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Keir Starmer’s Labour government is unveiling a bold strategy to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to drive the UK’s economic growth and public service innovation. But as AI becomes a cornerstone of the country’s future, the focus is also on the workforce—and how to ensure workers thrive alongside these technological changes. Starmer’s AI blueprint promises to add up to £47bn annually to the UK economy and create thousands of new jobs, with £14bn in investment already pledged by leading tech firms. The government plans to build AI growth zones, starting with Culham, Oxfordshire, to attract businesses and foster innovation. But amid this rapid transformation, workers’ rights and job security are at the forefront of the conversation. Unions, led by Sharon Graham from Unite, are raising concerns about the disruptive impact AI could have on working conditions. From fears of job displacement to issues like AI-powered surveillance and algorithmic discrimination, there’s a call for robust worker protections. “AI must be introduced in a way that benefits workers, not exploits them,” Graham stressed, advocating for a unified approach between the government, employers, and unions. The government’s AI strategy includes a focus on using AI to improve public services, making them more efficient and responsive to citizens’ needs. While the technology promises to alleviate workers from repetitive tasks, giving them more time for creative and human-centred roles, experts agree that careful oversight is crucial. AI should inform decisions, but not make them entirely, ensuring that humans remain at the helm of critical choices in the workplace. The strategy also highlights the need for reskilling. With the rise of AI, workers must adapt, and employers need to proactively offer training and development. Hayfa Mohdzaini from the CIPD emphasises that cross-team collaboration and skill-building are key to ensuring that workers are not left behind in the AI revolution. “The HR profession should be at the forefront of discussions about AI’s ethical and responsible use in organisations,” she said. While AI presents tremendous opportunities, the government’s success will depend on balancing innovation with fairness. Clear, stable policies that prioritise worker protections, ethical AI practices, and investment in reskilling will ensure that the UK’s workforce is ready for the challenges and opportunities AI will bring. Starmer’s vision may promise an AI-powered future, but a workforce-centred approach is essential to make sure that future works for everyone.

A well-executed strategic campaign can set you apart, ensuring that you approach each opportunity with confidence and clarity. At 24-7 Recruitment, we’ve empowered countless candidates to land their dream roles, and we’re excited to share our top six essential tips to help you succeed: 1. Know Yourself—Career-wise:Before jumping into job listings, take time to reflect on your strengths, skills, and professional goals. What are you truly passionate about? What motivates you? What type of work environment suits you best? By identifying these elements, you’ll gain a clearer sense of your ideal role, which will not only streamline your job search but also help you craft applications that truly resonate with employers. 2. Revamp Your CV:Your CV is your career introduction—make it stand out! Move beyond generic templates and customize your CV for each role. Focus on highlighting key skills and achievements using dynamic action verbs. Whenever possible, quantify your results (e.g., “Boosted sales by 15%” rather than just “Improved sales”). Keep your CV concise—ideally no more than two pages—and ensure it clearly demonstrates the value you bring to the table. 3. Strengthen Your LinkedIn Presence:In today’s digital landscape, your LinkedIn profile plays a pivotal role in your job search. Update your profile with relevant keywords and a compelling summary that highlights your unique strengths. Actively share industry insights, participate in discussions, and connect with influential professionals in your field. By building a strong personal brand on LinkedIn, you’ll position yourself as a thought leader and attract potential employers. 4. Network Like a Pro:Your network is a treasure trove of opportunities. Reconnect with former colleagues, reach out to people in your desired industry, and attend events (in-person or virtual). Utilize LinkedIn to engage with groups, share relevant content, and connect with professionals who can offer valuable insights or job leads. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know that can make all the difference. 5. Hone Your Interview Skills:Practice is key when it comes to interviews. Conduct mock interviews with friends, family, or even in front of a mirror. Research common interview questions and tailor your responses to reflect your experience and skills. Interviews are also an opportunity for you to ask insightful questions—this shows your genuine interest in the role and the company. 6. Stay Positive and Persistent:Job hunting can be a rollercoaster ride—there will be highs and lows. The key is not to let setbacks discourage you. Stay motivated, celebrate small wins, and learn from rejections. Keep your eyes on the prize—the right opportunity is out there, and your resilience will ultimately lead you to it. With these tips in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the job market and find the perfect role that aligns with your skills and aspirations.

Full-time workers’ rights to request a four-day workweek could be significantly strengthened under new government plans aimed at increasing flexible working options. Under these proposals, employees would still be required to work their full contracted hours to receive full pay, but they could request to compress these hours into a shorter working week. Since April, workers have had the right to ask for flexible working arrangements from day one of their employment. However, employers are not obligated to agree to these requests. The government has emphasised that any changes will not be imposed on employees or businesses. Meanwhile, the Conservative Party has expressed concerns, stating that businesses are “petrified” about the potential impact of these plans. A spokesperson from the Department for Business and Trade stated, “Any changes to employment legislation will be subject to consultation, in partnership with businesses.” Currently, employers must handle flexible working requests in a “reasonable manner” but can decline them if there is a valid business reason for doing so. Further details on these proposed changes are expected to be unveiled in the autumn when legislation designed to enhance workers’ rights is set to be introduced in Parliament. The Labour Party has pledged to repeal certain anti-trade union laws, restrict the use of zero-hours contracts, and expand flexible working options. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has described these proposals as “the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation.”

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for high-quality education is soaring, and with it, the need for exceptional educators and support staff. Recognising this growing need, 24-7 Recruitment, a well-established recruitment firm with a track record of success in various industries, is now venturing into the education sector. This move marks an exciting new chapter for us, and we are eager to share how we plan to make a significant impact. Why Education?Education is the cornerstone of a thriving society. It shapes minds, builds communities, and lays the foundation for future success. However, the education sector faces unique challenges, particularly when it comes to recruiting the right talent. Schools, colleges, and educational institutions need more than just qualified candidates; they need passionate, committed, and culturally aligned individuals who can inspire and engage students. At 24-7 Recruitment, we believe that our expertise in recruitment, combined with a deep understanding of the education sector, can help bridge the gap between institutions and the exceptional talent they need. Our entry into this sector is driven by a commitment to not only meet the staffing needs of educational institutions but to elevate the quality of education by ensuring the right fit for every role. Now RecruitingWe’re now recruiting for numerous exciting education related roles throughout the UK! For more information please feel free to get in touch with our team using jobs@24-7recruitment.net

According to new figures from the ONS, the UK job market is stalling. Between December 2023 and February 2024, unemployment rose by 4.2%, reaching its highest level in six months. During the same period, employment rates dipped, and economic inactivity increased to 9.4 million people (22.2%). Additionally, job vacancies in the UK dropped by 13,000 between January and March. Despite these challenges, there are effective strategies you can employ to find a new job. Here are ten top tips to help you navigate your job search in a tough market: Widen Your Search AreaMany roles now offer flexible, remote, or hybrid working options, making it feasible to apply for jobs that are geographically distant. Expanding your search area increases your chances of finding suitable opportunities. Don’t Wait for a Job AdvertIf you have a dream job or a company you’re passionate about, send your CV and a compelling cover letter explaining why you’d love to work for them. They might be on the verge of advertising a position or could recognize that your skills are exactly what they need. Sharpen Your Skills and Keep LearningUse your job search time to enhance your skills by enrolling in free online courses. This not only fills gaps in your CV but also demonstrates to potential employers that you are committed to professional development. Get NetworkingNetworking is a key strategy for meeting potential employers. Attend local events—many of which are free—where you can connect with peers and industry professionals. Get SocialUtilize LinkedIn for job searching, as many recruiters and businesses post vacancies there. Ensure your profile is up-to-date and professional. You can also explore job opportunities and network on Facebook and X (Twitter), as many local groups are dedicated to job hunting and professional connections. It’s All About the ExperienceExperience is crucial. If you can’t find paid employment, consider volunteering. Local food banks, charity shops, and other organizations often need help. Volunteering not only builds your CV but also provides valuable experience. Keep on SearchingPersistence is key. Set up job alerts, use varied job titles, and submit your CV to multiple platforms and recruiters. In a volatile market, you must stay proactive and vigilant about new opportunities. Make Your CV SparkleWith high competition for roles, your CV must stand out. Tailor your application for each job, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. A personalized CV increases your chances of catching a recruiter’s eye. Be Ready for InterviewsPrepare for interviews in advance, as they can often be scheduled quickly. Practice answers to common questions and be ready for video calls. Confidence and preparation are essential for making a great impression. By following these tips, you can improve your chances of finding a new job even in a challenging market. Stay proactive, keep learning, and be ready to seize opportunities as they arise. Good luck!

Let’s dive into a topic that’s often thrown around in hiring discussions but sometimes doesn’t get the spotlight it truly deserves: cultural fit. We all know hiring is about skills, experience, and qualifications, but trust me, there’s a magic ingredient called cultural fit that can turn a good hire into a great one. Why Does Cultural Fit Matter Anyway? Picture this: you’re working with a group of people who share the same values, have a similar work ethic, and just ‘get’ each other. Sounds like a dream team, right? That is the power of a cultural fit. It’s the secret sauce that makes teams not just work together but thrive together. It’s More Than Just Ping-Pong Tables and Casual Fridays Fitting in with the culture of the business isn’t about making everyone conform to a singular way of thinking or acting. No one’s asking you to memorise the company song (if there even is one). It’s about aligning your personal values and work style with the company’s ethos. Think of it as finding your professional soulmates – people who understand and appreciate your quirks, and vice versa. The Downside of Ignoring This Sure, you might find the most technically skilled candidate out there, but if they clash with the company culture, it could lead to a not-so-happy workplace. Disconnected teams, communication breakdowns, and a general feeling of ‘this isn’t the place for me’ can quickly take over. Not exactly the recipe for a thriving work environment. Interviews Aren’t Just About Resumes When interviewing, it’s not just about ticking off a list of skills and experiences. Dive into the candidate’s values, work style and how they approach challenges. Ask about how they like to collaborate or handle tight deadlines. Get to the heart of who they are beyond the lines on their resume. Building a Cultural Fit-Oriented Hiring Process Let’s be honest – finding the right fit isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. It’s about understanding what makes your company tick and finding individuals who resonate with that rhythm. Incorporate cultural fit assessments, team interviews, and maybe even a casual coffee chat into your hiring process. You’ll be surprised at the insights you’ll gain. Real-World Success Stories Ever heard about a hire who not only aced their job but also became the office trivia champion? That’s the power of fitting in with a company culture. Share success stories within your company where a strong cultural fit led to exceptional results. It’s the living proof that this isn’t just HR jargon – it makes a real difference. The Takeaway? Cultivate Your Tribe In the grand scheme of things, cultural fit isn’t just about hiring; it’s about building a tribe of like-minded individuals who are passionate about the same goals. When you get the right mix, you’re not just building a team – you’re creating a family that supports and propels each other forward. So, here’s to finding the right fit for your team, embracing diversity within it, and creating a workplace where everyone not only fits but flourishes.

In today’s dynamic job market, finding the right job that aligns with your skills, passions, and career goals can be both exciting and challenging. As professionals, we often seek fulfillment and growth in our careers. It’s important to choose a career you’re passionate about, both for your long-term success and general happiness. If you’re worried because you’re thinking ‘I don’t know what job I want’, remember you’re not alone. Many people don’t settle on a permanent career path until later in their twenties or beyond. Not to worry! We have our best tips to help you figure out which career paths might be right for you. 7 Steps to Find the Right Job for You Finding the right job requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Remember, the journey to finding the right job is a process. With persistence and adaptability, you’ll discover the path that aligns with your professional aspirations. 👉Click here to check out what jobs we’re currently hiring for. Your dream job may be closer than you think… Happy job hunting!

As a leading recruitment agency, we understand the challenges and opportunities that come with the job search process. In this blog post, we want to share some valuable insights and insider tips to help you stand out from the competition and land that coveted position. Read on to discover our expert advice and make your job search journey a successful one. As a job seeker, you have the power to take control of your career journey. By implementing these insider tips from a recruitment agency, you can position yourself as a standout candidate and increase your chances of securing your ideal job. Remember to showcase your unique value proposition, leverage your network, tailor your applications, consider recruitment agencies, and invest in continuous learning. We believe in your potential, and with the right strategies, you can achieve career success. Ready to take the next step? Contact our experienced team at 24-7 Recruitment to explore how we can support your job search and connect you with exciting opportunities.

In today’s competitive business landscape, finding and retaining top talent is crucial for sustained growth and success. However, the recruitment process can be complex, time-consuming, and resource-intensive. This is where partnering with a professional recruitment service provider can make a significant difference. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of choosing a recruitment service provider and provide key UK figures that demonstrate the value they bring to companies. Read on to discover how outsourcing your recruitment needs can unlock a world of opportunities for your organisation. Partnering with a professional recruitment service provider offers numerous benefits, including streamlined hiring processes, access to diverse talent pools, and cost savings. As you seek to attract and retain top talent for your organisation, consider the valuable expertise and resources that a recruitment service provider can bring to the table. Take the next step in unlocking your recruitment success by reaching out to our experienced team today. Ready to optimise your recruitment efforts and unlock a world of talent? Contact our expert team at 24-7 Recruitment today to discuss how our tailored recruitment solutions can support your company’s growth and success.