Apr 23, 2024 | IT, Tips
With vacancies above pre-pandemic levels and unemployment at an almost record low, it’s important to choose your IT recruitment partner carefully. You need to partner with someone who knows the market. Someone who knows how to find excellent candidates in times of a skills shortage. Not all recruiters are the same! Yes, there’s some basic principles we all stick to, but that’s not enough right now!
Here’s just some of the reasons why our clients choose us as their IT Recruitment Partner. We can…
…help you budget
Wouldn’t you rather work with an IT recruitment partner who has the market insight to ensure you attract the best candidates? And that you have the right amount in your budget to do so? We don’t just recruit for our clients, we share information on latest salaries, candidate availability and more! Each month, we produce a full IT salary guide showing the latest salaries and day rates for the most popular IT roles. We share the monthly increases and decreases for your area so you can see exactly what’s happening in the market.
Our salary guides can help you when scoping costs and budgets for new IT Projects, expanding a team, or comparing salaries in a competitive marketplace to ensure your remuneration is aligned accordingly.
We currently produce salary guides for UK, London, Yorkshire and the North West. But we can produce bespoke reports on request. So, if you want to know if you are allocating the right budget before you start the recruitment process, get in touch with us today.
…help you plan
We know that recruitment is something that gets added to an already pretty impressive to do list. So you need an IT recruitment partner who you can trust to manage the whole process for you.
When we register a vacancy order from you, we make sure that we understand your unique circumstances, your challenges, your organisation, your team, your culture and what the future looks like. Then you can leave it to the experts. When we work on a role, we do so on a project basis. Your dedicated resourcer will agree a campaign start and end date with you meaning that you will receive a full, qualified shortlist of candidates. We find that our clients prefer to work in this way rather than being drip fed CVs throughout the campaign. It’s a much more effective way of planning your time and also keeping the candidates engaged.
So not only do we ensure shortlists of qualified candidates are delivered in a timely manner, but we can also arrange interviews are to suit your agenda. And once you’ve chosen your perfect candidate we can look after everything from delivering the offer and confirming acceptance to negotiating start dates and helping candidates with resignations.
…be the IT recruitment partner that gives you peace of mind
We understand that there’s always a risk when it comes to recruiting new members of your team. And that’s why we have an industry leading guarantee to help give you peace of mind. Whilst we, (and you) do everything we can to help prevent any issues, sometimes things just don’t work out. Our guarantee means that should the worst happen, we’ve got you covered. We will replace your candidate with no charge up to 3 months after they start.
With the market as it is right now, working with an IT recruitment partner that can not only find the best candidates, but also give you peace of mind is imperative.
Ask our team for more information on our guarantee today.
…help with writing job descriptions
We know what you need on your job description to help attract the best candidates. But don’t worry, we won’t just leave you to get on with it if you need help.
Not only should each employee have a clear job description as part of the HR process, crafting the perfect job description can actually help you to secure the best talent. But it’s not just that! A poor job description, or none at all could actually be preventing you from hiring the best IT talent.
Often, candidates will ask to see a job description before they confirm that their CV can be sent. We help make sure that you’re presenting the best version of your company and your job to keep their interest.
…make things simple with automatic billing for contractors
Hiring a contractor shouldn’t mean lots of additional admin. We keep things simple with automatic billing. All you need to do is simply authorise a weekly timesheet and we’ll do the rest. We’ll organise payment to the contractor and ensure all the necessary legislation is adhered to.
Our self billing agreements with contractors makes it easy for them too. With invoices and payment automatically created from timesheet approval, it speeds up the payment process, reducing administration for everyone.
…use our years of experience to find the best candidates
Did you know that Langley James has been helping companies to recruit someone worth recruiting for over 20 years? We take our role seriously and are ISO accredited which ensures quality in our procedures. Our years of experience (some of our recruiters have over 25 years’ experience!), means that we know our market!
Since opening in 1999, we have been consistently improving our processes to make sure that we provide the very best service possible. Here’s just some of the ways we’ve done this –
- We’ve been building our database for over 20 years. This means that we know a lot of people who may not necessarily be available on the open market. These are candidates that trust us with their IT career and know that we will approach them with any suitable roles
- We use a large selection of job boards. Our investment in job boards is one of the largest in the market. We are always monitoring the effectiveness of the boards that we use and are constantly testing new boards. We use both general and IT specific boards to help ensure the greatest reach for your vacancy.
- We’re highly active on social media. And we don’t just use LinkedIn like most other agencies do. We also know how to get the best from Facebook and Twitter too. We were one of the first agencies to utilise social media to find you the best candidates – that a look for yourself – @ITRecruitment
Choose Langley James as your IT recruitment partner today.
Apr 23, 2024 | IT, Tips
We are in the middle of a long and sustained talent crisis. Candidate availability is decreasing by the day, and job vacancies continue to rise. Albeit at a slightly slower rate over the last few months. But the success of your business depends on your team. The people you hire have a direct impact on your success. So, when it comes to your next vacancy, you may be asking which is best for you – recruitment agency vs direct hiring.
We’ve asked our expert consultants to share their insight on the pros and cons of both to help you make that all important decision.
Agency vs Direct
We’ve written at length about the benefits of working with a specialised recruitment agency, but let’s compare some key areas when it comes to recruitment agency vs direct hiring.
Writing adverts
This may sound like a simple process, but don’t be fooled. Yes, it’s true that we can all write an advert stating the responsibilities and requirements. However, in the current market, that is not enough! Candidates are less likely to apply for a job with a list of demands. They want the story, the feeling, a sense of what you stand for. They want the benefits, the future opportunities, and a sense of being part of something important in the world.
If you don’t have experience of this, you are likely to find that your advert will be a bit of a ‘damp squid’ and won’t attract the people you need to make your business a continued success. Agencies are writing adverts day in, day out. They know what it takes to get the best response.
Access to candidates
A recruitment agency will have access to many more candidates than you will if you recruit direct. Not only do they have a large database of experienced candidates, but they are also able to advertise in lots of different ways. This means that you don’t just get the best people who are currently on the market. A recruiter will also headhunt suitable candidates for you using a combination of technology and their personal network. This means that your shortlist should be the very best candidates for the job.
Direct hiring tends to be focused on adverts, website pages and the odd social media post. The reach is not as great as that of a recruiter. With direct hiring, you are unlikely to have the tools you need to get your advert out as far as it needs to go. Lots of companies use their own employees to recommend candidates. Whilst this is great in some instances, it can have an impact on your diversity. Something to bear in mind with any employee referral scheme.
Sifting through CV’s – Recruitment Agency vs Direct Hiring
Depending on how much time you have, it could be a benefit for you to read through all the applications you receive if you do decide direct hiring is for you. The advantages are that you see not just shortlisted candidates, but every single response. This will give you a real insight into the market (if your job advert is great!) and may give you insight on what you need to change to attract the best.
You’ve also got to have the technical knowledge when it comes to IT. You may be looking for experience in a particular piece of tech. And unless you’re aware of other technologies where skills can easily transfer, you could be missing out on a great candidate!
Either way, be prepared to spend lots of time looking at unsuitable CVs as the pay-off for direct hiring. However, if you don’t have the extra time needed to go through the process, using a recruitment agency van be a valuable way of finding new talent for your business. Shortlisting is completed on your behalf, and you only have to choose who to interview from a shortlist of CVs.
Employer branding
You’ve probably heard more and more people start to talk about employer branding. It’s a vital part of the direct hiring process. When was the last time you reviewed yours? What does your Glassdoor say about you? How are your Google reviews? There are many things to consider when recruiting direct when it comes to how you are perceived in the market.
However, we know that there are some really great companies to work for our there who don’t have any employer brand at all. And if this is you then using a recruitment agency is the best idea. Recruitment consultants are highly skilled at attracting candidates to opportunities. They sell the opportunity first and the company a very close second. This gives the added benefit that any questions candidates have about your values, culture, and more, can be answered directly. So, whether you have a strong employer brand or not, you’ll still get the best candidates using a recruitment agency.
The same can be said for candidate experience too. If you already have a robust recruitment communication process, great, direct hiring could be for you. But remember that candidates expect a response within 24 hours of their application now. They expect to be kept up to date at every stage in the process. Do you have the time and organisation to do that effectively?
Cost
There’s a general misconception in the market that using recruitment agencies can be costly. But this is usually when it’s looked at in isolation and not compared to direct hiring. If you wanted to do the same work as a recruiter does, it could end up costing you considerably more. And this cost increases if you’re not regularly recruiting. Recruitment agencies spend hundreds of thousands of pounds behind the scenes to make sure that they are providing the best service and the best candidates.
You’d be amazed how much it costs to just advertise a job on one job board, let along over 30! Access to CV databases is also at a great cost, and let’s not get started on the costs associated with LinkedIn! Then there’s the time spent searching out the best candidates. At Langley James, we allocate at least 3 full days just to shortlist candidates for you. And in the current market, this can take longer too.
But there’s one huge benefit when it comes to cost. Recruitment agencies will not charge you a penny until they have been successful, regardless of the time spent on the role. This is something you can’t do with direct hiring. You take a financial risk every time you recruit direct – there are no guarantees of success.
Recruitment Agency Vs Direct Hiring – Summary
If you have lots of time on your hands, and an ‘easy to fill’ role then direct hiring will probably work for you. But, if you have a harder to fill role but you still want the very best candidates, without having to invest your own time, you need the help of a recruitment agency.
About Langley James
We have been helping companies to attract and retain the very best IT talent since 1999. But we don’t just simply find the best candidates. We can advise you on the current jobs market conditions. Share data on average IT salaries. Talk to you about the benefits that candidates are looking for. In fact, we do everything we can to help ensure that you get the very best people for your team. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you to recruit the best!
Apr 23, 2024 | Hiring Resources, IT, News
Do you need to recruit IT staff right now? Finding the perfect IT professional to join your company is difficult. However, you still aim to source and recruit the best of the best who will fit both your role and company culture. Like everyone, you’re no doubt already busy/ Recruiting is always an extra thing to add to your long to do list. You’re battling to turn around an attractive job description, market your role, source ideal candidates, search through piles of online applications and conduct interviews. It’s a very time-consuming and lengthy process. But with time really of the essence in this market, it’s not the best way forward.
The market is moving so quickly, even if you do see a couple of remarkable candidates, you rush to contact them only to find out they are no longer available. Who’s snapped them up? One of your competitors maybe? Maybe it’s a competitor who has utilised a great recruitment agency like us?
If you feel like you’re losing the IT recruitment battle and you’re looking to boost your efforts, working with an IT agency is a strategy to consider.
The benefits of working with a recruitment agency to recruit IT staff
Here are just a few reasons why you should be working with an IT recruiter to source your next IT expert:
Experience
IT recruitment is our passion. We understand how important each candidate touchpoint is, along with strategies to source, engage with and convert talented applicants into keen candidates. This experience is invaluable in the current market. You need to partner with an agency who knows what works and how to get the best results for you.
A good recruiter will have a detailed understanding the market and their area of specialism. A recruiter who specialises in IT will have the industry knowledge to find you the perfect candidate. They understand the skillset you need, and some will even have hands-on experience themselves. Therefore, in a skills short market, if you’re struggling to find exactly what you need, a specialist IT recruiter may be able to make suggestions on how to widen your search.
Connections are invaluable to recruit IT staff
And it’s not just the experience to understand who you are looking for, and how to find them. Recruitment agencies will have a large pool of candidates. This is what sets us apart! Not only will a recruiter have an excellent database of candidates that they have been building over a number of years, but they will also have a strong network they can tap into. It’s amazing how many candidates get the job of their dreams for a recommendation from a colleague. A recruiter knows how to utilise their connections to get the best results for you.
At Langley James, we’ve been recruiting IT staff for 25 years now. Our network of candidates is one of the strongest in the market. This is what you really need in the current climate – a recruiter with a very strong database.
An IT recruiters’ mission is to support you in finding the ideal candidate. However, they also support their pool of talent to find the ideal role and workplace. It’s the perfect combination.
Time
Wouldn’t it be great to be able to hand over your IT recruitment needs to someone you can really trust? Someone who will get the job done and secure the very best candidate for you with minimal fuss. Allowing you to focus on what you’re good at – your job. Recruiters live and breathe recruitment. We know how to get results, even in the current market. A recruiter will have a plethora of tools at their fingertips that helps make your recruitment process more efficient. We know how to attract the right candidates. We can even make contact with people who may not actively be looking for a job but are likely to be excited by your opportunity.
But saving you time when you recruit IT staff isn’t the end of the story. Better still, a recruiter can even save you money by ensuring they source candidates who will become long-term, loyal employees. We do this by matching not just skills, but ambitions, values, and culture fit. This reduces the likelihood of starting the recruitment process again a few months later!
Finding the right recruitment agency
Not all recruitment agencies are the same. Therefore, it’s important that you select and work with the most suitable one for you and your business. Be sure to work with an agency that reflects your company values and can positively represent your company.
Once you’ve found the right recruiter for you, you’ll have a team of experts at hand, ready to find you the next pool of talent!
To find out how we work and how we can help you today, contact our team on 020 7788 6600
Dec 6, 2023 | IT
The Christmas Bonus – Is It Worth It?
The Christmas Bonus – Is It Worth It?
Christmas bonuses, like so many other phrases, have lost their meaning over the years. Originally, the term “Christmas bonus” was used to describe any financial gifts given to an employee or worker by an employer during the holiday season. Today, it’s increasingly used as a blanket term for bonuses given on an employee’s pay that’s usually associated with the holiday season. It’s also often referred to as a year-end bonus. Despite the amount being paid, or its frequency, Christmas bonuses nowadays are still seen as a reflection of an employer’s gratitude and respect to its workers. But is it actually worth it for you as an employer to give a Christmas bonus?
Benefits of a Christmas Bonus
Although employers may be wary of the financial implications of giving a Christmas bonus, there are several benefits associated with it. Firstly, an employer you could boost the economy with a bonus distribution. Usually, a small bonus of 20 or 30 Pounds to a few hundred Pounds can make a huge difference to low-income earners who could use the extra money to purchase necessities and even non-essential items. This stimulates the local economy and could create a ripple effect in various industries. It also shows appreciation for the employees, which in turn can improve employee satisfaction and loyalty. Moreover, it helps to offset price increases, particularly from the growing cost of living for low-earners.
Arguments Against a Christmas Bonus
Employers’ main concern when it comes to the Christmas bonus is the financial cost. For small businesses especially, these one-time bonuses can be a huge financial strain, one that can easily thwart a company’s plans and goals. Another worry would be the unfairness associated with it. This refers to companies that may give a Christmas bonus skewed towards their higher-earning employees, while their lower-earning counterparts get a far lesser bonus or none at all. Lastly, there’s the issue of lesser motivation. Financial bonuses, while a nice gesture to show appreciation, can lead to employees to become more reliant on the yearly bonus and feel less incentive to work hard during the rest of the year.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are definite pros and cons employers must assess when it comes to giving Christmas bonuses. On one hand, employers may fear the financial burden and potential unfairness that comes with these once-off bonuses. On the other hand, they can be beneficial to the local economy, show appreciation for employees, and offset price increases for their lower-income employees. Ultimately, employers must weigh up the financial implications of giving a Christmas bonus and factor in the specific needs and circumstances of their employees and company, before deciding whether a Christmas bonus is worth it.
Dec 6, 2023 | IT
3 Things to do Before Recruiting IT staff
Recruiting the best talent to fill a position in your company is a task that requires a great deal of planning and careful consideration. This is especially true for IT positions where the skills needed are highly specialized and more expensive to go out and acquire. As such, it’s best to take the time to do research, examine the salary implications, and get an expert’s opinion before deciding who to bring on board. Here we will discuss three key things you should do before recruiting in the IT space.
- Introduction
Before making the decision to recruit in the IT field, it is important to remember that there is more to selecting and hiring a candidate than just selecting the best applicants. You need to not only ensure that the particular knowledge and skills needed for the position are met, but it is also important to consider salary and other potential factors.
- Consider Salary
Before recruiting, it is important to do research on the average salaries for the given position in the particular area and understand what the best salaries are that you can realistically pay given the skills you need. It’s a good idea to research salaries on job sites like Indeed, Langley James website is the ideal place to go https://www.langleyjames.com/ in order to gain an understanding for how much to pay. Additionally, it is important to identify which skills are necessary for the position, and to pay accordingly. For example, a candidate with a high level of experience with a certain coding language may be able to command a higher salary than someone who has slightly less experience but is still qualified.
III. Are you really looking for like for like or new for old?
Consideration should be given as to whether now, would be the ideal time to restructure the department? Would now be a good time to consider perhaps trailing a contractor? Recruiting a contractor, could give you a better insight into, exactly what you`re looking for. Just because you’ve always had a specific position within your company doesn’t necessarily mean that’s what you still need. Has the nature of the role evolved since you last had to fill it? Another thing to consider, is whether you’d be better recruiting the replacement for this specific role internally. Then using a recruitment company to help recruit, for that position? This could be a more cost and time effect way of addressing the situation.
- Get Expert Advice
When recruiting in the IT field, you should always consult with recruiting agencies and those in the IT industry. You may even want to consult those at the manager level, as these people usually have an eye for spotting the best talent. An experienced recruiter will be able to identify the needs of the job and find candidates that meet those needs. Obtaining the advice of a qualified individual in the field of IT can also help you as you navigate the recruitment process and make smart choices about the type of candidate you are looking for.
In addition to consulting a recruitment agency, it is also wise to find an expert in the IT field you are recruiting for. This individual can provide you with the knowledge on which particular skills and qualifications you should be looking for in candidates, as well as any trends they might be seeing in the tech industry. Such a person can provide invaluable insight into understanding the expectations for a given IT position in your area.
- Conclusion
No matter what the industry, doing adequate research and getting advice from qualified individuals is important when it comes to recruiting the right candidate. Not only does this help ensure a well-rounded search for both the company and the candidate, but it also gives the company the proper information needed to make informed decisions prior to hiring. By doing research, examining salary implications, and getting expert advice, you can help ensure that you make the right hiring decisions when recruiting in IT.
Dec 6, 2023 | IT
The Dangers of the Christmas party alcohol mixed with unsolicited sexual behaviour.
The holiday season is a time of celebration, and for many, the favorite way to celebrate is with a Christmas party. The office Christmas party is a gathering of friends and colleagues, who having worked closely together for the last 12 months, gather at an venue. Perhaps for the only time in the year. Unfortunately, as with any large gathering, there can be some risks associated with attending a Christmas party, particularly when it comes to Christmas party alcohol inhibits people’s inhibitions, which can lead to dire consequences. What seemed like harmless fun at the time, and be anything but, come the sober light of day. These are all things that as an employer you could have to take responsibility for even be held accountable.
The Dangers of Christmas Party Alcohol
Alcohol is commonly associated with Christmas parties, but it is important to recognize the potential hazards that can come from drinking alcohol in an uncontrolled setting. Alcohol, when consumed in large amounts, can have a range of devastating results. At the most basic level, alcohol causes inhibition of judgment and reaction time. This can lead to dangerous activities and decisions, such as attempting to operate a vehicle while intoxicated or engaging in risky sexual behavior. Now there is nothing wrong with consuming a few alcoholic drinks, in a safe environment. All your employees are after all adults, and accountable for the their own actions. But as employers, the buck could potential stop with you, should things go awry. Perhaps consideration for ensuring non-alcoholic drinks, such as water or juice, are available. Having food available, can also reduce people’s intoxication? Finally, be aware of your companions. If you are attending a Christmas party with a group of friends, make sure that everyone is aware of the potential risks of alcohol consumption and is abiding by the same rules.
The Dangers of Sexual behaviour at Christmas Parties
While alcohol can present a range of physical risks, sexual tension at a Christmas party can lead to a number of social risks. Sexual tension is the strong feeling of attraction between two individuals and can be exacerbated at a Christmas party, where people may be feeling more relaxed and likely to indulge in risky behaviour. The consequences of sexual tension can range from simply feeling awkward and embarrassed to a more serious breach of consent. If sexual tension leads to more intimate contact, it is important to ensure that both individuals are comfortable and that they both understand the parameters of the situation. Without clear consent, any sexual activity carries the potential for legal and social repercussions. In order to recognize and manage sexual tension, it is important to be aware of the warning signs. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, it is important to trust your instincts and do your best to remove yourself from the situation. If you see someone else in an uncomfortable situation, it is your responsibility as an employer to check in with them and ensure that they are comfortable and not feeling pressured.Finally, it is important to take steps to reduce the potential for sexual tension at a Christmas party. To do so, it is important to ensure that the atmosphere of the party is professional and that suggestive conversation and behavior is not tolerated. If desired, a “no alcohol” policy can be designated to reduce the potential for overindulgence in alcohol, which can increase the chances of risky sexual behavior.
Conclusion
Christmas parties can be a time of great joy and revelry but, unfortunately, they can also present a range of risks due to alcohol consumption and sexual tension. The best way to reduce the potential for harm is to be aware of the potential risks and to take steps to manage them. This includes drinking in moderation, understanding the signs of sexual tension, and ensuring that any sexual contact is consensual. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Christmas party is a time of joy and merriment and not one filled with regret.
Nov 15, 2023 | IT
Lateness – The demands on management to take action!
Repeated staff lateness is detrimental to your company brand, disrespectful, ignorant and just plain RUDE!!!! .
In today’s world, it has become increasingly difficult to keep up with a countless array of commitments, time limits, and appointments.
It can be draining both physically and emotionally to manage all these tasks in a timely manner. Therefore, it is important to take action on lateness in order to foster better relationships, better time management, and increased productivity.
Necessity of Taking Action on Lateness
Taking action on lateness can also improve relationships. Being punctual helps to improve the trust we have in each other and can lead to more success in collaborative projects such as work, presentations, competitions, and other endeavours. Friends, family, and work colleagues are more likely to have a more positive opinion of someone who takes timely action on commitments.
In order for your team to be punctual, it’s critical that you set the standard. It starts with you – if you arrive to work late and or leave early, it can set the wrong tone for the whole team. When employees see their manager arriving late and leaving early, it can affect their own punctuality in subtle ways. In turn, you’ll need to keep track of working hours monitor and evaluate the attendance, and stick to the rules that you set.
How to Handle Latecomers
People can be late for various reasons, but you can’t let repeated occasions slide. To ensure good performance and commitment, you should address the issue promptly. Don’t show favoritism and don’t allow anyone to get away with it, even your top performers or longest-serving employees. This is the only way to ensure that the rules are followed by everyone equally.
Figure out the reason for a team member’s lateness, there might be genuine underlying issues. It could be a legitimate reason such as commuting difficulties, or it could be a sign of a deeper underlying issue. If it’s a legitimate issue, provide support and offer advice on how they can better manage their time or find solutions to the problem.
If a team member is frequently late and fails to meet deadlines, then you need to take a firmer approach. You should communicate your expectations to the employee and highlight the damaging effect of their tardiness. Agree on solutions or corrective actions going forward, such as introducing a latecomers or punctuality log.
How to Manage a Team Working Remotely
Managing a team that works remotely can prove difficult if you don’t have the correct tools or strategies in place. To manage a remote team effectively, it’s important to set deadlines and communicate regularly. Make sure your team knows what needs to be done and when – let them know that they are expected to submit each task by a certain date and time.
For remote teams, set shorter deadlines than if the team were working from the same office. That way, any unfinished business can be addressed before the final hour and still meet the deadline. It’s important to remind your team of these expectations and deadlines regularly while they work from home.
Communication is key for remote team success. Make sure to communicate with your team on a daily basis, whether that’s through video calls, direct messages on Slack or email. Monitor your team’s progress and offer regular feedback. This way, if anything is going wrong, you can act swiftly to fix any issues and get back on track.
Hold everyone in your team accountable for their tasks and goals. Use tools like Asana, Trello or a project tracking tool to keep track of progress. This also helps to ensure that the whole team is on the same page and that no tasks are overlooked.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s important to lead by example when it comes to punctuality and ensure that your team is meeting deadlines and sticking to agreed timelines. Setting clear rules, expectations, and guidelines, while rewarding outstanding punctuality and offering incentives can help enhance punctuality amongst your team.
In addition, to ensure that any latecomers get back on track, address the issue promptly and fairly without favouritism. Lastly, when managing remote teams, make sure to communicate frequently, set deadlines, monitor progress, and ensure that everyone is held to the same standards and expectations.
We hope this article has highlighted the importance of punctuality in the workplace. If you have any strategies for effectively managing punctuality and attendance amongst your team, we’d love to hear them in the comments. Good luck!
Oct 5, 2023 | IT, Tips, Well Being
Love it or hate it, most of us engage in banter’s gentle conversational teasing in some form be it with friends, family or colleagues. Exchanging personal digs and satirical jibes has long been a staple form of social communication and when used correctly it has the power to raise a smile, defuse tension, ease confrontation and even forge friendships.
By its very nature banter walks a fine line between playfulness and insult so small wonder it can easily result in conflict. In most cases, light-hearted, playful mickey-taking between friends and colleagues is taken in good humor however, these remarks are highly subjective and open to wide-ranging interpretation. After all, a joke at someone’s expense will always have the potential to deeply offend.
So how do we know when it’s gone too far? Well, banter can start to become bullying when both parties no longer engage equally. At best, a well-intended comment can backfire and insult forcing an apology. At worst, the intention behind the comment may be hostile signaling a deeper issue. Frequency and repetition can worsen things and magnify them even further should a complaint fail to stop it.
The darkest side of banter occurs when the offending party uses it to justify aggressive behavior often involving innuendo, prejudice or humiliation. For example, a tribunal, during the Minto v Wernick Event Hire Ltd case, found a man guilty of sex discrimination and harassment. He tried to brush off his derogatory and sexually driven comments as “only banter” when in fact the complainant was so appalled she took him to court.
So how risky is banter and as concerned Managers, what can we do about it?
Here are 5 ideas we believe will help:
Easily the first port of call. It should go without saying that your company will have staff behavior, anti-bullying, equality and diversity policies but are you familiar with them? Have a good read and arm yourself with the rules to help you identify dangerous or discriminatory behavior and structure any informal or formal conversations.
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Education & Consequence, Not Control
You will never control people or the impulsive comments they make so don’t even try. Becoming a dystopian-style anti-banter cop will cause more problems than it’ll solve and cause stress and hypersensitivity all over the place. Instead, focus on regular staff education sessions to help people understand company policy, the impact of ‘banter gone wrong’, bullying, and the consequences of failing to adhere to the rules.
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Cultivate A Culture of Respect, Fairness, Ethics & Diversity
In your department, though ideally the entire company, establish a philosophy of trust. Trust will form a cultural foundation to encourage people to listen, help, and above all care for each other. There are so many benefits to this approach (totally another blog) but of course this includes lowering the chances of banter becoming bullying.
Don’t wait for a complaint. If you spot someone suffering a disproportionate stick for something try to stamp it out. Most people will tolerate a great deal before they make a complaint but that doesn’t mean they’re enjoying it. Not only will you earn their respect by delicately intervening but you’ll almost certainly see their mood and performance improve too.
Empower junior managers, team leaders and senior staff to reinforce the rules, spot risky banter and support anyone on the receiving end of any negativity. They can choose to escalate it if necessary but in most cases the issues will fizzle out. Most importantly, the more people banging the drum, the quicker your culture will change.
In conclusion, most of the time banter is harmless however, to avoid any problems we need to be proactively aware of what people are saying to each other and be ready to step in when needed with quiet words or disciplinary action. Focus on education and develop a positive culture of trust and respect to encourage better communication and empathetic decision-making.
Good Luck and Happy Bantering!
Check out Langley James’ resources and articles on a range of business topics: https://www.langleyjames.com/blog
To find out why so many companies turn to Langley James for support in fulfilling their IT recruitment needs, call and speak to one of our specialist consultants today on 0207 788 6600.
Langley James IT Recruitment – Helping businesses recruit someone worth recruiting.
Aug 29, 2023 | IT, Tips
As the warmth of summer begins to fade, a unique window of opportunity opens up for businesses seeking new talent in the IT sector. September, often overlooked amidst the hustle and bustle of year-round recruitment, presents an array of benefits that can significantly impact your hiring success. In this blog, we share some of the advantages of recruiting during this season of change. Offering insights into how businesses in the IT industry can harness the power of September to find the perfect additions to their teams.
Reduced Competition in September: Gaining the Upper Hand
The aftermath of the summer hiring rush can indeed present a valuable advantage in terms of reduced competition. With many companies having already completed their high-volume recruitment campaigns, the noise and saturation surrounding job postings tends to decrease in September. This creates a breathing space for your business to stand out and capture the attention of the best IT candidates.
During this period, IT professionals who may have been overwhelmed by an inundation of job opportunities during the peak hiring season are now more inclined to explore new opportunities without feeling bombarded. With less competition for their attention, your business has a higher chance of attracting and securing the cream of the crop. By focusing on highlighting your company’s unique value proposition and offering attractive incentives, you can effectively differentiate yourself from other businesses still caught up in the hustle and bustle of hiring. This decreased competition allows you to truly showcase how joining your team can benefit these IT candidates and elevate your overall performance.
Overall, taking advantage of reduced competition in September can significantly increase your chances of securing highly skilled professionals who can contribute greatly to your team’s success. By positioning yourself as an attractive option amidst a quieter job market, you position yourself at an advantageous position when it comes to attracting top talent.
Renewed Focus: Post-Summer Rejuvenation
The return from summer holidays infuses candidates with a renewed sense of purpose and drive. Those who have spent quality time unwinding come back with heightened motivation to take on new challenges and conquer fresh horizons. Returning from summer vacations can indeed have a positive impact on candidates’ sense of purpose and drive. Taking time off to relax and recharge allows individuals to rejuvenate their minds and bodies, which can lead to increased motivation and enthusiasm upon returning to work or other endeavors.
During holidays, people often engage in activities that they enjoy or explore new experiences. This exposure to different environments, cultures, or hobbies can stimulate creativity and broaden perspectives. It enables individuals to step outside their comfort zones and gain fresh insights that they can apply in their professional lives.
Moreover, holidays offer an opportunity for reflection. Stepping away from the daily grind allows individuals to reassess their goals and priorities. They may return with a clearer sense of what they want to achieve and a renewed commitment towards personal growth. It’s amazing what time away can do to the mind and this can bring some exceptional people to the table. People who have a wealth of skills and experience who are looking for something new. Something that fits with their renewed focus.
Budget Planning: September Offers a Seamless Transition into Q4
As the third quarter draws to a close, businesses embark on the crucial process of budget planning for the upcoming year. September’s timing is impeccable for businesses that wish to make the most of their allocated resources. Initiating your hiring efforts during this period allows for a seamless transition of new team members into your projects and goals for the fourth quarter. With freshly recruited talents onboard, you can kickstart new projects and capitalise on opportunities that align with your strategic objectives, all while remaining in line with your budgetary considerations.
Importantly, starting recruitment in September also enables you to stay within your budgetary considerations. By beginning early in the budget planning cycle, you have ample time to assess your hiring needs and allocate resources accordingly. This proactive approach helps prevent any last-minute rush or overspending on personnel expenses.
Year-End Goals: Setting the Stage for Success
Hiring in September ensures that your new team members have ample time to integrate, contribute, and align with your company’s year-end objectives. The IT industry, characterised by its fast-paced nature, greatly benefits from having new hires ready to jump in and support the execution of critical projects.
With a quarter of the year remaining, you can capitalise on their skills and expertise to make meaningful progress and reach milestones that might have seemed challenging without their valuable contributions. Hiring in September can indeed be beneficial for integrating new team members and aligning them with your company’s year-end objectives. In the IT industry, where projects often require quick execution, having new hires ready to jump in and support critical initiatives can greatly contribute to success. By bringing new team members on board earlier in the year, you allow them ample time to get acquainted with your company culture, understand their roles and responsibilities, and build relationships with their colleagues. This integration period helps them hit the ground running and become productive contributors more quickly.
Additionally, having new hires join in September gives them a chance to familiarise themselves with ongoing projects before the end of the year. They can bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and skills that may have been lacking within your existing team. This infusion of talent can help accelerate progress towards milestones that might have seemed challenging without their valuable contributions.
Furthermore, hiring in September allows you to utilise these new team members’ skills and expertise for an entire quarter of the year. With this extended period available for collaboration and execution of critical projects or initiatives, you increase your chances of achieving meaningful progress before year-end.
Let Langley James Help You to Harness September’s Potential
The leaves aren’t the only things that change in September—your approach to recruitment can too. At Langley James, we specialise in helping companies navigate the intricate landscape of hiring during this pivotal season. Whether you’re seeking a comprehensive 360-degree recruitment service or simply require assistance in shortlisting CVs from your own advertisements, we have the expertise and dedication to support your goals.
Embrace September’s unique advantages by partnering with us. Let’s work together to find the best IT talents that will not only fit seamlessly into your team but also contribute to your organisation’s growth, innovation, and success.
Let’s discuss your specific IT recruitment requirements today. Reach us at 020 7788 6600 or via email at langleyjames@langleyjames.com.
We’d love to hear your views on this blog. Tweet us @ITRecruitment, or follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn
Aug 7, 2023 | IT, IT Market Reviews
Jul 30, 2023 | Hiring Resources, IT, Tips
We’ve got some tech news to share. Recently, we came across an eye-opening article that shed light on the current state of the workforce in the UK. According to a recent poll, nearly half of UK workers feel that their work is becoming increasingly intense. And the blame seems to fall on staff shortages in the tech sector.
In this blog, we explore the impact of these shortages.
The Intensity of Work in the Tech Sector
The fast-paced world of technology has always been demanding. However, the current scenario is taking intensity to a whole new level. The poll indicates that almost 50% of UK employees are facing higher workloads, tighter deadlines, and increased pressure due to staff shortages. As more businesses rely heavily on technology, the demand for skilled IT professionals has soared. Therefore leading to a shortage that affects the entire industry.
The Ripple Effect on Tech Employees
With tech talent in high demand, the workforce is feeling the brunt of the shortages. Employees are working longer hours and feeling stretched thin. This is affecting not only their productivity but also their overall well-being. As a result, the importance of striking a balance between work and personal life has become more crucial than ever.
The Challenge for Employers
For employers, the shortage of IT talent presents a unique challenge. Attracting and retaining skilled tech professionals in this competitive landscape has become an uphill battle. Companies need to adapt their recruitment strategies and offer enticing packages that go beyond just financial rewards. Creating a positive work culture, providing growth opportunities, and offering work-life balance can be game-changers in attracting and keeping top talent.
The Role of IT Recruitment Agencies
This is where IT recruitment agencies, like ours, step in. Our mission is to bridge the gap between talented IT professionals and companies in need of their expertise. We understand the challenges faced by both job seekers and employers and work tirelessly to find the perfect match. Our friendly and dedicated team is committed to nurturing meaningful connections that go beyond just matching skills with job requirements.
Navigating the Future of Tech Talent
While the shortage of tech talent poses challenges, it also presents an opportunity for growth and innovation. As a community, we can navigate through these intense times together. At Langley James, we are passionate about making a difference. Our friendly approach, combined with our industry expertise, enables us to provide tailored solutions that address the unique needs of both job seekers and employers.
Our Thoughts
The poll results highlight the intensity of work experienced by employees in the UK due to staff shortages in the tech sector. As an IT recruitment company, we recognise the impact of these challenges on the workforce and are dedicated to finding innovative solutions. By working together, we can create a thriving tech industry that not only meets the demands of the digital age but also ensures the well-being and growth of its most valuable asset – its people.
About Langley James
At Langley James, we understand the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry and the impact of staff shortages on your workforce. In this dynamic environment, effective talent management is more critical than ever. That’s why our approach goes beyond surface-level information provided in a CV alone.
With our comprehensive knowledge of candidates, including their experience, specific project involvements, strengths, and areas for improvement, we strive to find the perfect match for your business. Our dedicated and specialised consultants work closely with you, considering both the role requirements and the unique needs of your business.
We take immense pride in our thorough understanding of candidates’ skills and experiences, ensuring that we deliver the very best talent to meet your IT recruitment needs.
Let’s discuss your specific IT recruitment requirements today. Reach us at 0207 099 4839 or via email at langleyjames@langleyjames.com.
We’d love to hear your views on this. What are your thoughts on the impact of staff shortages on your team? Tweet us @ITRecruitment, or follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn
Jul 10, 2023 | IT, IT Market Reviews
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