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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Choosing a career that makes a difference

What career path is right for you

Job profiles

For many people, navigating the job search process can be challenging and demotivating if you feel you are not making as much progress as you would like. Whether you’re a recent graduate eager to start your career or an experienced professional seeking a new opportunity, maintaining motivation throughout this process is essential.

To begin with, you need to set clear and achievable goals, breaking your job search down into smaller more manageable tasks. By accomplishing and tracking these smaller tasks, you’ll feel a sense of progress and momentum, which can significantly boost your motivation. Define what you want in your next job, including the type of role, industry, company culture, and location. Having a clear goal in mind can keep you focused and motivated.

It’s crucial to remain adaptable and open-minded during your job search. Rejection is a natural part of the process, and it’s essential not to take it personally. Use rejection as an opportunity to learn and improve. Ask for feedback when possible and use it to refine your approach. Remember that setbacks are temporary, and each rejection brings you closer to the right opportunity.

In order to not become overwhelmed by the ups and downs of job hunting, you will need to take onboard any constructive criticism and build resilience. Criticism is an unavoidable part of any professional journey. Learning to handle criticism with resilience is a skill that can significantly contribute to long term success. Viewing criticism as an opportunity to learn and grow rather than a setback, will help to develop the mindset needed to deal with the challenges of the workplace with a positive mindset.

All feedback is crucial for personal and professional development. Celebrate the small victories, such as being asked for an interview, receiving positive feedback or even just staying consistent with your job search routine. By focussing on these achievements, you will stay positive and more motivated throughout the process.

Remember, finding the right job takes time, so be patient with yourself. Keep moving forward and focus on your end goal, eventually, you’ll find the job role that aligns with your aspirations. Our consultants are always available to discuss any opportunities they think would be suitable for you.

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How often should I update my CV

Why work with a specialist recruitment agency

Job hunting can be a rollercoaster of emotions. The process of searching for a new job opportunity can often lead to feelings of stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. It’s entirely normal to experience these emotions during such a significant phase of life, but it’s crucial not to let them overwhelm you.

Set realistic goals and clear objectives

Start by setting achievable and realistic goals for your job search, breaking down your objectives into smaller, more manageable tasks; such as updating your CV, networking or applying for a certain number of jobs per week.

Have a clear vision of your career goals and aspirations, this will guide your job search and give purpose to your efforts.

Create a routine and stay organised

Create a system to keep track of your job applications, interviews and networking efforts. Staying organised can help reduce stress and prevent missed opportunities.

Establish a structured routine to help keep yourself organised and motivated. Set aside specific times during the day dedicated to job searching, networking and self-care. Maintaining a routine can provide a sense of control and stability during an otherwise uncertain period.

Seek support or utilise recruitment agencies

Don’t hesitate to seek guidance or support from friends, family or mentors, sharing your job search experience can alleviate stress and offer fresh perspectives.

A recruitment agency is a great way to reduce some of that pressure. Specialist recruiters, like CK Group, are solely focussed on connecting skilled professionals with companies seeking specific expertise. Acting as intermediaries between the job seeker and hiring company it creates a much more streamlined process. They will update you on any potential opportunities, as well as seeking feedback on your behalf.

Get the most out of the application process

Keep your CV and prepared interview questions up to date at all times. Your CV should clearly show your strengths and experience to demonstrate how you are the best person for the job.

Research common interview questions and prepare your responses, by preparing and practicing for interviews it can help to ease your nerves.

Network strategically

Much like your CV, it is important to keep platforms such as LinkedIn up to date. By tracking your achievements and professional development, it can show potential employers your commitment to continuous learning.

Networking remains a powerful tool in job searching, connect with people in your industry, including colleagues, alumni and industry professionals to make yourself visible.

Focus on what you can control

Understand that certain aspects of the job search process are beyond your control. Instead of fixating on things you cannot change, concentrate on what you can control; such as refining your skills, networking effectively and completing your applications to the best of your ability.

Job hunting can be emotionally draining, so make sure you set aside a specific time to go through your applications so that it doesn’t overwhelm you. It’s crucial to take breaks from the job hunt to avoid burnout, step away from your computer and take time to recharge when needed.

Remember to manage your own expectations, and understand that rejections are a part of the process. Don’t let setbacks discourage you, use each experience as a learning opportunity to refine your approach. Job hunting can take time, so be patient with yourself and be aware that feedback (even negative feedback) can help you grow and move forward in the future. By implementing strategies and maintaining a proactive approach, you can effectively manage job hunting anxiety.

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Job hunt challenges and how to overcome them

Skills vs Competencies: What are the differences

Why work with a specialist recruitment agency

As 2023 draws to a close, it’s an important time for CK Group to look back on the milestones, achievements and growth that have marked this year. Through challenges and successes, we have navigated our way through these difficult economic conditions, and still helped to place many candidates in exciting and innovative roles within various global and successful companies.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate and reflect upon the highlights of the past year.

Key Achievements

We have been able to help many candidates find roles in the Life Science and Clinical sectors…

Did you know that 77% of CVs we submit to a job progress to interview? And we’re 167% above the recruitment industry average!

We attended and exhibited at many events, even presenting at a few…

While at the Discovery Park SkillsForward Conference, we gave a talk covering the trends we are seeing and discussed our insights into the current STEM job market in the UK.

We released our own survey reports…

Download your copies of our Clinical Research & Medical Affairs Salary Report and our Life Science & Chemical Job Markey Survey Report.

We celebrated passing our re-accreditation with Investors in People…

CK Group are delighted to have now held our Investors in People accreditation for over 20 years! We want to make sure that CK stays a great place to work, and we always value your feedback.

We’re proud to have received excellent feedback from both clients and candidates, and have continued to be rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot…

Don’t just take our word for it, read more of our Trustpilot reviews here!

Looking Ahead to 2024

Next year we are placing emphasis on specialisation and expertise, with each of our consultants becoming a specialist in their own sector within the Life Science, Clinical Research and Chemicals industries.

As we bid farewell to 2023, we at CK Group express our appreciation to everyone who has worked with us this year. We look forward to embracing the opportunities and challenges that 2024 will bring, continuing to grow and assist you in your job searches or with your company vacancies.

We hope to remain as a market leader in Life Science recruitment in the upcoming year, and aspire to continue to deliver an exceptional and bespoke service to you all throughout 2024!

Creating a working environment that embraces diversity, equality and inclusion is crucial for a positive environment where all individuals feel valued, respected and empowered. These principles not only contribute to a harmonious workplace culture, but also significantly impact the overall success of an organisation.

Diversity

Diversity covers differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, socio-economic backgrounds and more. Embracing diversity means recognising and appreciating these differences rather than merely tolerating them. A diverse workforce brings together a variety of perspectives, experiences and talents, which can lead to enhanced creativity, problem-solving and decision-making amongst staff.

Equality

However, diversity alone is insufficient without ensuring equality. Equality in the workplace involves treating all individuals fairly and providing equal opportunities for growth, advancement and development regardless of their backgrounds. This means implementing policies and practices that eliminate biases and barriers, ensuring that everyone has an equal chance to thrive based purely on their abilities.

Inclusion

Inclusion is the active and intentional effort to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected and supported. It goes beyond just having diverse representation, it is to actively involve and value each individual’s contributions. Inclusive workplaces promote collaboration, open communication and create a sense of belonging among employees, leading to higher employee engagement and retention.

How to achieve a workplace that embraces diversity, equality and inclusion:

Education and Training: Implementing diversity training programs can help raise awareness about biases, promote cultural understanding and improve empathy among employees.

Policies and Practices: Reviewing and updating policies to ensure they are inclusive is essential. This may involve revisiting recruitment strategies, pay equity, flexible work arrangements and providing accommodations for diverse needs.

Creating Safe Spaces: Establishing safe spaces where employees can openly discuss concerns, share experiences and offer suggestions without fear of discrimination, help to create that trusting relationship between employer and employee.

Leadership Commitment: Management teams play a key role in driving these initiatives. When leaders demonstrate a genuine commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion, it sets the tone for the entire company.

Measuring Progress: Regularly assessing and measuring progress, be that through metrics or employee feedback, it allows companies to track their efforts and make any necessary adjustments.

Embracing diversity and ensuring equality and inclusion in the workplace, is important for the overall wellbeing of both the employees and the company as a whole. Organisations that value the unique strengths of each individual and prioritise these initiatives, are better equipped to attract top talent, enhance innovation, improve decision-making and have a happier workforce; ultimately helping to drive long-term success.

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

We’re excited to announce that once again CK Group have sponsored the RSC Pay and Reward survey. With over 4,800 respondents, get a comprehensive overview and analysis of the current chemical sciences industry and what it’s like to work within the sector.

The areas covered were:

• Income and packages
• The impact of the cost-of-living
• Working in the chemical sciences
• Qualifications and skills
• Options on current employment and benefits
• Differing working experiences
• Diversity and inclusion

Request a copy today to see the varied changes in circumstances for the chemical sciences community through two extremely eventful years.

Click here to visit the RSC website to download your copy.

In recent years, the traditional concept of a 9 to 5 office job has undergone a significant transformation. With technology advancements and shifting work cultures, the idea of flexible working has gained considerable traction in modern employment.

Flexible working refers to a work arrangement that grants employees the option to work both remotely and site-based. This approach breaks away from the conventional structured hours site-based roles, allowing individuals to tailor their work schedules to better suit their lifestyles, whilst also promoting time on-site to keep communication with their colleagues.

One of the primary driving forces behind the rise of flexible working is technology. The availability of high-speed internet, cloud computing and communication platforms has facilitated seamless connectivity irrespective of location, however, it is still important to have that face to face communication.

The transition to flexible working isn’t without challenges. Organisations need to establish clear guidelines, communication protocols, and support systems to ensure effective coordination and collaboration among team members working remotely. Additionally, maintaining a sense of community and company culture in a dispersed workforce requires intentional efforts from management and staff.

Studies have shown that offering flexibility in work arrangements often leads to higher levels of employee engagement and motivation. This was also shown in our own Life Science and Chemical job market survey, with 64% of our respondents preferring hybrid working. It was also highlighted in our survey report that key factors that influence a move to a new position include remote working, flexible working options and work-life balance. Read more findings from our survey here: https://ckgroup.co.uk/jobmarketsurvey2023/

In conclusion, the embrace of flexible working represents a fundamental moment in the way we approach work. It offers an opportunity to create a more inclusive and adaptable work environment for employees, whilst also enabling businesses to thrive. It’s essential to embrace the potential of flexibility, whilst addressing its challenges to create a harmonious and productive work culture for all.

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Why work life balance is important for both employers and employees

Feedback is a crucial component for personal and professional development. While positive feedback can boost morale, constructive criticism plays an equally vital role in growth and improvement. Instead of viewing criticism as a setback, choose to see it as a way to contribute to a more resilient and prosperous professional journey.

Opportunity for Improvement

Criticism, when delivered constructively, provides an opportunity for improvement. It highlights areas that require attention and offers valuable insights into how you can enhance your skills or performance. By embracing this feedback, you can take proactive steps to address weaknesses and refine your capabilities.

Enhanced Self-Awareness

Constructive criticism often brings to light aspects of our work or behaviour that we might be unaware of, allowing you to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses. Accepting criticism requires a level of self-awareness, and by acknowledging our shortcomings, we can then look to improve, leading to personal and professional growth.

Building Resilience

Criticism is an unavoidable part of any professional journey. Learning to handle criticism with grace and resilience is a skill that can significantly contribute to long term success. Viewing criticism as an opportunity to learn and grow helps to develop the resilience needed to deal with the challenges of the workplace with a positive mindset.

Continuous Improvement

In workplaces where feedback is valued and constructive criticism is encouraged, continuous improvement flourishes. When employees feel comfortable giving and receiving feedback, it promotes a work culture that is adaptable and responsive to change.

Strengthens Professional Relationships

How you respond to criticism can significantly impact professional relationships. Instead of taking offense, viewing criticism as a collaborative effort toward improvement can strengthen bonds with colleagues and managers. It demonstrates a commitment to both personal and professional success, and creates a positive and collaborative work environment.

The ability to take the positives from criticism is a skill that can set individuals on a path to success. By seeing criticism as a chance to improve, developing resilience, and promoting continuous learning, it can help to overcome career challenges. Embracing criticism isn’t a sign of weakness, but a testament to a growth-orientated mindset that guides a fulfilling and successful career.

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5 ways to self-promote in the workplace

Benefits of setting a realistic work schedule

Taking initiative at work

LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for job seekers to network, research companies and showcase their skills and experience. By connecting with other people in your network you can drastically enhance your career prospects; it is a valuable tool for personal branding and career development in the digital age.

1. Optimise your Profile

Firstly, make sure to use a high-quality and professional profile picture. Then write a compelling headline that reflects your job goals, and a concise summary that highlights your skills, experiences and achievements. Make sure to use key works relevant to your industry, and complete the skills section with these. You could even edit your profile URL to make it more professional and easier to share.

2. Remain Professional

Remember that LinkedIn is a professional platform, so maintain a professional tone and avoid oversharing personal information. Review and adjust your privacy settings to control who can see your activity and connections.

3. Networking

Connect strategically with people in your industry, including colleagues, alumni, and industry professionals. Make sure to share your own content, such as articles or posts related to your field, to make yourself visible. You can even join and participate in relevant LinkedIn groups, attending online networking events and webinars and connect with participants afterward.

4. Stay Informed

Keep up to date with the latest LinkedIn features and news in your industry. Share and comment on industry news and trends to demonstrate your interest and follow the companies you’re interested in to stay updated on their activities and job openings.

5. Use Job Search Tools

Use LinkedIn’s job search feature to find job openings that match your skills/interests, and set up job alerts to receive notifications for new job postings. If you’re actively looking for a job, consider using the “Open to Work” feature, which discreetly signals to recruiters that you’re open to job opportunities.

6. Be Active

Regularly check your LinkedIn notifications, messages and connection requests to stay engaged with your network. Remember that LinkedIn is a dynamic platform, and building a strong presence takes time. Consistent and strategic use of the platform can help you stand out to potential employers and make valuable connections in your industry.

7. Continuously Update your Profile

As with your CV, it is important to keep your profile up to date, tracking your achievements and professional development to illustrate your career journey and how you’ve evolved over time. By consistently updating your profile, it shows potential employers that you are committed to your professional development and active in the online professional community.

Overall, LinkedIn is a powerful platform for job seekers as it enables them to connect, network, and find opportunities in a professional environment. However, it’s important to maintain an active and professional presence on the platform to maximise its benefits.

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Skills vs Competencies: What are the differences?

How often should I update my CV?

Job hunt challenges and how to overcome them

Russell Oakley, our Head of Business Development, attended the SkillsForward 2023 Conference on the 31^st of October. While there at the Discovery Park, he covered which trends we are seeing in the current STEM job market in the UK.

Read an overview of Russell’s talk below for some interesting insights:

1. What are we seeing and hearing in the market right now?

Everyone is aware that 2023 has been a year of economic uncertainty. If you started your job search this year, then you must be thinking the worst!  The jobs market is cyclical. Russ has personally worked through 3 major economic shocks in this sector, and while Life Science is slightly protected, it is not completely immune. As a company we have seen a drop in jobs, however, oddly there has also been a shortage of skilled candidates. This has made it difficult for people looking for work AND for those hiring staff.

On the other hand, if you are looking for work, we have been seeing demand steadily rise over the last 4 months. As mentioned, the job market is cyclical and it does always come back around – just the types of jobs and skills in demand change.

2. What do we see in the long run?

In more positive news, numerous studies and data sources project significant growth in the UK over the next 4 to 7 years. What’s even more promising is that these projections vary, with some estimates indicating double the anticipated national average employment growth, and others nearly 2 and a half times as much. When you factor in the substantial increase in available lab space expected in the next 2 to 4 years, it creates an exceptionally favourable environment for scientists in the UK.

3. Which technical skills are in demand right now? 

At CK Group, we handle a broad spectrum of roles across the entire drug development process, spanning from preclinical R&D to product licensing. Over the past three years, the area that has seen the most substantial growth in demand has been for Bench Scientists, especially those specialising in Cell and Gene Therapy, Immuno-Oncology and, more recently, Neuro-based disorders. This surge in demand reflects a strong need for expertise in Biological Sciences, Pharmacokinetics, and Chemistry disciplines.

It’s worth noting that demand in this field can be also cyclical. Approximately a decade ago we saw a shift in demand for the chemist skill-set which has since gone from strength to strength.

4. Other notable skills which are in demand

Looking further ahead, it’s not surprising that digital innovation is already reshaping the landscape of recruitment requests – with our own database strongly supporting this trend.

The biggest skill sets that we believe will be in demand in the Life Science sector moving forward are: 

• AI and Machine Learning
• Big Data
• Cloud Computing

Currently, there’s a high vacancy rate for AI and ML positions. Therefore, if you’re a Scientist who can complement your expertise in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, or Physics with proficiency in these additional areas, you’ll be highly sought after.

Just because a career in tech isn’t your cup of tea doesn’t mean you can’t land a job. On the contrary, there’s a growing demand for “softer skills” like communication, empathy and persuasion, particularly in roles like Sales, Business Development and Customer Service. As a Life Science recruitment agency with over 30 years of experience in placing scientists, we’ve seen an unprecedented surge in science-based companies reaching out to us in the past year. With the heightened interest mostly surrounding assistance in hiring technical sales and support teams.

5. UK Government influences

Did you know that the UK Government is fully committed to transforming the UK into a Science Superpower by 2030?

This means you can anticipate an expanding list of required skills and roles in the coming years, including:

• Proficiency in all things digital within our sector, encompassing Computational Chemists, Biologists, and Machine Learning experts.
• Increasing demand for advanced manufacturing positions, driven by a rise in manufacturing activities and a trend towards onshoring and reshoring in response to the supply chain challenges brought to light by the pandemic.
• A surge in roles related to Regulatory Affairs. With the ongoing adjustments post-Brexit, the regulatory landscape has become more intricate to navigate, necessitating a larger workforce to address these complexities.

To conclude, although the job market has been challenging this year so far, there are definitely viable solutions available and there is evidence that we are now overcoming them. The UK remains a hub of excellence for Science and Technology and as we gaze into the future, our outlook is optimistic.

It’s crucial for all of us to acknowledge our individual roles in enhancing our skills and aiding those around us; we mustn’t rely on others to do it for us. Employers should focus on nurturing the growth of their staff, which in turn benefits overall productivity and staff retention rates. As employees, we should actively seek opportunities to enhance our skill sets, ensuring we are viewed as valuable hires but also keeping our roles engaging and stimulating.

If you wish  to learn more about our insights into the current UK job market, or just want to chat further about any of the points in this article, you can start the conversation with us today by emailing Russell Oakley at roakley@ckgroup.co.uk.

In today’s competitive job market, self-promotion in the workplace a beneficial skill that can aid career advancement. Whilst many of us may find the idea of self-promotion uncomfortable, it’s an essential aspect of building a successful career. Self-promotion is not about arrogance or bragging, it’s about making sure that your hard work and contributions are recognised and appreciated. In a competitive work environment, your talents and achievements may go unnoticed if you don’t actively promote yourself.

1. Document & Communicate Your Achievements

It is important to regularly update your CV and document any notable achievements. This not only helps you remember your accomplishments but also helps to provide evidence of your value to the company. Don’t assume that others are aware of your accomplishments, make sure to proactively share your successes with your colleagues and management team. When you complete a significant project or achieve a milestone, send an email or mention it during team meetings; effective communication is key to self-promotion.

2. Seek Feedback

Feedback is essential for personal growth and development. Request feedback from your colleagues, supervisors, and managers. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and highlight your strengths. Use this feedback to refine your skills and enhance your self-promotion efforts.

3. Keep Learning and Developing

Continuous learning is a key aspect of self-promotion. By staying up-to-date with industry trends, acquiring new skills, and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth, you give yourself the best chance of professional success. The more you invest in your development, the more that you have to promote. In addition to technical skills, soft skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork are crucial for self-promotion. Effective communication, for example, allows you to articulate your achievements and ideas clearly. Developing these skills will make it easier to promote yourself in the workplace.

4. Put Yourself Forward and Connect with People

Volunteering for projects or assignments can be an excellent way to showcase your abilities. Taking on these opportunities demonstrates your commitment and willingness to go the extra mile, making you a more valuable team member. This can help you to build relationships within your company and industry. Attend industry events, join professional organisations, and connect with colleagues on LinkedIn. Networking can lead to valuable opportunities and increase your visibility in your field.

5. Highlight Your Strengths

Focus on what sets you apart from your colleagues, your unique combination of your skills, values and personality can define you as a professional. Consider your strengths, your areas of expertise and what makes you stand out in your field, be proud of your accomplishments.

Self-promotion in the workplace is not about ego, it’s about ensuring that your skills and contributions are recognised and valued by your employer. By understanding the importance of self-promotion, documenting your achievements, and effectively communicating your successes, you can advance your career and achieve your professional goals.

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In todays fast-paced world, people often find themselves caught in a cycle of work and stress, neglecting their mental health in the pursuit of professional success. However, in reality, maintaining good mental health is crucial not only for personal wellbeing but also for long term career success. An effective way to achieve this is to set yourself a realistic work schedule that allows for balance and self-care.

Consequences of having an unrealistic work schedule

An unrealistic work schedule, such as working long hours, excessive workloads and having little time for relaxation, can have serious consequences on your mental health.

Burnout: Overworking without sufficient rest can lead to a burnout, characterised by physical and mental exhaustion, decreased productivity and increased resentment towards work.

Stress & Anxiety: Constantly rushing to meet tight deadlines and handle heavy workloads can lead to stress and anxiety, which, if left unmanaged, can result in serious mental health issues.

Neglected Personal Life: An unbalanced work schedule often means sacrificing time with family and friends, neglecting hobbies and overlooking selfcare, all which are essential for a fulfilling life.

Reduced Productivity & Creativity: When your schedule is packed with back-to-back tasks, there is little room for creative thinking and problem-solving, which can affect professional growth.

How to setting yourself a realistic work schedule

Now that we understand the risks associated with an unrealistic work schedule, let’s explore some strategies to set a more balanced and realistic work schedule.

Prioritising & Organisation: Identifying and schedule your most important and urgent tasks during your peak productivity hours, this can vary between individuals.

Plan Breaks: Schedule regular breaks throughout your workday. Short breaks can boost productivity and help prevent burnout. Use this time to stretch, take a walk, or have some personal time.

Set Realistic Deadlines: Avoid overcommitting and setting unrealistic deadlines that can lead to unnecessary stress. Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks or seek help from colleagues when necessary, collaboration can reduce your workload and help build supportive work environment.

Establish Boundaries: It is important to set clear boundaries between work and personal life, not working out of hours, communicate your availability to colleagues and managers. You must learn to say no and know your limits, it is important not to overstretch yourself, and it is acceptable decline additional work when your plate is already full.

Maintaining good mental health should be a top priority for everyone, and setting a realistic work schedule is a key step towards achieving this goal. By taking control of your work hours, prioritising self-care and establishing boundaries, you can reduce stress, prevent burnout and ultimately become a more productive and balanced professional. Remember that a realistic work schedule is not a sign of weakness, but rather a wise choice that benefits both your mental health and your career in the long run.

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Working under pressure is a common aspect of many jobs and can be challenging, but there are many strategies to effectively deal with it.

Organisation, Prioritising & Time Management

Knowing what needs to be done and having a clear plan can reduce stress, by maintaining a well-prepared workspace and having an up to date to-do list you can help to organise your thoughts. Break your work into smaller, more manageable chunks – Identify the most important tasks and tackle them first. This ensures that you’re addressing critical issues before moving on to less urgent ones.

Problem Solving & Setting Expectations

Ensure that you and your employer have a realistic understanding of what can be accomplished within the given time frame, overcommitting can lead to unnecessary stress. If you’re already overwhelmed, it’s okay to decline additional tasks or responsibilities – be assertive and setting boundaries can be helpful.

Shifting your Mindset

Asking for help is not a negative thing. Don’t hesitate to reach out to colleagues or superiors for help or guidance when necessary – collaboration can help lighten the load. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

Learn from Experience

Reflect on past experiences of working under pressure as an opportunity to learn. By identifying what worked and what did not, you can use this knowledge to improve your approach in the future.

Everyone experiences pressure at some point in their careers, however this is not necessarily a negative thing. Effectively managing pressure at work involves a combination of organisational skills, time management and self-care. Learn from your past experiences to find ways to deal with the pressure that work best for you that you can then apply to new work situations.

You may also like to read:

How to combat stress in the workplace

Improve your workplace happiness

How to help colleagues experiencing burnout

Mental health in the workplace