Broadcasting & Online

ITV Broadcasting’s operations are made up of ITV’s family of channels: ITV1, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4 and CITV, and their HD and +1 equivalents. ITV1 is the largest commercial channel in the UK, consistently attracting the largest audiences of any UK commercial broadcaster. Our family of digital channels are broadcast free-to-air on Freeview, digital satellite (Sky/Freesat) and cable, and are funded by advertising and sponsorship. ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4 are also available in HD via a Sky subscription.

Our broadcast assets also include the multiplex operator SDN which operates one of the six digital terrestrial multiplex licences in the UK which make up Freeview.

Revenues within our Broadcasting operations are derived from a variety of sources. The majority of revenue comes from selling advertising across our family of channels but these are complemented by sponsorship revenues and interactive revenues from viewer competitions and voting.

Across the family of channels we invest around £1 billion each year in network and regional programming, with the majority spent on UK production. As well as national advertising, ITV is uniquely able to offer companies the opportunity to advertise on television at a regional or local level through its regional sales channels.

Our Online operations include the itv.com website and video on demand services on ‘closed’ platforms. itv.com delivers ITV clips and programming to internet users via ITV Player, funded by online advertising and sponsorship.

ITV Studios

ITV Studios comprises ITV’s UK production operations, ITV’s international production operations and ITV’s international distribution, home entertainment, publishing, merchandising and licensing business, ITV Studios Global Entertainment.

ITV Studios produces programming for ITV’s own channels and for other UK and international broadcasters across a wide range of programme genres, including drama, soaps, entertainment and factual. The business has a growing portfolio of international production offices around the world, including in the US, Germany, Australia, Sweden, and France.

Website: http://www.itvjobs.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ITVCareers
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/itv

The post ITV Jobs appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

The scheme supports graduates in Wales of all ages and undergraduates from their second year of study onwards.

Sponsored by the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) the project is delivered by University Careers Services in Wales. GO Wales receives funding from the Welsh Government and the European Union Social Fund (ESF).

Work Placements are the cornerstone of the project; students and graduates complete a project for a business in Wales over a 10 week duration and receive a weekly salary. While on a work placement, individuals complete the City & Guilds Professional Development Award (PDA). This is a higher-level award that quantifies experience and achievements while on work placement. In addition GO Wales also offer Work Tasters, funding to support graduate training and two training programmes; the Graduate Academy for unemployed graduates and the Freelancer Academy aimed at graduates who want to start a freelance career.

The project will aim to provide almost 4,000 students and graduates with training and development opportunities to prepare them for their future careers.

Website: http://www.gowales.co.uk

The post GO Wales appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

I’m trying to relocate to the UK from elsewhere in Europe and I’m applying but not getting many interviews. Do you think it is because I am not readily available for interview?

Firstly, I’m delighted to hear you are looking to relocate. What a fantastic thing to do for both your career and personal development. I think you are spot on with your concerns, but I also think that the employer may see you as a risk.

It is a risk because they may consider you and put time and resources into your application, only for you to decide you are not moving here. You are up against candidates who are already here, settled and committed and they are low risk.

I would advise you discuss with them over the phone, or in your cover letter all the reasons you are moving and make this move so much bigger than just your job. The employer needs to feel you have so much more invested in this relocation, than just his/her job vacancy.

Give them dates of when you are in the UK – maybe tell them you will be here between Xth of January and Xth of February and will be available for interview (but can be flexible with those dates). Even if you are not planning a trip here, you will need to give the impression that you are available and come and meet as many people as possible if you are selected for interview. Show them you are serious about the move. Good luck!

What should I include in a cover letter to a potential employer?

Any good employer is looking to find someone extra special and as a jobseeker you must remember that. In order to make sure it stands out, follow these steps.

Make it personal: find out the hiring manager’s full name. Use the internet to do your research on Google or LinkedIn. Phone them and ask the receptionist if you must.

Tell them why you picked them: make sure you tell them what it is about their company that excites and inspires you. Check out their news pages, research new projects; find out how the directors started the company. Make them feel special.

Tell them why they should pick you: make it very clear why you are suitable but don’t just tell them you think you are, tell them why you are. Pick out the three main attributes that are most important for this role. Keep it short and snappy.

Show you are passionate: this is your opportunity to really tell them how much you want it. “I would live and breathe this role given the opportunity”. Doesn’t that sound passionate? Well I think so, but you must use language that is real for you.

Show you are considerate: this is a good opportunity to build rapport and the best way to finish this letter is to leave them with the feeling that they “like” you, so wish them all the best with this piece of recruitment. It’s just good manners and sounds obviously simple but people very rarely do this. On these rare occasions when they do, I always email them to thank them.

The next CareerCamLive will be at 6.30pm on the 8^th January. We have already received some of your career related questions so please keep them coming. You can email them to askcareercam@webrecruit.co.uk

I want to say thanks for getting involved over the last five months and wish you a prosperous New Year!

See you soon!

Aimee

Image: Shutterstock

The post CareerCamLive end-of-year roundup appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

When you think of the above purpose of a job fair, there is reason enough to attend. It’s a superb opportunity for applicants and employers alike and not something to pass up if you have the chance to attend.

With it come some other fringe benefits such as becoming more knowledgeable about career opportunities within your local marketplace, allowing you the opportunity to build some professional networks, which can lead to a possible internship or full-time job.

To take full advantage of the opportunities job fairs present, contact the organiser and register if needed. Ask for a list of business attendees, and make a list of those you would particularly like to speak with. You must prepare and take copies of a professional CV with you (preferably on high-quality bond paper). Bring plenty of paper for taking notes, or a portfolio (try not to take bags, just items you can carry comfortably by hand).

To help when you’re actually there, if a map is available of the event showing where everyone is located, have a planned route in mind to ensure you do speak to everyone of interest to you, and don’t forget to obtain the recruiters’ contact information so you can follow up with a thank you and to remind them of your interest.

As a parting shot, my final bit of advice on careers fairs is to have some questions in mind to ask the recruiter, we like to know you’re interested in us. Ask things such as:

• What kind of entry-level jobs are available in your organisation?
• What do you look for in the ideal job candidate?
• What can I do now to prepare for a career in your organisation?

Happy hunting!

Words: Jason Sinclair, Business Manager, Blue Arrow
dboystudio / Shutterstock.com

The post Should I go to careers fairs? appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

In ten years’ time (in the UK alone), we’ll only be able to generate a fraction of the power that we need. It is essential that we find new ways to create affordable, low-carbon power, as well as attract more talented people to work in the sector. This could be as many as 50,000 over the next 15 to 20 years.

Through the National Skills Academy for Power (the Skills Academy), we have launched Think Power (www.thinkpowersector.co.uk) – an initiative to inspire more talented people to choose a career in the power sector. Key UK power companies and training providers have joined together, using their experience and knowledge to champion the benefits of working in the power sector, which offers: job security, a variety of work, great training and development opportunities, as well as the chance to contribute to the important future energy challenges faced by the UK. The Think Power website, launched in March 2011, promotes the fantastic careers and benefits on offer and currently hosts over 250 jobs in the Power Sector.

There are so many ways you can begin a career in the power sector, and many different jobs you can do; depending on your qualifications, your interests, your skills and your ambitions. The power sector can be an exciting and rewarding place to work, but with so many varied and interesting roles to choose from, we understand that selecting the career that is right for you can be difficult.

In order to help you make the right decision about your future, the Skills Academy has developed an interactive online Career Planning Tool which has been designed to help you understand how the power sector is structured and explore ways in which your skills and experience can be matched to suitable job roles. Through the Career Planning Tool, you will also be able to link directly to the Think Power Jobs Board where our member employers advertise their current vacancies.

For further information about Think Power and to access the Career Planning Tool please visit www.thinkpowersector.co.uk

Image: Shutterstock

The post Get into power! appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

Know your rights

Organisations have strict guidelines they have to follow when making redundancies so make yourself aware of the procedure. The selection process should be fair and your employer is required to offer you suitable alternative employment if possible. And If you have been working for the same company continuously for over two years you should be entitled to redundancy pay. The amount you receive depends on your age and length of service; 0.5 weeks’ pay for every full year of service under the age of 22, 1 weeks’ pay for every full year of service between the ages of 22 and 41 and 1.5 weeks’ pay for every year after the age of 41. Current legislation and a redundancy pay calculator can be found here.

Don’t blame yourself

Britain’s unemployment rate is currently at its highest level since 1995 and according to the International Labour Organisation, this trend is not exclusive to the UK. There are still 50 million fewer jobs in the global economy than before the recession began in 2008 and unemployment has risen in two thirds of European countries since 2010. The fact that you have lost your job is not likely to be due to poor performance or a personal grudge – it’s simply a consequence of the wider economy and it should not stop you from achieving a successful career in the future.

Every cloud has a silver lining

It can be unsettling and even depressing to fall out of the routine of full time employment, but use the extra free time you have gained to your advantage. Pursue interests you never had time for before – by filling your day with hobbies you can maintain and build structure, relationships, and confidence. Take time to determine if there are any gaps in your knowledge and experience you can fill while you have the time. You may find that volunteering or undertaking relevant work experience will help you develop your skill set and in turn increase your employability. And If you have a substantial amount of redundancy pay it may be wise to invest it in something that will be advantageous in the future such as training, equipment, or even starting your own business.

Be proactive

A gap in employment, even if it has been enforced, offers you the opportunity to reevaluate your career and the path you want to pursue. This is a great chance to change direction – should you want to – so research the options which are available. If you fall off your horse, it’s best to get straight back in the saddle, so look at job boards from day one and use social media as much as you can. Most recruitment agencies and businesses now have Twitter accounts – ensure you follow these to keep abreast of new opportunities, recruitment events, and jobs fairs you could be taking advantage of. If you are not already a member of LinkedIn, set up an account today. Build your network and join groups to increase your chances of hearing about vacancies first. It’s vital that your LinkedIn profile is accurate and complete – employers and recruiters may use the network to search for candidates. But remember, a new job is unlikely to fall in your lap – you have to actively seek out opportunities by engaging with professionals in the industry you wish to enter.

Take the opportunity to work on your skills, contacts, and confidence to boost your chances of landing the role you’ve been searching for.  There is no denying that losing your job is a low point in many people’s careers, but there is life after redundancy and capable candidates can look forward to a bright – perhaps even better – future.

Image: Shutterstock

The post Redundancy rounds: what shall I do? appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

It is important to be proactive when you go to careers fairs and have a positive attitude. The Exhibitors will often provide general information about the career and its benefits, but it is up to you to demonstrate enthusiasm and ask questions about the issues that are really significant to you. Also, having a more detailed discussion with the representatives will reveal quite a lot about the company’s working culture. This will in turn help you to decide whether you will fit the organisation’s general mould, but also if you will be happy there and have the opportunity to make your own mark, after some time.

I recently attended a large careers fair in London, which attracted a host of students from a range of backgrounds. However, this time I was an Exhibitor for the ICAEW, rather than a student on the other side of the fence. It was interesting to speak to students and gauge their knowledge about careers in Accountancy. I quickly noticed which students were genuinely intrigued about the career, compared to those who were more interested in the free merchandise on offer!

This highlights the importance of making a good impression with company representatives, which in turn will help you find out considerably more about the company. It is worthwhile asking questions including those about typical working hours, the preference for technical versus people skills and opportunities for progression through the grades. Also, it is important to think about the long-term career path in case you decide to stay at the company for a large part of your working life. Also, you can find out whether the work is mostly based at the client’s site or an office, as well as if there are any opportunities for international travel.

Standing beside the stall for some time, gave me the opportunity to appreciate the sheer number of companies present at the fair and the even greater number of students. This shows how important it is to make a clear and logical plan of which stalls to visit and ensure that you spend enough time at each one. You will no doubt be waiting in line, but it is worthwhile using that time to listen to other students’ questions and even share knowledge with them.

In a way you need to tailor your approach to the type of fair. For example, a university fair is likely to be much smaller than a national recruitment fair, both in terms of space and breadth of employers. However, a smaller fair may help you to focus your search and spend more time speaking to representatives in a particular industry. Basically, it is worthwhile experiencing different types of fairs to gain a better understanding of the variety of careers available.

Gaining contacts from fairs is almost an added bonus and these can prove to be very useful, especially if you apply to the same company or to another one in the same industry. Sector specific knowledge is not a pre-requisite for applications, but it may help you stand out from other applicants. However, probably most intriguing are the hints and tips that representatives may give you at fairs, since the setting is not that formal. These will reveal much more about the reality of the job, compared to the typical company website or brochure. Exhibitors are usually friendly and engaging, so do not be afraid to ask them questions about things you really want to discover more about.

Overall, remember that your work does not end after attending careers fairs. You can continue researching different careers on the internet and by reading careers guides, but your experience at fairs will give you a much more informed view. Finally, attending careers fairs will help you to discover more about both the benefits and disadvantages of certain jobs, and see whether you have the key qualities to succeed, not only when you start but also as you progress along your chosen path.

Image: Shutterstock

The post Getting the most out of careers fairs appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

• Mentors

Having the support of someone in the same field but who is perhaps a few years ahead of you can be instrumental in helping you progress. So where do you start? If your current company doesn’t have information about available mentor schemes, or you are not currently in employment, get in touch with an organisation like Women in Technology who will be able to point you in the right direction. Alternatively, use your existing network of contacts to see if anyone would like to mentor you or if they know of someone who might. Once you have established a mentor, they will be able to offer advice and guidance for months, if not years to come.

• Network

Ensuring you are using all the tools that are available – both off and online –is key. The power of a good network should never be underestimated. Platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook are now key to not only keeping up-to-speed with developments in your field, but are also great channels to interact with potential employers and make new contacts that can help you.  And face-to-face networking opportunities are a must .Whether it be a conference, a training session or a networking event, make efforts to meet new faces and expand your professional network.  You might even find yourself talking to a future manager or colleague so ensure you keep in touch with the people you meet on a regular basis via LinkedIn, for example.

• Confidence

Men are generally more confident in their own abilities and are better at selling themselves than women. In fact, a recent survey we carried out revealed that the vast majority of female technologists (80%) would apply for a job if they believed they filled over three quarters of the criteria. In stark contrast, men will often put themselves forward if they only fill approximately 60% of the criteria. Whilst there is no suggestion that in order to succeed you ought to over inflate your experience, it is however important that you share your successes and believe in your abilities.  Always remember that if you are vying for a new job or promotion, your competition will be doing everything they can to beat you to the post. Make sure you do to!

• Time to move on

Another thing men do far more often than women is to move positions more frequently. And it is this that is, amongst other reasons, why men often get more promotions and pay rises than females.  In other words they go where the opportunities are.  Don’t be afraid to move on if you are not progressing at the rate you expected at your current employer, or you are presented with a better opportunity elsewhere. Loyalty to a business is admirable but not at the sake of your career.

• Make good choices

Whist this may sound obvious; ensure you think carefully about your career choices.  Ask yourself are you happy at the company you are working at, or are you comfortable with the offer you have received for a new role. Think carefully before making decisions and always ask yourself: Will I be able to progress my career if I take this step?

Despite the economic climate, there are plenty of opportunities out there for women with the desire and skills to succeed.  Confidence, self belief and utilising the tools and connections you have at your disposal will put you in a good position to further your career. Good luck!

Image: Shutterstock

The post How can women best progress their careers? appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

Before I became an entrepreneur I was made redundant and so I know first-hand just how difficult it can be to land your next job, but now – as a man who owns several businesses – I am approached almost daily by individuals who are looking for work. I am also often asked for advice on how to stand out from the crowd in a market where to some extent weas business owners are spoilt for choice. So what would I suggest?

Many jobs that exist don’t even reach the advertisement stage and so the key is to access the hidden or ‘secret’ job market.

One way in which people can do this is to consider attending business-networking events, which will get you in front of business owners.

A quick trawl through the search engines will show that in almost every town and city in the United Kingdom there are a range of organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce and other local business groups who meet on a regular basis. Networking has become one of the main ways in which local business people meet and expand their contacts, so why not go and try it?

Sending off cover letters and CV’s to companies is of course one way that you can make potential employers aware of your skills and experience and this is a central part of any jobseekers role; however the harsh reality of the matter is that they don’t always get read or indeed even seen by the right person.

By attending a networking meeting or getting in front of people it is far more likely that you will be able to make an impact and as a consequence they might remember you when making the next appointment!
Don’t be afraid to showcase your skills or experience at such meetings.

If you are asked to do an “Elevator Pitch” or to stand up and introduce yourself don’t be scared – just remember why you are in that room in the first place. I did exactly this a few years ago when I was seeking employment – I took a deep breath and said “good afternoon my Name is Richard Shakespeare and I am a Business Management Graduate with over five years of banking experience and customer service management, I have some copies of my CV with me if anyone is interested or thinks they might know of a business who could benefit from my skills.”

You would be amazed how many people came over to me afterwards with ideas and suggestions! Some of these people are clients of mine today! So calmly stand up and say, “Hi my name is…. And I am an experienced auto electrician with 25 years’ experience; I have previously worked on a wide range of vehicles and also have management experience. Today I am looking for opportunities within this area and would like to talk to anyone who might be able to help me.” (Obviously just tailor this introduction to your specific circumstances)

Finding out who the decision makers are within a business can also play a key part, if you’ve identified a business that you would particularly like to work for but find that either they don’t have any vacancies or anything which would be suited to your skill set don’t give up! Do some research and find out as much as you can about the company, its core values, clients and the management structure and use this to tailor your approach. If you can show you are interested and knowledgeable then it might just make your contact stand out from the dozens that may have been viewed that week.

If you know people who work for a business or within an industry that you would like to work for then ask questions and show an interest, make these people aware that you would be interested in any vacancies which might be coming up.

Ultimately what we are saying here is don’t just rely on online job engines and newspapers, pound the streets, knock on doors and get your face known.

Richard Shakespeare provides outplacement support and advice to those seeking employment through a network of specialists.

Image: Shuttershock

The post Networking – the secret job market appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.

Whether you’re a new graduate, a first-jobber looking to work your way up the career ladder, or an established name keeping an eye out for your next move, you can’t have failed to notice that the competitive scramble for desirable positions is at an all-time high. The recession has meant more applicants are fighting for fewer roles – figures show employers get an average of 70 CVs for every vacancy, so making your application stand out is crucial. But where do you begin? Well, reading this article is as good a start as any – we bring you our ultimate guide to making your CV work for you, impressing at interview stage and standing head and shoulders above the rest. Good luck!

Stay focused

The very first thing to consider is that your search for a new job won’t be easy. Unless you are lucky enough to be headhunted, you are likely to be in this for the long haul, with numerous rejections and knocks before you clinch a new role. But, as James Caan explains, it’s vital that you keep your eyes on the prize and avoid losing momentum. ‘Jobsearching is a job in its own right. It’s time-consuming to read the trade press, send your CV to a recruitment consultant and scour online jobs boards in search of opportunities,’ he says. ‘It can be disheartening to apply for dozens of jobs and for nothing to come to fruition, but stay focused and proactive and your persistence will pay off.’

Every stage of the application process needs to be considered – are you looking for jobs in the right places? Many desirable positions are never advertised, and many career successes rely on being in the right place at the right time. Maximise your chances by networking within your industry and sending out speculative CVs – the more people who’ve heard of you and know you’re seeking work, the better.

Creating a targeted CV and covering letter is vital. Many people make the mistake of sending out the same, tired catch-all CV, and lose out to candidates who have prepared one that showcases work relevant to the job in question.

Dress for success

When it comes to choosing what to wear for an interview, think about the type of role you’ve applied for – if it’s a creative role in the media industry, you’re probably safe to leave the suit at home. But if you’re going to be working in a client-facing role or attending board meetings, it’s common sense to smarten up.

Either way, avoid looking scruffy – if you have to wear trainers, make sure they’re box-fresh. It goes without saying that you should be neat and freshly showered, but avoid going too wild with the perfume or aftershave – there’s leaving an impression, then there’s wafting in like an explosion in an Old Spice factory. This is definitely one of those occasions where less is more – and that goes for make-up and any accessories, too.

Finally, if you’ve got visible tattoos or piercings, consider covering them up or taking them out for your first meeting with a prospective employer.

Talk the talk

‘Think about the responses you give at interview, and whether you are going into enough depth with your answers,’ says James Caan. ‘It’s really important to include examples of what you’ve achieved so that the interviewer can relate to what you’re saying. Be descriptive to bring examples to life and use words with impact such as dedicated and committed.’

For some ideas on questions that are likely to come up, www.whatwilltheyask.co.uk is a great resource.

The way you handle yourself is key to how others see you and can give a fascinating insight into the way you are viewed, be at work, home or anywhere else, for that matter. Body language expert Judi James says: ‘Around 55% of the communication we make on a face-to-face basis is through body language.’

So what are Judi’s top tips for projecting the right image in the workplace? ‘Pause before you walk into a room – whether for a meeting, job appraisal, anything. Straighten your posture, iron out your facial expressions and walk in expecting to shake hands. British people are so bad at handshakes – they’re either too limp or involve getting your arm pumped.’

It’s also good to maintain eye contact throughout your interview, say ‘yes’ if offered a drink (sipping water can provide valuable thinking time when it comes to answering trickier questions) and have a couple of your own questions prepared – but avoid asking about salary or holiday entitlement. These potentially contentious issues can be broached at a later stage.

[This article was originally printed in Careers with James Caan magazine in September 2010.]

Words: Emily Wright

Image: Shutterstock

The post Stand out from the crowd appeared first on Jobs & Careers magazine.