Test Owner
4 Day Working Week
In the survey from Morning Consult, 87% of workers said they would be interested in a 4-day work week and 82% believed that widespread adoption would be successful. Yet, an overwhelming majority (75%) said that they will only be interested in a shorter week if remote work continued to be a significant aspect of their week.
Many employees that joined the workforce over the pandemic, younger workers, seem more likely to prioritise their wellbeing and work-life balance and embrace unprecedented work habits.
"Since the COVID pandemic, the whole world of work has been completely transformed," Joe Ryle, Director of 4 Day Week campaign, told the HR Grapevine. "In many ways, people had their eyes opened to the fact that we can work differently. There's a sense that the world of work is being reimagined. I believe this has opened the door to new ideas like a four-day week."
With the passing of the Flexible Working Bill, employers might need to prepare themselves for workers demanding a variety of different patterns, including a four-day week. But the above figures suggest that maintaining a level of flexibility around remote work might be more important than a shorter week on its own.
Yet, this research is particularly poignant considering the success of the world's largest trial of a four-day week, set up by The Four Day Week campaign, which saw 61 companies enter the trial and 56 of those firms continue with a shorter week post-trial.
The campaign says that workers are able to be as productive in a shorter week as they are in a conventional five-day week, and points to the benefits a shorter week could have on the economy.
"Essentially, we need to reduce working hours," continues Ryle. "The hours we are putting in are too long, and that's causing burnout, stress and overwork. We know that 18million working days are lost every year to work-related stress. That's a problem for our wellbeing and health, but it's also having a negative effect on the economy. We are working some of the longest hours in the world while having one of the least productive economies."
Source: www.hrgrapevine.com
Pendleside Donations 2023
SER Ltd have signed up for the Pendleside Hospice corporate challenge for the 2nd year running. Last year we raised a nice £4,260. We obviously want to beat that this year...
We have a few things planned already, with lots more TBC
- 6 aside football tournament was held on Saturday 29th July @ Accrington Stanley Sports Hub
- Wednesday 27th September @ 12pm – Friday 29th September @ 12pm - 48 hours of non stop cycling!
Thank you for helping us to support Pendleside Hospice. As an independent charity they rely on donations and fundraising to enable them to provide much needed care to the people of Burnley and Pendle. Your generosity and support is therefore very much appreciate.
Pendleside Football Event
SER have been out and about these weekend, raising money for Pendleside Hospice.
We put together a team to take part in a 6 a side football tournament, which took place on Saturday 29th July at Accrington Sports Hub.
12 teams completed on the day and Mill Hill came away with the win.
Huge thanks for everyone that took part and attended. Special thanks to all the little helpers, who were on bucket patrol collecting cash donations.
Finally a massive thanks to James, who apparently was Man of the Match!
Welcome to the Mad House
SER LTD continue to grow!!
We are pleased to announce that Jason Wallis and Louise Worswick have joined the mad house!
Jason joins us with a wealth of recruitment experience, Jason has been brought in to head up and develop a manufacturing desk.
Louise has joined SER Ltd with an extensive knowledge and experience within the Finance sector. Louise has joined as a specialist Finance and Accounting Recruiter.
Louise.... "The reason I contacted SER originally was because they placed my other half in his role. He was working with two recruiters originally however the service James provided was far superior, so he went with James exclusively.
Then after a few conversations with Joe I understood why.
The thought of then setting up a new division within the company was extremely exciting to me. The team have been lovely since joining, I'm excited to get the ball rolling."
Employee Spotlight - Jake - The Happy Recruiter
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT - RECRUITER - JAKE
@ SER since October 2022 - Audio Visual & Events
What are your career goals?
I aim to build a reputation within the industry for being honest, transparent and having my client's and candidate's best interests at heart. The nature of the job allows us to guide people to make life changing decisions and there is a lot of responsibility as a recruiter to do the right thing. By doing this correctly, everything else will follow suit.
What inspired you to join the team here?
I'd be lying if I said the money wasn't a factor. Though, after my interview I remember Ben telling me "the works dos are mega!". The FOMO of missing out on a good do seemed to outweigh everything else!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love cooking, writing music and spending time with my partner and beautiful son Arlo.
What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?
From growing up with very little money, it's inspired me to work myself into a situation where I am financially free and able to provide my family with all of the experiences that I never had growing up.
Do you have any creative outlets or interests?
I've been writing many variations of rap music since I was 11 years old. One of my favourite places to be is in the studio stood behind a microphone "spitting some bars"!
Who are some of your biggest influences?
My little sister has been a massive influence in my life due to her happy and smiley aura. That's what life's about and if you can keep a genuine smile on your face, even through tough times, you will always get the best out of life.
What do you think makes you unique as a team member?
I bring a bundle of positive energy to boost team spirits and keep everyone in a good, healthy mindset. Always smiling!
What is the best thing that has happened to you this year?
My partner giving birth to our son was without a doubt the best thing that's happened to me this year and probably will be for the rest of my life. Seeing how she has adapted to motherhood and watching our little creation grow so quickly is an amazing and quite emotional feeling.
What's your favorite memory from working at the company?
Has to be "sports day"! From watching Simon demolish a full jar of marmite in seconds, me going for a swim in a bucket of apples and Cara trying to scoop up the whiteboard with a spoon whilst we were all dressed in daft costumes. There's no other workplace where you can get paid for having a day like that! If there is, I will be available on a freelance basis for your next "sports day!"
How do you like to structure your day?
I always always always plan my work the night before! So much can happen throughout a day in recruitment that can distract you from the task at hand. It's so important to have a clear, structured plan of what you aim to accomplish and stick to it as best as you can.
How do you typically approach problem-solving?
I always try my best not to rush things. If an issue arises, the best course of action is to take a breath and come up with a plan on the best way to deal with the situation. Rushing when problem solving only produces more problems to resolve.
What would you like to learn or improve upon in the future?
I would like to be more Technical and see first hand and what is expected of the Engineers that I recruit, rather than just hearing from my clients. A day out on the tools would be a solid experience to gain a deep understanding of my industry.
What's your favorite type of food or cuisine?
Ooo it's a tough one but will have to be something oriental. Big fan of a noodle dish!
If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why?
100% would clone myself. Being able to get twice the amount of tasks done in the same timeframe would be an absolute dream.
Employee Spotlight - Courtney
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT - RECRUITER - COURTNEY
@ SER since November 2021 - Fire & Security
What have been some of the most important lessons you've learned throughout your career?
Keep going! Don't give up after a bump in the road! Recruitment is tough and you must have a strong backbone, but it is also very rewarding!
What do you love most about your job?
Helping people find their perfect role and employee! You are at work far too long to not enjoy your job/company.
What would your perfect weekend look like?
Sat in the sun, by a pool with my nearest and dearest drinking a large wine and eating pasta!!
What movie genres interest you the most?
Really into murder documentaries and thrillers!! I believe that's now a 'red flag... So, there you go haha
What's something that you've always wanted to try or learn?
I am absolutely terrified of heights, but I've always wanted to jump out of a plane.
What value have you added to this team that no one else can?
I am the funniest person in the office... Hands down!
What's the best trip you've ever been on and why?
Florida! We went a family and some of our family friends with a private villa & had fast track passes to all the parks! I would recommend everyone to go at least once in their life!
What do you enjoy most about working here?
I laugh every single day! Never a dull moment in this office.
What tips or advice would you give someone starting a new job?
Be yourself!!! It can be so daunting joining a new company, we've all been there. Just remember that there's a reason you got this far & got the job. Laugh, make friends, and enjoy it.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Healthy, happy & extremely successful... Not that I'm not those things now, but long may it continue.
Have you set any personal or professional goals for yourself?
To smash my target from last year... Which, I am already half way there!
What's your favourite type of food or cuisine?
Italian and Indian!! Give me either of these and large glass of wine and I will be one VERY happy girl!
How would your best friend describe you in three words?
Funny, Loud, Heart of Gold
High Court rules
High Court rules agency staff cannot be used to cover strikes (again)
Employers can no longer use agency staff to fill in for striking workers during industrial action after the High Court ruled that legislation introduced in 2022, by the then Business Secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng, is unlawful.
• In July 2022, the government swiftly implemented a new law which removed the long-standing position that agencies were not allowed to send temporary agency workers to work in an end user organisation to cover for their usual workers who were on strike. • However, following an application for judicial review by trade unions, the High Court has now held that the government did act unlawfully when they changed this law and the 2022 law has now been quashed. • The judge warned the government that any attempt to change strike laws in future would need to be subject to a rigorous consultation. • This High Court decision has reversed the position so that the long-standing law has now been restored. It is therefore once again illegal for temporary workers to replace striking workers. • All businesses affected by strikes will now have no option but to contend with worker-less days and agencies will have to ensure that they are fully aware of this latest sudden change as they will be breaking the law if they provide temporary workers to replace striking workers.
Employee Spotlight - Beth
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT - RECRUITER - BETH
@ SER since November 2021 - Telecoms & IT
What do you love most about your job?
I'd be lying if I didn't say earning the money haha, but I do love speaking to new people everyday, and dealing with existing clients and building relationships on a personal level.
What do you think sets you apart in your field?
I have come across a lot of recruiters in my sector who don't follow the process, I think what sets me apart is the fact I will follow the process through from cradle to grave, ensuring the full process is carried out smoothly for my candidate and client, and I also take time out to learn technical elements within my sector
Tell us a bit about your family?
I am very lucky to have such a close family, I have all my 4 grandparents who I am extremely grateful for, they even designed a tattoo of mine without them knowing! We're all avid Burnley supporters (SU!) And all extremely close. I have 2 nieces Elsie and Mabel and I love being an auntie.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Me and my fiancé Keri love a festival or a gig. I love going to see live bands such as Courteeners and Arctic Monkeys, when I'm stood in a field with a beer in hand with live music, you know life is gooood ????
Why did you choose to pursue a career in your field? I'll be honest I didn't! From 3 years old I trained in dance and was lucky enough to get a scholarship for a professional dance college when I left school. I did get injured with my knee and ended up falling out of love with the industry and discovered the world of sales, and then recruitment... and never looked back. What's something that you've always wanted to try or learn? Being a huge indie music lover, I've always wanted to learn to play the guitar, but I don't have the patience (or time) What do you think is your biggest contribution to the team? The banter, the lols and the motivation hahaha How has your role evolved since you joined the team? Working more senior positions within the industry, the desk I originally went on only really had low end positions at the time, I'd like to think I've evolved the desk, brought on high end business', and worked more senior roles within the industry. What's the best trip you've ever been on, and why? 100% New York City with my fiancé back in 2019, it was thanksgiving parade at the time, and traveling the other side of the world to my dream destination was so special and something I'll never forget, and to finish the holiday we did a helicopter ride over the city- AMAZING! Special memory from my childhood? I was very lucky to have an incredibly special childhood, being taken to Australia to meet my auntie for the first time (who ended up flying back to England so we didn't even see her) was a very amazing and privilege in my childhood that I'll never ever forget! Do you have any strategies for dealing with stress at work? Always take your 5 minutes, whilst recruitment is a high demanding stressful job, you cannot let it neg you out! Take your 5 minutes, do what you need to do, and remember there will always be bad and good days, it's a very fluctuating job but incredibly rewarding.
Staff Retention
COST OF LIVING CRISIS
From both a personal and business perspective, financial stress can have a significant impact on employee wellbeing, productivity, and job satisfaction. Weekly 10 have come up with some great tips to enable businesses to support employees through tough economic times.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues, employers must recognise the importance of supporting employees through these challenging times. As well as being morally right to support employees during times of economic hardship, there are also business benefits.
PRIORITISE EMPLOYEE WELLBEING
Employees are facing higher (than normal) levels of stress at work and home. During the cost-of-living crisis, employers, managers & leaders have a moral responsibility to look out for their employees.
Job losses, financial uncertainty, falling engagement and increased productivity are a bad recipe for employee wellbeing. Its about finding a balance. Healthy employees = healthy business. TRANSPARENCY As an ethic that spans science, engineering, business, and the humanities, transparency is operating in such a way that it is easy for others to see what actions are performed. Transparency implies openness, communication, and accountability DEVELOP HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS When employees have positive working relationships, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work. Employee relations—the way managers and HR representatives at your company interact with employees —can have a huge impact on your workplace culture. Maintaining positive employee relations helps to improve staff morale, reduce workplace conflict and ultimately increased productivity and job satisfaction. FOSTER A FUTURE FOCUS A growth mindset helps employees to positively future gaze. This promotes openness to change and adaptation and enables healthy responses to challenges and problems. Being future-focused is about thinking about the future, anticipating obstacles and planning ahead. It's keeping up-to-date with changes and developments, responding to key trends and being able to prepare and plan for the future.
When leaders admit to negative situations or acknowledge uncertainty, employees feel safer and more secure. If you can't afford the usual bonus, be honest! Tell employees how you do plan to support them. Honesty creates a sense of psychological safety.
Employers & employees who are future-focused are keen to learn, update their knowledge and can recover from setbacks to help them achieve their goals.
Employee Spotlight - Michael
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT - RECRUITER - MICHAEL
@ SER March 23 - Telecoms & IT
1. What inspired you to join the team here?
Recruitment is something I have always seen myself doing and I heard many good things about SER Limited, so it was a no brainer really!
2. What are your career goals?
I want to become the best recruiter I can be as well as earn a lot of money!
3. What would your perfect weekend look like?
Being in Ibiza from Friday till Sunday night watching my favourite DJ's with my friends at Ushuaia.
4. When did you first know that you wanted to pursue a career in this field?
I have a few friends who work in recruitment and they have always told me what a good job it is so ever since then really. Plus, a certain Lee Puxty told me about SER as a company.
5. Do you follow any sports teams?
I am a big Liverpool F.C fan both because of family and because a certain Steven Gerrard is the best English midfielder ever.
6. What's something that you've always wanted to try or learn?
I want to learn how to speak fluent Spanish.
7. What is the most important lesson that you've learned from working with the team?
That everyone is here to help.
8. What do you think is the most important skill that you bring to the table?
A can-do attitude for sure.
9. What are some of your favourite travel/vacation memories?
My first skiing trip in Italy with college, running away from the college teachers into the town centre to watch Arsenal vs Manchester United in the pub with a few bottles of corona (which we weren't allowed to do obviously).
10. What's your favourite memory from working at the company?
Not my first placement dance for sure! Probably the SER sports day and night do.
11. What do you enjoy most about working here?
The office environment for sure.
12. Do you have any strategies for dealing with stress at work?
Tesco meal deal always de-stress's me hahaha!
13. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Still in recruitment as a senior recruitment consultant hopefully.
14. What do you think our future looks like as a team?
SER in my eyes is only going in one direction and that is forward.
15. What is your favourite food?
Chateaubriand especially from a certain restaurant in Spain.
16. If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be?
New Zealand to see my family.
