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15 Essential Steps for Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile
15 Essential Steps for Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile
In today's digital age, your LinkedIn profile serves as your online resume and professional branding tool. Whether you're a job seeker, entrepreneur, or simply looking to expand your professional network, having a strong LinkedIn presence is crucial. With over 700 million users worldwide, making your profile stand out is more important than ever. Here are 15 steps to enhance your LinkedIn profile and boost your online presence.1. Choose the Right Profile Picture:Your profile picture is the first thing people notice, so make sure it represents you professionally. Opt for a high-quality, recent headshot where you appear approachable and confident. Avoid using group photos, selfies, or images with distracting backgrounds.2. Add in a Background Photo:Utilize the background photo feature to showcase your personality or professional interests. Choose an image that aligns with your industry or personal brand. This could be a skyline, office setting, or a relevant image related to your profession.3. Make Your Headline More Than Just a Job Title:Instead of simply listing your job title, use your headline to highlight your expertise, skills, and value proposition. Include keywords related to your industry or role to improve your visibility in LinkedIn searches.4. Record and Display Your Name Pronunciation:Adding a name pronunciation audio clip can help others pronounce your name correctly, making it easier for people to connect with you. This feature demonstrates professionalism and cultural awareness.5. Turn Your Summary into a Story:Craft a compelling summary that tells your professional story and showcases your unique strengths and experiences. Use this section to highlight your achievements, aspirations, and what sets you apart from others in your field.6. Declare War on Buzzwords:Avoid using overused buzzwords and clichés in your profile. Instead, focus on using specific examples and concrete achievements to demonstrate your skills and capabilities.7. Grow Your Network:Actively connect with professionals in your industry, colleagues, alumni, and potential mentors. Engage with their content, participate in relevant discussions, and attend networking events to expand your network organically.8. List Your Relevant Skills:Highlight your key skills and expertise by listing them in the skills section of your profile. Be sure to include both technical and soft skills relevant to your profession.9. Share Endorsements:Request endorsements from colleagues and connections to validate your skills and expertise. Endorsements add credibility to your profile and enhance your professional reputation.10. Fill in Every Section of Your Profile:Complete all sections of your LinkedIn profile, including education, work experience, volunteer experience, and certifications. A comprehensive profile provides a holistic view of your professional background.11. Request Recommendations:Ask previous supervisors, colleagues, or clients to write recommendations that showcase your strengths and work ethic. Personalized recommendations add credibility and build trust with potential employers or clients.12. Showcase Your Passion for Learning:Demonstrate your commitment to professional development by sharing courses, certifications, or workshops you've completed. This shows potential employers that you are proactive about staying updated in your field.13. Share Media and Marketing Collateral:Utilize the media section of your profile to showcase your work samples, presentations, articles, or videos. This allows visitors to see tangible examples of your skills and accomplishments.14. Share Relevant Content from Your LinkedIn Feed:Stay active on LinkedIn by sharing insightful articles, industry news, or thought leadership content. Engage with your network by commenting on and sharing valuable posts related to your field. 15. Add Comments to Relevant Posts:Engage with other users' content by leaving thoughtful comments and insights. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also helps you build meaningful connections within your industry.Optimizing your LinkedIn profile is essential for enhancing your professional brand and expanding your network. By following these 15 steps, you can create a compelling profile that showcases your skills, experiences, and accomplishments effectively. Remember to stay active, engage with your network, and continuously update your profile to reflect your evolving career goals and achievements. With a strong LinkedIn presence, you'll be well-positioned to advance your career and achieve your professional aspirations.
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Crafting a CV That Stands Out
Crafting a CV That Stands Out
In the competitive world of job hunting, your Curriculum Vitae (CV) acts as your personal marketing tool, showcasing your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. It’s not just a document; it’s your first impression, your ticket to an interview, and potentially your gateway to your dream job. With so much riding on it, it's crucial to ensure your CV stands out in all the right ways. However, there are several pitfalls that can turn your CV from a standout piece to one that gets lost in the midst. Let's delve into some areas to avoid on your CV, always keeping the reader in mind. 1. Bland, Standard Information – Your CV is a Sales DocumentYour CV is not just a list of your educational background and work experiences; it's a sales document where you pitch yourself as the perfect candidate for the job. Avoid using generic, uninspiring language that fails to highlight your strengths and achievements. Instead, tailor each section to showcase how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role you're applying for. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements wherever possible to make your accomplishments stand out. 2. Too Many Technical Terms or AcronymsWhile it's essential to demonstrate your expertise in your field, bombarding your CV with technical jargon and acronyms can be overwhelming for the reader, especially if they're from a non-technical background. Opt for clear and concise language that effectively communicates your skills and experiences without confusing the reader. If you must use technical terms, provide brief explanations to ensure clarity. 3. Repetition (ATS, SUBS, REQ)Repetition of keywords and phrases may seem like a good strategy to beat Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), but it can actually work against you. Instead of mindlessly repeating keywords, focus on incorporating them naturally into your CV's content. Use synonyms and varied sentence structures to avoid sounding repetitive while still ensuring your CV gets noticed by both ATS and human recruiters. 4. Too Many Pictures – Can Get Stuck in Some SystemsWhile adding a professional headshot to your CV may seem like a good idea, it's essential to consider how it may impact the readability of your document, especially when submitted online. Some Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and email filters may struggle with documents containing images, leading to formatting issues or even rejection. Unless specifically requested by the employer, it's safer to leave out pictures from your CV and let your qualifications and experiences speak for themselves. 5. Leaving Things Out to Discuss at InterviewWhile it's tempting to leave out certain details or accomplishments with the intention of discussing them during the interview, it's crucial to remember that your CV acts as your initial introduction to the employer. Omitting essential information may lead to missed opportunities or raise red flags for recruiters. Provide a comprehensive overview of your skills, experiences, and achievements in your CV, ensuring it piques the employer's interest and prompts them to invite you for an interview. 6. Long Paragraphs – Short Bullet Points Are BestIn today's fast-paced world, recruiters often have limited time to review each CV thoroughly. Long paragraphs of text can be daunting to read and may cause important information to get lost in the shuffle. Instead, opt for short, concise bullet points that highlight your key accomplishments and qualifications. Use formatting techniques such as bolding and bullet points to draw attention to critical details and make your CV visually appealing and easy to navigate. 7. Flowery FontsWhile it may be tempting to showcase your creativity through unique fonts and formatting, it's essential to remember that readability is paramount when it comes to your CV. Flowery fonts or overly stylised text can be distracting and may even make your CV difficult to read, especially for automated systems or recruiters scanning multiple documents at once. Stick to clean, professional fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and ensure consistent formatting throughout your CV for a polished look. 8. Hobbies Like Travelling Can Be a NegativeWhile including hobbies and interests in your CV can help humanise you and provide potential conversation starters during interviews, it's essential to choose them wisely. Hobbies like travelling may seem adventurous and exciting, but they can also raise concerns about your availability and commitment to the job. Instead, focus on hobbies and interests that demonstrate valuable skills or traits relevant to the role you're applying for, such as leadership, teamwork, or creativity. Crafting a standout CV requires careful attention to detail and a deep understanding of what hiring managers are looking for. By avoiding common pitfalls such as bland language, technical overload, and excessive formatting, you can create a CV that captivates the reader's attention and sets you apart from the competition. Keep the reader in mind throughout the entire process and remember that your CV is your opportunity to showcase your unique value proposition and land your next career opportunity.
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Selling Non-Relevant Experience on Your CV: How to Showcase Transferable Skills
Selling Non-Relevant Experience on Your CV: How to Showcase Transferable Skills
In today's competitive job market, landing your dream role can often feel like an uphill battle, especially when your previous experience may not directly align with the position you're applying for. However, the key to standing out lies in your ability to effectively communicate the transferable skills gained from seemingly unrelated roles. Whether you've worked as a restaurant waiter or an office administrator, there are valuable skills that can be seamlessly applied across various industries. In this guide, we'll explore how to sell non-relevant experience on your CV by focusing on transferable skills.1. Identify Transferable Skills:Before diving into the specifics of your past roles, take a step back and identify the transferable skills you possess. These are skills that can be applied across different job functions and industries. For instance, as a restaurant waiter, you may have honed excellent communication skills through interacting with customers, or as an office administrator, you may have developed strong organisational abilities. Once you've identified these skills, highlight them prominently on your CV.2. Restaurant Waiter vs. Office Administrator:Let's compare two seemingly different roles: a restaurant waiter and an office administrator. While the daily tasks may vary significantly, both positions require a similar set of core skills. As a waiter, you're constantly engaging with customers, ensuring their needs are met, and resolving any issues that may arise – skills that are highly transferable to roles requiring strong customer service and communication abilities. Similarly, as an office administrator, you're responsible for managing administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and effectively communicating with team members – skills that translate well into roles requiring organisational prowess and attention to detail.3. Highlight Transferable Skills:When listing your past experiences on your CV, focus on the transferable skills rather than the specific job titles. For instance, instead of simply stating "Waiter at XYZ Restaurant," emphasize the skills gained from that role, such as:Exceptional communication skills demonstrated through effectively liaising with customers and colleagues.Strong customer service abilities showcased by ensuring a positive dining experience for patrons.Proven teamwork capabilities through collaborating with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders.Similarly, for the role of an office administrator, highlight skills such as:Proficient time management skills demonstrated by prioritising tasks and meeting deadlines consistently.Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced office environment.Excellent attention to detail evidenced by accurately maintaining records and documents.4. Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities:Regardless of the industry, problem-solving skills are highly valued by employers. Use real-life examples from your past roles to showcase your ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions. For instance, as a restaurant waiter, you may have encountered situations where orders were mixed up or customers had special dietary requirements. Describe how you handled these challenges calmly and efficiently, ensuring customer satisfaction. Similarly, as an office administrator, you may have faced issues such as scheduling conflicts or technical glitches. Highlight your proactive approach to resolving these issues and minimizing disruptions to workflow.5. Tailor Your CV to the Job Description:One of the most effective strategies for selling non-relevant experience on your CV is to tailor it to the specific job description. Carefully review the requirements outlined by the employer and identify the skills and experiences they're seeking. Then, customize your CV to highlight how your past roles have equipped you with the necessary skills to excel in the position. Use keywords and phrases from the job description to ensure your CV resonates with the hiring manager and clearly demonstrates your suitability for the role.Selling non-relevant experience on your CV is all about showcasing your transferable skills in a compelling manner. Whether you've worked as a restaurant waiter or an office administrator, there are valuable skills that can be leveraged to make you a desirable candidate for a wide range of roles. By focusing on communication skills, customer service abilities, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and attention to detail, you can effectively demonstrate your suitability for any position, regardless of your previous experience. Remember to tailor your CV to the job description and use real-life examples to illustrate your capabilities. With the right approach, you can turn seemingly unrelated experience into a valuable asset in your job search journey.
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Marketing Jobs Market 2024: Navigating a Shifting Landscape
Marketing Jobs Market 2024: Navigating a Shifting Landscape
The Irish marketing job market in 2024 continues to be a dynamic landscape, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities for professionals at all levels. While there have been some recent layoffs in multinational companies, the overall picture remains relatively positive, especially for specific segments.A Market in Transformation:The Irish economy is undergoing a period of adjustment, with multinational giants like Google and Meta experiencing workforce reductions. These changes have impacted the marketing job market, particularly entry-level roles. However, it's important to remember that these fluctuations primarily affect large corporations, and the broader picture remains encouraging.Opportunities Abound:The SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) market in Ireland remains vibrant, offering a wealth of opportunities for experienced marketing professionals. Roles like Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Manager, and Head of Marketing are in high demand within SMEs, especially for individuals with proven track records and a strategic mindset.The Digital Edge:As the world continues to embrace all things digital, the demand for skilled digital marketers remains robust. From SEO specialists and content creators to social media experts and data analysts, there are numerous opportunities available across various industries.Staying Ahead of the Curve:In this competitive environment, it's crucial for marketing professionals to continuously upskill and develop their expertise. By staying updated on the latest trends and technologies, such as marketing automation and artificial intelligence, individuals can significantly enhance their employability.Tips for Success:Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the marketing industry.Invest in continuous learning and upskilling to remain competitive.Network with industry professionals and attend marketing events and conferences.Showcase your creativity, analytical skills, and ability to drive results in your job applications and interviews.Consider pursuing certifications in areas such as digital marketing, data analytics, and AI to enhance your skill set.Sigmar Recruitment is here to help you take the next step in your marketing career. Contact us today to explore the exciting opportunities available in the Irish market.
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Unlocking Opportunities: Life Science & Engineering Job Market Overview 2024
Unlocking Opportunities: Life Science & Engineering Job Market Overview 2024
Are you a professional seeking exciting opportunities in the thriving fields of Life Sciences and Engineering? As we step into 2024, the Life Science and Engineering sectors are buzzing with diverse opportunities and trends that could shape your career path.Life Science Sector in Ireland:Ireland's Life Science sector remains a beacon of innovation, covering pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, and healthcare. The country hosts several multinational companies engaged in cutting-edge research, development, and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical products.Dive into roles such as bioprocess technicians, quality control analysts, regulatory affairs specialists, clinical research associates, and production managers. The sector thrives on research, innovation, and compliance with stringent regulatory standards.Current Trends and Challenges:1. Sustainability and Green Engineering: Both Life Science and Engineering sectors emphasise sustainable practices, valuing professionals with expertise in environmentally friendly technologies.2. Healthcare Innovation:The intersection of Life Sciences and Engineering is creating new frontiers in healthcare innovation, with a focus on developing medical devices and technologies to enhance patient care.3. Regulatory Compliance: Navigating evolving regulatory standards, especially in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, remains a key challenge and a crucial skill in demand.4. Biopharmaceuticals:There's a particular emphasis on the production and development of biologics and biosimilars, driving demand for specialists in this niche.5. Health and Safety: Both sectors prioritize health and safety, making professionals with expertise in occupational health and safety essential for securing work environments.Skills in Demand:Life Sciences: Bioprocessing, regulatory affairs, quality control, clinical research, and expertise in biopharmaceuticals.Engineering Sector: Pioneering the FutureIreland's Engineering job market spans various disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, chemical, and environmental engineering. Manufacturing, energy, and environmental sustainability contribute to the demand for engineering professionals.Explore roles like manufacturing engineers, process engineers, environmental engineers, and maintenance engineers. The sector is increasingly focused on sustainable engineering practices.Current Trends and Challenges:1. Sustainability and Green Engineering: A growing emphasis on sustainable practices, especially in industries beyond construction.2. Health and Safety: Continued prioritization of health and safety, particularly in manufacturing environments.Skills in Demand:Engineering: Depending on the field, skills may include project management, environmental impact assessment, manufacturing process optimization, and expertise in sustainable engineering practices.Salary Insights: Rewarding Your ExpertiseSalaries in the life science and engineering sectors in Ireland are often competitive, reflecting the importance of these industries to the country's economy. Salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, education, and the specific sub-sector or discipline. Professionals in roles such as research and development, regulatory affairs, quality control, and bioprocessing may command competitive salaries. Senior positions and roles requiring specialized expertise, such as in biopharmaceuticals, may attract higher compensation. Salaries for roles in health and safety, project management, and sustainable engineering practices can also be competitive. Salaries are expected to increase by around 3% to keep pace with inflation. However, highly sought-after professionals may witness salary rises of up to 10 to 15%.The Rise of Remote Work: A Paradigm ShiftCompanies have tightened up on remote working but still offer some flexibility where possible. Some companies have returned to fully on-site models but are struggling to attract and retain talent on that basis. 90% of candidates expect the option to work from home at least 1-2 days a week (unless the particular position does not allow for that) and if the same position presented itself but one was fully on-site, the candidate would choose to apply for the company offering the hybrid approach.Contractor OpportunitiesDue to economic uncertainty, we've seen an increase in demand for contractors in 2023 and this trend is set to continue into 2024 as employers prefer the flexibility of a contingent workforce. Skill gaps and demand for talent are important factors in the increase in demand also with companies looking to contractors to fill gaps in their teams in tandem with permanent positions - another trend we foresee continuing throughout 2024.It is no longer just large organisations leaning on contractors. SMEs are also now tapping into the contractor talent pool as a way of supplementing their workforce- especially now that permanent salaries are catching up with contractor hourly rates due to market inflation.In terms of skills, we foresee an increase in demand of contract roles across QA/QC, Regulatory Affairs, Validation, Automation & Control, Commissioning & Decommissioning and Manufacturing. Contractors are brought in to address specific manufacturing challenges, improve efficiency, implement new processes, ensure processes meet industry standards, assess, and improve quality systems, conduct audits or to assist with compliance and navigate regulatory processes.As a result of the increase in demand, contract rates have been on the rise and will continue to increase in 2024. It is now common practice for a contractor to ask and receive rate increases when their contracts are up for renewal. Recruitment and retention therefore remain high priorities for companies using contractors.With organisations now comfortable with remote work arrangements, the market has opened up to all areas of Ireland and further afield. A big trend is seeing Contractors based in the regions now being able to work for the large organisations in the cities and even in other countries. Therefore, rates in the regional areas of Ireland are now catching up with those of the main cities.The Life Science and Engineering job markets in 2024 present abundant opportunities for skilled scientists, engineers, and specialists. For help with your job search contact technical@sigmar.ie.
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Mastering the New HR: Strategies for 2024
Mastering the New HR: Strategies for 2024
As we step into 2024, the HR market is poised for an interesting year. While there are still some lingering effects from the pandemic, there are also signs of positive growth and development. Here's an overview of the HR market in 2024, including insights into trends, opportunities, and strategies for success.Key Takeaways from 2023Reduced Churn in Senior Positions: Organisations are prioritizing retention of top talent, especially in senior roles, to ensure stability and continuity.Contract Opportunities on the Rise: Uncertainty and the availability of candidates drive a strong demand for contract positions. Contract-to-permanent transitions remain prevalent.Mid-Level Roles in Demand: Mid-level HR roles, particularly HR Business Partners and Senior Generalists, are highly sought-after.Specialised Positions Remain in Demand: Learning and Development (L&D), Employee Relations, and HR Information Systems (HRIS) Specialists continue to be in high demand.Hybrid Work Remains the Norm: Hybrid work arrangements with anchor days are prevalent, balancing flexibility with team cohesion.Incremental Salary Increases: Salaries in Generalist functions witness modest increases, albeit below inflation.Video Technology Integration: Video-based interviews gain traction, expediting hiring processes and enabling seamless international collaboration.Increased Retained Search Projects: A 30% rise in retained recruitment projects in senior and specialized HR roles enhances candidate experience.Predictions for 2024Strong Contract Opportunities: Contract roles remain attractive due to reduced churn and candidate availability. Contract opportunities provide a springboard for diversifying experience or gaining new industry exposure.Focus on Employee Experience: Candidates with strong experience in employee experience will be highly sought-after.Emerging Role of Technology: Technology, including AI-driven tools, continues to transform HR practices. Data-driven decision-making drives the demand for HR Analysts.Demand for Employee Relations Expertise: Employee relations skills remain in high demand, as organizations prioritize positive employee interactions.Growth in Specific Industries: Energy sectors, infrastructure, manufacturing, and financial services are expected to see increased HR demand. Whereas IT demand has levelled off.Direct Hiring of Entry-Level Roles: Organisations will continue to directly hire entry-level HR professionals.Trend Towards Exclusivity and Retainerships: The positive response to retained search projects will drive a further increase in exclusivity and retainerships in 2024.Strategies for HR Professionals in 2024Develop Skills in Employee Experience: Emphasize your understanding of employee engagement, culture, and feedback mechanisms.Stay Ahead of Technology Trends: Familiarize yourself with emerging AI-powered HR solutions to enhance your value proposition.Build Strength in Employee Relations: Cultivate expertise in conflict resolution, mediation, and building positive employee relationships.Network and Build Relationships: Expand your professional network within your desired industries to stay informed about opportunities and build connections.Demonstrate Adaptability and Versatility: Be open to different work arrangements, including contracts and direct hires.Seek Expertise in Specialised Areas: Consider specialising in areas like Learning and Development (L&D), HR Information Systems (HRIS), or Employee Relations to gain a competitive edge.As the HR market continues to evolve, staying informed, adapting to new trends, and developing specialized skills will set you apart and enhance your career prospects. With careful planning and proactive action, you can navigate the HR landscape effectively and achieve your professional goals in 2024.
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Future-Proofing Your Career: In-Demand Skills & Salary Trends in the Irish Financial Sector
Future-Proofing Your Career: In-Demand Skills & Salary Trends in the Irish Financial Sector
The financial services sector in Ireland has seen a mixed picture in 2023. While overall employment growth had slowed compared to 2022, there have been pockets of strong demand for certain skills and roles.Key TrendsSkills Shortage: There is a shortage of skilled talent across the market, particularly at the supervisor, assistant manager, and manager levels. This has led to companies moving quickly to secure top talent and has increased the prevalence of counteroffers.Central Bank Guidelines: The Central Bank's new guidelines have increased demand for candidates with experience in compliance and risk. There is a particular demand for candidates at a more senior level in PCF-approved positions.Sought-After Talent: The most sought-after talent in 2023 has been in the following areas:Private equityDepositaryCompliance & riskPension administratorsFinancial advisorsSustainability/ESGInsurance Market Growth: The insurance market has continued to grow in 2023, with a number of institutions setting up new functions or growing existing ones in Ireland. This has led to a high demand for candidates in areas such as claims, commercial account executives, underwriting, and loss adjusting.Legal Market Strength: The legal industry remains strong, with a demand for skilled legal professionals across a range of sectors. The most in-demand legal roles include legal counsel, corporate lawyers, company secretaries, funds lawyers, and DPOs.Salary TrendsIncreasing Salaries: The increase in demand for candidates and the shortage of skills have led to rising salaries across the financial services sector. Counteroffers are also becoming more common as companies compete to retain their staff.Faster Hiring Processes: The time it takes to hire a qualified candidate has shortened as candidates have more opportunities available to them. Companies that can move quickly through the hiring process are more likely to secure top talent.Shift Back to In-Person Interviews: There has been a shift back to in-person interviews, which can provide a better candidate experience and increase buy-in from candidates.Advice for JobseekersStay up-to-date on the latest skills and trends: The financial services sector is constantly evolving, so it is important for jobseekers to stay up-to-date on the latest skills and trends. This can be done by attending industry events, reading industry publications, and taking online courses.Network with people in the industry: Networking is essential for jobseekers in the financial services sector. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn.Be prepared to negotiate your salary: With the increase in demand for candidates, jobseekers are in a stronger position to negotiate their salaries. Be prepared to do your research and understand your worth in the market.
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Sales Smarts: Navigating the 2024 Sales Landscape and Unlocking New Opportunities
Sales Smarts: Navigating the 2024 Sales Landscape and Unlocking New Opportunities
The sales jobs market in 2023 was a dynamic and evolving landscape, with both challenges and opportunities for candidates and employers. Here's a comprehensive overview of the key trends shaping the market for 2024: Challenges and Opportunities in Tech SalesThe tech industry, known for its dynamism, has witnessed a surge in layoffs, impacting the availability of opportunities for aspiring sales professionals. From junior to senior roles, the landscape has become more competitive. Employers now face the challenge of attracting candidates who are already employed, necessitating a compelling message that emphasizes aspects such as packages, location, or the unique products or services offered.Flexibility has become a non-negotiable factor in attracting top-tier talent. Companies that offer no flexibility in terms of work location are falling behind, with candidates increasingly expecting hybrid work options.The significance of effective onboarding and aftercare cannot be overstated. In a highly competitive environment, candidates often receive multiple job offers, emphasizing the need for companies to stand out in the recruitment process.Moreover, a noticeable trend is the transition of candidates out of the tech space due to reduced job opportunities and industry-wide uncertainty. Areas of Demand in 2023- Hunter or Business Development Candidates: Companies are actively seeking individuals capable of winning new customers or bringing back lost ones.- Account Managers with Relationship Management Skills: The flip side sees a demand for account managers with strong relationship management skillsets.- Degree-Educated Candidates: Degrees in engineering, science, and construction are highly prized for sales positions where specialized knowledge can be applied.- Industrial and Manufacturing Solutions: Companies selling solutions in industrial and manufacturing environments are experiencing the strongest growth in the Irish market for sales professionals.- Field-Based Representatives: Despite a continued demand for field-based representatives, there's a shortage of junior candidates pursuing this career path.- Language Proficiency: Sales representatives with proficiency in languages like German, Dutch, or French remain in high demand, especially for multinational tech companies. Salaries and Competitive PackagesIn a tight talent market, candidates have the upper hand, prompting employers to offer competitive compensation, robust benefits, and appealing perks. Salaries have seen a significant uptick, and benefits packages are becoming more comprehensive, including healthcare, pensions, and bonuses. Employers face the challenge of counteroffers when targeting highly skilled candidates. Maintaining a competitive edge requires a focus on a positive candidate interview experience and a clear path for career progression.Company cars are still a valuable perk, but questions around the type of car, mileage, and BIK (Benefit in Kind) payments need careful consideration in light of evolving legislation. The rise of electric cars presents both opportunities and challenges, with candidates weighing the benefits against charging infrastructure limitations. Demand for Remote WorkThe demand for hybrid work options has become a key factor in attracting candidates. Employers offering no flexibility on the working environment may encounter significant challenges in recruitment. Commute length plays a pivotal role in a candidate's decision-making process, influencing choices particularly in areas with poor public transport links.While the demand for fully remote roles has decreased, the desire for flexibility and a blend of office and remote work persists. Team collaboration, social connections, and learning opportunities in an office setting remain important to candidates. In summary, the Sales Jobs Market in 2024 will be marked by challenges and opportunities. Navigating these dynamics requires both employers and candidates to adapt to changing preferences and embrace a flexible approach to work arrangements. At Sigmar, we are committed to connecting the right talent with the right opportunities, contact sales@sigmar.ie for all your sales jobs needs.
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Accountancy Jobs Market 2024: A Thriving Landscape for Qualified Professionals
Accountancy Jobs Market 2024: A Thriving Landscape for Qualified Professionals
The accountancy industry has consistently demonstrated its resilience and adaptability in the face of economic challenges, and 2023 was no exception. Despite global economic uncertainties, the demand for qualified accountants remained strong, with a persistent shortage of candidates fuelling competitive hiring practices and salary growth.High Demand for TalentAcross all core areas of accountancy, from audit and tax to financial reporting and management consulting, there was a palpable demand for skilled professionals. This pervasive demand extended beyond traditional industries, with the IT sector emerging as a significant driver of hiring activity. Big Tech companies, though less aggressive in their recruitment compared to previous years, continued to expand their financial teams, and smaller tech firms within the AI and other tech sectors were also actively seeking accountants.Salary Inflation and Permanent OpportunitiesThe tight labour market translated into significant salary increases for accountants. Most jobs experienced a 5-7.5% boost in compensation throughout 2023, and this trend is expected to continue into 2024. The heightened demand for permanent staff has put candidates in a strong bargaining position, enabling them to negotiate favourable compensation packages and seek out opportunities that align with their career goals.Embracing Remote WorkThe accountancy profession is well-suited for remote work arrangements, and the industry has embraced this flexibility with open arms. Approximately 90% of the accountancy jobs Sigmar have recruited for offer some form of hybrid working, allowing professionals to maintain a healthy work-life balance and expand their geographic options.Temporary Market ResilienceWhile the first half of 2023 saw a slowdown in the number of temporary and contract positions, the second half witnessed a notable rebound. Multinational corporations (MNCs) in the tech/software/pharma sectors were particularly active in hiring contractors, boding well for the temporary market in 2024.Salary Premium for ContractorsContract roles continue to offer a substantial salary premium compared to permanent positions, often 10-20% higher. This premium is attributed to the flexibility and reduced overhead costs associated with contractor engagements.Hybrid Working Preferred by Both PartiesCompanies seeking to hire contractors often prioritize those willing to embrace a hybrid work arrangement, typically a 3/2 split between remote and office-based work. This flexibility is appealing to both employers and contractors, as it allows for better focus, productivity, and work-life balance.In summary, the accountancy jobs market in 2023 was characterized by strong demand, salary growth, and a growing preference for remote work. With the temporary market rebounding and contractors commanding a significant salary premium, the outlook for qualified accountants remains exceptionally positive. As the industry continues to evolve and adapt to technological advancements, accountants who possess strong technical skills and a commitment to continuous learning will be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic and rewarding field.