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RecruitFirst Singapore Achieves bizSAFE Level 3 Certification

At RecruitFirst, the safety and well-being of our people, clients, and community are always at the heart of what we do. We’re proud to share that we are certified by the Tripartite Alliance for Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council with bizSAFE Level 3.

This certification reflects our commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and supportive workplace for everyone.

What bizSAFE Level 3 Means

Awarded by the Tripartite Alliance for WSH Council, the bizSAFE programme helps companies build workplace safety and health capabilities. Attaining Level 3 means that RecruitFirst Singapore has conducted risk assessments for every work activity in our workplace, in compliance with the requirements in the WSH (Risk Management) Regulations.

By attaining this certification, we demonstrate that workplace safety and health are integral to how we operate. Safety isn’t an afterthought, it’s embedded in the way we work.

Why This Matters to Us

As a people-first organisation, we believe that creating a safe environment allows our consultants, staff, and clients to focus on what matters most. Building meaningful connections, empowering careers, and driving business success. Attaining bizSAFE Level 3 also reaffirms our role as a responsible employer and partner, one that values accountability, trust, and care in every interaction.

This certification is just one step in our ongoing journey. We remain committed to strengthening our workplace safety practices, continuously reviewing our processes, and ensuring that our people feel supported both inside and outside of work.

At RecruitFirst Singapore, safety is not just about compliance, it’s about care. And we’re excited to continue raising the bar together.

How To Improve Hiring Process with Candidate Experience Checklist

A poor hiring experience can cost you top talent. In today’s digital world, job seekers often share their application experiences publicly, which can affect your employer brand. If you’re in human resources, recruitment, or talent acquisition, it’s time to see candidates not just as applicants, but as individuals forming their first impression of your company.

A strong recruitment strategy involves more than sourcing candidates. It includes providing a smooth, respectful, and transparent experience throughout the process. In this article, you’ll learn what candidate experience means, why it matters, and how to improve your hiring process using a practical checklist that guides you from job posting to job offer.

What is Candidate Experience?

Candidate experience is the overall impression that job seekers develop during the hiring process. It includes every stage of the candidate journey, from reading your job post and submitting an application to interviewing and receiving follow-up. It’s not just about being quick or polite, it’s about treating candidates with respect, keeping them informed, and ensuring every step is clear and fair, no matter the outcome.

This experience is often shaped by multiple touchpoints, including communication with the hiring manager, the structure of your application forms, and the clarity of your interview process.

Why Candidate Experience Matters?

Builds Employer Reputation

A poor experience can damage your reputation on platforms like LinkedIn or Glassdoor. On the other hand, a thoughtful candidate experience leaves a positive impression, even for those not selected.

Increases Offer Acceptance Rates

When candidates feel valued and respected, they are more likely to trust your organisation and accept your offer.

Reduces Time and Cost per Hire

Candidates who have a positive experience tend to respond faster, attend interviews as scheduled, and move through the process smoothly. This helps improve your hiring process by reducing delays and lowering costs.

Attracts Top Talent

Strong candidates often have multiple options. A negative experience could lead them to choose a competitor before you’ve had the chance to make your offer.

Common Candidate Experience Mistakes

Even the most well-intentioned HR or recruitment teams can accidentally create a difficult candidate journey. Common missteps include:

  • Job descriptions that are unclear or overly complex
  • Lengthy or confusing application forms
  • No confirmation or updates after application submission
  • Disorganised or inconsistent interviews
  • No feedback or closure after interviews

These issues are more common than you might think. But with the right approach, they can be corrected.

Improve Your Hiring Process with Our Checklist

We’ve created a free, downloadable Candidate Experience Checklist to help hiring managers, recruiters, and HR professionals build a consistent and thoughtful hiring experience. It covers the entire candidate journey, helping you fix the gaps and build a stronger recruitment strategy.

Download the checklist now and start creating an experience that attracts and retains top talent.

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RecruitFirst Singapore Appointed by ECDA for Provision of Relief Staff Services

We are proud to announce that RecruitFirst Singapore has been appointed by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) to provide relief staff services to the Early Childhood (EC) sector. This partnership is effective from 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2027.

With this appointment, RecruitFirst Singapore can now assist preschools across the nation in meeting their relief manpower needs. Whether you’re facing unexpected staff shortages or require temporary assistance, we are here to support your preschool with trained and qualified relief teachers.

Are You Interested in Becoming a Preschool Relief Teacher?

If you’re passionate about early childhood education and eager to contribute, we are seeking both assistant relief teachers and trained relief teachers to join our team. Whether you’re just starting your journey in early childhood education or are a qualified professional, we invite you to explore available opportunities and become part of our network of dedicated educators.

Preschools in Need of Relief Staff?

If your preschool is in need of relief manpower, we are ready to support you. Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements.

For more information on bill rates to Preschool Centres, click here.

HRnetGroup Receives 2024 Best Managed Companies Award by Deloitte for Third Consecutive Year

As a brand of HRnetGroup, we are delighted to announce that HRnetGroup is a 2024 winner of Singapore’s Best Managed Companies, sponsored by Deloitte Private. This prestigious award recognises companies for their organisational success and achievement, and we’re thrilled to maintain our Best Managed status for the third consecutive year. Over our 32-year journey, we have strived to shape the industry through the synergistic blend of technology with a profound understanding of the talent landscape.

This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our exceptional team, who have navigated a challenging macro environment with resilience, propelling us forward. Their invaluable contributions have been instrumental to our continued success.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to our clients, candidates, and partners for their trust. This recognition further motivates us to remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, driving innovation with agility and precision as we continue to pursue excellence in our industry.

Crafting an Effective Career Plan: A Guide for Fresh Graduates and Final Year Students

As a fresh graduate or final year student, you may have spent the last few years studying hard, participating in internships, and building a network of contacts. Yet, have you given much thought to your long-term career goals? Crafting an effective career plan can help to pave the way for a fulfilling and successful career. In this article, we will explore what career planning is, why it is important, and provide steps to help you create an effective career plan.

What is Career Planning?

Career planning is the process of setting career goals and creating a roadmap to achieve them. It involves a self-assessment of your skills, interests, and values, exploration of different career paths and industries, and planning for professional development opportunities. The key to effective career planning is to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve in your career and how you can use your skills and talents to reach those goals.

The Importance of Career Planning

Career planning plays a crucial role in shaping your professional journey. Let’s dive deeper into why it’s so valuable:

Facilitates Better Decision Making

Career planning plays a crucial role in improving decision-making abilities. When you have a clear career plan, you can consider various factors like job opportunities, training programs, and career paths that align with your goals. For instance, instead of randomly applying for jobs, you can evaluate each opportunity based on whether it contributes to your long-term career objectives. This way, you can make informed decisions that bring you closer to your desired professional outcomes.

Prepares You for Future Opportunities

Having a well-developed career plan empowers you to actively seek out future opportunities. With a clear roadmap, you can proactively explore paths that align with your aspirations. For example, let’s say you want to transition into a leadership role. Through career planning, you can identify the necessary skills, experiences, and training that can propel you towards that goal. By strategically pursuing such opportunities, you increase your chances of achieving long-term career success.

Supports Career Satisfaction and Growth

Having a clear career plan instils a sense of direction, confidence, and motivation in your professional journey. It provides a roadmap that guides your actions and helps you stay focused. As you make progress towards your career goals, you experience a greater sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. For instance, imagine that you initially planned to work in marketing but discovered a passion for data analysis. By reassessing your career plan and updating it accordingly, you can refocus your efforts and pursue a career path that aligns with your newfound passion. This flexibility and adaptability contribute to your overall career growth.

By understanding the vital role of career planning, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and successful professional journey. It not only helps you make better decisions but also prepares you for future opportunities while supporting your long-term career satisfaction and growth.

Steps to Create an Effective Career Plan

1. Self-assessment

Start by identifying your skills and interests. Taking stock of your abilities, both technical and soft skills, can help you determine areas where you excel and have potential to grow. Your interests and passions also play a significant role in shaping your career path. By pursuing a career that you are genuinely passionate about, you are more likely to find fulfilment and enjoy your work. You can use tools like personality tests, career assessments, and self-reflection to gain insights into your skills and preferences. Here’s an example of list of skills and interests:

2. Career exploration

After you have a better understanding of yourself, it’s time to explore the career options that align with your skills and interests. This involves researching different industries, job roles, and companies. Look at the skills and qualifications required for these roles, potential career paths, and future job prospects. Networking events, informational interviews, job shadowing, and internships can provide valuable insights during this phase.

Let’s take a look on a career exploration process in the advertising and marketing industry:

3. Setting career goals

Once you’ve explored various career options, it’s time to set your career goals. These should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Your career goals should include both short-term and long-term objectives, such as gaining a particular skill, landing a specific job, or reaching a certain position within a specified period.

4. Developing a career action plan

After setting your career goals, you need to outline the steps you’ll take to achieve them. This is your career action plan. It should detail the actions you’ll take, such as enrolling in certain courses, applying for specific jobs or internships, or attending networking events. Each action should have a timeline associated with it, which will help you stay on track. Here’s a simple way to outline your career action plan:

5. Implementing your career plan

Now, it’s time to put your plan into action. This might involve pursuing further education or training, gaining work experience, building your network, or developing necessary soft skills. Remember, achieving your career goals takes time and effort, so be patient with yourself and stay persistent.

6. Regular review and adaptation

Career planning doesn’t end once you’ve created your plan. It’s an ongoing process that requires regular review and adaptation. As you gain more experience and your life circumstances change, your career plan should evolve too. Regularly reviewing your career plan allows you to assess your progress, celebrate your achievements, and adjust as needed.

Crafting an effective career plan is one of the most important steps you can take towards building a successful and fulfilling career. By taking the time to assess your skills, explore different career paths, and set clear goals, you can achieve greater clarity, focus, and motivation as you work towards achieving your career aspirations. So, don’t wait any longer, start planning your career journey today.

To help you create your own career plan, download our free template below. And, be sure to check out our other articles on career development and job search strategies to support your career growth.

 

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Fresh Graduate Starter Kit Part 2: Acing Your First Job Interview

🚀 Unlock Your Success: The Fresh Graduate Starter Kit!

Embark on your professional journey with our exclusive guide, “Acing Your First Job Interview.” Packed with wisdom from 100,000+ placements since 2013, this kit is your ticket to a stellar career launch.

Topics covered:

  • Researching the Company
  • Dress to Impress
  • Mastering Basic Interview Questions
  • Handling Difficult Questions
  • Mastering the Art of Nonverbal Communications
  • Online Interview Tips

Ready to conquer your interviews? Download the full article now for insider tips and tricks!

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Thank You, Next! The Art of Post-Interview Etiquette

Following up after an interview is not only polite but also shows your continued interest and enthusiasm for the position. Let’s talk about the etiquette of post-interview communication and the power of a well-crafted thank-you email.

After the interview, it’s considered good practice to send a thank-you email within 24 to 48 hours. This email serves as an opportunity to express gratitude for the interview, reiterate your interest in the role, and leave a positive impression on the hiring team. Remember, keep it professional, concise, and genuine.

When crafting your follow-up email, keep these tips in mind:

  • Be polite and professional.
  • Express gratitude by thanking the interviewers for their time and the opportunity to interview for the position.
  • Mention your continued interest in the role and highlight specific aspects of the interview that stood out to you.
  • If there were any specific topics or discussions during the interview, reference them to show your attentiveness and engagement.
  • Keep your email brief and to the point. Avoid rambling or overwhelming the recipient with too much information.
  • Proofread your email for any grammatical errors or typos before hitting the send button.

Example Email Template:

Subject: Expressing Gratitude and Interest – [Position Title]

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to interview for the [Position Title] at [Company Name]. Our conversation has further solidified my enthusiasm for joining your esteemed organization.

I was genuinely impressed by the company’s dedication to innovation and the impactful work you are doing in [relevant industry]. The insights you shared during the interview have only deepened my desire to contribute to your team and be a part of your mission to [mention a specific company goal or vision].

I wanted to express my gratitude for the time you took to discuss the role and provide valuable insights into the company culture and future projects. Our conversation affirmed my belief that [Company Name] is the perfect fit for my skills, passions, and career aspirations.

I remain excited about the potential opportunity to contribute to the success of [Company Name] and its team. Please feel free to reach out if there is any additional information or documentation I can provide to support the hiring process.

Once again, thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of joining your exceptional team and making a positive impact together.

Best regards,

[your name]

[Email address]

(555) 555 – 5555

[link to portfolio] | [link to LinkedIn]

Second Follow-Up Email

After waiting for two weeks without receiving a response after your interview, it’s natural to feel a sense of disappointment. You might start questioning if they have any plans to hire you. No need to worry just yet! Managers and hiring teams are swamped with responsibilities like urgent matters, employee concerns, and team meetings. It’s common for them to take weeks before getting back to the interview process. However, sending a well-timed email can refocus their attention and remind them of your value.

Here’s what you need to know before sending the second following up email:

  • Get the green light: Make sure if the employer has any instructions about the post-interview communication. If they mentioned a specific date for contact, be patient and wait until that time, even if it feels like forever. Trust their process!
  • Craft a catchy subject line: Your subject line is the first thing interviewers will see. Grab their attention but keep it concise and capture the purpose of your message.
  • Get to the point: You reached out for a reason, so make sure your intention shines through. Politely inquire about the status of your application by asking one of these questions:
    • Have you made a hiring decision?
    • Am I still being considered for the role?
    • What are the next steps in the decision-making process?
  • Show your enthusiasm: After asking about the application process, emphasize your continued interest in the role. This is your chance to share any ideas or thoughts that demonstrate your dedication to the position.

Example email template:

Email Subject line: [position title] at [Company Name].

Hi [interviewer’s name],

I hope you’re well.

We last spoke on Wednesday, September 28, during my interview for the role of [position title] at [Company Name]. I really enjoyed sharing my enthusiasm and skills with you, and we seem to have a similar passion for making music in our free time.

I wanted to check in about the next steps in the process. Have you come to a final decision?

I’m still very interested in the role. I would happily share some of my content ideas in a second interview.

Thanks again for your time. Hope to hear from you soon.

Best regards,

[your name]

[Email address]

(555) 555 – 5555

[link to portfolio] | [link to LinkedIn]

Remember, the follow-up email is an opportunity to leave a positive impression and keep yourself fresh in the interviewer’s mind. It shows your professionalism and keen interest in the position. Good luck and may your follow-up email lead you one step closer to success!

Bouncing Back: From Rejection to Reflection

As you embark on your journey to find your dream job, it’s important to recognize that facing rejection is a common part of the process. While it may feel disheartening, every rejection can be an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Many factors come into play during the hiring decision, and employers may have specific criteria and preferences. Don’t be discouraged if you face rejections along the way – it’s a stepping stone towards finding the right opportunity.

Keeping a Positive Attitude: Maintaining a positive mindset is key when dealing with rejection. Remember that a rejection does not define your worth or abilities. Instead of dwelling on disappointment, focus on the lessons learned and the steps you can take to improve. Embrace each rejection as an opportunity to grow and showcase your resilience.

Learning from the Past Interview: Every interview experience offers valuable insights. Take the time to reflect on your past interviews and identify areas for improvement. Were there specific questions or aspects where you felt less confident? Use this reflection as a chance to grow and enhance your interview skills. You can also ask your past interviewer to know which part should be improved.

Example: Let’s say you stumbled upon a challenging behavioural question during an interview. Take note of it and work on developing a more structured response next time. Practice with mock interviews or seek guidance from mentors or career counsellors to help you strengthen your weak points.

Extracting Lessons and Continuous Improvement: Rejection is an opportunity to learn and evolve. Pay attention to any feedback you receive, whether it’s directly from the interviewer or through your self-reflection. Use this feedback to refine your interview skills, expand your knowledge, and enhance your overall professional profile.

Seeking Support and Feedback: Don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors, career counsellors, or trusted individuals for guidance and support. They can offer valuable insights, provide constructive feedback, and help you navigate the job search process more effectively. Utilize their expertise to enhance your interview skills and increase your chances of success.

In the world of job hunting, following up after an interview is your secret weapon for staying on an employer’s radar. It’s like adding the cherry on top of your interview sundae. Remember, patience is key, but a well-timed follow-up email can make all the difference. Craft it carefully, keep it concise, and let your enthusiasm shine through. So, go ahead and hit that “send” button—it might just be the final touch that lands you your dream job!

From Efficiency Gains to Anxiety Pains: How AI Reshapes Our Workforce

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RecruitFirst at WorldSkills ASEAN 2023: Empowering Talent and Driving Positive Change in Vocational Skills

RecruitFirst, represented by our Executive Director & CCO, Adeline Sim, proudly participated in the grand opening ceremony of WorldSkills ASEAN 2023. This prestigious event, held on July 23, 2023, brought together skilled professionals and young talents from Southeast Asia to showcase their expertise in various vocational skills.

Our Executive Director & CCO, Adeline Sim with Indonesia’s Minister of Manpower, Dr. Hj. Ida Fauziyah, M.Si.

WorldSkills ASEAN 2023 has become a symbol of talent development and skills empowerment, providing a platform for individuals to display their exceptional abilities in technology, engineering, design, and more. HRnetGroup, with a mission to nurture and recognize talent, enthusiastically participated in this meaningful event.

The opening ceremony witnessed the passion and commitment of skilled competitors, with the distinguished presence of Indonesia’s Minister of Manpower, Dr. Hj. Ida Fauziyah, M.Si., The Deputy Minister of Human Resources of Malaysia, Mustapha Sakmud and and Deputy Minister of Works of Malaysia, Abdul Rahman Mohamad. underscoring the event’s importance in promoting vocational excellence and regional cooperation.

Our Executive Director & CCO, Adeline Sim with The Deputy Minister of Human Resources of Malaysia, Mustapha Sakmud and Deputy Minister of Works of Malaysia, Abdul Rahman Mohamad.

At WorldSkills ASEAN 2023, we collaborated with like-minded organizations and industry leaders to drive positive change in the human resources landscape. Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, we are dedicated to contributing to economic growth and development, ensuring a future-ready workforce that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.

Our participation in this event reflects our commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled professionals. As a leading player in the industry, RecruitFirst prioritizes nurturing young talents and equipping them with essential skills for success in the global job market. We look forward to continued collaborations and partnerships to advance vocational skills and empower talented individuals to thrive on the world stage.