How To

At one eighty recruitment, we continuously talk about the current state of the market being ‘candidate short’. To put it simply, there are more job opportunities than there are available candidates, and employers are struggling to find the right people for roles — so, how does this affect you when job hunting? What do you need to be aware of when looking for a new role? You will have a choice As a candidate, you have lots of different options when it comes to applying for jobs and accepting offers. It’s important that you don’t feel as though you have to take the first role you are given. This is why it’s valuable to team up with a recruiter — we can discuss your needs, help you explore your different options, and then the choice is yours. We want to help you — and we’re more than happy to take your CV to potential employers, but the choice will always be yours. You can be picky about what you want Employers are continuously assessing what benefits they can offer in order to attract and retain staff. So, what exactly are you looking for in a job? If you’re after the flexibility that allows you to go and attend your child’s school play, then just say so. Or, perhaps you're only wanting to work a certain amount of hours each week. There will always be better opportunities out there and employers who will be willing to make things work for the right candidate with the right skills. You should be aware of recruitment best practice Partnering with a recruiter is one of the most valuable things you can do when job hunting, but it’s important to know about best practice. A recruiter needs to put themselves in your shoes. They need to know the ins and outs of every candidate in order to find a role that’s perfectly suited to their skills, their needs and their personal preferences. Because of this, you should be wary if a recruiter fails to ask you in-depth questions or doesn’t make a huge effort to get to know you. Lots of recruiters move too fast, leading to candidates feeling pressured to take on roles that aren’t a perfect fit — and that’s the last thing you want to happen. You will have a perfect match out there Working with a recruiter isn’t just about finding a job that matches your skills or qualifications — it’s about finding a perfect match from the job requirements to your potential new colleagues. one eighty has relationships spanning 15+ years in different industries. These long-standing relationships mean we know the finer details about each company we work with. For example, team fit is important — you may be looking for a family oriented company with many of their employees at the same life stage as you, or perhaps you’re of a younger demographic and would prefer to work with a young professional bunch? Whatever your preference, we will be able to find the perfect match for the next step in your career. It’s a tricky job market to navigate, but it’s one that one eighty recruitment are very familiar with. Thanks to our long-standing relationship with clients and our tailored recruitment approach, one eighty recruitment experts are still finding candidates the right roles that are suited to them. If you’re wanting help to find your next job, get in touch with us today.

The biggest mistake we can making when hiring new employees is to have unrealistic expectations and unclear objectives. For a smooth hiring process, it is important to nail these tasks for the best outcome. A Clear Job Brief Working with your recruiter it is important to take the time to be 100% clear on what the job is, what objectives are, and the type of candidate you are hoping to attract. An Easy Application Process This is where working with a recruiter really helps. The systems support candidates to apply for the job in an easy manner whilst upholding candidate experience. Be Prepared for the Interview So much value and gained and provided during an interview for both the recruiting company and the candidate. If left with a bad impression, both parties won’t move forward with the process. Prepare questions and set up a great space for the interview (is it online? Make sure the wifi is good!). Move Quickly, But Not Too Quickly After a great interview, candidates are often excited to move forward with the process. They’ve fallen in love with your company and the opportunity. Leaving it too long to provide feedback or move forward with the process can sour the process. The feeling of value and worth (from the candidate) goes down, and they start to question if the opportunity is worth pursuing. Keep moving forward. Misaligned Expectations This is where a good recruiter adds value to ensure there is a match. Expectations should be up front, and addressed early in the process so that nothing comes up towards the end as a surprise which ruins the opportunity. Outlining expectations early in the process assists with a smooth process from start to finish. Communicate Above all, keep communication high. Utilise the recruiter as much as possible. They are here to help both parties. It’s just what they do – and they do it well! A smooth hiring process should be enjoyable for everyone. It’s the beginning of a new relationship, so it’s worth getting it right. Need some help with hiring or looking to make a job change? Feel free to contact us.

This blog post is being published during the COVID-19 outbreak in New Zealand. The current COVID-19 situation means working from home is the new norm for an unknown period. To ease the transition, we’ve put together five suggestions to make working from home better. Making Working from Home Better 1. Dress for Work It’s tempting to roll out of bed and straight to your new ‘working from home’ desk. But wearing work clothes is going to help mentally shift you into work mode. Get dressed for work, and once your working day is finished, get changed out of your work clothes. It’s going to feel great! 2. Prepare Your Day + Chunk Time The night before, plan your day and set boundaries for the day. Provided your employer is happy with it, there is the opportunity to make the day work better for you. Schedule in exercise, lunch in the sun, and a micro break in the afternoon. There is also the opportunity to chunk time. Chunk activities together with the same purpose i.e. Emails/Research/Meetings/Sales. This makes it easier to control your flow of work, and makes sure you’re able to handle interruptions when they come, and get back on task when you engage again. 3. Turn Off Notifications Interruptions = getting sucked into an unproductive vortex. Turn off notifications, and then set a reminder to check emails three times a day; start of the day. Just before lunch, and once more just before you finish your scheduled working day. Don’t get sucked into the email vortex that kills many hours for even the most productive of remote workers. The same applies for social media and phone notifications. 4. Move Your Body It’s important for mental health to move (and it’s been proven to boost immunity). Currently it’s ok to get out into nature and go for walks – that’s an option following physical distancing guidelines. Alternatively, there are hundreds of free yoga and workout videos available online to tap into. All this will help you be more productive, and also feel more balanced. 5. Set Up Online Events Set up virtual team lunches and Friday night drinks (BYO of course). Set up the camera and share general office chit chat during shared event times. Don’t forget to get together for the birthday cake (online of course) and keep human connection high. Do you have any other tips for working from home? The one eighty team have been working from home for a while now in preparation for the Level Four NZ Government imposed lock down which means we are fully set up to be able to engage and chat with you should you have any hiring or career points to discuss – we’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact us.

This blog post is being published during the COVID-19 outbreak. In consideration of the COVID-19 outbreak; at one eighty recruitment we are staying proactive and supportive to enable clients and candidates to continue to connect in the job market with health and safety in mind. One of the most important parts of finding a new job is having a great interview. Employers and recruiters are potentially opting for video interviews during this time on platforms such as Skype or Zoom. What is shocking is the amount of times these interviews can go south, because candidates are not prepared for this type of interview. So, without further ado, here are some tips to prepare for a remote/video interview: Top Tips for Skype and Video Interviews 1. Double Check Interview Time A lot of these video interviews happen across time zones, so you want to ensure that you have the correct time. Whether you’ve scheduled the interview with the employer directly, or with a recruiter – ALWAYS double check your time. 2. Test Technology The first thing to do when preparing for a Skype or video interview is make sure you’re comfortable and ready to use your technology (computer, mic, webcam, etc.) It’s not going to go well if you hop on a Skype call and the interviewer can’t hear you because your mic is muted. So make sure to test everything out before your Skype or video interview to make sure you’re comfortable with the technology and the settings are correct. You can do a “test run” with a friend or family member to be sure. If there are any technical issues, you want to know that before the interview. 3. Pick the Best Location. The last thing you want during your Skype interview or video interview is to have a family member or pet come running across the screen. So find a quiet, distraction-free room where you can shut the door and have relative silence, and nothing moving in the background. This could be a private meeting room, somewhere at home or a quiet, local café. 4. Do Your Homework This step is very important. You want to convey the message that you are interested, and that you are taking this opportunity seriously. Research is extremely important. If you have your interviewers name, check out their LinkedIn Profile. Check out the Company Website, LinkedIn Profile and any recent articles or news on them. Also do your homework when it comes to the position – go over the job description that was supplied. Read over your CV and see what aspects of your work overlaps with the job description, these are your strengths. Focus on the required skills and brush up on these technologies. If you made notes during your call with your recruiter go over those. 5. Dress for Success Dress appropriately for your interview in relation to what type of position you are interviewing for. In my opinion you can never go wrong with a power suit (or your equivalent of this). It not only looks great, but it makes the person wearing it feel confident and strong. If you don’t have a power suit, wear something professional, clean cut and comfortable 6. Prepare Questions and Answers Always remember that as much as an employer is interviewing you to see if you are a good match, you are also interviewing them for the same. Have questions prepared, we normally suggest about five or six. These questions could be related to the technical side of things, or career progression and educational allowances, think big. This will show your interest in the company 7. Don't Forget to Breathe, and Sleep Seeing as you have already prepared everything, take a moment, relax and get a good night of sleep. If you are into meditation, have a session when you wake in the morning to clear your mind and get you ready for the big moment. 8. Turn Off All Notifications The client may not be in the same room with you, but it will be easy to sense or see if your attention is diverted. This can come across as unprofessional, or disinterested. Turn your notifications off and put your phone on silent mode. Better yet – just turn your phone off. Where to from here? We wish you all the best with your Skype or video interview. Whether you are on the move, or just thinking about moving in the foreseeable future, we are always more than happy to help with a chat. Please feel free to contact us.

So, it's time to take the plunge and you are looking for a new job? We asked Mike Westbury for recommendations of the first three things to action before embarking on a new job hunt. Check out the video below. As mentioned in point #1 of the video, at one eighty recruitment we've had hundreds of chats to help people articulate point #1 so please do reach out for a chat if we can help. Looking For A New Job? 1. Work out what you want Work out what you want in a job. Take some time to write down what you are hoping to achieve by changing jobs, is it a career change, a progression, lifestyle? It helps to have thought about these things before looking for a new job to ensure you are fulfilled in your new job. 2. Rewrite your CV. Rewrite your CV for the job you want, rather than the job you want. What are the skill sets, attributes and qualities required to be able to successfully do the job you wish to obtain? We have some CV writing resources here, or alternatively we are always happy to chat and assist with tips. 3. Connect. Connect with people and places where you want to work. Connect with people who are going to help you get to where you want to be. Perhaps even ask those people for a coffee and casual chat. The more you connect and get to know about your desired role, company or career, the better set you are to achieve your goals. Where to from here? Whether you are on the move, or just thinking about moving in the foreseeable future, we are always more than happy to help with a chat over a coffee or over the phone. Please feel free to contact us.

Independent Contractors are qualified professionals that operate as either limited liability companies or as sole traders. They will usually come in for a project, a period of cover or because their skillset is so hard to find that permanent employees do not exist. These contractors are usually available immediately and can slot straight into your existing workplace. Some bring their own tools – others will require the appropriate equipment such as a laptop or mobile phone. While you might pay more for a contractor in terms of a base rate, often they are more cost effective than employees. We asked General Manager Mike Westbury to provide his "key reasons why" engaging contractors is a good idea. Here are his thoughts: The key benefits Providing staffing flexibility Engaging contracting staff allows to meet short-term skill and capacity demands. Depending on the length of the contract, typical notice periods are 1-2 weeks, and you don’t have to specify a reason to end their assignment. Bridging skill gaps When you need a specific skill set for a short period of time to enable the completion of key projects. Generally, contractors will have experience in a niche area and have accomplished skills meaning they can hit the ground running. This ensures that you can meet your immediate staffing requirements without your projects falling behind schedule. Providing cost-efficient resource solutions Contractors are only paid for the hours worked and often for a short period of time. Only pay one monthly invoice – no ACC payments, PAYE, sick pay, annual leave, no requirement to include them in social events etc, no additional benefits, no ongoing training and no performance management. No employee requirements Contractors are not covered by the Employment Relations Act (2000) or the Holidays Act (2003) The one eighty solution one eighty provides recruitment services to the construction, engineering and property industries. We pride ourselves on providing tailor made recruitment solutions that are innovative in their approach and cost effective. We work with fantastic clients who have an entrepreneurial spirit and are open to growth and innovation. The service offered is specific to your needs at any one point in time. If you are looking to engage a contractor for a project or have a particular skillset required for a period of time, please contact us. We can give you advice around expected charge rates and backgrounds on suitable contractors. My details can be found here or more useful resources can be found throughout our website.

The appeal to my clients in your ability to ‘hit the ground running’ is huge. It’s a common cliché but a phrase I use often when matching contractors to clients, or one I hear as a requirement for client. So how can you make sure you get stuck in? Here are my top three pointers I always offer my contractors before their start dates. Their feedback is always positive and I have been told these tips have really added to their success during their assignments: 1. Set clear expectations Clear expectations are established by the earliest possible clarification of your goals with regards to deliverables. These expectations should reflect business pains and guarantee small wins for both you and the client. Focus your work load and efforts strategically to internal demands both immediately and over time. This will help establish a sense of immediate impact. 2. Build relationships and engage Meet the team. They need to know who you are and the role you are there to perform. This is imperative to your on-going success and integration into an organisation. Ensure these relationships are built with people that are able to provide useful insights and information if needed. This process also helps to increase your ability to successfully collaborate over time and be really part of the existing team. 3. Get feedback and respond proactively Although you manage yourself during your assignment, it is important to engage regularly with key stakeholders to ensure that you are delivering on expectations and maintaining standards that are expected in your role. Be proactive; if you see an opportunity and there needs to be a change, or you find a way of working that is more beneficial or productive, be sure to communicate this. Keep these discussions open as you should be utilising your skills as much as possible to deliver tangible results. Always come back to the common goal and how this will help the organisation see continued progress over time. If youare considering taking up a contracting opportunity, are currently in an assignment and seeking new opportunities, or would like to engage contractors into your business then please do not hesitate to give me a call. My details can be found here or more useful resources can be found throughout our website.

Interviews within the construction sector including the wider design, engineering and property industries are often run less formally; usually with more focus on soft skills and team fit. After sending many candidates in this industry off to interviews with my clients I wanted to talk through how to nail one of these interviews. 1) Prepare. Know exactly where you are going, what time and who you are to meet. Make sure you know the role you are going for and where you could fit into the structure of the business. Arrive 5-10mins early, but no more. 2) Dress appropriately. In construction never wear a suit and tie or you will be laughed off site. Depending on the client we usually suggest nice pants and nice tucked in shirt for the guys or similar smart casual for girls. 3) A key question will be “why you want the job?” or “why you are leaving?” Make sure you answer this without being derogatory about your current employer or boss – keep it diplomatic and succinct. Don’t say for more money 4) Come armed with a few questions of your own, this shows you have prepared and are genuinely interested in the business. 5) Ensure your personal grooming is up to standard. Personal hygiene and appearance is always important, no matter the industry. 6) Don’t talk too much – if you have answered a question, check with the interviewer as to whether you have sufficiently answered the question. Don’t just continue waffling on until the interviewer looks bored. It’s easy to if you’re nervous but it’s 7) Be positive, enthusiastic and show a genuine interest in joining the company. As simple as it sound, you will be surprised at how important this is. There are plenty more things to think about when attending an interview, but for a typically informal construction interview if you nail these things, then you will go a long way towards securing that role. If you want more advice check out our free interview prep guide.

The recruitment process can seem like a long arduous process and to be honest with you this is true. But it’s not just the length of the process that can put candidates off. We’ve compiled a list of ways to put great candidates off, so you don’t make these mistakes. 1) Lack of communication Think of it from the candidate’s perspective. You have applied for a job but you don’t know if they actually received your application. Or you have been progressed to the first interview stage and told they would be in touch soon. But when is soon… tomorrow? Next week? In a month? Job hunting is stressful at the best of times. When there is little communication for an extended period of time applicants will assume they were unsuccessful and move to another opportunity. 2) Inappropriate interview questions If you cast your mind back to the media storm surrounding the inappropriate question Jacinda Ardern was asked literally within a day of getting her recent promotion, then you should understand what I’m getting at. As an employer you really shouldn’t be asking those sort of questions. Surely you saw the backlash from it! 3) Unauthorised reference checks According to the Privacy Commissioner, you cannot contact referees that an applicant has not nominated or given you permission to contact. It is unfortunately common practice for hiring managers to do some ‘digging’ and call around for information prior to hiring. Basically, you can’t do this, you can, however, draw your own conclusions if candidates are not willing to consent to you contacting specific people. 4) Interview process too long Great candidates aren’t likely to want to sit around while you take months to tick off all your processes. They are likely to either need a job or really want a new one. And the longer your process, the more time you allow for other opportunities to steal your candidates. So start streamlining. 5) Spelling and grammar in your advert We expect their applications to be flawless so let’s make sure we’re not the pot calling the kettle black. 6) Lack of an acknowledgment email It takes less than 30 seconds to send this sort of email. Most systems can be set up to send automatic responses these days. Resulting in you having little to no excuse for not acknowledging their application. Candidates know this. So the longer it takes you to acknowledge their application the worse they perceive your organisation. 7) Bad expectation management This includes everything from your job adverts to how long they should expect until you get in touch again. Be clear about how your process works and give them a firm idea about when they’ll hear from you. If it’s going to be a while, let them know. A great candidate will stick around for the right role if they have been informed on what to expect. If you don’t? Well, they are gone. 8) Offering an inappropriate salary Any great candidate knows what they’re worth because they’ve done their research. So offering something outside of the market rate for the position can be insulting and alarming. So keep up to date with the market rates or risk putting off the best talent. 9) Lack of an online presence for candidates to research Great candidates do their research about any company they are applying to. In today’s world that means they head to google and if google can’t find you… do you even exist? 10) Dishonesty I feel that this one is pretty obvious. No one likes being lied to or feeling played. Great candidates will figure it out in the end. So do your best to be up front and honest throughout the process. The best way to prevent making these mistakes is to think about how you’d want or expect to be treated as an applicant and using that as a guide. Doing so will help you stop deterring the best candidates who can improve your business.