GoCareer https://gocareer.co.uk Construction, Engineering & Care Jobs + Many More Thu, 28 Jan 2021 10:57:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.6.13 https://gocareer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/cropped-Final-Logo-07-32x32.png GoCareer https://gocareer.co.uk 32 32 Construction Careers https://gocareer.co.uk/construction-careers Thu, 25 Apr 2019 11:47:01 +0000 https://gocareer.co.uk/?p=7837 GoCareer.co.uk is a leading jobs and careers website – one of our main specialities is construction jobs and careers. The […]

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GoCareer.co.uk is a leading jobs and careers website – one of our main specialities is construction jobs and careers. The Construction Industry is going through an interesting time currently with Brexit concerns affecting the overall potential workforce as numbers from abroad appear to have diminished in recent years.

This has however opened up a large range of opportunities for anyone looking to get into construction as many building companies are willing to take people on and train them in a range of disciplines:

Bricklaying; Carpentry; Electricians; Plumbers; Groundworkers; Architects; Planners; Site Engineers; Machine drivers to name but a few.

Take a look at GoCareer.co.uk and browse through our large selection of Building and Construction jobs today and begin your exciting journey which could lead you to a senior position in a construction company in the years to come.

For further construction careers go to our specialist website jobsbuilder.co.uk

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Looking to work in Manufacturing in the UK? https://gocareer.co.uk/looking-to-work-in-manufacturing-in-the-uk Fri, 22 Mar 2019 16:45:07 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=825 Is manufacturing engineering a good career? Manufacturing Employability:  One year after graduating over 80% of engineers were either in sustained manufacturing […]

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Is manufacturing engineering a good career?
  • Manufacturing Employability:  One year after graduating over 80% of engineers were either in sustained manufacturing employment, further study or both – other graduates in medicine and dentistry beat engineers to it. And this shouldn’t be a surprise given two thirds of manufacturers pledged to recruit engineering graduates in 2016. When it comes to apprenticeships – just as many opportunities are available. Did you know just 5% of EEF members have never offered apprenticeships? 
  • Engineering pays: Earnings in Manufacturing are £3000-4000 higher than average.. If we look at graduates – an engineering and technology graduate has one of the best starting salaries.You’ll also earn over £150,000 more over your lifetime than someone who hasn’t done an engineering degree. And it’s not just those who choose an academic route – if you were to take an engineering apprenticeship, your extra lifetime earnings would equate to over £110,000. 
  • It’s not just about the money, money, money: Manufacturing employers invest in their workforce. Over half of manufacturers say they support their employees through university while employed. Companies also retain their employees by offering flexible working well over the statutory minimum and opportunities to work across other parts of the business – a job in manufacturing can see you travel the world.

 67% of UK adults say they would be proud to work in manufacturing

What do manufacturing engineers do?

The easier question is what don’t they do?

Some of my favourite examples are: designing video jackets for U2, creating and testing missions for astronauts to control a robotic arm or building the prototype for the rear of the Jaguar F-Type.

Pretty impressive stuff right?

But there are an array of jobs that you can undertake from a maintenance technician to a quality engineer to a software engineering. And then you can choose to work in various sectors whether its food and drink, chemicals, automotive or aerospace. FACT ALERT! For any James Bond fans out there the UK is home to the Aston Martin. It was in Staffordshire that the UK started making marmite and the UK created Cadbury’s Dairy Milk! We make everything from Dr Marten Shoes to Henry Hoovers and even the 2012 London Olympic Cauldron.

Whatever your interests are you can find your way into manufacturing…our friends at the Royal Academy of Engineering came up with this super video:

Where are the manufacturing jobs of the future going to be?

If we begin to look into our crystal ball we can begin to pinpoint the manufacturing jobs of the future.

Taking a broad brush approach job roles in manufacturing are increasingly going to be managerial, professional and associate professional and technical roles. We’re talking higher level and higher skills?

Why is that the case? Technological advancements are changing the manufacturing industry. You’ll have the heard the buzz words of automation, big data and virtual reality and all of these will play a part.

We’re going to need even more STEM professionals (science, technology, engineering and maths) but we’re not just talking engineers here, increasingly companies are looking for data scientists, analysts, technicians, software engineers, coders and programmes…I could go on and on.

Convinced?

Hopefully you are. Well an apprenticeship, degree or training programme to get you into manufacturing could be on the cards. And don’t forget you don’t have to be a new recruit you could be an existing employee looking for a career change (an apprenticeship can be for you too!)

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How do I stand Out in an Interview. https://gocareer.co.uk/how-do-i-stand-out-in-an-interview Fri, 22 Mar 2019 16:43:11 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=822 Here are some of the main points that will make you stand out in an interview. Be a very good […]

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Here are some of the main points that will make you stand out in an interview.

  1. Be a very good listener. In a situation where a follow up is required the fact that you have listened carefully to what the interviewer has discussed will put you in a great position.
  2. On the same theme do not talk too much. Answer the questions that you are asked clearly and concisely and never stray into waffling and padding.
  3. Dress smartly and appropriately for the job that you are being interviewed for.
  4. Be polite and well mannered but at the same time ensure that you speak confidently and clearly.
  5. Do your research. When asked ‘why would you like to join this company’ you will wish you had.
  6. Make sure your CV is correct and up to date – no longer than 2 sides of A4 ideally and well presented.
  7. Never complain about your previous employer – this is a pet hate for interviewers
  8. Make sure that if you are asked if you have any questions – you do have at least one if not two good questions that show you are genuinely interested in the company you are seeking to join.
  9. Do prepare for the old faithful – ‘tell me about yourself’ question. This open ended invitation will floor a lot of people so see it as a chance to shine.
  10. Finally you are free to do as much research on your interviewers and possible managers using social media which will give you a good feel about what is important to them and the way the company is heading.

For further careers advice visit our specialist recruiment agency fitrecruitment.co.uk

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Care Force: Home care company in Bromsgrove have had their hard work recognised with a regional award. https://gocareer.co.uk/care-force-home-care-company-in-bromsgrove-have-had-their-hard-work-recognised-with-a-regional-award Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:58:22 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=819 UNSUNG heroes’ at a Bromsgrove home care company – Care Force – have had their hard work recognised with a […]

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UNSUNG heroes’ at a Bromsgrove home care company – Care Force – have had their hard work recognised with a regional award.

Town MP Sajid Javid presented the Home Care Top 20 Award, which is based on customer reviews scores, to Care Force staff on Friday, May 18.

The award recognises the most recommended home care providers in the West Midlands.

Care Force’s operations director John Hollingsworth said:

“We have a great team of staff. They really are the unsung heroes of Bromsgrove – supporting the elderly members of our community.”

“Our managing director Sue Bradshaw has been working in care for 25 years.”

“It’s thanks to the efforts of these guys that we are able to deliver such a high quality of care to our clients.”

To celebrate the accolade, a party was held with customers, staff and social workers outside their headquarters in Bromsgrove’s High Street – next to the MP’s office.

Customer reviews secure award for Bromsgrove carers MP Sajid Javid (Home Secretary) presenting the Home Care Top 20 Award to Care Force managing director Sue Bradshaw

Speaking at the event, Mr Javid said:

“I was lucky enough to meet Care Force many years ago when they were just starting out. Since then they’ve gone from strength to strength.”

“Today I’ve met customers and heard feedback from the people who use this service.”

“I wish more care companies were like Care Force. They listen to their customer feedback and respond to it to ensure they provide the best service possible.”

“I look forward to seeing them keep up the good work.”

Care Force Ltd are currently recruiting a Domiciliary Care Worker/Health Care Worker (HCW) click the link for more information.

To contact Care Force Ltd or for more information about the services they provide visit: www.care-force.co.uk

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Job Hunting in the Modern World https://gocareer.co.uk/job-hunting-in-the-modern-world Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:56:36 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=816 In this day and age, job hunting seems to become more and more confusing. Job seekers are competing with each […]

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In this day and age, job hunting seems to become more and more confusing. Job seekers are competing with each other and modern technology, and many applicants feel as if they’re swimming against the current because they feel unable to land a job.

Fortunately, increasing your chances of landing a great gig can be made simpler by making you and your resume stand out to potential employers. “How might one do that?”, you may ask.

Well, we can show you some simple yet effective tips for helping you build a standout resume, which in turn may just help you be noticed by employers at your next job.

Be teachable

A great employee is always willing to add to their existing skill set. If you have any lengths of time between jobs, then it is a great idea to build on skills that you already have or learn some new ones, while you search for a new position.

There are numerous online classes you can take, especially in the field of computers, which you can take at little or no cost to you. Take advantage of these learning opportunities and as soon as you feel ready, add them to your resume. Local libraries, and online education companies, such as Udemy, offer a variety of classes that you can take.

Look for in-demand skills for the general workplace, as well as those that seem to be gaining popularity in your field and look for ways to learn those skills. Potential employers will be impressed that you used your downtime from the workforce so wisely.

Learn how to create actionable SMART goals (Specific – Measurable – Attainable – Realistic – Timely) that will help you learn to break down what you’d like to accomplish in your career, both in the long and short term.

preparing-for-interview - job hunting in the modern world | GoCareer

Be a giver

Give your time outside of the workplace to worthy causes and organizations.

Volunteering and donating your energy, time, and resources show that you care about your community and enjoy being part of a vision, even when you’re not necessarily being paid for it.

And you can enjoy volunteering. Choose a cause or organization that you’re passionate about. You will meet new people and try new things, and in the long run, you will gain a unique experience and perspective that will shine through when you present your curriculum vitae to your next prospective employer.

Be social

Use professional social media accounts, and keep them classy. Using professional social networking tools, such as LinkedIn, is a great way to network with other professionals in various fields and find out about recent openings.

Going to networking events or job fairs is also a great way to meet other potential employers in person. Dress professionally, but still stay genuine. If you want to find out if you’re a good fit for the work culture at a certain corporation, then being true to your personalities positive traits is a good way to determine that.

meeting-in-corridor - job hunting in the modern world | GoCareer

Be image-conscious

Be genuine, but dress and behave in a professional manner. Companies view their employees as the face of their company because they are the face of the business. People who care about the way that they act and dress are less likely to do things that would reflect poorly their employers, so carry yourself with dignity and integrity.

Keep any headshots that you have posted on your online profiles or hand out with your resume professional and classy. (That vacation photo of you fishing off of the docks with a brew in hand may not be the best choice.)

While the current job market does seem to be saturated, there are ways that you can present yourself so that you stand out in a positive way. By implementing the tips we’ve mentioned above, you will be more likely to stand out as a potential employee that any corporation would be proud of.

Start your job hunt today!

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Are you thinking about Starting a Career in Care? https://gocareer.co.uk/are-you-thinking-about-starting-a-career-in-care Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:53:27 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=813 Why work in Care? Caring involves supporting people to live as independent a life as possible. Care work, as a […]

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Why work in Care?

Caring involves supporting people to live as independent a life as possible. Care work, as a career choice opens a wide range of roles from caring for elderly people in a care home to caring for disabled people in their own homes. Caring means enabling people with disabilities to access the community, for example, a support worker may travel on public transport with a person with learning difficulties to a local college. A career in care for the right candidate, whilst sometimes challenging, can be highly satisfying and rewarding.

What does a carer do?

A carer is in some respects an intermediary who must work with the client they are caring for and the client’s family. It is essential that the client’s precise needs are agreed and a specific plan needs to be formulated and acted on. This may entail ensuring the client is comfortable and that all the normal daily routines are catered for including shopping and meals etc. In many cases providing emotional support is also crucial.

How do I get into care work?

In order to apply for work as a professional carer to start your career there are many positions advertised on websites such as GoCareer. Depending on your individual circumstances there are a wide variety of positions available, based in the community, at Care Homes and also in Hospitals and long stay residential establishments.  Apprenticeships are becoming a popular way into the profession. Whilst some previous experience in a caring role can be beneficial, it is not always an essential requirement. Employers give full training to the right candidates.  A Disclosure and Barring Check is necessary as carers work with the elderly and people with disabilities who are vulnerable, so a DBS would be required by an employer and also sometimes a CRB check.

What does a carer earn?

The salary for a worker starting out is in the range of £12,500 – £16,000 pa. An experienced carer would likely be on around £18,000 pa whilst a very experienced or Senior Care Supervisor may earn £25,000 pa or more. Salaries may vary regionally.

What skills do I need to work in care?

It is essential that you are able to deal with people of all ages and from all walks of life. Excellent communication skills and a good understanding of tactfulness are crucial. Organizational skills will be of great benefit. Patience, understanding and calmness in a sometimes stressful environment is also important.

How can I progress in care?

There is every opportunity to keep learning with the opportunity to attend a number of internal or external training initiatives and progress into senior roles as well as administrative positions and management / senior management in a wide variety of Care institutions.

Am I suited to care work?

Like with so many career choices you will probably have an idea if care is a potential career path for you and you could discuss the matter further with friends and family and indeed anyone you know who is already working in care to sound out their thoughts on the matter.

What is the next step?

Check out our latest featured care jobs: www.gocareer.co.uk/featured

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Curriculum Vitae and Cover Letter Guide – updated 2018 https://gocareer.co.uk/curriculum-vitae-and-cover-letter-guide-18 Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:51:36 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=810 How to write a great Curriculum Vitae 2018 Job hunting takes time and writing your Curriculum Vitae takes even more […]

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How to write a great Curriculum Vitae 2018

Job hunting takes time and writing your Curriculum Vitae takes even more time, time you may be wasting if your CV isn’t right so we’ve compiled our best tips for creating your perfect CV for 2018 so you can get seen and go straight through to the interview stage.

What to include on my Curriculum Vitae

More people are applying for entry level jobs than ever before, employers are spending on average 8.8 seconds reviewing a CV so be specific and to the point about your work experience.

Don’t send one generic CV to every role you are applying for, look at the job and amend your CV for it, the extra time this takes will pay off in the long run. Include bullet points of achievements / clubs or societies you were involved with outside of the standard school curriculum.

Be honest on your CV though or you may get caught out at the interview stage…which is just awkward for everyone.

Include:

  • Contact details
  • Cover letter
  • Work experience (only include relevant jobs)
  • Education and qualifications
  • References (If you have written references include these at the bottom)

Cover Letter

A cover letter is a great way of personalising each application, especially if you know the name of the person you will be contacting. Keep this brief though the employer doesn’t want your life story here, a quick paragraph will suffice about why you will succeed in the role…don’t be to humble!

How to present my Curriculum Vitae

Your Curriculum Vitae should be no longer than 2 A4 pages (single sided) generally the size of the text should be 10pt for the body copy and 12pt bold for headings / subheadings, some good font choices are:

  • Calibri – default Microsoft Word font easily read by all software
  • Arial
  • Times New Roman
  • Cambria
  • Verdana

You can also use a CV Template or if you don’t want to copy exactly the strict layout of a template, get some inspiration from these CV examples and put your own mark on it, don’t forget to upload it for Free to our CV database and be found fast!

“Resume” by MEHRO DESIGNS
“Resume” by MEHRO DESIGNS

Final Checks

Don’t forget to go back over your CV and check for little mistakes, these can be costly, research carried out by the National Citizen Service found these as the Top 10 Curriculum Vitae Faux Pas:

  1. Bad grammar
  2. Spelling mistakes
  3. Poor formatting
  4. Curriculum Vitae longer than two pages
  5. Casual tone
  6. Use of jargon
  7. Unusual font style or size
  8. Exam grades listed in full
  9. Generic interests listed such as cooking or reading
  10. Lack of activities related to personal development

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How to get started in a Construction Job https://gocareer.co.uk/how-to-get-started-in-a-construction-job Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:48:57 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=807 So you want a construction job? If you’re thinking about a construction job in the UK you’re in luck the […]

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So you want a construction job?

If you’re thinking about a construction job in the UK you’re in luck the construction industry is growing, approximately 3 million people currently work in construction making it one of the largest and possibly most diverse employment sectors in the UK. There is a job that fits practically every skill set and experience level, as most construction companies provide a range of in-house or outside training and development programmes. An application for employment within a construction company will almost universally be met with an open mind as long as the applicant can demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm to learn and work hard.

construction-job-goconstruct-construction-is-growing

What does a construction worker do?

There really is a job for everyone within the construction industry form labouring on site to running a company that carries out projects throughout the world. Within that range are a huge number of roles both indoor and outdoor – including:- Surveyor, Estimator, Finance, CAD, HR, Bricklayer, Carpenter, Painter, Roofer, Groundworker, Foreman, Site Manager and many more.

What does a construction worker earn?

As there are such a wide variety of roles in construction it is inevitable that the range of earnings do vary across the range from minimum wage to very good salaried jobs in senior management. Construction is by its nature an industry where it is entirely possible to start at the bottom and progress to the very top – just like a building itself. Check out some of our construction jobs at gocareer.co.uk/construction

What qualifications do I need to be a construction worker?

You don’t necessarily need any qualifications to start in the construction industry and in many cases training can be given to further your career progression. That said there are a whole host of qualifications and experience that will be of great help in securing your first job in the industry so do your research. For many a traditional and very effective route into construction is to enroll on an apprenticeship. There are many apprenticeship opportunities available at the government apprenticeship website.

What do construction workers do day to day?

You name it construction workers do it. The very nature of construction work means that there is an enormous range of roles both indoor and outdoor, practical and theoretical and physical or mental. It is essential that you know what sort of work suits you best – then explore the range of construction jobs that fall into that category.

Constuction Training: How do I get started as a construction worker?

There are a number of ways into construction including straight from school, applying for an apprenticeship or pursuing a range of qualifications right up to degree level. It is very useful to seek the best advice available to ensure that you are taking the right entry path for you that best fits your current skills and experience.

Once I become a construction worker what are my career prospects?

The career prospects in the construction industry are as extensive as they are varied. Once you have joined the industry there are any number of courses that you could take that will give you the extra skills and qualifications that you need to take yourself to the very top.

What are the best bits of being a construction worker?

No two days are the same. Working in construction is varied, sometimes challenging but always interesting and rewarding. For anyone who has worked on a construction site for any length of time will testify – it is also almost always great fun. Enjoy.

Be found by construction employers upload your CV at gocareer.co.uk/submit-cv  infographics provided by GoConstruct.

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Tips for Graduates looking for top jobs https://gocareer.co.uk/tips-for-graduates-looking-for-top-jobs Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:46:58 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=804 Finding the top job after graduating from University is the reward for years of study. Tips for graduates – Graduates […]

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Finding the top job after graduating from University is the reward for years of study.

Tips for graduates – Graduates want to find the right employment for their career to use their newly gained knowledge and to pay of those student loans. The work market is a competitive place so here are some tips to successfully securing the right employment.

It’s important to remember that grades alone do not guarantee employment, having a Degree demonstrates a level of educational achievement but to get ahead in the job market you need to show you have maximised on your opportunities at University and elsewhere.


There are many challenges faced by recent graduates

When looking for a job it helps to have a career plan with defined milestones to indicate your progress from new graduate to full professional. Sometimes taking a job in a related area could be a stepping stone to the employment you want and help to progress your career. Join a recruitment agency to broaden the scope of jobs you apply for. Consider smaller companies or start ups to gain experience relevant to your chosen career.

Having a job to gain work experience looks better on your CV, even if it is not quite the dream employment, it could lead you to the right job. Or consider self-employment using your own creative innovation; business mentoring and innovation grants are available through Innovate UK. Graduate apprenticeship schemes are designed to help you step into employment and demonstrate a commitment to your chosen career.


Tips for graduates – Build an impressive CV

It is important to include work experience and part time jobs to show you are motivated to find employment. Present your CV in an attractive format, if you are not to technically minded there are templates and resources to help create your CV and give you examples of how best to use it to your advantage such as The Lighthouse Project and the very stylish Creative Blog templates. Tailor your CV when sending off job applications to highlight the employment and skills you already have which suit the job you are applying for.

Tips for graduates make use of CV templates
Tips for graduates – make use of CV templates

Upload your CV to Go Career we have many companies which have jobs pending that can contact you directly.

Learning does not end with University, continuing to add courses to update your knowledge indicates an interest in your chosen career. The Open University has a selection of online courses for free. Look at your career path and see if you have a knowledge gap which can be rectified by adding a course, some carry additional qualifications.

Employment opportunities for most careers can be enhanced by taking a managerial course which can be studied part time. Whichever job you are interested in would need good IT skills. To get ahead in the job market,have a good level of computer knowledge to help secure employment.


Employment is as much about who you are, as about what the job is.

To demonstrate flexibility and personality you could enhance the social and community interests you have. Try Volunteering to gain skills which can be transferred to your career.

Things you have achieved in your personal life, whether in sport or through hobbies, show application and character as they are things you have worked at and should be proud of. Adding travel experience to a CV shows an ability to plan and manage different cultures and landscapes and do so safely. Employment is not always on our doorstep so relocating might be part of the career plan.

Completing the application form in a presentable and thorough manner will help with the selection process. The application form is your first introduction to the organization which could offer you a job. Taking time to prepare your responses to the questions are your first step to gainful employment.


Ready for interview

At this stage research the company thoroughly and know your profession. Your CV and application form have brought you a job interview, now your presentation on the day is important, this is where your confidence and knowledge can lead the way to the employment you want. This is your opportunity to secure the job by giving a professional interview and successfully progress along your career path.

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Why businesses must widen their talent pool https://gocareer.co.uk/why-businesses-must-widen-their-talent-pool Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:45:11 +0000 http://gc-dev.co.uk/?p=801 Joanne Duberley, University of Birmingham and Louise Ashley, Royal Holloway Britain’s new prime minister has put meritocracy at the heart […]

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Joanne Duberley, University of Birmingham and Louise Ashley, Royal Holloway

Britain’s new prime minister has put meritocracy at the heart of her government’s agenda. It’s a noble goal. This idea of allowing those with the most talent to rise to the top of society and occupy the best jobs must surely be good for society. Similarly, attracting and promoting the best talent has to be good for business.

Rising wealth inequality, however, suggests that the UK has a long way to go to becoming a meritocratic society. If Theresa May wants to make Britain a place where people have “the chance to go as far as their talents will take them”, businesses need to look very carefully at how they recruit and select their future leaders.

Recent research we’ve worked on for the government’s Social Mobility Commission, into the workings of professions such as law, accounting and investment banking in the City of London suggests that the way meritocracy is discussed can actually curtail opportunities for social mobility. The findings show that new, more formal recruitment techniques offer the illusion that the City is “fiercely meritocratic”.

Theresa May has made the case for meritocracy.
Number 10, CC BY-NC-ND

Yet it remains significantly more difficult for hard-working, talented people from lower socio-economic groups to gain access to these top jobs, compared to their more privileged peers. In particular, there is a disproportionate number of people working in the elite professions who have been privately educated. Research by social mobility charity the Sutton Trust
recently found that while 7% of the general population attends a fee-paying school, 34% of new entrants to the banking sector were privately educated, rising to 69% of those working in private equity.

Appearances can be deceptive

Organisations certainly cannot be blamed for looking to recruit the most talented students to work for them and in many ways the recruitment and selection processes adopted by elite firms appear to be meritocratic and fair – everyone is judged by the same yardstick. The difficulty arises when trying to assess what is meant by talent.

Elite professions largely equate talent with good A-Level grades and a degree from a narrow range of the “top” universities. At first glance, pre-screening of applicants based on A-Level results may seem a fair way of dealing with large numbers of recruits. But A-Level performance is strongly correlated with social background, which serves to disadvantage certain groups. Similarly, focusing on students who have gained degrees at elite universities might appear sensible, but those universities are themselves more likely to recruit students from privileged backgrounds.

Privilege persists throughout education.
shutterstock.com

Less objective aspects of the recruitment process can further disadvantage those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. For example, final stage interviews with senior staff are often used to judge whether the applicant would fit into the firm. We were told repeatedly in interviews we conducted with staff across law, accounting and investment banking how important it is that candidates are “polished” and give off the “right” impression.

This may seem logical in a competitive, client-facing environment, but, as our interviewees explained, applicants who have the necessary intellect and aptitude can be rejected purely because they are wearing the “wrong” tie. Plus, an increasingly early start to the recruitment cycle involves applying for internships either before or in the first year of university study. This means that if applicants lack the social networks which provide knowledge about opportunities they are likely to miss out. Thus, the status quo is maintained and it is difficult for those from less privileged backgrounds to access elite professions.

Redefining talent

So what can these firms do? Some are clearly working on this and the increase in apprenticeships and post-18 entrance schemes in accounting has been one response. Other leading firms have introduced the use of contextual data, which allows them to see how applicants compare to peers at their school, to help them judge A-Level results. And many firms engage with third sector organisations such as the Sutton Trust and the Social Mobility Foundation to offer outreach programmes and work experience. These have been successful up to a point, yet change appears slow.

In order to facilitate further change it is important that firms measure and monitor the social background of both new recruits and current employees; examine all aspects of how they attract and select applicants and consider ring-fencing opportunities for internships from non-traditional candidates.

They should also think critically about how they define merit. Should a candidate’s background be taken into account when making judgements about how they present themselves? If Britain is to be the “world’s great meritocracy”, firms need to focus on selecting applicants on the basis of their potential to develop the attributes of a good professional, not the polish that comes with a more privileged background.

Joanne Duberley, Professor of Organisation Studies, University of Birmingham and Louise Ashley, Lecturer in Organization Studies, Royal Holloway

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

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