Workplace monitoring: guidance for your organisation
In the past, workplace monitoring was relatively simplistic: employers relied on visual supervision and basic timekeeping systems, and the concept of privacy was limited.Fast forward to the digital age. Employee monitoring has reached new levels of sophistication and become common practice for employers seeking to boost productivity, enhance security, and ensure compliance with regulations.Improved productivity and deeper insightsWith the advancement of technology, including GPS tracking, computer monitoring software, and biometric identification systems, surveillance can provide employers with detailed insights into employee activities and performance.One of the key benefits of employee monitoring is the ability to track and improve productivity levels. By monitoring employees' activities, employers can identify inefficiencies, analyse workflow processes, and provide targeted feedback to enhance performance. This data-driven approach allows companies to optimise their operations, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve their bottom line.Monitoring can also help employers identify and address issues such as time theft, excessive breaks, and unauthorised activities in the workplace. With real-time monitoring tools, employers can detect irregularities and take corrective actions promptly, therefore improving accountability and integrity among employees.Employee monitoring can also aid in compliance with regulations and industry standards. By keeping a close eye on electronic communications, websites visited, and files accessed, employers can ensure that employees adhere to data protection laws, maintain confidentiality, and comply with company policies. This proactive approach minimises the risk of data breaches and security incidents and also protects the company from potential legal liabilities.Balancing surveillance and ethicsDespite the clear advantages of employee monitoring, it is crucial for organisations to approach this practice with sensitivity and respect for staff privacy. As a matter of course, employers should establish clear policies regarding monitoring practices, communicate openly with employees about the purpose and scope of monitoring, and ensure transparency in the use of monitoring tools.Prioritise the protection of sensitive employee data by implementing robust security measures, restricting access to monitoring data, and complying with data protection regulations such as GDPR. These considerations can ease employees’ minds about any surveillance and even instil appreciation for such measures. After all, workplace security is in everyone’s best interests.Download our best practice guide to employee monitoringOur eBook, ‘Employee monitoring: a guide to best practices’ provides insight into how employers might best integrate employee monitoring into their organisation, and considerations for what the impact may be on employees. With opinion from thought leaders, it addresses everything from pre-employment checks to the tracking tech that might be right your organisation.Looking to hire top talent for your organisation or to find your next dream role? Get in touch with one of our specialist consultants today.
How to become a marketing executive
Are you wondering how to become a marketing executive? This article provides you with all the information you need to start your career journey.What is a marketing executive?A marketing executive is a key member of a marketing team and is often responsible for developing and implementing marketing campaigns to promote the company's products or services. They work closely with other teams, such as sales, product development, and advertising, to ensure cohesive messaging and strategic alignment. Marketing executives analyze market trends, conduct market research, and utilize various channels, including digital platforms, traditional media, and events, to reach target audiences and achieve marketing objectives.A marketing executive career is best suited to those with a creative mindset, strong communication skills, and a passion for strategic planning. Adaptability, analytical thinking, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment are also crucial attributes for success in this role.Types of marketing executiveMarketing executives can specialize in various areas, including:Digital marketing executiveFocuses on online channels such as paid social media, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.Brand marketing executiveConcentrates on building and managing the brand’s identity, including brand messaging, visual assets, and brand consistency across all touchpoints.Content marketing executiveCreates and distributes valuable, relevant content to attract and engage target audiences, often through blog posts, articles, videos, and infographics.Product marketing executiveWorks closely with product development teams to understand product features, benefits, and target markets, and develops marketing strategies to drive product adoption and sales.What do you need to become a marketing executiveHere are the marketing executive qualifications that you will need to obtain for the role:Academic qualificationsWhile a degree in marketing, business, or a related field is beneficial, practical experience and demonstrable skills are often equally important, so a degree is not always necessary.Professional qualificationsMany employers look for candidates with internship experience, relevant certifications (such as Google Analytics or HubSpot), and a strong understanding of marketing principles and techniques.Skills and experienceKey skills for marketing executives include creativity, strategic thinking, attention to detail, and proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms.Marketing executive role and responsibilitiesWhat does a marketing executive do? Well, the role varies depending on the organization and industry, but marketing executive responsibilities typically include:Developing and executing marketing strategies to meet business objectivesConducting market research to identify target audiences, market trends, and competitorsCreating compelling content and promotional materials across various channelsManaging social media accounts and engaging with followersAnalyzing campaign performance and optimizing strategies based on data insightsCollaborating with cross-functional teams, such as sales, to ensure alignment and integration of marketing effortsMarketing executives typically work standard office hours, although overtime may be required during busy periods or when deadlines are approaching. Salaries for marketing executives in the US vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry sector.Entry-level positions may start at around $30,000 per year, while experienced and senior marketing executives can earn around $60,000 per year.Marketing executive career prospectsAs businesses continue to prioritize digital marketing and data-driven decision-making, the demand for skilled marketing executives is expected to remain high. Experienced professionals may advance to senior management positions, from senior marketing executive, content marketing manager, head of digital marketing, up to marketing director. Continuing education, staying updated on industry trends, and networking within the marketing community can enhance career prospects and open new opportunities.In conclusion, becoming a marketing executive requires a combination of education, practical experience, and essential skills. With the right qualifications and dedication, aspiring marketers can embark on a rewarding career path with ample opportunities for growth and advancement.If you are looking for a marketing or business support professional, or seeking a new role yourself, get in touch with one of our specialist consultants today.
Inspiring the next generation: the benefits of offering internships
The decision to hire interns is not merely a trend, but a strategic must. The opportunities associated with internships can be used to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application, while also playing a pivotal role in shaping the careers of aspiring professionals.Towards the end of 2023, Google searches for ‘internships’ increased by 22% to 6,000 searches per month, while the social media platform, TikTok, saw four million views for the hashtag #internships, as more and more students look for opportunities to increase their work experience.For businesses, investing in paid internships is a strategic move that goes beyond fulfilling corporate social responsibility. It's an investment in the future workforce, creating a talent pool that may later become full-time employees. According to the 2022 Student Recruitment Survey by the Institute of Student Employers, 82% of respondents reported that they recruit interns – showing that internships shouldn’t just be viewed as a gesture of goodwill, but play a pivotal role in recognizing talent, promoting diversity, and contributing to overall business success.Managed well, an internship can be a viable recruitment option for an organization. But what are the main reasons why businesses should consider running an internship program?Talent developmentBusinesses can use internship programs as a proactive approach to identifying and nurturing professionals for their talent pool. They can create direct connections with emerging talent, providing them with first-hand experience in their respective industries – from engineering and technology to sales and procurement.With skills shortages affecting a large number of sectors, employers that provide a platform for eager individuals to gain paid experience, help ease the pressures many businesses – and professionals – are facing.Innovation and fresh perspectivesInterns can inject new and exciting perspectives and ideas into the workplace, which can see campaigns thrive and strategies become more impactful. By recognizing that diversity fuels creativity, seeking interns who bring unique insights and approaches to problem-solving will help to enhance the overall creativity and adaptability of the organization.Introducing different perspectives into your workplace provides a fresh take on the business as a whole. Even though interns won't be responsible for creating new policies or planning a strategy, their outside opinion may improve existing practices.For example, as more workplaces undergo digital transformation the need for a workforce that is comfortable with various technologically advanced tools has never been more important. Asking for an intern’s feedback on your digital presence and consumer-facing collateral can pinpoint where potential improvements can be made and where new business or custom can be identified.Social responsibility and diversityBusinesses are increasingly investing in corporate social responsibility and the benefits that come with having a diverse workforce.Running an internship program allows companies to contribute to ongoing social initiatives by providing valuable opportunities to individuals who may face barriers to entry into the workforce. Employers who actively seek out interns from various demographics can demonstrate their commitment to fairness, equality, and social responsibility – heightening their appeal to professionals looking for 'good' companies to work for.It’s important to maintain a community-focused approach, ensuring you ‘give back’ by offering young talent the opportunity to thrive and succeed in an internship – helping enhance their career prospects and your reputation at the same time.Brand image enhancementIn a world where reputation means everything, any opportunity to be seen as an employer of choice can be vital to a successful talent acquisition strategy. Internship programs play a pivotal role in shaping the perception of a company among potential new employees, as well as customers and other stakeholders.Businesses that actively engage in internships can showcase their commitment to investing in professional development, graduate opportunities, and career changes – creating a positive brand image. This in turn attracts people seeking meaningful opportunities for growth and career progression.Helping the next generationThere’s a bigger picture to internship programs. Many individuals, especially recent graduates, may face challenges when embarking on a new career path. Those lucky enough to win internships will reap the benefits that come from the experience, not just in adding to their CV, but in self-confidence gained from developing knowledge of their chosen profession, all while making valuable contacts.Internships ultimately improve future employability and give a head start to those keen to learn sought-after skills in their field, whether that’s invoice management and purchasing in accountancy, or content strategies and communication plans in marketing.Having interns can potentially help to identify future leaders among your junior employees. When overseeing an intern’s day-to-day activities, some junior employees may demonstrate exceptional management and leadership traits. Once these skills have been identified, you may consider investing in these employees further and upskilling them for future leadership opportunities.Businesses that offer internships are not just investing in short-term support but are strategically building a foundation for long-term success. An internship is still one of the best ways for professionals to gain that all-important work experience, highlighting the importance a robust internship program plays in growing and expanding the workforce.Looking to hire experienced professionals to join your team? Contact one of our specialist consultants today.
The biotech boom: considerations for sustained sector growth
In recent years, the World has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in the biotech sector.This surge is reshaping the landscape of life sciences – growing from USD 366.7 billion in 2022 to USD 412.2 billion in 2023. Recent developments in biotech innovation address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from human health to environmental degradation, to food security.Biotech growth in the worldScientists are making great leaps in gene-editing technology – heralding a new era of possibilities in enhancing cell research and, ultimately, curing infectious diseases.One exciting venture is the Synthetic Yeast Genome Project, the creation of synthetic versions of all the organism’s chromosomes. This breakthrough has paved the way for designer yeasts with metabolic pathways tailored to make biofuels from diverse materials.This example shows the sector has come a long way – creating a strong foothold for innovation. There will always be challenges. These challenges include the need for strong financial support, top research institutions, a thriving startup environment, and skilled scientists and researchers.Biotech companies in Cambridge, Oxford, and London are using advanced technology to solve important scientific problems, leading to new job opportunities.Developing a highly skilled industryLet’s look at two key job roles needed to continue the sector’s growth.Molecular biologists, especially those with expertise in cell line engineering, are crucial for the development of robust and reliable cell models that are essential for drug discovery, therapeutic protein production, and understanding complex biological processes. Their ability to manipulate and optimize cell lines can significantly accelerate research and development timelines.Specialist bioinformaticians play a pivotal role in managing and interpreting the vast amounts of data generated by modern biotechnological processes. Their skills in data analysis, algorithm development, and computational biology are indispensable for translating raw data into meaningful insights, thus driving innovation and progress in the field.Together, these experts contribute to the cutting-edge advancements that define the biotech industry and are needed to keep businesses on an upward trajectory.Gene-editing leading the wayAt the forefront of this biotech revolution is gene-editing technology, which holds immense promise in curing infections and revolutionizing cell research. Nobel prize-winning CRISPR tech, in particular, has emerged as a powerful tool for precisely modifying genes, offering unprecedented opportunities to address genetic diseases and develop new theories around treatment.Gene editing’s impact on infection treatment is profound. It offers the potential to drive out persistent viral infections like the aforementioned HIV, presenting new options in the fight to find cures. Its role in combating the Covid-19 pandemic also highlights the versatility and promise of gene-editing as an antiviral modality.By precisely targeting and disabling viral genes, researchers are paving the way for advanced treatments that could render once-deadly infections manageable or even curable.The power of investmentWhile the potential of gene-editing technology and other biotech innovations is undeniable, the discussion will once again turn to investment to keep advancing research. As the boundaries of scientific innovation are pushed, extensive life sciences funding can drive several positive outcomes, including:Research and development: increased investment enables biotech companies to accelerate their research and development efforts. Scientists can explore novel therapies, diagnostics, and technologies that address critical health and environmental challenges.Clinical trials: funding supports clinical trials, allowing promising treatments to advance from the lab to real-world applications. These trials are essential for validating safety and effectiveness.Job creation: a thriving biotech sector creates jobs across various disciplines, including research, manufacturing, engineering, and product development. Employment opportunities contribute to economic stability.It’s worth noting that once investment is secured, there needs to be substantial collaboration between academics, industry leaders, and personnel at regulatory bodies to help steer towards scientific breakthroughs, economic prosperity, and global influence.Looking aheadHarnessing the collective expertise and skill of the biotech community could lead to an opportunity to redefine cell research and provide universal access to life-saving treatments. This means that policymakers hoping to boost the biotech industry need to listen to the wants and needs of the sector, including the importance of R&D tax credits for research-intensive startups, the ongoing availability of patient capital, and the need for funding and facilities that can be scaled up when necessary.Looking for your next hire or considering your next career move in the scientific space? Contact our specialist consultants today.
Promoting career development benefits the hospitality and leisure sector and your company
Opportunities to upskill and progress exist in every sector – most people don’t realize that hospitality and leisure are no different. Understanding how to upskill your staff and allow them to develop is the key to finding professionals to fill senior roles and create a pipeline of experienced candidates in your business.Hospitality and leisure are an industry that allows you to work anywhere in the world. Many people have experience in the hospitality sector, yet don’t realize they are on the first rung of a career ladder which could take them all over the world. Providing your employees with the tools to develop will only add value to your workforce and, in turn, your business. Any investment this costs you will be rewarded in the long run, as talented professionals will want to work for you and will be loyal to your business.Hire adaptable workers with the right potentialThinking about how you can develop a candidate before you even hire them will enable you to find employees who can adapt well to any hospitality role. Technical skills are easier to teach, but soft skills are fundamental. The key skills for success in hospitality and leisure are being good with people and the ability to handle stress.Candidates with hobbies like traveling could also have the potential to go far in the industry. That’s because these individuals often have the drive to get ahead and like to work flexibly.Qualifications and experience aren’t always the most essential things when you first hire someone. As long as someone has the right potential and drive, they can accrue this over time and you can start developing them into the perfect employee. Encourage and support the development of your employeesFewer people are entering courses related to practical skills needed in the industry. It would benefit you to encourage your staff to take part in relevant courses to their role, to show them the benefits of a long-term career in hospitality.Technical skills needed in the industry can progress through being a good leader and guiding your employees every step of the way. Trusting people with more responsibility can give them the confidence to aim for a more senior position or improve productivity in their current role.Opportunities – give your staff a chance to utilize their skills and reach their full potential. Experiencing a variety of tasks will allow them to understand which way their career could progress. For example, one of your reception employees might dream of being a chef and want to gain some experience in the kitchen. Allowing some time for this opportunity can create a loyal and multi-skilled professional. You could even find you have yourself an employee who can work across a variety of roles. These workers would be your biggest asset.Alternatively, your kitchen staff might want an opportunity to improve their social skills – this could be achieved by letting them do some shifts, working directly with customers or guests. Professionals in the hospitality and leisure sector should have these skills, especially when aiming for senior positions. Having experienced staff who understand all operational aspects will improve the way the whole team works, boosting your level of customer service.Education – companies who can afford to invest in their employees’ careers and support them are more likely to attract the best candidates. They will also see a great return on that investment. Providing opportunities for them to join courses to upskill or gain some extra industry insights can create grateful employees and a good reputation for your business. Language courses can also be handy, for both personal and professional development in hospitality and leisure. In certain areas of the industry, especially working in a hotel, your customers and guests are likely to come from all over the world. Language skills aren’t essential to the business, but they can be valuable, and a good way to encourage your employees to be more personable with guests. Better communication will create better guest experiences.Helping your employees with their education doesn’t just mean buying them a training course. It could mean providing flexible working hours to fit their course schedule, or even just some positive reinforcement while they study. Professionals looking for work in hospitality will flock to your company if you earn a reputation for encouraging a growth mindset and personal development. The key is asking your staff what they would like to improve about themselves and supporting them. You will not only boost your business but improve skills across the entire hospitality and leisure industry.Are you looking for a hospitality and leisure professional, or your next career opportunity? Get in touch with us now.
Transformative talent: how career changers can enrich organisations at any age
Career changes can help reignite passion for work and are a courageous step at any stage of life. Whatever rung of the corporate ladder an individual has reached, daring to push beyond their comfort zone into a new industry or type of role should be viewed positively by employers. Many workers are looking to fulfil ambitions their original career path couldn’t offer, and after years of experience in a particular sector may be ready to sidestep into something new.One of the key advantages career changers bring to the table is a wealth of experience gained from diverse industries. Unlike individuals who have followed a linear career trajectory, those who transition between professions bring a multifaceted perspective that can prove invaluable in problem solving, decision-making, and innovation. Their skills and knowledge, acquired over time, can help shape how a team works and even contribute to organisational culture. For example, ex-forces personnel can strengthen communication, discipline, teamwork and leadership in business. Here are some other common attributes of those who change their career: ResilienceCareer changers inherently possess the often-overlooked skills of resilience and adaptability. Navigating the complexities of change, be it industry shifts, new technologies, or different organisational cultures, is second nature to those who have successfully made a career transition. This adaptability enhances personal growth and helps employers who rely on teams rolling with operational changes. Resilience under pressure can ultimately save an organisation – whether through an understanding of the nuances of crisis communications or in making board-level decisions. Diversity of thoughtCareer changers, with their varied backgrounds and experiences, inject fresh ideas and approaches to the workplace. This diversity of thought can widen the outlook of a team, influencing new business partnerships, ways of working, as well as cultivating innovation. Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to business practice, but many leaders in today’s tech-oriented workplaces are relying on the generation most immersed in digital tools and practices to run the show, discounting those with other capabilities and aptitudes. Soft skillsTransferable skills learned across different sectors/industries can be highly beneficial in business, but soft skills are invaluable. Our recent research highlights a new focus among employers to prioritise soft skills over experience in the wake of candidate shortages– good news for career changers who have had years to hone expertise in negotiation, influencing and problem solving. Organisations should take steps to challenge age-related stereotypes and welcome those seeking new career journeys. Aside from strength of character, their experience may cover everything from public speaking, networking, customer service to management skills. How to attract career changers to your organisationWhile the benefits of career changers are evident, it is essential to address the prevalent issue of age bias in the hiring process. The majority of career changers will be people with many years of experience behind them – making their perceived ‘fit’ into a team of younger people a potential issue for millennial leaders/hiring managers. A more relaxed approach to role requirements in job adverts can capture the interest of a wider range of people – after all, technical skills can be quickly learned but emotional intelligence, the confidence to experiment, and strategic thinking are harder assets to find. Promote stories of career changers who’ve made a difference to your organisation – add case studies and videos to your careers site of employees who found their way into their dream role from other industries. Invite them to become employee ambassadors, attending industry and careers events to help with recruitment. Most professionals looking for a different challenge are set on doing meaningful work, rather than trying to climb the corporate ladder or embellish their CVs. Someone who shows genuine passion for an industry or role, regardless of experience, could be your best hire this year. Looking to hire experienced professionals for your team? Our experts recruit across 20 sectors and are ready to help you find your next perfect hire. Contact one of our specialist consultants today.