Recruitment in 2024: New Year, New Challenges, New Strategies

January 10, 2024

As we step into 2024, the recruitment landscape continues to evolve, presenting new challenges and opportunities for organisations worldwide. The rapid pace of technological advancement, changing demographics, and the ongoing impact of global events are reshaping the way companies attract, hire, and retain talent. Here’s a look at some of the key trends and strategies shaping recruitment in 2024.

Embracing Technology and Automation

One of the most significant trends in 2024 is the increased appearance of technology within many different industries across the board. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are no longer just buzzwords; they are essential tools that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of recruitment. Having the right team on board during a client hiring is imperative to hiring the correct candidates. Alongside new technology will implement a more affective system and easier process for the recruitment industry. Moreover, automation in routine tasks such as scheduling interviews and communicating with candidates frees up time for recruiters to focus on more strategic aspects of their role.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Take Centre Stage

Diversity, equity, and inclusion have moved to critical business imperatives. In 2024, companies are not just talking about DEI; they are actively embedding these principles into their recruitment strategies. PRG have gone one step further by holding a strong partnership with Programme One and the Aleto Foundation for over a year. These programmes focus on giving black talent the best opportunity to start their careers in recruitment. Alongside this, the Aleto Foundation also offer a mentorship programme allowing anyone joining the programme to partner with a someone in a senior role from another agency to learn as much as possible. All of our consultants also receive training to improve diversity across the candidate sourcing, screening and shortlisting process.

Remote Work and Global Talent Pools

The shift towards remote work, accelerated by the global events of the past few years, has permanently altered the recruitment landscape. In 2024, companies are leveraging this shift to tap into global talent pools. This approach not only broadens the search for top talent but also promotes a more inclusive work environment. However, recruiting from a global pool of candidates brings its own set of challenges, such as dealing with different time zones, cultural nuances, and legal requirements.

Candidate Experience as a Differentiator

In a competitive job market, the candidate experience can be a significant differentiator for employers. Companies in 2024 are focusing on creating a seamless, engaging, and transparent recruitment process. This includes clear communication, realistic job previews, and personalised interactions throughout the hiring process. A positive candidate experience not only helps in attracting top talent but also in building the strong umbrella brands we have at PRG.

Upskilling and Reskilling

As the skills required for jobs continue to evolve rapidly, organisations in 2024 are placing greater emphasis on upskilling and reskilling their workforce. This trend is influencing recruitment strategies, with companies increasingly looking for candidates who demonstrate a willingness and ability to learn and adapt. PRG have an award-winning Learning and Development team who deliver a diverse range of training to our consultants, providing them with the best opportunity to work around the ever-changing trends in the industry.

 

Recruitment in 2024 is about being agile, embracing technology, and prioritising diversity and candidate experience. The challenges are many, but so are the opportunities for organisations willing to innovate and adapt. As we navigate through this new year, the key will be to develop recruitment strategies that are not only effective today but are also sustainable and scalable for the future. If you are looking to join a forward thinking and adaptable recruitment company today, click here to apply.

Written by:

Tyler Zammit

Internal Recruitment Manager

Tyler manages the Internal Recruitment Team at PRG, with over 6 years of experience within the recruitment industry. Alongside leading the IR team, Tyler takes ownership of Senior or Specialised Appointments across PRG. Tyler has also featured heavily in our recruitment podcast 'Beyond the CV: A Recruitment Podcast', previously known as 'Tyler Talks'.

Connect with Tyler Zammit:

PRG: The Recruitment Company with Unlimited Opportunities

December 19, 2023

Working at PRG isn’t just about the job; it’s about the experiences, growth, and the opportunities that comes with it. The company offers a diverse range of opportunities that enhance professional development, team bonding, and recognition of achievements. Let’s delve into some personal accounts from PRG employees that highlight the unique opportunities the company provides.

Celebrating Achievements and Promotions

Ollie Trepte from Panoramic Care shares a moment of pride, “Receiving a promotion from my new manager Izzy was a fantastic moment, especially alongside my colleagues who were also being promoted. Despite the humorous comparison to an ’80s TV Cop, the experience was filled with celebration. An added delight was also the daily restocking of the vending machine, making the PRG office a great place to work.”

This memory highlights the growth opportunities at PRG and delves into the recognition and celebration that goes hand in hand with success and hard work. On top of this, we have a fantastic office manager, Rhys, who ensures everyone has a good snack to look forward to on third floor!

Ollie Trepte

Memorable Incentive Trips

Chloe Bradbeer from Panoramic Associates talks about a fun PRG trip, “My favourite memory with PRG in 2023 was the incredible incentive trip to Dublin. Over the course of three days, we immersed ourselves in the local culture, enjoying rounds of Guinness, watching exciting rugby matches, and engaging in lively Irish dancing. This experience in Dublin stands out as a truly memorable and enjoyable time.”

These incentive trips are not just rewards; they are experiences that build once in a lifetime memory for our consultants and provide the opportunity to diverse our people in different cultures. We hope in time this will also add value to their professional lives.

Chloe Bradbeer

Celebrating company milestones

Lizzie Risdale from Finitas shares an important memory, “One of my favourite memories from this year was undoubtedly the day I celebrated a hat-trick of placements. This milestone was marked with an exceptional club lunch at Pasture, shared with many members of the Finitas Team.”

This memory highlights how PRG values individual milestones, celebrating them in a way that enhances team spirit and motivation.

Lizzie Risdale

Recognition and Career Opportunity

Imogen Linham from iO Associates talks about her career progression, “My favourite moment of the year was getting promoted at the Christmas party, it was brilliant to be promoted to Principle, which wouldn’t have been possible without the great team around me! Getting promoted at the Christmas party made it extra special too!”

Similarly, Charlotte Combe from iO Associates shares her joy, “My favourite moment of the year was that my team were announced TOTY (Team of The Year) and were taken to Portugal as a reward! Water parks, boat parties, beaches – couldn’t have asked for a better trip or a better team to go with. Trips like this drive the team, bring us all closer and ultimately pushes us to perform at the highest standard.”

These experiences underscore the importance PRG places on career opportunity and team success, creating an environment where individual growth and team achievements are equally celebrated. Planning company Christmas party’s and trips for Team of the Year are just some of the ways PRG likes to reward all employees.

Imogen Linham

Charlotte Combe

External Recognition and Awards

Marcus Wormwell’s experience speaks volumes about PRG’s external recognition, “Discovering that we had been awarded the Princess Royal Trust Award was an incredible moment. The external recognition validated all the hard work and support our Learning and Development team has dedicated to PRG. It was a proud reminder of our impact and a testament to our collective efforts.”

This award highlights the company’s commitment to excellence and its impact beyond the internal confines of the business. The experience also recognises PRG’s commitment to learning and development as an organisation. You can also read more about the award here. 

Marcus Wormwell

 

The storeys from PRG employees paint a vivid picture of a company that values its people, celebrates their achievements, and creates memorable experiences. It’s a place where professional growth is intertwined with fun, recognition, and team morale, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a fulfilling career journey. If you would like to apply today, click on the link here. 

Written by:

Emily Perry

Lead Marketing Assistant

As a Lead Marketing Assistant, Emily contributes to the marketing of PRG. She is responsible for the PRG social media and events, internally and externally, and adds value to clients through the creation and preparation of collateral for our consultants. Emily is responsible for the creation of content, marketing collateral, event organisation and client presentations. With experience in copy writing, content creation, WordPress and event organisation she supports the team across a wide range of areas to execute marketing tasks coherently.

Connect with Emily Perry:

FCSA Accreditations – What’s the Big Deal?

November 29, 2023

The use of umbrella companies has only increased since the last round of legislative updates to IR35 – but this has led to an increase in competition with some detrimental effects, and there are still some concerning regularities where HRMC is publishing the latest use of a tax avoidance scheme.

At PRG, the financial security of our candidates is one of our topmost priorities. We work rigidly to help ensure that our candidates will be cared for under strict and monitored FCSA-accredited umbrella companies to mitigate the risks of financial turbulence.

The FCSA (Freelancer and Contractor Services Association) is a UK-based professional membership body that represents service providers in the flexible workforce sector. Acquiring an FCSA accreditation requires passing strict entry assessments (and ongoing audits) and is therefore a great indicator that your umbrella company cares about your current and future needs. FCSA accredited members provide services, advice, and employment to the highest level of professional and ethical standards in the UK.

Currently, we are working towards having a preferred supplier list of only FCSA registered umbrella companies that are willing to offer the best service and price possible for those who operate through us. Here are five reasons why it’s important to consider attaining an FCSA certification and the dangers of choosing not to do so:

 

  1. Compliance and Accountability

FCSA registered companies are committed to adhering to the highest standards of compliance. They ensure that they operate within the legal and regulatory framework, reducing the risk of non-compliance for both contractors and hirers. Non-compliant companies may put contractors and hirers at risk of legal and tax complications, financial penalties, and reputational damage.

 

  1. Protection for Contractors

FCSA members typically provide comprehensive insurance and other protections for contractors, which can include professional indemnity and liability insurance. This safeguards contractors’ interests and financial security.

 

  1. Financial Transparency

Non-compliant or financially unstable companies may not adequately protect contractors’ income or provide payment security. FCSA registered companies, however, undergo regular financial audits, providing transparency and assurance to both contractors and hirers regarding the company’s financial stability and the handling of finances. Using an FCSA accredited umbrella company will help you stay clear of distasteful tax avoidance schemes.

 

  1. Expertise and Support

FCSA members have access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the flexible workforce sector. They can provide valuable guidance and support to contractors and hirers, ensuring they make informed decisions. Furthermore, engaging with non-compliant or unethical companies has the potential to harm a hirer’s reputation.

 

  1. Industry Best Practices

FCSA registered companies follow industry best practices in areas like payroll, taxation, and contractual arrangements. This minimizes the risk of disputes, tax liabilities, or financial penalties. Companies that are not FCSA registered may lack the necessary expertise to navigate complex employment and tax regulations

 

Not choosing to be covered by an FCSA certification may expose you to legal, financial, and reputational risks, as well as the potential for unfair employment practices. As an umbrella company, it is essential to consider becoming credited to mitigate these dangers. FCSA registered companies can help ensure compliance and financial security, leading to a more stable, and safe business.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your hiring needs and help position your business for success in this evolving market landscape

Written by:

Ben Merrison

Commercial and Compliance Director

Connect with Ben Merrison :

Bristol Recruitment Firm Announces Achievement of the Outstanding Princess Royal Training Award

November 28, 2023

Bristol Recruitment Firm Announces Achievement of the Outstanding Princess Royal Training Award.

 

Global recruitment leader Precision Resource Group (PRG) are being celebrated for their award-winning learning and development training programme ‘The Precision Pathway’, following their achievement of the outstanding Princess Royal Training Award.

 

Recruitment and Talent Solutions specialists Precision Resource Group (PRG) have been announced as winners of the distinguished Princess Royal Training Award, placing among 53 other highly deserving recipients such as Royal Mail, IBM, and the NHS.

 

Delivered by the City and Guilds Group, HRH Princess Royal Training Award collaborates to recognise employers who possess an unparalleled commitment to developing and investing in their company training programmes. “As skills shortages rise and job vacancies double across the UK and Ireland, engaging learning programmes for growing and retaining talent have become more crucial than ever before.”

 

Following its establishment in 2009, PRG has steadily expanded to harbour over 280 employees and has secured offices across the globe in Bristol, Manchester, Europe, the US, and India. PRG increased their headcount by 66%, with 129 new hires, 82% of these being based in their Bristol Headquarters. Last year their sales figures were better than ever, with revenue growth from £50m to £85m; a £35m increase on the previous year and 70% growth. Their exceptional growth is a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled recruitment solutions and services to its clients.

 

PRG’s now award-winning training scheme ‘Precision Pathway’ offers a flexible 6-month long blended career development programme cultivated for all levels of recruitment experience, offered to each employee at no extra cost. 105 trainees have completed the programme since 2021 and attrition has reduced from 27% to 14% with average time to consultant promotion also reducing from 362 to 201 days. Carefully designed to ensure the fundamental building blocks are securely embedded from day one, the Precision Pathway is designed to create expert industry professionals, out of ‘good’ recruiters.

 

PRG’s dedication to nurturing talent and continuously supporting their industry professionals alongside an all-in mentality is underscored and widely acknowledged through this reputable award.

 

Tracy Wright, Director of People, comments on this prestigious moment. “From its inception to date, the L&D team have strived to provide top-class career development. Our goal is to create an environment at PRG that allows people to flourish and have long and fulfilling career paths. The People First ethos ensures we’re focused on providing the best training, coaching and personal development that matches everyone’s goals and ambitions; whilst fully supporting the strategic aims of PRG.  To receive this recognition on our first application is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the L&D team and I’m very proud of them”.

 

Precision Resource Group have also placed in the prestigious Recruiter FAST 50 list, ranking among the top 30 alongside other business giants. As well as finalising for the Business of the Year award and being identified by WIRED Magazine and HSBC UK as one of the UK’s most innovative and inspiring businesses.

 

 

 

About Precision Resource Group (PRG)

PRG is a group of niche recruitment brands. These include iO Associates, Finitas, Panoramic Care and Panoramic Associates.

Their teams of motivated, highly experienced and knowledgeable consultants utilise their unrivalled expertise to provide bespoke solutions to suit any business challenge. PRG provides tailored permanent and contract staffing solutions to a wide range of customers across a number of specialist markets, always with the candidate and client experience as the focal point.

PRG are incredibly proud of their client-centric led approach, the expertise they have accrued within their markets, the amazing career opportunities that exist for their people, and the energetic, inclusive and supportive culture that exists throughout the group.

Website: https://precisionresourcegroup.co.uk/

Written by:

Tracy Wright

Director of People

​Tracy is our Director of People and has overall responsibility for PRG’s People functions and culture. As a highly experienced and strategic recruitment & HR Professional she plays a key part in leading and delivering people initiatives to support the business strategy, to ensure the foundations of good people management are embedded within the company as well as leading the business through continued growth. Her passion is to help build a world-class, self-sustaining, high-performance culture that supports the business at scale therefore allowing it to meet its targets for growth and the development of new business lines in a fast-changing market. Her background in recruitment means she is perfectly placed to truly understand the needs of both the business and its people.

Connect with Tracy Wright:

Today’s Autumn Budget – What Has Been Announced November 2023?

November 22, 2023

At 12:30 pm on 22nd November 2023, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt revealed his first Autumn Government Budget in the House of Commons.

This season’s budget statement outlines the government’s tax and spending plans for the year ahead, affecting the budgets of millions of people, alongside highlighting how much will be spent on key public services.

Information sourced from BBC.

Read on below for further summaries.

Taxation and wages

  • The main National Insurance rate will drop to 10% from 12% starting January 6th, impacting 27 million individuals.
  • Self-employed individuals earning over £12,570 will no longer pay Class 2 National Insurance starting in April 2024.
  • Class 4 National Insurance for self-employed individuals on profits between £12,570 and £50,270 will decrease from 9% to 8% starting April.
  • The National Living Wage, officially set at £10.42, will increase to £11.44 per hour from April.
  • The new wage rate will extend to 21 and 22-year-old workers, not just those aged 23 and above, for the first time.

 

Benefits and pensions

  • Universal Credit and other working-age benefits will rise by 6.7% starting April, matching September’s inflation rate.
  • Local Housing Allowance rates, determining housing benefit and Universal Credit for rent, will unfreeze and increase to 30% of local rents.
  • Work Capability Assessments will be revamped to account for the option of remote work post-Covid.
  • £1.3 billion funding over five years will aid individuals with health conditions in securing jobs.
  • An additional £1.3 billion will support those unemployed for over a year.
  • Claimants able to work who refuse employment will lose benefit access and perks like free prescriptions.
  • State pension payments will increase by 8.5% from April, in line with average earnings.

Economic and public finances

  • The independent Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) expects the economy to grow by 0.6% this year and 0.7% next year, rising to 1.4% in 2025; then 1.9% in 2026; 2% in 2027 and 1.7% in 2028.
  • It forecasts that headline inflation – the rate prices are rising – will fall to 2.8% by the end of 2024 and to the Bank of England’s 2% target rate in 2025.
  • Underlying debt forecast to be 91.6% of GDP next year; 92.7% in 2024-25; 93.2% in 2026-27; before declining to 92.8% in 2028-29.
  • Borrowing forecast to fall from 4.5% of GDP in 2023-24; to 3% in 2024-25; 2.7% in 2025-26; 2.3% in 2026-27; 1.6% in 2027-28 and 1.1% in 2028-29.

Business and infrastructure

  • The “full expensing” tax break, permitting companies to subtract new machinery and equipment expenses from profits, has been established as a permanent measure.
  • The 75% discount on business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure firms has been prolonged for an additional year.
  • Households residing near new pylons and transmission infrastructure will receive up to £1,000 annually off energy bills for ten years.

Other measures

  • All alcohol duty frozen until 1 August next year.
  • Up to £7m over next three years for organisations like the Holocaust Educational Trust to tackle antisemitism in schools and universities.
  • Funding of £5m for Imperial College and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust to set up a Fleming Centre to work on health innovations.

Want to chat? Get in touch here.

Written by:

Simon Alpren

Chief Financial Officer

​Simon leads the Finance and Operations teams at PRG, ensuring that the business operates effectively and achieves its financial aspirations. He is responsible for everything from budgeting, controls, contracts and financial analysis to streamlining and improving back-office systems and processes. Simon has a breadth of financial experience having worked across organisations in the public sector as well as in advertising, data and consultancy and online technology.

Connect with Simon Alpren:

New Job, New Routine: How to Establish Healthy Work Habits

November 20, 2023

Starting a new job often brings a mix of excitement and nervousness. It’s a fresh start, a chance to make a good impression, and an opportunity to establish a new routine. In the hustle of adapting to a new environment, it’s crucial to develop healthy work habits early on. These habits can not only boost your productivity but also look after your well-being in a professional setting.

Understanding the Importance of Healthy Habits at Work

Healthy work habits are more than just productivity boosters; they are vital for maintaining physical and mental health. Prolonged periods of stress and poor work-life balance can lead to burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. By establishing healthy work habits, you can avoid burnout, increase job satisfaction, and enhance overall well-being.

Step 1: Set Clear Boundaries

The first step in establishing healthy work habits is setting clear boundaries. This means setting up your designated working area and ticking off any personal tasks before your working hours start. This way you can focus on your work tasks, especially if you’re working remotely. It is also important to have a designated workspace separate from your living area. This physical boundary helps to mentally separate work from personal life, making it easier to ‘switch off’ at the end of the day. In addition, implementing some mindfulness meditation at your desk once your workday has ended, can help with settling down for the evening.

Step 2: Prioritise Tasks and Organise Your Day

Starting a new job often means tackling a steep learning curve. To manage this effectively, prioritise your tasks. Use tools like to-do lists or digital calendars to keep track of your responsibilities. Setting daily and weekly goals can help you stay focused and give you a sense of accomplishment as you tick off completed tasks.

Step 3: Take Regular Breaks

It’s tempting to power through your workday without taking breaks, especially when you want to prove yourself in a new role. However, regular breaks are essential for maintaining high levels of productivity and preventing burnout. Even short five-minute breaks every hour can make a big difference in how you feel and perform. If you have a longer lunch period, taking a walk and getting some fresh air can also be highly beneficial for keeping up energy levels throughout the day.

Step 4: Develop a Strong Morning Routine

Your morning routine sets the tone for the day. A rushed, chaotic morning can leave you feeling frazzled, impacting your productivity and mood. Instead, create a morning routine that energises and prepares you for the day ahead. This might include exercise, meditation, a healthy breakfast, or simply some quiet time to gather your thoughts.

Another useful task to implement could be journaling, to write down any unanswered thoughts in your mind before beginning your workday. Allowing you to process and disconnect for the day ahead.

Step 5: Embrace a Growth Mindset

Entering a new job is an opportunity for growth and learning. Adopting a growth mindset – the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed – can significantly impact how you approach challenges at work. Instead of fearing mistakes, view them as opportunities to learn and improve.

Step 6: Focus on Positive Relationships

The relationships you build at work can greatly influence your job satisfaction and mental health. Try to connect with your colleagues. This doesn’t mean you need to be best friends with everyone, but having a support network at work can make a big difference in how you feel about your job.

 

Starting a new job is an exciting time filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth. By establishing healthy work habits from the beginning, you can set yourself up for success and ensure that your work experience is both productive and enjoyable. Remember, the key to a healthy work routine lies in balance – balancing productivity with self-care, work with personal life, and challenges with opportunities for growth.

If you are looking for a new career with opportunities for growth and a refreshing new routine, click here to apply to PRG today.

Written by:

Shivani Patel

Lead Internal Recruitment Consultant

Shivani is the Lead Internal Recruitment Consultant hiring throughout PRG at all levels, from consultants that are brand new to recruitment to senior hires. Joining the company after completing an undergrad in Psychology at UWE, she is a great point of contact for anyone starting in our Bristol office.

Connect with Shivani Patel:

Navigating the Tide: How Changes in Inflation Rates Impact Recruitment

November 15, 2023

Fluctuating inflation rates hold significant implications for businesses and the job market. As a group of leading recruitment companies, we closely monitor inflation and other key metrics to better understand and predict market behaviours. The latest data on inflation rates, showing a trend of stabilisation and gradual decrease, offers a promising outlook for businesses looking to expand their teams.

 

A Look at the Numbers

The journey of inflation rates over the past few years has been quite eventful. After a period of relative stability in 2018 and 2019, with rates hovering around 2-3%, we witnessed a sharp decline in 2020, clearly influenced by the global events at the time. However, there has been a significant uptick in recent years, peaking in Q4 2022 with rates soaring above 11%. The good news is that recent months’ data has shown a gradual decline, with today’s announcement marking a rate of 4.6%, indicating a shift towards economic recovery and stability.

 

What This Means for Hiring

This downward trend in inflation is a positive sign for businesses. It suggests a more stable economic environment, encouraging companies to plan for growth and expansion. Lower inflation rates can mean more predictable costs and, therefore, more confident hiring decisions. With the economy showing signs of recovery, it’s an opportune time for businesses to leverage the talent market, which is ripe with skilled professionals.

 

Market Confidence

The latest inflation data sends a subtle yet powerful message of confidence to the market. Coupled with the expectation that the Bank of England keep interest rates stable and could reduce them from as early as Q2 2024. This suggests that the economy is regaining its footing, making it an ideal time for strategic investments in human resources. Hiring is not just about filling positions; it’s about preparing for the future, and the current economic indicators support this vision.

 

In summary, the current trend in inflation rates presents a window of opportunity for businesses ready to capitalise on a stabilising economy. The key takeaway is clear: now is a strategic time to invest in your workforce. As your recruitment partner, we are excited to assist you in this journey, ensuring that you find the right talent to harness the potential of this promising economic phase.

 

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your hiring needs and help position your business for success in this evolving market landscape.

 

Written by:

Simon Alpren

Chief Financial Officer

​Simon leads the Finance and Operations teams at PRG, ensuring that the business operates effectively and achieves its financial aspirations. He is responsible for everything from budgeting, controls, contracts and financial analysis to streamlining and improving back-office systems and processes. Simon has a breadth of financial experience having worked across organisations in the public sector as well as in advertising, data and consultancy and online technology.

Connect with Simon Alpren:

Mental Wellbeing in a Digital Age

October 24, 2023

Our mental wellbeing is increasingly susceptible to the pressures and challenges of the digital world surrounding us. Packed to the brim with tempting content provoking harsh comparisons, unrealistic lifestyle expectations, instant gratification, and glorified overconsumption, social media can be difficult to escape and even harder to use with balance. 

Mental wellness encompasses more than just the absence of mental illness; it is a state of overall wellbeing where individuals can cope with the stresses of life and maintain a positive mental outlook. In this new digital age, constant connectivity and the influence of social media can impact our mental health significantly.

As we enter autumn and winter this year and spend more time solitarily indoors it is essential to prioritise our health and employ strategies to navigate our digital landscapes while maintaining a balanced state of mind. 

While technology has undoubtedly improved our lives in many ways from connectivity with family and friends to inspiration for your next DIY project excessive screen time can have adverse effects on our mental health. Negative effects can include increased symptoms of depression, delayed melatonin release, a desynchronised body clock, hormone imbalances, and a reduced sense of wellbeing.

As winter approaches, make it a priority to unplug from the digital world regularly. Engage in outdoor activities, spend time with loved ones, or pursue hobbies off-screen that bring you joy.

You could try;

  • Reading a new book
  • Starting a fitness challenge
  • Learning to cook or bake with a loved one

Disconnecting from the virtual realm allows you to reconnect with yourself and find balance in your daily life.

While it may not be realistic to completely detach from digital platforms, it can be pivotal to adopt mindful digital consumption habits. Be conscious of the content you engage with and its impact on your mental health. Set digital boundaries and unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions or contribute to an unhealthy comparison mindset. Instead, curate your digital environment to include content that uplifts, inspires, and educates you.

Boundaries are crucial for protecting our mental health. Ensure to establish healthy digital boundaries around technology usage, both for screen time and content. Create designated periods during the day when you disconnect from screens and focus on real-life interactions or tasks that can better your personal growth.

There are many apps that can help you manage your screen time and set boundaries. Opal, Freedom, and Forest are all great options.

If you find yourself struggling with mental health issues this winter, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Mental health professionals are trained to provide the support and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of the digital age. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and self-care.

PRG always value the mental health of our employees. Some of the steps PRG have taken to support employee’s mental health in the workplace include the following: People Power Hour sessions led by our HR team which give employees an opportunity to talk about any home or work-related problems they are having. Free counselling sessions, massages, and alternative therapies from the PRG’s free Medicash plan. An abundance of blogs and charity events facilitating the education of proper mental health care. Check them out here!

By unplugging from devices to prevent digital overload, practising mindful digital consumption, and seeking professional support when needed, we can nurture our mental health, find balance and enjoy the positive qualities that technology brings us. Taking care of your digital mental wellbeing will be a lifelong journey that requires conscious effort and commitment, especially when facing establishments that are designed to steal your time and attention. Embrace this season as an opportunity to cultivate a healthy mind and thrive in the digital age with resilience and positivity.

Interested in what PRG could offer you? Get in touch today – contact us here.

Written by:

Anya Constantinescu

Marketing Intern

As a Marketing and Data Intern, Anya assists the team by editing social copy and blogs for PRG's media pages, designing and creating graphics, creating copy and posting across our websites for event management, alongside completing various data projects for other sectors within the PRG company too. With previous experience designing invitations and cards for small-scale events, in accompany with her innate creativity honed by A-level subjects such as Film Studies, and Media Studies, Anya is expanding her knowledge of design and social media management through her placement at PRG.

Connect with Anya Constantinescu:

Mental Health in the Workplace

October 10, 2023

A topic which has been recently highlighted more in the last few years than ever before but stills needs more recognition in and around the workplace, is mental health.

There are many preconceptions of what mental health is and in which form it presents itself The World Health Organization defines mental health as “the foundation for the well-being and effective functioning of individuals. It is more than the absence of a mental disorder; it is the ability to think, learn, and understand one’s emotions and the reactions of others. Mental health is a state of balance, both within and with the environment.’

Everyone can be affected differently when it comes to their own personal mental health and when an individual experiences poor mental health, they may also display their selves in a number of different ways including:

  • Feeling constantly tired;
  • Showing signs of stress and anxiety;
  • Being distracted or confused;
  • Working excessive hours;
  • Increased smoking or drinking;
  • Impaired or inconsistent performance (or uncharacteristic errors);
  • Misusing prescription drugs or using recreational drugs;
  • Appetite and weight changes;
  • Changes in sleep patterns;
  • Loss of motivation;
  • Over excitement or euphoria;
  • Lapses in memory or illogical or irrational thought processes;
  • Tearfulness and experiencing low mood;
  • Physical symptoms including an upset stomach, headaches, or joint and back pain;
  • Displaying irritable, angry, or obsessive behaviour;
  • Increased sickness absence; or
  • Reference to suicidal thoughts.

These are some of the early signs which can present when someone is struggling and so as an employer it is important to recognise these signs and act accordingly. Mental health can be affected by external problems and workplace occurrences, which is why supporting mental health in the workplace can be paramount to not only allowing employees to perform to their best potential, but it can also ensure everyone feels supported and has the best chance at at managing their mental health to a good level.

Some of the steps PRG have taken to support employee’s mental health in the workplace include the following:

  • People Power Hour sessions led by HR, giving employees an opportunity to talk about any home or work-related problems they are having
  • Free counselling sessions, massages and alternative therapies from the companies free Medicash plan
  • Office dogs allowed to create a fun and relaxing environment
  • Flexible working and work from home arrangements with your manager
  • A people first approach ensuring hard work in rewarded through incentive abroad trips and club lunches
  • Ensuring all employees have the opportunity to grow their learning and individual development through the Learning Locker programme which funds external learning such as getting a CIPD qualification
  • Monthly meetings where individual employees are recognised for their hard work and PRG communicate the plans and goals for the year, so everyone feels included and has direction and purpose.

It is extremely important at PRG for everyone to know the door is always open and any problems or concerns can be communicated with direct managers or Human Resources. If you are interested in learning more about what PRG have to offer, click here to apply.

 

If you would like to talk about your mental health or are looking for some helpful resources, there are some external organisations you can reach out to below:

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/ 

https://changesbristol.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/ 

 

Written by:

Emily Perry

Lead Marketing Assistant

As a Lead Marketing Assistant, Emily contributes to the marketing of PRG. She is responsible for the PRG social media and events, internally and externally, and adds value to clients through the creation and preparation of collateral for our consultants. Emily is responsible for the creation of content, marketing collateral, event organisation and client presentations. With experience in copy writing, content creation, WordPress and event organisation she supports the team across a wide range of areas to execute marketing tasks coherently.

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PRG Learning and Development Team Awarded the Princess Royal Training Award

October 6, 2023

In today’s ever-evolving job market, continuous learning and development are paramount to success. At PRG, we recognise the importance of nurturing our talent and equipping our consultants with the skills they need to thrive in the dynamic world of recruitment. It is with immense pride that we announce our recent achievement: the prestigious Princess Royal Training Award.

The Princess Royal Training Awards: A Testament to Excellence

Receiving the Princess Royal Training Award is a remarkable feat, and we are elated to have earned this recognition after just our first submission. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Learning and Development team, who have been instrumental in shaping the career journeys of our consultants at PRG.

Our Commitment to Ongoing Learning

The world of recruitment is characterised by constant change, and staying ahead of the curve is essential. At PRG, we believe in the power of continuous learning and development to help our team members excel in their careers. Our Learning and Development team has played a pivotal role in this journey by crafting comprehensive training programmes that empower our consultants with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

The Impact of Our Training Programmes

Our commitment to putting our people first is evident in the diverse range of training programmes we offer. Among these, our flagship six-week training programme stands out as a shining example of our dedication to our team’s growth and success. This programme is designed to equip our consultants with the tools, techniques, and industry insights they need to excel in their roles.

Through this programme, our consultants develop a deep understanding of the recruitment industry, honing their skills in areas such as candidate sourcing, client management, and effective communication. They also benefit from personalised coaching and mentorship, ensuring that they are well-prepared to face the challenges and opportunities that come their way.

At PRG, our commitment to learning and development is unchallenged. We are thrilled to receive the Princess Royal Training Award as recognition of our dedication to our team’s success. Our Learning and Development team continues to innovate and provide our consultants with the tools they need to excel in the ever-evolving world of recruitment.

Our commitment to learning and development is more than just a corporate strategy—it’s a philosophy that shapes the lives and careers of our team members. Watch the video below to hear first-hand accounts from some of our consultants about how our training programmes have transformed their professional journeys.

Are you seeking to join a company that values its people and invests in their growth? At PRG, we offer not only a supportive team but also transformative training that can propel your career in recruitment to new heights. We are always on the lookout for passionate individuals who are eager to learn, grow, and make a difference in the world of recruitment. Click here to apply to PRG today.

Written by:

Tracy Wright

Director of People

​Tracy is our Director of People and has overall responsibility for PRG’s People functions and culture. As a highly experienced and strategic recruitment & HR Professional she plays a key part in leading and delivering people initiatives to support the business strategy, to ensure the foundations of good people management are embedded within the company as well as leading the business through continued growth. Her passion is to help build a world-class, self-sustaining, high-performance culture that supports the business at scale therefore allowing it to meet its targets for growth and the development of new business lines in a fast-changing market. Her background in recruitment means she is perfectly placed to truly understand the needs of both the business and its people.

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