Category: Candidates

In the fast-paced and competitive world of technical job interviews, preparation is key to success. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, mastering the art of interviewing can significantly impact your chances of landing that dream role. At Advance TRS, our consultants guide candidates through the hiring process including custom interview preparation to help you put your best foot forward.

We understand the unique challenges that technical job seekers face, which is why we’ve compiled expert advice to help you navigate the interview process with confidence.

1. Do your Research

Before stepping foot into the interview room, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the company, its culture, and the specific role you’re applying for. Understanding the company’s mission, values, and recent projects not only demonstrates your interest but also allows you to tailor your responses to align with the organisation’s objectives.

Our consultants will work with you to ensure you have a strong understanding of the company’s culture, work pipeline, opportunities, and team dynamics so you can be fully prepared and ensure you have all the information you need to help find the best role for you.

2. Showcase Your Technical Skills

In technical job interviews, employers are keen to assess your proficiency in relevant tools, languages, and technologies. Be prepared to discuss your experience in detail, highlighting specific projects or accomplishments that demonstrate your expertise. Consider providing concrete examples of how you’ve overcome technical challenges or implemented innovative solutions in previous roles.

Use the STAR technique to answer competency-based questions. The STAR technique involves 4 main areas to cover – Situation, Task, Approach, and Results. Using these steps together can help you create the perfect response for any competency-based question given.

3. Soft Skills & Culture Fit

In addition to assessing technical competencies, many employers incorporate behavioural questions to evaluate soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. All this helps to build a picture of how you will fit with the team and business culture. Prepare compelling anecdotes that showcase your ability to handle difficult situations, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and adapt to changing circumstances. Again, the STAR technique can be an effective method to structure your responses clearly and concisely.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice makes perfect, especially when it comes to technical job interviews. Take advantage of mock interviews, either with a trusted friend or with one of our consultants, to simulate real-life scenarios and receive constructive feedback. Focus on refining your communication style, body language, and ability to articulate your thoughts clearly under pressure.

5. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Toward the end of the interview, you’ll likely have the opportunity to ask questions of your own. Seize this moment to demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company by posing thoughtful and insightful inquiries. Consider asking about the team dynamics, potential growth opportunities, or upcoming projects to gain a deeper understanding of what it’s like to work for the organisation.

By implementing these success strategies in your technical job interviews, you’ll be well-equipped to impress prospective employers and secure your next technical role. Remember, preparation, confidence, and authenticity are the cornerstones of a successful interview. At Advance TRS, we’re committed to supporting you throughout your job search journey, providing valuable resources, guidance, and opportunities to help you achieve your career goals.

Ready to take the next step in your technical career? Contact Advance TRS today to explore exciting job opportunities and receive personalised support from our experienced recruitment team.

Unlocking New Horizons: Embracing Contract Work in Engineering

A noticeable trend has emerged in the male-dominated field of engineering and the built environment – fewer women are inclined to explore the world of contract work. In this blog, we aim to break down the barriers surrounding contract employment for women, shedding light on the untapped benefits and providing a platform for three inspiring female contractors to share their experiences.

There’s a unique opportunity for change and empowerment in a sector where women are underrepresented. Contract work in engineering offers flexibility, diverse project exposure, and the potential for career growth. We sat with three inspiring female contractors to hear their stories and insights.

In a recent survey of our network asking; What do you consider the most significant advantage of contract work in the engineering industry? 52% of respondents stated Flexible work arrangements, 35% Potential for higher earning, and 13% Exposure to diverse projects.

Why Consider Contract Work in Engineering?

Many women may not have fully explored the advantages of contract work in the engineering and built environment sectors. Contract roles offer a unique set of benefits, including flexibility, diverse project exposure, and the potential for higher earning potential. It’s time to challenge the status quo and encourage women to embrace the opportunities contract work can provide.

Interviewing Trailblazing Female Contractors

To provide authentic insights, we sat down with three female contractors who have successfully navigated the contract landscape in engineering. Their stories showcase the advantages of contract work, dispelling myths and empowering women to consider this alternative career path.

What motivated you to choose contract work over permanent employment in the engineering sector?

Predominately money but also flexibility to work on varied projects.

How has contract work enhanced your career flexibility and work-life balance?

It has been easier to negotiate terms on a contract compared to a permanent contract as it is easier for companies to alter short-term contracts rather than company policies. For example, I negotiated an absolute of no working after 4 pm on Mondays due to child activities.

What advice would you give to women hesitant about exploring contract roles in engineering?

I would suggest giving it a try but ensure that your pension arrangements are taken care of either through limited company or umbrella, I would be as up front as possible, we are sometimes afraid to ask we don’t want to be seen as “problem employees”, which has got better since I started in engineering a long time ago. Trust your abilities and be confident.

In what ways has contracting exposed you to diverse projects and expanded your skill set?

In my years of contracting, I have worked in various parts of the country from small jobs to large projects.

In the realm of engineering, the underrepresentation of women in contract work is a glaring reality. However, by unravelling the misconceptions and showcasing the benefits, we’ve aimed to spark a conversation to pave the way for change. Our discussions with pioneering female contractors underscore the potential for growth, flexibility, and empowerment inherent in contract roles within engineering.

Now is the time to embrace this shift and encourage women to explore contract opportunities in engineering. By doing so, we not only diversify the workforce but also tap into a wealth of talent and perspectives. Take the first step by viewing our latest available jobs in contract engineering roles.

Advance TRS provides the most up-to-date interview tips so that you know how to answer interview questions effectively. If you particularly struggle with structure or how to respond to competency-based questions, then this article is for you! Let’s dive into the STAR approach and how it is used to get the upper edge over your competition.

Competency questions are used by interviewers to determine how candidates would react to certain situations, by asking for real-world examples to support their claims. Therefore, by mastering the STAR technique, you show confidence in your answer by staying calm and giving a clear and logical response.

HOW TO USE THE STAR TECHNIQUE

The STAR technique involves 4 main areas to cover – Situation, Task, Approach, and Results. Using these steps together can help you create the perfect response for any competency-based question given.

Here is a detailed step-by-step process on how to use the STAR technique to answer competency-based interview questions:

S – Situation

Set the scene for your interviewer so that they understand the general context which leads to your thought process and solution.

To do this well, simply provide some background of the status of your company at the time, and what is expected in your role. Reference any names and dates where appropriate to help add credibility.

Example:

At Company Name Ltd, I was responsible for representing the firm at tradeshows. In my second year there, three regularly attended events were scheduled within a month of each other – generally they were spread out over a much longer period.

T – Task

State the task at hand and outline the logical solutions to overcome any occurring problems throughout.

To take your STAR approach to the next level, mention possible difficulties and variables that could affect the operation to demonstrate your situational awareness.

Example:

It meant a tremendous amount of work was compressed into a tight timeframe. These shows were a huge source of lead generation for the company, so it was essential we attended and presented our products in the best light.

A – Approach

What actions did you take to resolve the situation?

Outline the steps you took to ensure a successful outcome, without being tempted to take all the credit. Always keep in mind what specific skills the interviewer really wants to see and reinforce them throughout. Be sure to mention any teamwork, collaboration, or effective management that helped accomplish the task.

Example:

To effectively manage the assignment, I first analysed the events and broke down what would be needed for each. From here I could establish the workload and prioritised it, accordingly, bringing my team in to support where appropriate. I then worked up a detailed project plan with interim deadlines for each item so that I’d have all the materials I needed ahead of the event and could fully brief and prepare all other participating staff.

R – Result

Summarise the key outcomes in relation to your task, where possible use clear KPIs or measures of success.

How did the scenario play out? Explain the impact your actions had on achieving the desired result, this could include, testimonials, statistics, financial results etc. Make your happy ending quantifiable, and you’ll really have nailed your answer!

Example:

The events went off without a hitch and I was able to exceed our lead generation targets. One quickly resulted in a contract award, and the sales team were really pleased with the overall event. I was even awarded Employee of the Month in recognition of the event’s success.

USE THE “STAR” APPROACH IN YOUR OWN WAY.

Finally, impressing at a competency-based interview is all about the way you tell your story. Therefore, prepare by writing down any memorable experience which highlights your skills, execution, and character well. Just remember that this is only a structure, so express your answer in any way you like! Make it your own so it flows naturally as a response, and don’t be afraid to differentiate and mention what went wrong or what could be improved. Being realistic by showing we are all human and clarifying that mistakes happen to improve future situations is an honest yet relatable approach!

FIND OUT MORE ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR AN INTERVIEW

If you seek more guidance with interview preparation or finding your perfect role, be sure to contact us today at 01483 361 061 or head to our contact us page to talk to one of our specialist recruiters, who offers a free confidential conversation about your place in the recruitment market.

We have other articles which can help support you in finding your next role! Depending on your recruitment stage, be sure to check out the best job searching tips in summer and how to optimise your LinkedIn page to maximise your chance of employment.

Advance TRS and Alstom are delighted to announce a huge milestone achieved in our recruitment partnership as our 300th permanent starter joins the business this week, following 3 years of tremendous growth across the business!

Advance TRS are the recruitment partner for Alstom UK & Ireland’s rail recruitment programme, sourcing rail signalling management, engineering, and installation professionals. The Advance TRS and Alstom UK & Ireland partnership has placed over 300 new professionals in permanent roles across the business.

Working in a truly collaborative manner has been a vital factor in the success to date which has seen both businesses work tirelessly to attract and engage with some of the brightest and most committed individuals across the country. Whilst in the company, the opportunities have not stopped with new starters building development career paths, taking on additional responsibilities, and achieving promotions as the benefits of working for a leading global engineering firm become a reality.

Having taken a proactive approach to appoint a diverse workforce, we have seen numerous key roles being filled by candidates outside of the sector, with management driving a recruitment focus on individual skills & behaviours rather than time spent in the railways. This has led to fresh ideas, new approaches, and opportunities for people to join and excel in the industry.

But the hard work doesn’t stop here! Thanks to an enviable work bank and constantly expanding product offering, Alstom is growing further and can offer outstanding opportunities across engineering, operations, and management as we gear up for the years ahead.

Find out more about the Advance TRS recruitment partnership with Alstom.

ALSTOM IN IRELAND

Advance TRS & Alstom are recruiting Commercial, Planning, Engineering, Management, Health & Safety professionals for the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) upgrade, a transformative rail improvement programme for the Cork Rail Network.

The Cork Area Commuter Rail programme is the heavy rail element of CMATS and is a transformative rail improvement programme for the Cork Rail Network. Delivering increased train capacity and frequency, providing for more connected communities and a more sustainable transport network, the project represents the largest-ever investment in the Cork Rail Network.

The programme involves developments and enhancements to the rail network from Mallow through Cork to Cobh and Midleton and will include the delivery of new rail infrastructure and electrification and re-signalling across the 3 main lines of Mallow, Cobh and Glounthaune to Midleton.

The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is being progressed through a number of separate but interrelated projects which will be delivered in specific work packages.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work on the Signalling and Communications Upgrade to facilitate the proposed capacity and service frequency increases across the Cork Area Commuter Rail network. The preliminary design of the project is well-advanced, and the implementation stage is starting now.

View the latest Alstom jobs in Ireland.

BUILDING A DIVERSE WORKFORCE WITH ALSTOM

A key focus for Alstom is to build a diverse and entrepreneurial workforce with inclusivity at its core. Alstom knows that employee empowerment is crucial to its success and continues to strengthen its culture by promoting diversity and entrepreneurial spirit with a fundamental commitment to integrity and high ethical business standards and practices.

This key commitment has been embraced and mirrored by Advance TRS, working together to establish a non-discriminative recruitment process to ensure a diverse candidate pool is available, and promoting opportunities for under-represented communities. At Advance TRS, we believe everyone deserves the same opportunities, and that the diversity of the workforce is an essential part of success. We are committed to supporting clients to build work environments that are free from discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all.

View the latest Alstom Jobs.

QUALITY CANDIDATE CARE

At Advance TRS providing a premium quality service to candidates and clients alike is a core founding principle and forms the backbone of how we approach our work.

We pride ourselves on our exceptional level of customer service and seek to create long-lasting and dependable relationships. Advance TRS support candidates throughout the entire process from initial contact and interview, through to remuneration negotiations and onboarding.

ALSTOM PRIORITIZING CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Professional development is part of Alstom’s recruitment strategy, with the organisation firmly believing that employee motivation and performance are intrinsically linked and that the nurturing of employee potential and competencies are key to ensuring the ongoing success of the international brand.

All employees are offered development opportunities via the ‘People Management Cycle’, which helps line managers and HR to design a bespoke training plan for each employee. This offers high-quality learning and development opportunities and supports employees through professional mentoring or coaching.

For those hesitant to take the next step in their career and explore opportunities, such a solid investment into personal development has proven to temper nerves and ease the transition when joining the business.

“My favourite part of my role is enhancing and developing new skills and expertise in the development of people. I have fully embraced Alstom’s People Management Cycle and encourage the development of my team members.”

Lead Commercial Manager, Alstom.

“Alstom has committed to training the right candidates to be the perfect fit for the business. They understand that not everyone will be the finished article straight away, but their development opportunities are really encouraging and quick to materialise.”

Principal Project Engineer, Alstom.

Find out more about life at Alstom.

FIND YOUR IDEAL ROLE

Across the UK, Alstom is winning new projects and securing exciting packages of work, opening up huge opportunities for professionals across the UK.

Are you looking for your next role and does Alstom sound like the right fit for you? View our live jobs or speak to one of our Alstom delivery teams today.

So, you have been interviewing for a new opportunity and have been offered the job! Hooray! But when you go to hand in your notice they offer you a counter offer to tempt you to stay.

How should you handle a counter offer?

Stop, Think, and Remember Why You Were Looking for a New Role in the First Place

Before considering the offer in front of you, take the time to think about the original motivation to move. Do they provide the solutions required for you to be satisfied? Do they offer the additional training, support, and stress relief that you were originally wishing for? Will the agreed changes be permanent or only a temporary fix? Do you honestly see yourself remaining with your current employer for the next 5-10 years?

DID YOU KNOW “80% of candidates who have received a counter offer tend to be back on the market within six months for the exact same reason!”

This is an important career and life choice for you. Take your time, don’t rush, and evaluate your options and think long-term before your big decision.

The Mask Behind a Counteroffer – What it Really Means

We understand that a sudden pay increase seems positive at first thought – You may feel like your value to the company is finally respected. However, don’t let this fool you! Often the purpose behind the counter offer may not relate to meeting your needs, but to simply avoid the potential cost and time to replace you in the short term. Employers often know what you want to hear, as there are many hidden intentions behind a counteroffer which you should be made aware of before you consider accepting a counter offer.

Consequences to Consider:

  • After accepting, your employer is aware of your unhappiness. Your loyalty will now always be in question, impacting potential promotions in the future.
  • Remember that the company that you chose to stay with only respected your worth when you threatened your own position. Hindsight for future requests.
  • Once word gets out, the relationship with your co-workers may not be the same.
  • If the business decides to downsize, your employer will begin the cutbacks with you.
  • Accepting a counter offer causes other employers to question your commitment knowing you were bought out of a move.
  • The same circumstances which now cause you to consider a change will likely repeat themselves in the future

Make a considered and informed decision that’s right for you

Remember that you now have an offer for a new start with new opportunity and the decision in your hands, you have come a long way to reach this point. Make sure you make an informed decision that makes the most sense for you.

Speak to your recruitment consultant if you are considering a counteroffer and discuss your options with them – they will have a strong understanding of the market, your value as a professional and likely know what upcoming projects are being awarded that can forecast future workstreams.

If your current employer is the one for you, it is for them to convince you of how your solutions can be met. With respect and honesty, you can ask the right questions and communicate with your employer to find out the reason behind the counteroffer. Why did it take the threatening of your own position to find change?

Lastly, considering the significance of either accepting or declining, don’t be afraid to ask for time to consider your offer! No matter the decision, it is always best to be polite, honest, and respectful. Take into consideration how it would feel for your new employer to receive initial acceptance, only for your offer to then be turned down later.

Contact Us for Support

If you seek more guidance with difficult career choices, contact us today at 01483 361 061 or head to our contact us page to talk to one of our specialist recruiters, who offers a free confidential conversation about your place in the recruitment market.

How could using LinkedIn help me find a new job? 

LinkedIn now holds over 850 million users, with over 35,000 skills listed to filter. With the ability to personalise your own profile, you can display previous experiences, useful skills, portfolios, and CV’s. We all know LinkedIn is now known as the perfect personal branding tool to find work. Hence why it is key to update and maximise your profile, as the aim is to get noticed by potential recruiters like us. 

Update Your LinkedIn Headline & About Us 

For your profile to maximise reach into the right people, reference industry-specific keywords that can go into your LinkedIn Headline & About section. Avoid generic phrases and think about specific knowledge useful in the type of jobs you’re seeking. All technical terms for your specific areas of work are a bonus, this can be education or expertise related also. Use it to highlight who you are, and what you do, you could also include what kind of opportunities you are looking for if you are openly looking for work.  

For example, instead of;  

  • Senior Management
  • Consultant
  • Engineering
  • Project Manager
  • Surveyor

Why not try;  

  • Possession & Worksite Management
  • Project Planning
  • Document Controller
  • Commercial Management
  • Document Controller
  • Signalling Projects
  • Principle/Civil/Senior/Project/Geotechnical Engineer
  • Client Management

Personalise Your LinkedIn Profile 

As essential as it is to have a professional outlook on your page, remember that it is still a social platform and a good visual of your character!  

  1. Update your profile cover. This is a good way to show your interest, ambition, or lifestyle. You could use an image or graphic that represents your work or the business you work for.  
  2. Update your profile picture. We highly recommend displaying an up-to-date, clear, and professional profile picture of yourself so people can put a face to your name! 
  3. Post about your achievements and engage with others in your industry/company. This helps you build your presence on the platform as an engaged member of the LinkedIn community.  
  4. Update your employment history and detail your key responsibilities and achievements for each role.

Let Recruiters Know You’re Open to Work 

If you are actively looking for a new role, you can let your network and recruiters know by using the #OpenToWork feature. Here you can select the types of roles you are interested in, and your preferred location. This will help promote your profile to recruiters who are searching for candidates.  

#OpenToWork also gives you control of who can see you are looking for a new opportunity. You can select from 2 levels of visibility:  

  • All LinkedIn Members: This also includes recruiters and people at your current company. It also adds the #OpenToWork photo frame. 
  • Recruiters only: People using LinkedIn Recruiter only. To protect your privacy, we take steps to prevent LinkedIn Recruiter users who work at your current company from seeing your shared career interests, but we can’t guarantee complete privacy. 

Contact Us

Be sure to contact us today at 01483 361 061 or head to our contact us page. to talk to one of our friendly & helpful consultants, who offers a free confidential conversation about your place in the recruitment market and what opportunities are out there within the built environment.

For more guidance as you consider your job change, take a look at our advance advice page. We have a variety of job searching articles available, from CV writing tips to interview techniques.

Are you looking to make a change in your career? Are you looking for that next step up, learn new skills or do you just need a change of scenery?

Our team are specialists in their markets and have extensive knowledge of the current market opportunities and of what skills and experience are most in need today. If you aren’t sure how to maximise your chances of finding your perfect role, they are always on hand for a confidential career consultation.

In the meantime, here are some helpful steps you can take to help give you that edge when rebooting your job search.

Update Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is one of the largest career networks and 8 people every minute find their next role through LinkedIn and over 75% of recruiters use LinkedIn to headhunt the top talent. LinkedIn has a number of tools to help your next role find you with minimum effort on your part! So take advantage of them!

  • Update your skills and experience – make sure you include your transferrable skills – think of your profile as your digital CV
  • Set your profile to ‘open for opportunities to tell recruiters you are on the market
  • Refresh your CV

Update your CV with your latest achievements, roles, and responsibilities. Depending on how long it has been since your last CV update you may want to update the formatting too to reflect the role you are looking for. The key to maximising your CV is using keywords. These will pull your CV in relevant searches employers run on CVs. Think about the keywords and skills that may be searched for by a potential employer and make sure these feature in your CV. Check out our full tips on how to update your CV. 

  • Update your CV on Job Boards

Once you have updated your CV, make sure to share it on the leading job boards in your chosen career. There are lots of specialist job boards out there and by registering for these and updating your profile, you can help recruiters and hiring managers find you!

  • Register for job alerts on the Advance TRS website

Register with Advance TRS to access our candidate dashboard – designed with you in mind to make your job search as seamless as possible. You can also set up alerts for any roles you think look exciting!

  • Speak to a Recruitment Consultant

At this stage, you should have an idea of the type of role you envision yourself in. An effective and proven way to then find work that best suits your qualities is through a specialist recruiter. Good recruiters will comprehensively understand the field you desire to work in, whilst also being aware of the current opportunities available. Engaging with recruiters who specialise in the field you desire (like Advance TRS for infrastructure) can be a quick and effective way to tap into your hunt for the right opportunity.

Be sure to contact us today at 01483 361 061 or head to our contact us page. to talk to one of our friendly & helpful consultants, who offers a free confidential conversation about your place in the recruitment market and what opportunities are out there within the built environment.

For more guidance as you consider your job change, take a look at our advance advice page. We have a variety of job searching articles available, from CV writing tips to interview techniques.

The First Steps to Career Change within Infrastructure

Have you ever felt stagnant, bored, or stuck during your work routine? Do you appear to ask yourself the “what if’s” and fantasize about a fresh start? We assure you that these thoughts are valued and relevant, as it is always healthy to reconsider the longevity of your current career path. We encourage you to listen to your mind and body when you desire a change, and this article will help assist in explaining how our friendly Recruitment Consultants can help convert your thoughts into fruition.

1. Ask Yourself First Why You Are Looking for a Change

Firstly, you should be comfortable in explaining the ideal working life scenario for you. Whether that is following your passion, progressing to a higher role, a fun working environment, or a desired location/setting. Being more self-aware of your need for a change allows your new role to align with your career goals.

Avoidance of doubt and regret to follow when decisions are made is our utmost priority, hence why Advance TRS always encourages you to think thoroughly so the step in the right direction is made. It also massively helps as a recruiter since we can then help find the best match and fit for both you and the employer. If you struggle with reasoning for the change, try speaking to a family member or a friend, since they can be a great advocate for you. A follow-up with one of our staff is highly recommended as we can identify your strengths and match your skillset and experience to an ideal career change.

2. Identifying your interpersonal and transferrable skills

Here, we advise you to list all the qualities, skills, and proud accomplishments that could potentially become beneficial for you in adapting to a new or improved role. This can help assist with generating ideas and push you towards a recurring theme or direction. “The great news is that you probably have the skills you need, you just don’t know it yet!”

In the engineering industry especially, you are well-educated on the different roles within projects, whilst also acquiring an engineering degree. Therefore, your expertise and cross-section skillset potential are much more attractive than the ordinary applicant. Hence why you see many power or software engineering entrants take on an assistant project managerial role. As not only do they see an improvement in responsibility and salary, additionally they develop all the qualities necessary to run as a project manager over time. To conclude, we understand that the process of planning a career change can be tricky, reason why this step has such significance as it is deemed as a great kick-starter for outlining your skills to infrastructure employers.

3. Visualize Your Future Self

The next step to planning your career path is to visualize your future self and where you want to be within a year, 5 years, or even 10. To get inspired, be sure to look through enticing job descriptions within your industry and observe the skills required. Then, compare the experiences you have today to see what is needed to be mastered for the future. Once you identify the gaps, you can develop those skills much easier. Remember, the learning curve for such tools and software in the “required” conditions is much easier than you think. Employers highly value external efforts to progress in their field/industry, not to forget that they also offer specialized training upon your arrival. Nonetheless, It is key to approach this task with high optimism and belief in yourself and your capabilities!

For more guidance as you consider your job change, take a look at our Advance Advice page. We have a variety of job searching articles available, from CV writing tips to interview techniques.

Be sure to contact us today at 01483 361 061 or head to our contact us page. Talk to one of our friendly & helpful consultants, who offers a free confidential conversation about your place in the recruitment market and what opportunities are out there for you.

Job searching in 2022? You may find yourself wondering if writing a cover letter is still necessary, and our answer? Absolutely. It is thought that at least 56% of employers still expect a cover letter to accompany a job application.

A cover letter shows prospective employers that you’re committed to the job and willing to put in the extra effort. It can set you apart from other candidates and help you stand out from the crowd.

We conducted a recent survey and found that 34% of candidates least like writing a cover letter in their job search. So, we’ve put together some tips to give you confidence in submitting a cover letter and make the process easier:

Research the company

Before writing a cover letter, you should take some time to dig a little deeper into the role you’re applying for and the company. You can then use this information to tailor your letter accordingly.

Some things you want to find out are:

  • What does the company do?
  • Who are their competitors? (this develops your understanding of the industry)
  • Who are their target audience?
  • What skills and experience do they value?
  • What does the role involve and how does this sit within the rest of the company?

Start with a header

Include all essential information about yourself, including name, phone number, email, and the date you’ve written the letter on. Most of this information should already be on your CV, but this saves the employer having to go between the two documents.

Write an impactful introduction

It’s essential to catch the employer’s attention from the very first paragraph. Most candidates start with a simple introduction, stating who they are, their interest in the role and previous work experience.

For example, “With over 10 years’ experience at my current company, I wish to apply for the role of Creative Director being advertised on your website.”

As this is quite generic and a common opening from candidates, you could get lost in the sea of cover letters the recruiter is receiving.

To really grab their attention, start off introducing yourself and your top 2-3 achievements (most relevant to the company or role). This is a great way to impress the employer and shine the light on yourself.

Why you’re suitable for the job

In your second paragraph, describe your professional skills and how you meet the role requirements. Read the job description and identify which of the responsibilities are of high importance for the employer. You’ll need to demonstrate how you meet these and why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

If you’re trying to change role, industry, or struggling to meet all requirements, think about skills and attributes that are transferable.

Try to be specific and give examples of your skills in action.

For example, a statement like “I’m a team player” is very vague.

A statement such as “In my previous role, I worked with a team of 10 on a project and ensured everyone was working towards the same goal. This project led to a 12% rise in sales in first 3 months of completion” is more specific and showcasing what you can do.

What you offer the company

Now is your opportunity to emphasise what you can do for the company and that you’ll be a good fit for their business. This is also a great time for you to state exactly why you want the job and why you’re passionate about working for them.

Again, don’t be too generic just for the sake of writing something. It’s very easy to look up the values of an organisation and simply say these align with your own values. Instead, be as specific as possible, giving example of something they’ve done or detailed knowledge of their culture.

Closing the letter

Wrap up your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time or consideration and include a call to action. This could be the opportunity to discuss further or arranging an interview.

At this point, you should also double check the length of your cover letter. Whilst it is important to cover all the information we’ve advised; you don’t want to put off an employer because it is too lengthy. Aim for half a side of A4 or at a maximum, one A4 page.

Finally, make sure you proofread your letter before sending. Having put so much effort into producing the perfect cover letter, you don’t want to be let down by any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes. There are some great online tools such as Grammarly that can help you check, or maybe even ask a friend or family member to look.

Our final checklist

  • Have you done your research into the company?
  • Have you provided all essential information?
  • Does your introductory paragraph make an impact?
  • Have you detailed why you’re suitable for the job?
  • Do you state what you can offer the company?
  • Did you close the letter with a call to action?
  • Have you checked the length of your letter?
  • Have you proofread and checked for errors?

Why Advance TRS?

We offer an in-depth candidate management process supporting you through interview, remuneration negotiation, resignation, counteroffer and notice period. Our consultants go out of their way to keep you informed throughout every stage of the recruitment process.

View our latest jobs and find your next opportunity!

Having a personal statement on your CV is the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to prospective employers. It should be a short paragraph, around 5-6 lines, detailing your attributes, what you can offer the company, and your career goals.

We’ve put together some top tips on writing your personal statement:

What should you include?

You should think about the following points:

• A statement about who are you
• What you currently do? (if applicable)
• What are your career goals/what are you searching for?
• Your value to the company

As employers will only spend a short time reviewing your CV, it’s important to highlight your potential straight away.

Why you should vary your personal statement:

If you have time, it would be beneficial to adapt your personal statement each job you apply for. This allows you to make it as relevant as possible to the role you are applying for. Make sure you do your research on the specific requirements the employer is asking for, both for the job and personal skills. This shows potential employers that you understand the requirements for the role.

Employers may also use applicant tracking systems that analyse your CV for keywords and phrases. Having these included in your personal statement, increases your chances of being seen and progressed in the application stage.

Remember, your personal statement gives you a chance to sell yourself in one paragraph. The rest of your CV is your work experience and your qualifications, so this gives you the opportunity to add that personal touch.

How to structure your statement:

• State who you are – Begin your statement by detailing who you are, your qualities and where you are in your career. Use of buzzwords can capture the attention of potential employers and help you stand out from the crowd.

Example: As an experienced project manager, I have over 10 years of experience across the rail industry. I am a reliable and well-organised manager, bringing a variety of expertise and knowledge to the table

• Communicate your value – The second section should state why you are suitable for the role and what value you bring to the company. This is your chance to highlight any key achievements relevant to the position and distinct qualities.

Example: In my current role, my determination and proactive approach resulted in several successful completions of important projects. The combination of my time management, communication and decision-making skills ensured maximum productivity of each project and of those involved.

• Detail your career goals – In the final part of your statement, you should explain what your career goals are and why you’re applying for this role.

Example: I am now coming to the end of my current role and am seeking a new challenge. I’m looking for a position which will allow me to contribute my skills and experience, whilst increasing my current knowledge.

Advance TRS

For more helpful tips and job search advice check out our website. We have various Advance Advice articles that cover all aspects of job hunting.

If you are looking for a new career in the built environment, contact us today on 01483 361 061. Alternatively, contact us via email at info@advance-trs.com. We have plenty of permanent and contract roles across all our sectors. Our recruiters are here to help!

You’ve just finished writing your CV and ready to send it to prospective employers, but what is your CV really saying about you? Before eagerly submitting any job applications, we’ve put together some tips on reviewing your CV.

Personal Statement

This can be tricky to get right, but is also one of the most important areas of your CV. It is your opportunity to sell yourself to your employer and let them know who you are. Within this section you want to include your attributes, what you can offer to the company, and your career goals/what you’re searching for. We recommend that this is roughly 5-6 sentences long, save your detailed information for the interview stages.

It is also important to tailor your CV/personal statement to each role you apply for. This will show employers that you have put care into your application and understand the requirements for the role. Employers may also use applicant tracking systems that analyse your CV for keywords and phrases. This will look for words/phrases that match the job description or what the employer has instructed the system to look for. Having these included on your CV, increases your chances of being seen and progressed in the application stage.

Employment History

So that employers can get a better understanding of what you can bring to the role, fill your employment history with the skills you used whilst in this job. You can also include any achievements and positive outcomes within your existing roles.

Having a detailed section of previous responsibilities and achievements should be positively received by employers and help you stand out from other applicants. They will be keen to understand your transferable skills and how these will benefit them.

Hobbies/Key Achievements

Whilst it may be tempting to fill your CV with your hobbies and interests, you should think carefully about how this will be received by the employer. We’d suggest only including hobbies or interests that relate to the role you’re applying for or offer intriguing information about yourself. Don’t list interests just for the sake of it.

If you’re struggling with ideas on hobbies or interests, you could have a section for your key achievements. Have you taken part in a charity run? Gained any qualifications? Been promoted to a senior level? Your achievements could be both personal or professional, minor or major, as long as they portray you in a positive light and add value to your CV.

Key Skills

Have you thought about additional skills that could help your CV shine? There are plenty of courses online that are either free or only require a small fee to be. New certifications can then be added to your CV. This will show potential employers that you are proactive and take your personal development seriously.

For more tips and CV advice, take a look at our website and Advance Advice articles. We cover everything from interview preparation and CV writing to top tips for your job search. https://www.advance-trs.com/advice/

Looking back at the past year, it seems a good time to remind ourselves to not only look after our physical but also our mental wellbeing. That being said, those two very often go hand in hand, so going for a walk or hike in nature, for example, can help you boost both aspects of your life. 

While some had more time than ever before to pursue their hobbies and live a much slower life during the past 12 months, it has been a struggle for others. Some may have had to face uncertainty, felt lonely or experienced a decline in mental wellbeing. 

It is important to remember it is okay to not be okay, and there are lots of people, friends and organisations out there who want to help. So if you are finding things a little tough at the moment or if you are feeling good and want to keep it that way, why not try some of our top tips for self-care! 

Reach out

If you feel that you are struggling, please reach out to either friends or family, or one of the brilliant mental health charities like Mind, but also the Samaritans. Get whatever you’re dealing with off your chest rather than bottling it up. 

Take time for yourself

Do something you enjoy, whether that’s an activity or simply relaxing and reading a book or watching a film.

Start journaling

Having a gratitude journal can make a big difference to your thoughts and help you focus on the positives, rather than the negatives. Before you go to bed, sit down and write down 3 things that made you feel good that day. It might be as simple as your cup of coffee in the morning, that really helped you wake up. 

Do some yoga

You might be surprised how much a few simple yoga stretches can help calm your mind and keep stress at bay. A quick 10 minutes will already make a difference. 

Spend time outside

Now that it’s autumn, you can spot some amazing colours when you’re outside for a walk. Take some deep breaths to fill your lungs with the crisp autumn air.

We take Mental Health seriously

At Advance TRS, we prioritise the mental wellbeing of our staff. To provide a first point of contact when needed, we have appointed qualified Mental Health First Aiders. We also offer a Wellbeing Hub, where confidential support via an EAP helpline can be accessed at any time. These are only some of the steps we have taken and we continue to improve our mental health awareness.

We are currently recruiting, so if you want to work for a company that places Mental Health and Wellbeing as a priority send us your CV or take a look at our latest vacancies.

Christmas is meant to be a time of joy and peace. We get to spend some time with friends and family, eat good food and enjoy ourselves. 

However, it can also bring stress and financial pressures. On top of that, this year has been a very different one and we might not be able to spend Christmas the way we want to due to the pandemic. 

It is important to look after yourself and your mental wellbeing during this time and we have collated some tips to help you with this.

Stay connected

If you are unable to spend much or any time with loved ones for Christmas, make sure to stay connected with them, for example via Zoom or Facetime. That way you still get some interaction with them. Why not enjoy a cup of tea or coffee together or maybe even open presents while you speak to each other. 

Don’t bottle it up

If you feel that you can’t get in the festive spirit and that the past few months have had a bigger effect on you than you might have realised, confide in a friend or family member. Speaking about your fears and what is making you feel anxious can help you clear your mind and even lift those feelings. Make sure you don’t bottle it up.

Have some me time

If you are seeing family, allow yourself to still have some time for just you. Take a relaxing bath or read a book. The past year has been intense and this time is all about letting go of those pressures.

Do it yourself

Maybe you discovered some new skills during lockdown and it might be a great idea to put them to good use. If you got into baking or cooking, why not gift some homemade baked goods or jams. Discovered your love for knitting? You could make some lovely, unique hats which will come in really handy during the cold months. This can save you money and is a good way to give more personal gifts.

We hope that these tips help you feel calmer this Christmas.

If you think a new career is on the cards for you then keep an eye out for new opportunities on our website. Visit our careers page or for a discrete conversation, contact Paul Metcalfe, Advance TRS CEO on 07793 554 413 or email pme@advance-trs.com.

The UK has now officially left the EU and rules will be changing as of next year. If you are an EU citizen, you will need to apply for settled status in order to continue living and working here. It is free of charge and if you find the idea of starting the process daunting, we’re here to help and we know from experience, it’s quicker and easier than you might think! 

The deadline for completing your application is 30 June 2021.

What you will need

First of all, you will need to download the app “EU Exit: ID Document Check” which is available for Android phones or iPhone7 and above. If you do not have either of these, you can use a friend’s or family member’s phone. You will also need to have the following to hand:

  • Valid proof of identity which can be your passport or national identity card

Note: you can only apply using the app if you have a biometric passport or ID document. You can find out by checking for this symbol:

You will also need to ensure that NFC (near field communications) is enabled on your phone. You can find this in settings – connections, or if you drag down the screen on your Android phone.

If you cannot complete the process via the app, you can either find a list on the Home Office website of places including registry offices you can visit to scan in your documents, or you will need to post your documents to the Home Office.

If you are using the app to complete the application, it will give you step-by-step instructions on what you need to do. 

First, you will need to take a photo of your passport or other proof of identity and add the information to your application. 

You will then be asked to scan the biometric chip to confirm that all details are correct. If you are using your passport, you will need to take off any cover, close it, remove any phone cover and slide your phone over it slowly, until it recognises the chip. As mentioned above, you will need to ensure that NFC is switched on for this. This step can take a while, try not to rush. Once the app recognises the chip it will beep.

As the next step, you will need to take a scan of your face to ensure it matches the photo on your proof of identity. And lastly, you will be asked to take a photo of yourself. 

Once you have completed these steps using the app, you will be asked to return to the website to finish your settled status application. 

There, you will need to fill in details including your name and address and set up security questions in case somebody needs to call you with regards to your application.

Once finished, you will need to verify your email address and you will then receive an email confirming submission of your application. 

Depending on the volume of applications the Home Office receives, it should take around one week to hear back. If you can prove that you have lived in the UK for more than five years, you should be granted settled status. If you get pre-settled status despite having lived in the UK for five years or more, you can apply again.

If you can’t use your phone to complete your application and have to send your documents by post, it’s highly recommended that you use recorded delivery. 

To recap, you need to apply for settled status if:

  • You are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen
  • You were born in the UK but are not a British citizen
  • You have a UK permanent residence document
  • You are a family member or carer of an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen who does not need to apply
  • You are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen with a British citizen family member.

You need to apply if you do not have indefinite leave to remain in the UK. If you do have indefinite leave to remain, you’ll usually have a stamp in your passport or a letter from the Home Office saying this.

Visit the Government website for more information on who needs to apply and the application process.

The job market is constantly changing now more than ever, we have discussed the soft skills required to succeed in a post COVID world, but what about the hard skills that are in demand right now? In this monthly update we review the job roles in high demand right now. 

Principal Civil Engineers 

What does a Principal Civil Engineer do? The Principal Civil Engineer will lead the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting civil plans according to budget constraints, design factors or client needs. Leadership skills and communication skills are crucial in their work. They also need to be creative to come up with innovative approaches to their projects and any issues that arise. 

What are the benefits of working in civil engineering? Being a civil engineer is an exciting career choice. Civil engineering is about shaping the world and civil engineers work on some of the biggest and most high profile projects in society. From building new roads, railways, airports, sports stadiums, ports or off-shore oil platforms, a civil engineer will be involved from start to finish on these large scale projects. These projects can usually be multi-million or even multi-billion pound programmes so the pressure is on to make sure they are delivered on time and within budget. From early on in the career civil engineers are provided responsibility for certain aspects of a project. Furthermore, no two days in this job are the same. One day you could be in the office working on CAD designs then the following day you could be dealing with contractors, physically constructing work or undertaking site surveys.

What are the current opportunities for Principal Civil Engineers? As specialist recruiters for the built environment we recruit civil engineers at all levels of experience across a wide range of sectors. Currently, our water and environment team are urgently seeking Intermediate to Principal Civil Engineers with experience in river and/or coastal engineering and flood risk management projects for a client working on the Environment Agency framework. Particularly candidates with a design consultancy background (optioneering, outline and detailed design) of flood defences, fish passes, weirs, river and coastal embankments, ports and maritime in the Haywards Heath, Peterborough and Leeds areas. 

If you are looking to take your next step in your civil engineering career, browse our latest Principal Civil Engineer jobs which offer excellent career opportunities and competitive salaries in the market. Here are a couple of our hottest jobs this month:

Property Managers 

What does a Property Manager do? A property manager oversees and performs the daily operations of a real estate property. As a liaison between the property owner and the tenants of the property, a property manager ensures that both parties are satisfied with the property and its daily operations.

What are the benefits of working in property management? Property Managers have a diverse role with exposure to a huge range of tasks, which can quickly strengthen your skill base and value as an employee. It also provides an incredible opportunity to establish a wide and varied knowledge of the real estate sector.  This job will give you insight and experience within the real estate world that will benefit you in future property management jobs or allow you to invest in real estate for yourself.

What are the current opportunities for Property Managers? At Advance TRS our Property teamwork with some of the leading hirers of property managers in the country. A key focus for our clients at the moment is finding Property Managers that have dealt with EWS1 forms (evaluating the fire risk of the external wall system and assessing whether remedial works are required) and have experience of dealing with High Net Worth Individuals.

If you are looking to take your next step in your property management career, browse our latest Property Manager jobs which offer excellent career opportunities and competitive salaries in the market. Here are a couple of our hottest jobs this month: 

Permanent Way Supervisors

What does a Permanent Way Supervisor do? Permanent Way Supervisors lead, direct and motivate staff within the Permanent Way team. They are responsible for maintaining all tools, plant, vehicles and other equipment of the Permanent Way Department, ensuring they are safe for use, returned to storage, and ready for the next job.

What are the benefits of working in Permanent Way? Maintaining the physical system of rail tracks, or permanent way, is more important than ever for the UK’s complex and far-reaching rail network. As the network expands to meet increasing demands for more convenient and faster travel routes, the permanent way division must enlist a workforce that delivers high-level results. With the continued expansion and maintenance requirements of the rail network, nationally and internationally, permanent way engineers are in high demand, with opportunities to transfer skills to international rail networks. 

What are the current opportunities for Permanent Way Supervisors? As specialist recruiters for the built environment, with an expert focus in the rail industry, we recruit permanent way engineers at all levels of experience on leading projects across the UK. If you are looking to take your next step in your permanent way career, browse our latest Permanent Way Engineer jobs which offer excellent career opportunities and competitive salaries in the market. Here are a couple of our hottest jobs this month:

Other roles in high demand this month: 

Technical Engineers 

Depending on their industry, a technical engineer may build or set up equipment, conduct experiments, make models of new equipment, test products, collect data, or help design and develop products. In all areas, they find ways to make things work efficiently.

Contractors Responsible Engineer (CRE)

The Contractor’s Responsible Engineer (CRE) is the person within a design and/or construction organisation with the responsibility for the day-to-day management and coordination of the technical and engineering activities for a specific engineering discipline / project and is responsible for ensuring the Construction and Installation teams follow the project approved Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) Process. 

Are you looking to take the next step in your career?

Advance TRS are growing quickly and we are always looking for ambitious, driven people to join the team. If you are interested to find out more about our current opportunities, visit our website or for a discrete conversation, contact Paul Metcalfe, Advance TRS CEO on 07793 554 413 or email pme@advance-trs.com.

The COVID pandemic and events of 2020 have required everyone to adapt and change throughout the workplace in just about every industry you can imagine. But change does not have to be a negative, and can be a catalyst creating opportunities to find improvements and drive forward positive transformation. 

Here are some of the key skills to help people succeed in this new time of uncertainty. 

1. Adapting to change

An ability to accept and adapt to change is essential, change has always been inevitable but more than ever before, those who can think quickly and embrace the new normal (at every phase) are those who succeed. Employers are increasingly looking for people who can move out of their comfort zone and see change as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

Through the pandemic, you’ve likely faced and overcome new challenges that you didn’t foresee. So, although this may have felt difficult and uncomfortable at times, you will have been building up your resilience, adaptability and ability to deal with change in the process.

You should take time to acknowledge how your mindset may have shifted in recent weeks and months. If you’ve noticed that you’ve managed to adapt to the changes quickly, it’s likely that you will have done so using a growth mindset, which is a great attribute to highlight in interviews with employers. 

2. Creative problem solving

With a rapidly changing world of work comes the demand for people who are quick to adapt and solve problems efficiently and effectively. As leaders involve their teams in problem-solving discussions, they are looking for professionals who can come up with creative ideas and solutions to ensure deadlines are met and results achieved, despite limited or perhaps strained resources.

Chartered occupational psychologist Dr Maggi Evans explains some ways to help yourself to get your creative problem solving juices flowing;

  • Giving yourself some space; many people come up with their best ideas when they’re doing something unrelated, such as walking their dog
  • Be curious and playful; take fresh perspectives on a problem by asking yourself questions like, ‘What would my superhero do?’, ‘What if I had more time or limitless resources’, or ‘What if I had to find a solution today?’
  • Create a positive environment; if you’re working with a team on a challenging project, spend some time chatting or doing something positive first

3. Enthusiasm

People from all backgrounds and seniority levels will likely be feeling the pressure at the moment, from tough decision making to lingering uncertainty, by embracing the best and being enthusiastic to adapt, compromise, support and even upskill, you can set yourself apart. Your positivity and enthusiasm can be contagious and may just help set the tone for your team or be the positive kickstart someone needs to their day. 

Furthermore, we now live in a world where everything can change almost overnight, and with this change comes demand for different skills. As a result, upskilling should have moved up your priority list. By devoting time now to upskilling and learning, you will be demonstrating to future potential employers your willingness to learn through how you used this time to better yourself and grow your knowledge base.

Regardless of the industry, a willingness to learn and a desire to stay on top of current trends and changes relevant to your profession is valued by employers both large and small. Showing that you are willing to learn is key to learning about and understanding any new developments from a technical point of view, ultimately helping your organisation to progress. 

4. Effective communication

These above-mentioned skills are all well and good but get lost if you’re not able to communicate and demonstrate them successfully to others, such as a potential employer in a job interview.

For example, stating that you are adaptable to change isn’t enough; you need to use your strong communication skills to illustrate just how adaptable you are, perhaps by providing examples. After all, employers favour jobseekers who possess exceptional communication skills and are comfortable speaking with people at all levels of an organisation in a professional manner.

It’s worth acknowledging, too, that communication has now changed substantially and as we transition to a hybrid working world – with team members split between home-working and office-working – strong interpersonal and communication skills are only going to become more important as we learn and adapt to building and maintaining relationships, collaborating and sustaining productivity virtually rather than in person.

Video calls, virtual conferences and online presentations also require new levels of self-confidence you might not currently possess, but will be able to develop in time.

Are you looking to take the next step in your career?

Advance TRS are growing quickly and we are always looking for ambitious, driven people to join the team. If you are interested to find out more about our current opportunities, visit our website or for a discrete conversation, contact Paul Metcalfe, Advance TRS CEO on 07793 554 413 or email pme@advance-trs.com.