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Ask Engage People

We are thrilled to bring you insights from our very own Head of Growth, Rob Cullen, whose expertise on the importance of soft skills was recently highlighted in the April edition of Ibec's <a href="https://www.ibec.ie/connect-and-learn/insights/insights/2024/04/02/soft-skills-are-no-longer-optional">Networks Engage newsletter.</a>&nbsp;
In a conversation with<a href="https://www.ibec.ie/"> Ibec</a>, Rob delved into the transformative value of soft skills in today's world of work. As businesses navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic environment, the significance of these attributes has never been more prominent.&nbsp;
Join us as we explore Rob's invaluable perspectives on how cultivating soft skills can drive individual and organisational success.&nbsp;
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<hr>
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In the dynamic landscape of modern business, technical expertise alone is no longer sufficient for sustained success. Employers and recruiters increasingly recognise the value of soft skills &mdash; those intangible qualities that define how individuals interact, collaborate, and navigate the complexities of the professional world.
A recent LinkedIn report found the top ranked soft skills among recruiters are: Communication, relationship building, adaptability, problem-solving and business acumen.
These are not just checkboxes on a CV; they are the driving forces behind successful teams and thriving organisations. Here&rsquo;s a breakdown of each one and why we all need to improve on these so-called soft skills.
<h3>Communication</h3>
Communication stands as the cornerstone of effective collaboration and workplace harmony. In a study where 78% of employers deemed communication skills crucial, it's evident that the ability to articulate ideas, actively listen, and convey information clearly is paramount.
Effective communication ensures that team members are on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing collaboration.
Clear communication with clients builds trust and fosters lasting relationships, vital for business growth.
Strong communicators inspire and motivate teams, creating a positive work culture.
<h3>Relationship Building</h3>
Business is inherently social, and the ability to build and maintain relationships is a skill highly valued in professional settings.
The significance of relationship building is underscored by the number of employers who prioritise this soft skill.
Strong relationships with clients lead to loyalty and repeat business.
A cohesive team is built on strong interpersonal relationships, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
<h3>Networking (Which is my favourite part of building relationships):</h3>
It&rsquo;s a skill that can be taught and is so essential now, post covid.
We need to train and encourage our teams to get out there and network.
Building relationships with industry peers and professionals opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
When you learn how to network, it doesn&rsquo;t just improve your career &ndash; it improves your life too. You just never know where the next conversation could lead, but you do need to have the ability and want to start that conversation.
I could probably write a full article on networking alone, maybe that will be next.
<h3>Adaptability</h3>
The pace of change in the business world is relentless, making adaptability a critical soft skill. With 58% of employers recognising its importance, the ability to pivot, learn, and thrive in evolving circumstances is a key determinant of success.
Adaptable individuals bounce back from setbacks, contributing to a resilient workplace.
An adaptable mindset encourages openness to new ideas and creative problem-solving.
Businesses face constant change; adaptable employees ensure the organisation can navigate uncertainties.
<h3>Problem-Solving</h3>
No business is immune to challenges, and the ability to solve problems efficiently is a soft skill held in high regard by 53% of employers. Problem-solving involves critical thinking, creativity, and resourcefulness.
Swift problem-solving minimises disruptions and keeps operations running smoothly.
Creative problem-solving leads to innovative solutions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Effective problem-solving contributes to informed and strategic decision-making.
<h3>Business Acumen</h3>
Business acumen is the ability to understand and make sound judgments about business situations.
With 51% of employers emphasising its importance, this soft skill is the bridge between technical knowledge and effective business decision-making.
Individuals with business acumen contribute to strategic planning and decision-making.
Understanding business dynamics enhances the ability to identify opportunities for growth and profitability.
A keen business sense allows for effective risk assessment and management.
The narrative around soft skills must change.
Call them strong skills, brave skills, essential skills or leadership superpowers- just stop calling them soft: They are essential skills and anything but soft!!
<hr>
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/engage-people-recruitment/">Connect with us!</a> 
<a href="mailto:rob@engagepeople.ie">Contact Rob</a> to learn how you can leverage these insights to improve your company's hiring and retention strategies.&nbsp;
Rob Cullen
Head of Growth, Engage People Recruitment

Soft Skills Are No Longer Optional. Instead, They Are Essential

Trends and Challenges in Today's Hiring Market: Insights from the Recruitment Agency Expo 

&ldquo;We knew we wanted to create accessibility to these products. that these 100% organic cotton products, products that are better for women's bodies and better for the planet.&rdquo; Says our recent podcast guest and co-founder Aine Kilkenny.&nbsp;
Entrepreneurship is often fuelled by that &lsquo;aha!&rsquo; moment when a brilliant business idea is born, often over a glass or two of wine and with great company. However, it&rsquo;s not often that those ideas actually become a reality. In this blog post we will dive into the exciting journey of Riley, a sustainable period product company, who not only conceived a great business idea but also made it a reality in record time during a pandemic. This blog post will cover the dynamics of starting a business with friends, the role passion plays in an undertaking like this, and the courage it takes to embrace risk as a start-up owner.&nbsp;
The idea of Riley was born back in December 2020 during a festive catch-up between lifelong friends Aine Kilkenny, Fiona Parfrey, and Lauren Duggan when they found themselves without any period products in a sudden time of need. This dilemma sparked the co-founders vision to create accessibility to 100% organic cotton period products that not only benefitted women&rsquo;s bodies but also bettered the planet.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
"We executed it very quickly as well... And yeah, I resigned four months later when we launched the website in April 2021."&nbsp;
What truly sets Riley apart is the unwavering passion that drove the team into action. Despite all co-founders having established careers and diverse priorities, they dedicated their weekends and evenings to bring their vision to life. With backgrounds ranging from tech to sustainable outdoor lifestyle brands, this diversity of skills played a pivotal role in bringing their idea to fruition.
This underscores a fundamental lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs; passion can be the catalyst that propels an idea from conception to execution.
More often than not, starting a business means taking risks, and one of the most significant risks at play can be leaving a stable job. This step requires fierce amounts of courage, as it involves leaving the safety net of a regular pay check and ultimately embracing the unknown.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Another successful dynamic at play within Riley is the deep connection between the co-founders which has been curated over years of friendship and shared experiences, which play a pivotal role in the company&rsquo;s success. Aine, along with her two co-founders, Lauren and Fiona, have known and trusted each other implicitly for years, making their entrepreneurial journey smoother and more enjoyable.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Riley&rsquo;s story is an inspiring reminder that entrepreneurship is not just about taking risks or having a good idea. It&rsquo;s about passion, determination, and the power of strong connections.
&nbsp;
Listen to more of what Aine had to say on our most recent podcast episode!
Available now on all your favourite streaming platforms:&nbsp;
<a class="fui-Link ___10kug0w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" title="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dfd189b3-28ea-4799-a611-6c9e132bd3fd/episodes/6f703a53-80cb-46e3-b649-dfa0db18a017/the-engage-people-podcast-conversations-with-the-brains-behind-ireland%27s-best-companies---featuring-aine-kilkenny-co-founder-of-riley" href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dfd189b3-28ea-4799-a611-6c9e132bd3fd/episodes/6f703a53-80cb-46e3-b649-dfa0db18a017/the-engage-people-podcast-conversations-with-the-brains-behind-ireland%27s-best-companies---featuring-aine-kilkenny-co-founder-of-riley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Link https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dfd189b3-28ea-4799-a611-6c9e132bd3fd/episodes/6f703a53-80cb-46e3-b649-dfa0db18a017/the-engage-people-podcast-conversations-with-the-brains-behind-ireland's-best-companies---featuring-aine-kilkenny-co-founder-of-riley">https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dfd189b3-28ea-4799-a611-6c9e132bd3fd/episodes/6f703a53-80cb-46e3-b649-dfa0db18a017/the-engage-people-podcast-conversations-with-the-brains-behind-ireland's-best-companies---featuring-aine-kilkenny-co-founder-of-riley</a>
&nbsp;
<a class="fui-Link ___10kug0w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" title="https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hl8mkalvqzejmfgaxyhtj" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hL8MkalvqZeJMFgAXYHtJ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Link https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hL8MkalvqZeJMFgAXYHtJ">https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hL8MkalvqZeJMFgAXYHtJ</a>
&nbsp;
<a class="fui-Link ___10kug0w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" title="https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/conversations-with-the-brains-behind-irelands/id1676099600?i=1000629183006" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/conversations-with-the-brains-behind-irelands/id1676099600?i=1000629183006" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Link https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/conversations-with-the-brains-behind-irelands/id1676099600?i=1000629183006">https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/conversations-with-the-brains-behind-irelands/id1676099600?i=1000629183006</a>

Entrepreneurship With Aine Kilkenny

Ireland's thriving job market and vibrant economy continue to attract individuals from all over the world to explore career opportunities within our borders. Finding employment in a new country can be an exciting yet overwhelming endeavour. As a non-Irish national, understanding the statutory information and employment regulations is essential. In this blog, we explore the key aspects of statutory information that can help you navigate the Irish job market with confidence. From employment rights to taxation and healthcare, Engage People has you covered!&nbsp;
<hr>
Work Permits and Visas
For non-EU/EEA Nationals, securing an employment permit is typically necessary to work legally in Ireland. The Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment manages the employment permits system. Permits are categorized based on the type of work and salary threshold. Common types include Critical Skills Employment Permits, General Employment Permits, and Dependent/Partner/Spouse Employment Permits. It&rsquo;s crucial to thoroughly review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each permit type on the <a href="https://epos.enterprise.gov.ie/#/app/welcome">Department&rsquo;s official website</a>.&nbsp;
Employment Rights
As an employee in Ireland, irrespective of your nationality, you are entitled to certain rights and protections under Irish employment law. Understanding your rights is vital to ensure fair treatment in the workplace. 
Key rights include, but are not limited to:
<ul>
<li class="MsoNormal">The right to a written employment contract.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Equal treatment in terms of pay, working conditions, and access to training opportunities.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Protection against discrimination based on gender, age, race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The right to a safe and healthy working environment.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Statutory minimum entitlements such as rest breaks, annual leave, public holidays, and parental leave.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Grievance and dispute resolution procedures.</li>
</ul>
Familiarise yourself with the <a href="https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2015/act/43/enacted/en/html">Employment Rights Act</a>, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both employees and employers. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is responsible for enforcing employment rights in Ireland. They offer guidance and support for addressing workplace disputes and grievances.&nbsp;
Taxation and Social Security
Understanding the Irish tax system is crucial to ensure compliance with your tax obligations. As an employee, you will need a Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) to pay taxes and access social welfare benefits. Familiarize yourself with the income tax rates, allowances, and deadlines for filing tax returns. It&rsquo;s advisable to seek professional advice from an accountant or tax advisor to ensure you meet all your obligations. 
Healthcare Social Welfare Entitlements
Non-Irish nationals working in Ireland may be entitled to access the public healthcare system. The Health Service Executive (HSE) provides comprehensive healthcare services, and everyone is required to contribute to the national health insurance scheme, known as the Universal Social Charge (USC). Registering with a local General Practitioner (GP) is recommended to access primary healthcare services. Depending on your employment status and circumstances, you may be eligible for certain social welfare benefits in Ireland. Get familiar with the social welfare system, including unemployment benefits, healthcare entitlements, and pension provisions, to ensure you have the necessary support if needed. 
<hr>
As a non-Irish national seeking employment in Ireland, being aware of the statutory information is crucial for a smooth transition and successful work experience. By understanding employment permits, taxation, employment rights, healthcare and social welfare entitlements, and equality and diversity, you will be better equipped to navigate the Irish job market and ensure your rights and well-being are protected.
Remember to consult official government sources and seek professional advice as needed to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Feel free to reach out if you need help or guidance about your professional journey in Ireland!

Navigating The Irish Job Market As A Non-Irish National

With our thriving economy and vibrant job market, Ireland attracts professionals from all over the world. As a non-Irish national, you may have unique challenges and opportunities when seeking employment in Ireland. In this blog, we provide you with valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate the job search process effectively and increase your chances of securing a job here in Ireland.
<hr>
Interview Preparation
How to Prepare for Competency Questions?
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">To prepare to answer competency-style questions, we recommend using the STAR Method. This involves highlighting the situation you were in, the action you took, the task at hand, and the resolution that occurred.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Briefly discuss the situation, task, and result but do not dwell on it.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Put the focus of your answer on the action piece. This will indicate how you will respond if or when a similar situation occurs in your new role.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">It is always good to mention a project you were part of where you can describe the actions you took most clearly &ndash; keep it simple for this. Overcomplicating your answers may cause you to lose your train of thought.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The interviewer is trying to see if you are a proactive person and if you can manage relationships &amp; other tasks at hand while being proactive. This highlights good communication skills.</li>
</ul>
What Questions Should I Ask the Interviewer?
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">Ask about what key projects are ongoing, or planned that you might be working on</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">What are the interviewer's hopes for the role?</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Speak of your strengths as much as possible and link it back to your experience.</li>
</ul>
How To Approach Weaknesses Questions?
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">When an interviewer asks this type of question, they are aiming to see how well you can measure your self-awareness</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">This question is not aimed at highlighting your lack of certain skills or experience but to show an understanding of your current skill set. For example, &lsquo;I could do x but I used Y to resolve the problem&hellip;&rsquo;</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">However, it is important to show that you know where your weaknesses lie and that you are committed to upskilling to improve and achieve these.</li>
</ul>
How Do I Speak About My Employment Gap?
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">When the interviewer brings up a gap in your employment, they are not trying to challenge you &ndash; they&rsquo;re simply trying to get some clarification on the situation.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Having an employment gap should never be an issue, so long as it is not a result of gross negligence, e.g., prison stay.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Be honest about your employment gap, don&rsquo;t over-explain, and simply move on.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;How Do I Answer a Salary Question?
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">If you are using a recruiter, we will handle all queries that surround your salary.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">However, this is not a guarantee that your salary will not come up in an interview.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">If it does arise, it is more of a clarification rather than a challenge.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Give the interviewer a sense of where you would like to get to in terms of your salary.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Don&rsquo;t talk in absolutes as this may show that you are not flexible.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Formatting Your CV For the Application Process
Format:
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">Cohesive font style and size throughout. We recommend Calibri.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Always use bullet points, and avoid the use of paragraphs.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Avoid using tables as they can be messy when opened on different platforms.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Be aware of the sector you&rsquo;re applying to. Show off your Microsoft Word Skills.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Quality content is often better than creative content.</li>
</ul>
Order: 
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">Order your experience from most recent to oldest.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The order we recommend is: Personal Details -&gt; Education -&gt; Experience -&gt; Interests.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Always put education before experience when a degree/qualification is necessary for the role.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">For references, simply state that referees are available upon request.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Ordering the content of your CV wrong can make you look like an unsuitable candidate at first glance.</li>
</ul>
Content:
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li class="MsoNormal">Avoid unnecessary information like date of birth, home address, and profile picture as it is not standard practice in Ireland.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The hobbies section is not crucial and can often be too wordy.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Keep previous experience relevant to the role you&rsquo;re applying o.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Ensure detail for previous jobs is varied &ndash; don&rsquo;t duplicate your wording for different jobs.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Avoid giving unnecessary detail &ndash; it can come across unprofessional.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Social Integration and Building Your Network
Attend Industry Events and Conferences:
Research events that are specific to the industry you wish to work in. By attending these events, you will make connections, meet professionals, and learn about industry trends. Actively engage in conversations, ask questions, and exchange contact information such as LinkedIn profiles, with relevant individuals.
Join Professional Associations and Groups: 
Join professional associations or organizations related to your industry. Attend their meetings and seminars to meet like-minded people. Participate actively in discussions, share your expertise, and seek guidance from experienced members.
Be Open and Approachable:
Embrace a friendly and approachable attitude when interacting with colleagues and professionals in your workplace. Don&rsquo;t be afraid to initiate conversations and introduce yourself to new people.
Explore Local Meetup Groups: 
Check out local meetup groups that align with your personal or professional interests. Meetup.com is a great platform to discover diverse groups, from tech enthusiasts to language exchange meetups.
<hr>
Securing a job in Ireland as a non-Irish national may seem challenging, but with the right approach, determination, and preparation, you can achieve your professional goals. Remember to stay positive, persistent, and proactive throughout your job search journey.
Feel free to reach out to us for help with your search.

Tips And Tricks When Applying For Jobs In Ireland

In this blog post, we will delve into the advantages of employing candidates on Ireland's work visa categories, shedding light on how they can ignite your company's growth and propel it towards success. With a particular focus on two prominent visa categories, Stamp 1 and Stamp 1G.
Many of our conversations with clients presently have the same reoccurring theme: the complexity of Irish work visas and the different visa types. &nbsp;
With that in mind, we thought we would share some insights that may help your organisation tap into this diverse pool of skilled individuals. The Irish work visa scheme, often referred to as "stamps," presents a unique opportunity for employers like you to access exceptional global talent and qualifications.
"Stamps," are issued based on specific criteria and circumstances. These visas provide unique opportunities to tap into a pool of skilled individuals from around the world, enabling your organisation to thrive in an increasingly globalised and competitive landscape.
We will outline the advantages of employing candidates on these visa categories and shed light on how they can fuel your company's growth and success.
&nbsp;
Stamp 1 and Stamp 1G visas offer a gateway to exceptional global talent. These visa categories are specifically designed for individuals with specialist skills, qualifications, or expertise, making them highly valuable assets to any organisation. In particular, we have had good success placing candidates into niche roles where a local skillset was unavailable or significantly outside budget.&nbsp;
These visa categories often offer pathways to long-term residency or citizenship, allowing employees to build their careers within your company and contribute to its growth over the long run.
&nbsp;
Stamp 1: &nbsp;A work permit granted to individuals who have secured employment in Ireland with a specified employer. Key features of Stamp 1 include:
<ul>
<li>Job-specific: Stamp 1 is tied to a particular employer and position, restricting the visa holder to work only for the designated employer.</li>
<li>Duration: Initially granted for a period of up to two years, Stamp 1 can be renewed, subject to meeting the relevant criteria.</li>
<li>Transition to Stamp 4: After accumulating a total of five years on Stamp 1, an individual may become eligible to apply for Stamp 4, which provides greater flexibility and opportunities in the Irish labour market.</li>
<li>Stamp 1G:&nbsp;A work permit issued to spouses or de facto partners of critical skills employment permit holders, researchers, or green card permit holders.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;Key features of Stamp 1G include:
<ul>
<li>Dependent Visa: Stamp 1G is granted to the spouse or partner of a primary work permit holder, enabling them to reside and work in Ireland.</li>
<li>Flexibility: Unlike Stamp 1, Stamp 1G allows holders to work in any employment sector without restrictions.</li>
<li>Duration: Stamp 1G is typically issued for the same duration as the primary permit holder's permit.</li>
<li>Other Work Visa Stamps: Apart from Stamp 1 and Stamp 1G, Ireland offers additional work visa stamps based on specific circumstances:</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Stamp 2: Issued to students pursuing a full-time course in Ireland, allowing them to work part-time during their studies.
Stamp 3: Granted to non-EEA nationals involved in voluntary work or unpaid internships in Ireland.
 Stamp 4: A long-term residency permit allowing unrestricted access to the labour market, generally obtained after five years on Stamp 1 or other eligible visa stamps.
 Stamp 5: Granted to individuals who have permission to remain in Ireland without employment restrictions, such as retirees, wealthy investors, and certain EU/EEA citizens.
 It is advisable to consult with the relevant Irish immigration authorities or seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the latest immigration regulations and requirements. Ireland offers a range of work visa stamps to accommodate various employment situations and circumstances. Understanding the distinctions between stamps such as Stamp 1, Stamp 1G, and others is crucial for foreign nationals planning to work in Ireland.
If you are interested in learning more about how to access exceptional global talent through Ireland's work visa stamps, feel free to reach out.&nbsp;
P.S., Save the date for our upcoming webinar on August 23rd where we'll deep dive into visas and much more!

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