Tag: problem-solving

At Advance TRS, delivering high-quality recruitment solutions is at the heart of what we do. Behind the scenes, ensuring the business runs smoothly and effectively across our three brands – Advance TRS, CITILINE, and Advance TRS Management Consultancy – is Ella Gardiner, our Group Business Operations Director. We sat down with Ella to discuss her career journey, what drives her, and why she’s so passionate about shaping and growing high-quality businesses.

Q: Can you tell us about your role at Advance TRS?

As the Group Business Operations Director, I oversee a diverse range of business functions, including HR, bids & tenders, marketing, contract management, and operational efficiency. My role is all about ensuring we have the right structures and processes in place to support growth while maintaining the high standards we’re known for.

I also focus heavily on business improvement, ensuring that everything from internal events to CRM systems is optimised to enhance performance. It’s a dynamic role, and I love the variety and challenges that come with it.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working in a small business environment?

I love the challenges and opportunities that come with a growing business. Unlike in larger corporations, where things can be rigid, here I get to have a real impact on shaping the business. There’s something incredibly rewarding about taking a company that might be small and helping it grow into something high-quality and successful. It’s not just about expansion – it’s about doing business well and ensuring efficiency and innovation in everything we do.

Q: What drives your approach to business operations?

For me, it’s all about problem-solving and driving continuous improvement. I enjoy taking a strategic approach to business operations – whether that’s refining our CRM systems, overseeing complex bids and tenders, or developing employee engagement strategies that align with our company’s vision and values.

I also strongly believe in building strong relationships, both internally with our teams and externally with key stakeholders. Success isn’t just about having the right systems in place; it’s about people working together effectively.

Q: What does ‘doing business well’ mean to you?

It’s about running an operation that is ethical, compliant, efficient, and sustainable, but above all, people focused. We work in highly regulated industries, so ensuring compliance is a given, but beyond that, I believe in creating an environment where people feel supported, encouraged, and motivated to succeed.

A business is about long-term success, reputation, and fostering a workplace where employees enjoy their time at work, think creatively, and are inspired to push themselves to achieve their full potential. When people feel valued and engaged, they contribute more effectively, and that drives success for everyone.

Q: What has been one of your biggest achievements at Advance TRS so far?

One of my proudest achievements has been launching Advance TRS Management Consultancy. Diversifying our service offering and introducing an entirely new business model was a huge challenge, but also incredibly exciting.

Bringing AMC to life has required strategic planning, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how we can best support our clients in new ways. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m really proud of the team I’ve been working with to make it happen.

Q: What excites you most about the future of Advance TRS?

The potential! We have ambitious growth plans, and I’m excited to be part of shaping that journey. What makes it even more exciting is that in my nine years at Advance TRS, my role has never been the same from one year to the next. The business has evolved so much that I’m constantly facing new challenges, adapting to industry changes, and refining how we operate.

This continuous evolution keeps things dynamic and allows me to contribute in new ways each year, ensuring we remain agile, forward-thinking, and ready to take on new opportunities. As part of the Management Board, I also have the opportunity to contribute to high-level strategic planning and decision-making, ensuring that our strategies are not just aligned with our business goals but also focused on continuous innovation and improvement.

Q: Finally, any advice for those looking to develop a career in business operations?

Be curious and proactive! Business operations are all about problem-solving, improving efficiency, and helping a company thrive, so it’s essential to develop a strategic mindset and a willingness to tackle challenges.

Also, never underestimate the power of investing in people – a business is only as strong as the team behind it and creating an environment where staff can develop and succeed is crucial to long-term success.

Conclusion

Ella’s leadership and commitment to quality, efficiency, and people development play a huge role in shaping the success of Advance TRS. Her passion for strategic business improvement, stakeholder engagement, and operational excellence ensures we continue to provide the best recruitment solutions in the built environment sectors.

If you’re interested in learning more about Advance TRS, exploring career opportunities, or seeing how we can support your recruitment needs, get in touch with our team today!

Engineering is a dynamic and ever-evolving field. Whether you’re working in rail, aviation, buildings, or energy, certain skills are indispensable for success in the engineering industry. As technologies advance, engineers need to stay adaptable, develop new competencies, and master the core skills that remain crucial to their roles.

Here’s a breakdown of essential skills for an engineer in 2025:

1. Technical Expertise

One of the foundational skills for any engineer is technical expertise. A deep understanding of your field – whether that’s AutoCAD or Primavera P6 – is crucial for producing high-quality work. As projects become more complex, the ability to apply specialised tools and software is increasingly valuable.

For instance, professionals working in construction or infrastructure projects often need to be proficient in software like AutoCAD. Learning tools and systems that cater to specific engineering sectors, like Primavera P6, can enhance project scheduling and management. If you’re looking to improve your technical knowledge, getting qualifications like PMP Certification or PRINCE2 can be a great start to deepen your understanding of project management and methodology.

2. Problem-Solving

Engineers are natural problem solvers. Whether you’re working on bridges and highways or managing water and environmental projects, the ability to approach challenges methodically and find innovative solutions is key to success. Problem-solving isn’t just about technical ability; it’s about thinking critically, finding creative solutions, and applying them effectively.

Some of the best engineers can take complex issues and break them down into manageable tasks. They stay calm under pressure and use logic to navigate even the toughest of challenges.

3. Communication Skills

An engineer’s work often involves working with a multidisciplinary team, stakeholders, and clients. Effective communication is essential for ensuring that ideas and instructions are clear, reducing the chances of mistakes and misunderstandings. Whether you’re writing reports, delivering presentations, or collaborating on a project, communication is key.

It’s also crucial for client-facing engineers, especially those working in fields like buildings or aviation, where managing expectations and explaining complex ideas simply can set you apart. Your ability to present technical information in a way that others can understand is just as important as the technical knowledge itself.

4. Adaptability and Lifelong Learning

As technologies evolve, engineers must continue to learn and adapt. Being able to pivot and gain new skills quickly is an asset, especially in fast-paced industries like energy and renewables. Engineers who stay ahead of technological trends and seek out professional development through certifications, such as ISO 9001 or ISO 27001, will have a competitive edge in the job market.

The engineering industry offers a wide range of opportunities for continuous learning and growth. Whether it’s developing a new skill, gaining a new certification, or attending industry events, staying current and continuously improving your abilities is vital.

5. Teamwork and Collaboration

Engineering projects rarely succeed without collaboration. Whether you’re working on bridges and highways or rail infrastructure, working effectively with diverse teams across different departments is a must. An engineer should be able to collaborate with architects, contractors, clients, and other specialists to bring a project to fruition.

Being able to contribute to the success of the team while also taking initiative is a valuable skill. Strong engineers are not only leaders but also active participants in a team environment.

6. Project Management Skills

Whether you’re managing a team or a large-scale project, project management skills are increasingly essential. Engineers are often tasked with overseeing projects from conception to completion. Strong skills in time management, budgeting, and prioritisation are crucial for success. Getting familiar with project management methods such as APM Accreditation or ISO 45001 can greatly enhance your effectiveness as a project leader.

Effective project managers are able to keep everything on track and ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget. They understand the importance of clear communication, stakeholder management, and managing resources effectively.

7. Attention to Detail

Finally, one of the most crucial skills for an engineer is attention to detail. Whether you’re working on technical drawings in AutoCAD or fine-tuning a structural design, small errors can lead to costly mistakes. Engineers must be thorough and precise in their work, especially when dealing with complex and safety-critical projects.

Attention to detail can make the difference between a successful project and a failed one, which is why ensuring quality control and accuracy in everything you do is paramount.

By honing these skills, engineers can position themselves for success in an industry that’s continually growing and changing. For those looking to expand their qualifications and stay competitive, certifications such as CEng Status or IStructE Accreditation are excellent ways to solidify your expertise and improve career prospects.

If you’re considering pursuing a career in engineering, whether in buildings or water and environment, these skills will help you excel and stand out in the job market.

In today’s ever-evolving recruitment landscape, technical expertise alone is no longer enough to guarantee success. The growing demand for soft skills like communication, adaptability, and, most importantly, emotional intelligence (EQ) has reshaped the way companies evaluate potential candidates, particularly within technical industries. Whether it’s in engineering, construction, or technology, the ability to work effectively with others, navigate challenges, and manage emotions can make or break a professional’s career.

The Growing Demand for Soft Skills

As industries become more reliant on innovation and collaboration, soft skills have gained prominence in hiring decisions. In the past, technical industries often focused primarily on qualifications and hard skills. However, the increasing complexity of projects, coupled with fast-paced working environments, has led to a shift in priorities. Companies now recognise that technical proficiency without emotional intelligence can hinder team dynamics, disrupt client relationships, and affect overall productivity.

Skills like clear communication, critical thinking, and emotional regulation are essential when dealing with clients, managing project teams, or navigating workplace challenges. The ability to stay calm under pressure, empathise with colleagues, and effectively communicate ideas can lead to improved outcomes, whether in project delivery, team collaboration, or client satisfaction.

Emotional Intelligence: The Key Soft Skill

Emotional intelligence, often described as the ability to recognise and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others, is one of the most important traits employers look for today. EQ is broken down into five key components:

  1. Self-awareness: The ability to recognise one’s emotions and how they influence behaviour and decision-making.
  2. Self-regulation: Managing one’s emotions in healthy ways, especially in stressful or challenging situations.
  3. Motivation: Staying driven and focused on long-term goals, even in the face of obstacles.
  4. Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering deeper connections and trust.
  5. Social skills: The ability to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others.

These qualities are crucial for professionals in technical fields, as they help navigate complex situations that require more than just technical expertise. In an environment that increasingly relies on cross-functional teamwork, a high EQ can lead to stronger, more effective collaborations, and smoother project execution.

The Impact of Soft Skills in Technical Industries

In technical industries, where problem-solving and precision are vital, soft skills often serve as the differentiating factor between a good employee and a great one. Here’s how they impact success:

  1. Improved Collaboration: Technical industries often require cross-functional teams to work together to solve complex problems. Having professionals with strong communication and emotional intelligence skills ensures that team members can work harmoniously, listen to each other, and resolve conflicts constructively. This collaborative spirit ultimately leads to more efficient project delivery and innovative solutions.
  2. Better Client Relationships: Engineers, developers, and other technical experts frequently interact with clients who may not have technical backgrounds. Having employees who can effectively explain complex concepts, manage expectations, and listen to clients’ needs fosters trust and builds long-term partnerships.
  3. Enhanced Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, whether through new technologies or shifting client demands, is crucial in today’s competitive market. Employees who can remain calm, think critically, and adjust their strategies in response to challenges are invaluable assets to any team.
  4. Conflict Resolution: With high-pressure deadlines and demanding projects, conflicts are bound to arise. Professionals with emotional intelligence are more adept at resolving disagreements constructively, helping teams stay focused on their goals and fostering a positive work environment.
  5. Employee Retention: Soft skills also play a significant role in employee satisfaction. Teams with a high degree of emotional intelligence are more likely to have a supportive and understanding work culture, leading to higher retention rates and lower turnover.

Conclusion

The growing demand for soft skills in technical recruitment reflects a shift in how businesses value talent. Emotional intelligence, along with communication, adaptability, and collaboration, has become crucial for success in technical industries. By prioritising these traits during the hiring process, employers can build stronger teams capable of thriving in challenging environments, fostering innovation, and driving long-term success.

As we continue to see a change in the skills needed in the workforce, it’s clear that emotional intelligence isn’t just a nice-to-have trait – it’s a critical asset. If your organisation is looking to secure top talent, integrating emotional intelligence into your recruitment process could be the key to unlocking future growth.

Looking for your next opportunity? Check out our available jobs, here.