In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a critical consideration for businesses worldwide. More than just being a buzzword, it has become a fundamental aspect in corporate strategy. From reducing environmental impact to promotion of social responsibility, endorsing sustainability offers a range of benefits for companies.

1. Moral and ethical standpoints

Today, society is increasingly environmentally conscious and socially aware, seeking products and services from companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Not only will this influence customers, but you may also find that employees that share these values are more likely to advocate for the business, leading to a greater retention of staff as well as attracting more top talent.

2. Cost savings and operational efficiency

Implementing energy-efficient technologies, optimising use of resources, and reducing waste not only benefit the environment but also lead to lower operating costs in the long run. These sustainable practices can streamline processes, improve resource management, and enhance overall profitability.

3. Enhancing brand reputation and trust

Companies that demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability are perceived as responsible businesses, earning the trust and loyalty of customers, investors, and other stakeholders. A positive brand image can differentiate your company from competitors, attract socially conscious investors, and strengthen relationships with customers and clients.

4. Future-proofing your business

Investing in sustainability today, helps future-proof your business against emerging risks and uncertainties.

5. Contributing to a better future

Businesses have a significant role to play in addressing global environmental and social challenges. By reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and promoting social equity, companies can contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient world for future generations.

Promoting sustainability is no longer just an option, but a necessity for corporate organisations. By aligning with social expectations, driving cost savings, enhancing brand reputation, future-proofing, and contributing to a better future, sustainability initiatives offer numerous benefits. Embracing sustainability isn’t just good for business, it’s essential for creating a more sustainable and positive future for all.

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Embrace contract and temporary recruitment

Is your recruiting process costing you candidates?

In the world of job hunting, there’s often one crucial piece of information that job seekers focus on – the salary. However, in today’s job market, it’s not uncommon to come across job adverts displaying salaries as “competitive”, meaning a salary that is equal to, or greater than, the average salary for similar roles in that industry.

From our own 2023 Life Science & Chemical Job Market Survey, we found that 66% of respondents stated that salary was an important driving force to them in their decision to start looking for a new role.

We wanted to delve further, so we created a poll on our LinkedIn to see if potential job seekers would still be willing to apply for a position if the salary is wasn’t displayed? An overwhelming majority of 64% of respondents answered that they would be less likely to apply for a job without a salary, with 22% stating they would not be put off at all, and 14% selecting that they would not apply for the position at all. This clearly shows that by not displaying a salary bracket, you are significantly reducing your pool of candidates.

Why do employers not advertise salary?

Some argue that excluding the salary can deter potential candidates from applying, as we know many job seekers prioritise the salary and financial stability when considering job opportunities. On the other hand, some employers suggest that by not disclosing the salary upfront, they can attract candidates who are genuinely interested in the role and the company, rather than those solely motivated by potential earnings.

However, it is also important to recognise strategic reasons for not publishing salary. Some companies may have a flexible budget for the right candidate, or they may prefer to discuss salary expectations during the interview stage, allowing them to tailor the offer based on the candidate’s skills and experience.

How does this influence job seekers?

For job seekers, the decision to apply for a job without a displayed salary can be influenced by various factors. Some may be willing to take the chance if the job description aligns with their career goals or is with a reputable company. However, others may not want to invest the time and effort into applying for a role without knowing whether the salary on offer meets their expectations of a potential income.

Ultimately, the decision to apply for a job that does not display salary depends on an individual’s priorities or circumstances. While some job seekers may be open to the opportunity, others may prefer to prioritise roles where salary information is transparent from the start.

So why should employers advertise salaries?

Transparency with salary information has become increasingly valued in today’s job market, with many job seekers advocating for its inclusion in job adverts. Not only does being transparent around salary make the recruitment process more efficient, it also supports fair and equal pay across companies, something which many strive to achieve.

As experienced recruiters, we recognise the importance of posting salary ranges, particularly when working in conjunction with job boards such as Indeed who actively prefer job postings with a published salary.

Studies have shown that candidates are more likely to apply for roles with advertised salary ranges, in fact not advertising the salary can discourage the candidate market to nearly half or as our LinkedIn poll shows, therefore it is within the interest of the employers to do so.

Finding a balance between transparency and strategic recruitment approaches is key for both job seekers and employers. In the hunt for the perfect match between candidates and roles, it is important to understand the influence disclosing salary can play in your recruitment strategy.

If you are an employer who would like advice regarding advertising salaries, please feel free to contact us here.

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Well done, you’ve got an interview! But how do you avoid making the most common mistakes when interviewing?

1. Being Unprepared

Before attending any interview, you should take the time to research the employer. It is likely they will ask you why you want to work at the company and what your know, and you should be able to give them valid answers.

What to find out before your interview:

• Type of Interview: Find out what type of interview you will be having (e.g. competency based, practical, panel, etc.), and prepare answers tailored to the types of questions expected. A good tip to anticipate the questions that might be asked is to reread the job description and pick out the key skills and competencies they are looking for. By having answers prepared that you can customise to specific questions, you are more likely to convince the interviewer of your suitability for the role.
• Timekeeping: Being prepared for your interview also means figuring out how you are going to get there. Not arriving on time is a sure way to make a bad impression – if for any reason you are running late, you should always inform them of this. Being late gives the impression that you are uninterested in the job and can put you at an instant disadvantage.
• Technology: Today many employers are opting to conduct interviews over video – in this case it is vital to ensure all of your equipment and links are working beforehand, and that you are located in a suitable setting to conduct the interview. Pay particular attention to your background, and what may be just out of shot – some video clients actually transmit a slightly larger view than what you can see, so make sure that dirty washing is in a different room!

Find more detailed advice on how to prepare for your interview

2. Speaking Negatively about Previous Employers or Colleagues

Although you could be leaving your current company due to unfortunate circumstances, it is important that you don’t overly criticise them. While it is fine to say, for example, that you wish to leave due to a lack of progression opportunities, it is not ok to bring up conflicts or issues you have had personally.

If you do speak negatively about a former employer, your interviewer may get the impression that you will also speak negatively about them. This is particularly important if you are interviewing at a company in the same sector as your current employer, as you don’t want to accidently divulge any sensitive information.

3. Being Unable to Explain your Motivations

Not being able to explain your motivation for applying to a new job can significantly hinder your chances of landing the position. It is essential to prepare for interviews by reflecting on your career goals, the reasons you find the job appealing, and how it fits into your overall career path.

So why would a prospective employer be influenced by your motivations?

• Lack of Clarity: When you can’t articulate your motivation for applying, it indicates a lack of clarity about your career goals and aspirations. Employers want to see that you have a clear direction and purpose in your professional life – without a well-defined motivation, you may come across as uncertain or unfocused, which could raise doubts about your commitment to the role.
• Cultural Fit: Companies often prioritise cultural fit during the hiring process. When you can’t explain why you want to join their specific organisation, it suggests that you haven’t done enough research about the company. Employers want candidates who align with their values and can seamlessly integrate into the team.
• Performance and Engagement: Motivated employees tend to perform better and be more engaged in their roles. If you can’t articulate why you want the job, the employer might assume that you are solely interested in finding any job and are not genuinely interested in this particular position.
• Career Growth: Generally speaking, employers want to hire candidates who view the job as an opportunity for professional growth. Being able to explain your motivation allows you to highlight how the role aligns with your long-term career plans and how it can help you develop as a professional.

4. Letting Nerves Take Over / Having the Wrong Attitude

Although it is common to be nervous when it comes to interviews, it is important that you still portray your ability to fulfil the role. A tip for when you are struggling to answer a question, is to pause and repeat the question while you gather your thoughts. This will give you time to recall the answers you have previously prepared.

On the other side, appearing too self-assured can also impact you negatively. While it is great to be confident in your abilities, be careful to still seem grateful for the opportunity to interview and describe what you can bring to the role without coming across as arrogant.

5. Not Asking Any Questions

Once the interview is drawing to a close, it is likely that your interviewer(s) will ask you if you have any questions for them. It is just as important to ask questions, as it is to answer them. Asking the interviewer questions shows that you are seriously interested in the role and will help to build rapport with them.

Think about questions you wish to ask before your interview, and be careful to avoid asking any questions that you could research the answer to yourself. For example, if you were to ask what the company does, this will give the impression that you haven’t done much research and therefore aren’t really interested in the role and/ or company.

Instead, ask questions about what you personally find valuable in a role, whether that be opportunities for job progression, training programmes or work culture.

Click here for some great questions to ask at your job interview

The rise of video CVs and interviews has become a prominent trend over the past few years, offering both employers and job seekers a more flexible and efficient way to connect.

Video CVs

Using video gives candidates the opportunity to showcase their skills as well as personality and creativity. Instead of relying solely on text to convey their qualifications, applicants can use video to demonstrate their communication skills, enthusiasm, and fit for the role.

Employers, on the other hand, benefit from video CVs by gaining deeper insights into candidates early in the recruitment process. They can assess not only a candidate’s qualifications but also their presentation style, professionalism, and cultural fit within the company. Allowing recruiters to make more informed decisions about who to invite for further interviews, saving time and resources.

Virtual Interviews

Alongside video CVs, video interviews have also become increasingly popular, particularly in line with the rise of remote and hybrid working. With the advancements in video conference technology, conducting interviews virtually has become convenient and cost-effective for both employers and candidates.

Video interviews eliminate geographical barriers, allowing companies to interview candidates for positions regardless of their location. It also allows for better collaboration among the hiring teams, as multiple interviewers can participate from different locations simultaneously. Additionally, the flexibility of virtual interviews makes it much easier to accommodate busy schedules and reduces the need for time-consuming logistics associated with organising face-to-face interviews.

Overcoming Challenges

The rise of video CVs and interviews also comes with its challenges. Technical glitches or poor internet connectivity can disrupt the flow of the interview, impacting the candidate’s performance and the overall impression they leave on the hiring team.

However, to address these challenges, both candidates and employers can take proactive steps. Candidates can practice their video presentation skills, ensure a stable internet connection and familiarise themselves with the technology or software beforehand. Employers, on the other hand, must provide clear instructions and support to candidates, offer flexibility in scheduling and ensure they are using a reliable video conference platform to minimize the likelihood of technical issues.

Overall, the rise of video CVs and interviews represents a significant shift in the way recruitment is conducted. By embracing video technology, both employers and candidates can streamline the hiring process, improve candidate experience and ultimately find the best fit for each role.

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What career path is right for you?

In today’s candidate driven job market, attracting and retaining top talent is crucial for the success of any business. While competitive salaries and benefits packages are important, they are no longer sufficient on their own. More and more, job seekers are prioritising company culture.

A company’s culture shapes everything from how employees interact with each other, to how they approach their work. When company culture aligns with an employee’s values and goals, it creates a sense of belonging that goes beyond the job itself. This alignment is becoming increasingly important to employees, particularly millennials and gen Z, who seek meaningful work, a sense of community in the workplace and a good work-life balance.

So, how can you use your company culture to attract and retain staff effectively?

Define your company values

Employees want to work for a company that has a vision they can get behind. It is important to communicate what this is to both current staff and prospective ones. Use company meetings and internal communications to relay your values to the workforce, and social media to help potential employees understand what your company stands for and whether it aligns with their own beliefs.

Create a positive and inclusive work environment

It is important to ensure that employees feel valued, respected and supported – which, in turn, will make staff feel empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. When employees feel appreciated and included, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work, leading to higher levels of retention.

Prioritise employee development and growth

Offering opportunities for learning and career advancement shows you are investing in them as an individual. Employees are more likely to stay with a company that invests in their professional growth and offers pathways for development.

Promote work-life balance and flexibility

In today’s fast-paced world, employees value flexibility in how, when and where they work. By providing options such as remote work or flexible hours, this demonstrates that you value your employees’ time and well-being.

Recognise achievements and milestones

Whether it’s a job well done, a work anniversary, or a team success, taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate employee contributions creates a culture of appreciation and high morale.

Leveraging your company culture is a powerful strategy for attracting and retaining the best staff. By defining and communicating your values, creating a positive and inclusive work environment, prioritising employee development, promoting work-life balance, and celebrating achievements, you can create a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and committed for the long term. Ultimately, investing in your company’s culture is not just good for your employees – it’s good for your business.

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Why work with a specialist recruitment agency?

In a world driven by technological innovation and scientific advancements, the decision to work in the scientific and clinical fields offers a diverse and impactful career.

1. Opportunities for Innovation

Working in these industries can be exciting and intellectually stimulating. It’s a chance to learn and contribute to our understanding of the world around us, and gives the opportunity to make ground-breaking discoveries and develop new technologies, overcoming significant scientific challenges through innovation.

2. A Career with a Purpose

The desire to work in the scientific or clinical research fields is often fuelled by the desire for both a thought-provoking and rewarding career. These industries can provide the chance to advance scientific knowledge and positively influence the lives of numerous individuals, something which can be a powerful motivator when choosing a career path.

3. Solving Real-World Problems

Whether it’s addressing scientific challenges, improving healthcare, or advancing technology, working in these field provides a platform to tackle global issues. The satisfaction of knowing that your contributions have a direct and positive impact on society is a powerful motivator for many.

4. Global Collaboration

Working in these industries provides opportunities for collaboration on an international scale. The variety of sectors available and the chance to work with professionals from different backgrounds can offer a diverse working environment, that can enhance your professional development and progression.

5. Continuous Learning and Development

Scientific and clinical research fields are characterised by their ever-evolving nature. By choosing a career in these industries you are embracing a lifelong journey of learning, constantly growing and developing to overcome real-world problems.

6. Diverse Career Opportunities

There are a wide array of disciplines to explore; the diverse nature of these roles allows individuals the flexibility to experience various specialisms to find your place within the broader landscape.

7. Job Security

The demand for skilled professionals in these fields is consistently high. Many industries continue to rely on technological advancements, therefore these diverse skills remain in demand, leading to competitive salaries and job security.

Working in the scientific and clinical research fields offers a professional journey of exploration, innovation, and impact. These sectors give the opportunity to be at the forefront of change, to contribute to solutions for global challenges, and to enjoy a career marked by continuous learning and growth.

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Choosing between a global or start-up company

Job hunting can be challenging, filled with many ups and downs. One of the most discouraging aspects is facing rejection. However, this is a natural part of the job search process, and if you can learn how to deal with rejection and use it as an opportunity for growth, it will ultimately help you in securing the right job.

Understand it’s not Personal:

A rejection does not directly reflect your capabilities. Employers often have precise criteria and specific preferences, that may not always align perfectly with your qualifications or experience.

Seek Constructive Feedback:

After a rejection, you should consider reaching out to the employer or having your recruitment consultant ask for feedback. Constructive criticism can provide a valuable insight into any skills gaps, which you can use to help identify any areas of improvement. Use this feedback as a tool for refining your skills and enhancing your applications.

Learn and Adapt:

Remember that job hunting is a learning process. Taking onboard and acting on feedback from your interviews will only help you improve your technique and allow you to adapt for future opportunities.

Diversify your Approach:

If you’re receiving multiple rejections, consider diversifying your job search strategy. If you’re not getting to interview stage, consider reviewing your CV or what you are stating on application forms. If your interviews are not progressing, then seek feedback to see how you can improve how you are displaying your skills. Being open to a variety of opportunities can increase your chances of finding the right fit.

Maintain a Positive Mindset:

Staying positive during your job search is easier said than done, but it is essential to celebrate the small victories. Focus on your strengths, achievements and the progress you’ve made so far.

Dealing with rejection during your job hunt is undoubtedly disheartening, but it is an unavoidable part of the process. By approaching rejections with resilience, seeking constructive criticism, acting on any feedback you receive, you can turn these setbacks into opportunities for both professional and personal growth. Remember that the right opportunity is out there and each rejection brings you one step closer to finding it.

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International Women’s Day, serves as a global celebration of the achievements and contributions of women across various fields. One field where women have made significant progress in is STEM. Despite historical underrepresentation, women continue to break barriers – inspiring future generations and reshaping the landscape of these industries.

In the not-so-distant past, women faced societal barriers that limited their access to an education and career opportunities. However, time has evolved and it is with persistent advocacy that women have increasingly found their place in these traditionally male-dominated fields. Today, their influence is undeniable, with many women making a vast impact on the industry, from developing ground-breaking research to generating technological innovation.

Highlighting Achievements:

International Women’s Day offers a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements of women working in STEM. Women scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians have excelled in diverse fields, contributing to advancements that benefit society as a whole; with work ranging from developing life-saving medical technologies to driving innovation in artificial intelligence.

Promoting Diversity, Equality and Inclusion:

While progress has been made, challenges persist. Gender inequalities in these fields continue to exist, with women underrepresented in many roles. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity, equality and inclusion within the scientific communities.

Inspiring Future Generations:

Celebrating women in STEM on International Women’s Day is not only about recognising current achievements and contributions, but also about inspiring the next generation. By showcasing the accomplishments of women in these fields, we encourage young girls to pursue their owns interests without judgement or barriers, aiming for a future where gender equality is the norm rather than the exception.

As we acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of today, let us also commit to creating a future where women in STEM thrive. Women are breaking down barriers and shaping a world where talent knows no gender – paving the way for continued innovation and progress in the ever-evolving landscape of STEM.

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You may also like to read our Unbiased Hiring with CK Group document.

Our specialist recruitment consultants have a profound understanding of the Life Science, Chemicals, Clinical, Engineering and Technical industries, with the expertise to consistently meet your needs. Whether your requirements arise unexpectedly or are part of a planned project, our remarkable speed and flexibility ensure that you receive the necessary support, delivered promptly and within budget.

Our specialist teams cover many sectors within the Chemicals, Clinical, Engineering and Technical industries

Industry sectors we recruit for:

Chemicals, Materials, FMCG, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Antibody Discovery, Medical Devices, Clinical, Biometrics, Waste & Environmental Management, and Oil & Gas.

Examples of the types of roles we cover:

Process, Computational Chemistry, CMC, Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Production/Manufacturing, Research & Development, Laboratory, Microbiology, Molecular  Biology, Cell & Gene, Regulatory Affairs, Medical Affairs, Medical Writing, Healthcare Governance, Clinical Development, Clinical Operations, Data Management, Organic Synthesis, Scale-up, Formulation, Stability Analysis, and many more!

Flexible staffing solutions to respond to your fluctuating workload

Many of our clients use contract recruitment as a way to fill gaps in the workplace, from covering long periods of leave to adding extra staff for short term projects. However, not many take full advantage of the additional benefits of recruiting on a temporary  basis.

Did you know that CK Group are statistically much more likely to find the right candidate for your job and in a shorter period of time than other recruitment companies? *

This is specifically in relation to our job to placement ratios:  77% of CVs we submit to a job progress to interview stage!

Why recruit on a contract basis, and how can it be beneficial for your company?

Access to Expertise and Filling Skills Gaps – Contingent workers are often highly talented, with a specific skill set. Contracting those kinds of professionals is the ideal way to fill a skills gap within an organisation, especially when the skill set is only needed for a short amount of time.

Flexibility – The temporary nature of contract work allows companies to respond to changing circumstances.

Faster Turn Around – Experienced contractors are often available at short notice, so the hiring process is quicker than hiring a permanent employee.

Cost Efficient – Pricing transparency allows you to budget and control the costs for your workers.

In-House Payroll – We can handle payroll for you through our own Payroll team, with the cost of this included in the recruitment fee.

Fully Compliant – Our dedicated Operations Support team ensures workers are fully screened and legally compliant before starting work.

Simplifying the Process – We will be there to support you every step of the way. We include full HR support during the length of the contract and we will draw up all contract documentation – meaning less paperwork for you to complete.

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Get in touch to see how CK Group can help with your hiring strategy this year!

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Our client case studies

*Data from CK database and Hirehive

The Life Science, Chemical, Engineering and Clinical Research industries offer diverse career opportunities, with two distinct paths emerging as popular choices for professionals – working for a global giant or joining a dynamic start-up. Each option presents its own unique advantages and challenges, making this a key decision for those entering or navigating their careers.

Global Companies

Stability and Resources:

Global companies are often characterised by their stability and vast resources. These industry giants have extensive research and development capabilities, allowing their employees to work on cutting-edge projects with significant financial backing.

Global Reach:

Working for a global company provides exposure to international markets and the opportunity for collaboration. Professionals in these companies have the chance to contribute to the development of drugs and treatments impacting lives worldwide.

Established Networks:

These companies usually have well-established networks with regulatory bodies. This can provide valuable insights, as well as valued connections that can accelerate career growth.

Diverse Career Paths:

Larger companies offer a wide range of roles, from research and development to manufacturing, data analysis and regulatory affairs. This diversity allows employees to explore various aspects of the industry and find their niche.

Start-Up Companies

Innovation, Flexibility and Creativity:

Start-ups in these sectors are known for their creativity and innovative culture, giving employees much more flexibility in their work. Professionals in these companies have the opportunity to work closely with those making the decisions, contributing directly to the development and growth of the company.

Entrepreneurial Experience:

Joining a start-up provides a unique experience, where employees may have the opportunity to work across multiple disciplines at once, gaining exposure to different aspects of the sector and developing a wider skill set.

Career Progression:

In start-ups, career progression can be fast-paced, as employees take on responsibilities that may be broader than those in larger companies. This accelerated growth can be appealing for those seeking quick advancement in their careers.

Impact and Ownership:

Working for a start-up allows employees to see the direct impact of their contributions. Often, a smaller team means a more streamlined processes, giving employees a greater sense of ownership over their work, creating a stronger connection to the overall goals of the company.

Choosing the Right Fit

Ultimately, the decision between a global company and a start-up depends on individual preferences and overall career goals. It is important to consider factors such as company culture, work environment and career trajectory.

If stability, a clear career path and the opportunity for global impact are priorities, then a global company may be the right choice. On the other hand, if you thrive in dynamic environments, seek rapid career progression and want to drive innovation, a start-up might better align with your aspirations.

Both global companies and start-ups offer exciting opportunities for professionals in the Life Science and Clinical industries. By carefully evaluating your priorities and professional goals, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your ambitions and sets you on a fulfilling career path.

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