

The APA (American Psychology Association) has reported that doing more than one task at a time, especially more than one complex task, takes a toll on our productivity. Therefore generating the opposite effect of the desired goal for efficiency.

“In experiments published in 2001, Joshua Rubinstein, PhD, Jeffrey Evans, PhD, and David Meyer, PhD, conducted four experiments in which young adults switched between different tasks, such as solving math problems or classifying geometric objects. For all tasks, the participants lost time when they had to switch from one task to another. As tasks got more complex, participants lost more time. As a result, people took significantly longer to switch between more complex tasks. Time costs were also greater when the participants switched to tasks that were relatively unfamiliar. They got up to speed faster when they switched to tasks, they knew better.”

This experiment proved that multitasking or switching between complex tasks make us inefficient. However, it also provided an insight into ways that we can be more efficient. It suggests that if we switch between similar tasks, we are familiar with, we can be more effective in our time management and therefore more productive in how we work. Even capable of multitasking.  

So What Kind Of Tasks Can We Effectively “Multitask?”

Continuing with this line of thought, it’s important to recognize that while true multitasking, in the sense of performing multiple complex tasks simultaneously, might not be the most efficient approach, there are still tasks that can be effectively “multitasked.” These tasks typically fall into the category of combining a cognitive task with a routine or automatic task. Let’s delve deeper into these types of tasks and how administrative professionals can leverage them to enhance productivity.

Cognitive Tasks

Cognitive tasks, such as brainstorming ideas, strategizing, or problem-solving, require a certain level of focused attention. Trying to juggle multiple complex cognitive tasks at once can lead to decreased quality and increased stress. On the other hand, combining cognitive tasks with routine activities that don’t demand as much mental effort can work well. For example, listening to educational podcasts or training materials while commuting or performing light administrative tasks can be an effective way to optimize time and learning.

Task Batching

In addition to this, administrative professionals can also explore task batching—a technique that involves grouping similar tasks together and dedicating specific time blocks to work on them. This approach allows you to harness the power of focused attention on similar tasks, minimizing the cognitive load that comes with constant task-switching. Responding to emails, returning phone calls, and reviewing documents are examples of tasks that can be batched together for increased efficiency.

Boundaries

Moreover, it’s crucial to prioritize tasks and set clear boundaries. The allure of multitasking often stems from the feeling of being highly productive, but in reality, it can lead to fragmented attention and reduced overall output. By focusing on a single task at a time and completing it before moving on to the next, you can maintain a higher level of engagement and ensure that each task is done well.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the notion of multitasking as we traditionally understand it might not always lead to the desired efficiency. Studies and experiments have shown that attempting to perform complex tasks simultaneously can actually hinder productivity. However, by incorporating strategic task batching, combining routine tasks with cognitive ones, and adopting a focused, one-task-at-a-time approach, administrative professionals can master the art of productive multitasking. This means enhancing the use of their time, optimizing their workflow, and ultimately achieving better results in their roles. So, while not all tasks are conducive to multitasking, the right approach can certainly make a significant difference in how efficiently and effectively administrative professionals manage their responsibilities.

Job Profile-Insurance Agent

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The job profile of an Insurance Agent requires strong self-organization and time management skills. A typical day starts with checking emails and prioritizing tasks, including reports for the boss and client inquiries. Spare time is dedicated to client services and self-education, as Insurance Agents serve as the main point of contact for clients. Preparation is crucial for appointments, as Insurance Agents often earn money through commissions. Assessing the client's situation beforehand, such as considering their age and circumstances, helps in providing tailored advice. Feedback from clients is valuable for self-improvement and growth. Keeping track of appointments for the current and following week is essential, and proactive efforts like making sales calls are necessary to ensure a steady stream of appointments. Attention to detail and maintaining relationships with clients contribute to sales and overall success. Key skills for Insurance Agents include communication, negotiation, problem-solving, analytical abilities, customer service, client relationship management, self-organization, time management, attention to detail, flexibility, and continuous learning. Persuasiveness on sales calls is crucial, and staying knowledgeable about insurance products, changes, and industry regulations builds expertise and trust. In terms of emerging skills, understanding personal pension plans involving ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) and the stock market can be advantageous for Insurance Agents. Additionally, integrating AI into their work could be beneficial as it becomes increasingly prevalent in the insurance industry. Overall, the job of an Insurance Agent is dynamic and requires adaptability. Success in the role is dependent on continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends and regulations.

The job profile of an Insurance Agent requires strong self-organization and time management skills. A typical day starts with checking emails and prioritizing tasks, including reports for the boss and client inquiries. Spare time is dedicated to client services and self-education, as Insurance Agents serve as the main point of contact for clients.
Preparation is crucial for appointments, as Insurance Agents often earn money through commissions. Assessing the client’s situation beforehand, such as considering their age and circumstances, helps in providing tailored advice. Feedback from clients is valuable for self-improvement and growth.
Keeping track of appointments for the current and following week is essential, and proactive efforts like making sales calls are necessary to ensure a steady stream of appointments. Attention to detail and maintaining relationships with clients contribute to sales and overall success.
Key skills for Insurance Agents include communication, negotiation, problem-solving, analytical abilities, customer service, client relationship management, self-organization, time management, attention to detail, flexibility, and continuous learning. Persuasiveness on sales calls is crucial, and staying knowledgeable about insurance products, changes, and industry regulations builds expertise and trust.
In terms of emerging skills, understanding personal pension plans involving ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) and the stock market can be advantageous for Insurance Agents. Additionally, integrating AI into their work could be beneficial as it becomes increasingly prevalent in the insurance industry.
Overall, the job of an Insurance Agent is dynamic and requires adaptability. Success in the role is dependent on continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends and regulations.

A Day as an Insurance Agent

Whether you’re bound to a nine to five or you can decide your working hours yourself, you will need a schedule. A frame you might say, that keeps you on track. Because the number one skill you need to have is self-organisation.  

First Things First

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This schedule should look similar to the following. First things first, check your mails and make a priority list of what has to be done immediately and what could wait until tomorrow. This might go from reports for your boss to inquiries from clients. You have to use your spare time wisely, mainly for client services or self-education. Afterall, you are the main point of contact for your clients.  

Priority List

If your priority list is set and you’ve done the most urgent things, you shouldn’t forget about the appointments you have. As an Insurance Agent you’ll most likely earn your money with commissions. So, preparation is key. Take a look at your client and get an overview about the situation he might be in. There is a difference between a 20-year-old who starts working and a 45-year-old parent with a house.  

Feedback

Get used to get feedback after your appointments, your clients might not be the hardest critics, but they are the most important ones. Afterwards review the whole thing yourself. Identifying the bits you can improve on, together with the clients feedback, it will be your easiest way to growth.  

Reviewing

Reviewing also allows you to remember leads and other important information about the client. Every kind of information will either generate the chance of a new sale or it will improve your relationship with clients. 

Think Ahead

Keep track of the number of appointments you have already set for the current and the following week. As an Insurance Agent you always have to think ahead. If you don’t have enough appointments to fill your days the following week, it is crucial to make sales calls and get additional ones. Sure, the quality of your consultation is what determines if you sell something but if you don’t have the chance to show your class, it doesn’t matter. 

At The End Of A Workday

At the end of a workday I would always take another look at my priority list to make sure I didn’t forget about anything and everything that’s left undone can wait for the next day. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the job as an Insurance Agent is a very versatile one. Besides the key skills and perks there is one more thing you have to be: flexible. There will be days that aren’t as productive but there will also be some which extend normal work days. 

Key Skills For Insurance

  • Communication & negotiation skills 
  • Problem solving & analytical skills 
  • Customer Service & Client Relationships 
  • Self-organisation & time management 
  • Attention to detail 
  • Flexibility 

Continuous Learning

You’ll never know enough about sales call and communication. As mentioned earlier, the quality of your consultation determines a sale, but you need the clients first. Already being persuasive on the phone is half the rent. 

Depending on the kind of insurance you sell, you might think about getting into health and life insurance as well as they are the most profitable products for commission. No matter which direction you decide for, make sure you have a deep knowledge about your topic and keep up to date with changes. After all, expertise sows trust and trust is your biggest asset. 

Last and kind of self-explanatory, keep up to date with the laws and regulations. It is a necessity to be a professional and there could be changes that put one product ahead of the other.  

Emerging Skill

ETF’s are the new thing for personal pension plans. Well, it is not as new anymore, but people still aren’t very well informed about it. In order to compete you’ll have to gain knowledge about how such products work and the stock market in general. 

Integrating AI into businesses is a more recent phenomenon. You can’t exactly say how it will affect the Insurance branch but it will in some way. So getting an understanding of the basics and maybe already including it into your work could turn out beneficial in the near future.  

Recruitment Trends 2023 – Impact of CAO on Future Employment

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Business Resources
At Hall Recruitment, we understand that finding the right talent is crucial to the success of any business. That’s why we are committed to providing critical guidance and support to employers, helping them find the best candidates and build a strong team that can drive their business forward.
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What a rise in CAO applications for IT and Computer Science courses means for future employment.

Rise in Applications for Tech Courses in Ireland Indicates a Future Shift Towards Remote Working and Job Flexibility
Recruitment Trends 2023 – Impact of CAO on Future Employment 
The recent surge in applications for computer science and technology courses in Ireland suggests that students believe remote working is the way of the future. The pandemic has forced many to prioritize work-life balance and hybrid working arrangements, and possessing employable skills in technology and computer science is becoming increasingly desirable. IT skills are in demand across various sectors, and possessing a degree in this field can be seen as equivalent to possessing a general arts degree a few years ago. Additionally, there is an increase in the number of individuals seeking postgraduate qualifications, with many likely to specialize in fields beyond IT. With plans to reduce private car usage in the capital, students targeting jobs with remote or blended work environments may have more foresight than others. Future job seekers desire a blended work environment, and businesses that fail to adapt may struggle to source a skilled workforce.

Introduction

Is remote working a route to career suicide? If the most recent results from the CAO applications are any indication, future graduates disagree. They believe that remote working is the way of the future, as computer science and technology courses have seen record growth of applications through the CAO this year.

Read the Irish Times Article Here.

Skills And The Pandemic:

While government officials have previously pushed students to pursue further education in computer science, it’s taken a pandemic for us to see the benefits of possessing a qualification in computer science. In our previous article: Employee Benefits Management, we discussed how the pandemic has forced us to revaluate our priorities, bringing work-life balance and hybrid working arrangements into the forefront of almost all employment negotiations. It could be perceived that the desire to maintain this work environment has spurred this push towards obtaining employable skills in technology and computer science given the job growth for individuals with skills such as:

  1. Programming languages
  2. Data analysis
  3. Technical writing
  4. Software development
  5. Cloud skills
  6. Mathematical skills

According to the CSO 79% of professionals in the IT sector worked either partially or fully remote in 2020 and therefore were unreliant on the pandemic unemployment payment. Many of the skills from these courses in IT and computer science lend their expertise into alternative avenues of employment as well, such as marketing, security, facilities management, administration and accounting. Perhaps the current round of CAO applicants has seen the writing on the walls over the past two years and believe that job seekers with this skill set are highly desirable to employers and like their parents, they can benefit from a positive work-life balance through a blended or remote work environment as soon as they graduate.

Desire for IT Skills:

Given the recent round of layoffs by tech giants such as Google, Meta and Microsoft, it’s hard to believe students would choose to study courses in technology and computer science without a back-up plan. Well, as recruitment experts, we have seen an increase in the demand for IT skills from employers in almost all sectors over the last 2 years. Therefore we believe that having a degree in technology and computer science can be seen as the equivalent of possessing a general arts degree like a few years ago, where graduates possessed an opportunity for immediate professional employment upon completing their course.

Creating a Highly Skilled Workforce:

However, it is more likely that a high portion of these students will continue their studies to obtain a postgraduate qualification, potentially in an additional field.  According to the Higher Education Authority (HEA) there were 30,275 individuals who sought postgraduate third level qualifications in 2021 an increase of over 3,500 from 2020 figures. It is likely that that this trend for postgraduate qualifications will continue to rise in popularity by 2026. We estimate over 40k graduates will seek a postgraduate qualification. Given the potential to diversify and specialise their skills, it is likely many postgraduate qualifications will range in fields of expertise making these future candidates highly skilled beyond our current workforce.

Reducing Costs:

With the recent announcement by Minister Eamon Ryan of plans to reduce private car usage by adding a congestion charge for driving in the capital as well as an increase to parking costs by 400%, perhaps these CAO applicants have more foresight than the rest of us targeting jobs where they are most likely to be offered remote or blended work environments and avoiding these additional costs.

Conclusion:

Like our current job market, future job seekers also desire a blended work environment. And businesses who are slow to adapt to a blended work policy should reflect on their business practices, as the skilled workforce they rely on may become too scarce to source.

Do You Have A Home Office?

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Is This An Unreasonable Question For Employers To Ask?

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At Hall Recruitment, we understand that finding the right talent is crucial to the success of any business. That’s why we are committed to providing critical guidance and support to employers, helping them find the best candidates and build a strong team that can drive their business forward.
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On the 9th of November 2022, the Irish government approved the integration of the right to request remote work for all workers into the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill. Since this has come out, most employers have read article upon article persuading them of the benefits to  offer remote work to their employees assuring them they will see a difference in their workforce productivity.

Is this an unrealistic expectation for employers?
The Irish government approved the right to request remote work for all workers, which has led to employers considering offering remote work to their employees to increase productivity. However, research shows that while remote work can increase productivity, it may also lead to decreased productivity for some individuals. The legislation emphasizes the responsibility for workplace health and safety on the employer, regardless of where the work is being done. Reports of workplace injuries by remote workers have led to questions about whether employers should increase their insurance and liability costs and whether they should consider requiring a designated home office for applicants. While offering hybrid work environments may be attractive to job seekers, employers should consider the potential risks and liabilities.

Research:

Positive research like Stanford study of 16,000 workers over 9 months found that working from home increased productivity by 13%. However, further research  from the University of Chicago found that 14% of their subjects were less productive working from home. This impacted the findings to show only a 7% higher level of productivity overall when compared to working in the office.

Health and Safety:

While the overall research shows a favourable ROI by offering blended work environments, the legislation emphasizes the responsibility for workplace Health and Safety (H&S) on the employer.

“Responsibility for health and safety at work rests with the employer whether or not that work is being done at the employee’s home .”

– Health and Safety Authority.

Injury Claims:

Last year there was reports of a surge in people aged in their 20s and 30s with symptoms of back pain dubbed by the media as “Covid Back”, as a result of poor working-from-home conditions. In 2021 a German court ruled that a man who slipped while walking a few meters from his bed to his home office can claim on workplace accident insurance as he was technically commuting.  

Appealing to the Market:

While reports of official claims to Irish businesses of workplace injury by remote workers have gone under the radar, there are more companies appeasing our candidate favoured employment market and their desire for a blended work environment.

As previously mentioned, legislation is not written in the employer’s favour and instances of workplace injury by remote workers are not unheard of. Now that organisations are expected to expand their workforce in 2023, to meet their plans for business expansion, businesses are competing in a tight market and offering hybrid work environments off the bat.

Conclusion:

While this is an attractive to job seekers, are employers increasing their insurance and liability costs unnecessarily? Should they be asking applicants if they have a designated home office upon application? Should this be a requirement, and should they even consider those who don’t?

Continue reading about employee benefits with our related articles: Employee Benefits Management, Hybrid and Working-From-Home Policy.

Are you searching for a job? Apply for our latest positions here.

What Careers Can You Do With A Science Degree?

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Job Seeker Resources
At Hall Recruitment, we believe that providing services and resources to support our candidates is key to helping them achieve their professional goals and finding their dream job.
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Careers In Science And Research

Science and research are crucial fields that drive innovation and progress in various sectors, including medicine, technology, agriculture, and more. As such, there is always a demand for talented scientists and researchers who can make significant contributions to their respective fields. However, finding the right career opportunities in science and research can be challenging, particularly for recent graduates and those looking to switch careers. That’s where recruitment agencies like Hall Recruitment can provide valuable assistance.

Science and research careers can be incredibly diverse, with opportunities available across various industries and sectors. From academic research to pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, and beyond, there are numerous paths that scientists and researchers can pursue. Some common roles in science and research include research assistants, laboratory technicians, data analysts, project managers, and research scientists.

Careers in Science and Research
The blog post highlights the importance of science and research careers and how recruitment agencies like Hall Recruitment can assist individuals in finding suitable job opportunities.

Where Can I Go For Jobs In Science And Research?

Recruitment agencies like Hall Recruitment can help aspiring scientists and researchers find the right career opportunities that match their skills, qualifications, and interests. These agencies have extensive networks and partnerships with leading organizations and institutions in the science and research industry, enabling them to identify job openings that may not be publicly advertised.

One of the most significant advantages of working with a recruitment agency like Hall Recruitment is the personalized support they provide. These agencies typically have experienced recruiters who specialize in science and research careers and can offer expert guidance on job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and more. This level of support can be particularly beneficial for those who are new to the science and research industry or who are unsure about the specific career path they want to pursue.

Recruitment agencies also offer a streamlined and efficient job application process. Rather than spending hours searching for job openings and submitting applications, candidates can rely on the agency to handle these tasks on their behalf. The agency’s recruiters can also provide feedback on applications and help candidates tailor their materials to specific job requirements.

Another advantage of working with a recruitment agency like Hall Recruitment is the access to a broader range of job opportunities. Agencies often work with a variety of clients, including large corporations, start-ups, non-profits, and academic institutions, which means they can provide candidates with a diverse range of job options.

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Candidate Resources

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Job Seeker Resources
At Hall Recruitment, we believe that providing services and resources to support our candidates is key to helping them achieve their professional goals and finding their dream job.
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The Importance of Reading Between the Lines on Job Descriptions

The Importance of Reading Between the Lines on Job Descriptions
Outline: When searching for a job especially executive-level positions, relying solely on job descriptions can lead to problems due to a lack of accuracy and alignment in job specifications. To navigate this issue, candidates should throw away the job spec, identify the “real” job by asking questions during the interview process, draft their own job spec, and confirm their understanding with their prospective boss via email. By following these steps, candidates can avoid misaligned expectations and increase the likelihood of success in their new role.

When searching for a job, reading the job description is often the first step to determining if a role is a good fit. However, relying solely on the written job specification can lead to problems, especially at the executive level. In this blog post, we explore the importance of reading between the lines on job descriptions and offer guidance on how to uncover the truth during the interview process.

Read our related previous article about the importance of researching your potential new employer before your interview here.

The average tenure for C-suite executives is shockingly low, especially considering the high investment in the search process. One reason for this is the lack of accuracy and alignment in job specifications. Alignment occurs when the expectations, responsibilities allocated, and skills required are consistent. When these elements do not align, it can be difficult for new hires to perform their duties effectively, and friction can arise as they try to influence peers who have responsibility over activities the new hire is expected to impact.

To navigate misaligned or poorly defined jobs, candidates must take four key steps to increase the likelihood that the role they take will be a good fit. These steps include:

  1. Throwing away the job spec
  2. Identifying the “real” job
  3. Drafting your own job spec
  4. Confirming understanding

Throw away the job spec.

Job specifications for high-level roles are often highly detailed and lengthy. Companies want to make jobs seem as attractive as possible and may embellish the description. Writing a cohesive, internally consistent job spec is also not easy. The consequence is that the job spec may not accurately reflect the actual job, so candidates must throw away the job spec and uncover the real job on their own.

Identify the “real” job.

To understand the real attributes of a job, candidates must ask questions throughout the interview process. Investigating expectations, responsibilities, resources allocated, primary contingent peers, and desired candidate experience are essential. This process may not be easy, as interviewers may become defensive when they don’t know the answers, and different people may provide different answers, signalling a lack of clarity and/or communication regarding the role.

Draft your own job spec.

Based on your research, write a short version of your understanding of the job. Use the following five questions, to help you summarize your understanding, being as specific as possible.

  1. What criteria are used to define success at different time intervals? (i.e. expectations)
  2. What are the specific duties and tasks assigned? (i.e. responsibilities)
  3. Which departments and positions are assigned to the role, and what is the budget? (i.e. allocated resources)
  4. Who are the primary peers that will impact success in the position, and how are objectives and incentives aligned to ensure cooperation? (i.e. primary contingent peers)
  5. What are the primary skills and experience required in the ideal candidate? (i.e. desired candidate experience)

The objective is to crystallize the key job attributes into a simple document that can become the basis for discussion and negotiation.

Confirm understanding.

Should everything go well in the interview and you are given an offer letter. Draft a summary of your understanding of the job and verify this with your prospective boss via email. Things are always clearer when they are written down. This is important as verbal discussions can be misinterpreted and recalled incorrectly. Having a written and clarified understanding is important before accepting a job as issues commonly arise regarding expectations or responsibilities within the first month in a new position.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reading between the lines on job descriptions is critical when searching for senior-level positions. While job specifications are important, they are not always an accurate reflection of the actual job. To increase the likelihood of success, candidates must identify the “real” job, draft their own job spec, and confirm their understanding of the role before accepting an offer of employment. By following these steps, candidates can avoid misaligned expectations and increase the odds of a successful tenure in their new role.

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Psychological Safety

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Candidate Resources

Job Seeker Resources
At Hall Recruitment, we believe that providing services and resources to support our candidates is key to helping them achieve their professional goals and finding their dream job.

Should I stay or Should I go?

You may be pondering this very question as we speak. Should I stay, or should I go? As a leading Dublin recruitment agency, we know that one of the defining reasons working professionals are re-enter the job market is due to a base level need previously explained in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs pyramid: Psychological Safety.

Psychological safety is a fundamental need for human beings, and it plays a crucial role in our decision to stay or leave our current employer. According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, psychological safety is a key component of self-actualization, which is the highest level of need in the hierarchy.

What is Psychological Safety?

Psychological safety refers to the belief that you won’t be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns or even making mistakes. It’s a feeling of being able to express yourself without fear of negative consequences. It’s important to note that psychological safety isn’t the same as comfort, or being free of criticism, but it’s the confidence that the team has the best interest of one another at heart.

Why is Psychological Safety important in the Workplace?

Psychological safety is a critical factor in creating a healthy workplace culture. When employees feel safe to express themselves, they are more likely to contribute their best work and take risks. Employees are willing to share new ideas, offer solutions to problems and can learn from their mistakes without feeling the need to hide or blame. It encourages collaboration and team members can feel safe to give constructive feedback and offer differing opinions. In essence, a psychologically safe workplace cultivates an environment where innovation and growth can thrive.

When it comes to staying or leaving a job, psychological safety is a significant factor in the decision-making process. Employees who feel psychologically safe are more likely to stay with their current employer, as they feel valued and that their contributions are making an impact. On the other hand, employees who feel unsafe in the workplace, whether due to a toxic work environment or fear of retaliation for speaking up, are more likely to leave.

Employer Resources:

Business Resources
At Hall Recruitment, we understand that finding the right talent is crucial to the success of any business. That’s why we are committed to providing critical guidance and support to employers, helping them find the best candidates and build a strong team that can drive their business forward.

Can Psychological Safety And Accountability Go Together?

Psychological Safety Needs and Accountability
Creating a culture that values both psychological safety and accountability can lead to a healthy workplace that fosters innovation, growth, and success.

Psychological safety and accountability are two critical components of a healthy workplace culture. However, it’s not always clear whether these two concepts can coexist in the same workplace. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between psychological safety and accountability and whether they can go together.

What is Accountability?

Accountability refers to taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions. It’s the acknowledgment that you are responsible for your work and the outcomes of your decisions. Accountability is essential for creating a productive and efficient workplace where employees take ownership of their work and strive to achieve their goals.

Can Psychological Safety and Accountability Coexist?

The short answer is yes, psychological safety and accountability can coexist in the same workplace. In fact, they are complementary concepts that can reinforce each other. Here’s how:

Accountability can enhance psychological safety:

When employees know that they are accountable for their actions and decisions, they are more likely to take their work seriously and strive for excellence. This can lead to increased trust among team members and a greater sense of psychological safety.

Psychological safety can enhance accountability:

When employees feel psychologically safe, they are more likely to take a chance and share their ideas without feelings of discouragement. This can lead to more innovative and effective solutions to problems. However, psychological safety can only thrive when there is a sense of accountability. Employees need to know that their contributions are valued, and that they will be held accountable for their work.

Leadership is key:

The relationship between psychological safety and accountability is heavily influenced by leadership. Leaders must create a culture that encourages both psychological safety and accountability. This includes setting clear expectations, providing feedback, and holding employees accountable for their actions while ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.

How to Foster Both Psychological Safety and Accountability

Fostering a workplace culture that values both psychological safety and accountability requires deliberate efforts. Here are some strategies for achieving this:

1. Set clear expectations:

Leaders must set clear expectations for employees, including the goals and outcomes they are expected to achieve. Employees need to understand what is expected of them, and how they will be held accountable for their work.

2. Provide feedback:

Regular feedback is essential for promoting both psychological safety and accountability. Feedback should be constructive, specific, and timely, and should focus on both successes and areas for improvement.

3. Encourage open communication:

Encourage open communication, active listening, and the exchange of ideas. This creates an environment where employees feel heard and valued, and where they can share their thoughts and concerns without fear of negative consequences.

4. Lead by example:

Leaders must lead by example and model the behaviour they expect from their employees. This includes taking responsibility for their actions and decisions, admitting to mistakes, and showing vulnerability.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, psychological safety and accountability can coexist in the same workplace. In fact, they are complementary concepts that can reinforce each other. Leaders must create a culture that values both psychological safety and accountability by setting clear expectations, providing feedback, encouraging open communication, and leading by example. By doing so, they can create a healthy workplace culture that fosters innovation, growth, and success.