Month: October 2018

by Amber Rolfe

Want to work in L&D? We’ve got this…

Whether you’re looking to develop your career in Learning & Development or you want to start afresh, there are a number of great opportunities on offer. Not sure what it’s all about? We spoke to the experts at AVADO, one of the UK’s largest providers of professional qualifications, to find out.

Here’s everything you need to know about a career in Learning & Development (along with a few tips on how to get started):

 

What is L&D?

Learning and development (L&D) is a field of work that focuses on providing and managing job-related training to employees and individuals.

Those working in this field will usually be responsible for developing a workforce’s capabilities and practical skills – with roles including everything from the design and management of learning programmes, to the practical delivery of training.

If you’re a great communicator who is interested in a career helping individuals develop their skills at work, L&D could be the perfect fit for you.

 

What industry could I work in? 

Whilst L&D professionals are most common within the HR and sales industries, roles can be found almost anywhere. After all, a knowledgeable workforce is the key to the smooth running of every organisation.

Most commonly, they work at:

• Commercial firms
• Educational institutions
• Health service
• Law and financial firms
• Retail companies
• Central and local government
• Training consultancies
• Manufacturing organisations
• Technology training providers

 

What L&D jobs are available?

This field offers a wide range of opportunities, both at junior and senior level – meaning it’s a great career path to pursue for people at all stages in their career.

Here are just a few of the most common L&D roles:

• L&D Advisor
• L&D Manager
• Head of L&D
• Training Project Administrator
• Sales Trainer
• Apprenticeship Coordinator
• Talent Acquisition Consultant

 

What are L&D employers looking for?

Skills

Here are a few of the key skills L&D employers look for:

• Interpersonal skills
• Motivational skills
• Problem solving skills
• An ability to advise and inform others clearly
• Initiative and creativity
• Excellent time management
• Organisational skills

 

Experience

The level of experience you’ll need will depend on the specific role you’re applying for – but anything that demonstrates your leadership and motivational skills is likely to boost your application.

Previous experience in related fields (e.g. admin and HR) is also valuable to employers.

If you’re lacking in practical work experience, don’t panic. Taking part in voluntary work, summer placements, or (if you’re still studying) joining university clubs, teams, or societies is a great way to develop your skills in team work and organisation, which are also vital in L&D roles.

 

Qualifications

You don’t necessarily need a degree to start a career in L&D, as professional qualifications and experience are more highly sought after by employers.

CIPD courses are particularly beneficial, as they’re internationally recognised and allow you to prove your professional credibility; through the learning of core principles, skills, and collaborative techniques.

And, if you’re new to L&D and want to study flexibly whilst boosting your earning potential; there’s no better choice than the CIPD courses with AVADO.

 

Why study with AVADO?

AVADO are the largest training provider for professional qualifications in the UK with an active community of over 20,000 students studying to secure their next promotion, a higher salary or to take their career in a new direction.

They are CIPD Enterprises’ only official online learning partner for qualifications in L&D and HR, enabling you to gain access to exclusive CIPD experts and content you won’t find anywhere else.

Not only do they offer over 26 years’ worth of experience in online learning, they also have a 96% pass rate* on their CIPD courses.

Other benefits of studying with AVADO include:

• Interactive classes, where you can learn online with other students
• Expert tutors handpicked to support you
• An online learning platform built around you
• Bite-sized content designed to work on mobile
• Award winning provider you can trust

 

Find out more

 

 

Want to learn more about how a qualification could help your career? Enquire now.

 

*L&D pass rates up to 96% based on submitted assignments from students studying our CIPD Level 5 Intermediate Certificate and Diploma in Learning & Development, May to October 2016 cohorts.

 

 

AVADO is the largest online provider of professional qualifications in the UK, with courses available in HR, Accountancy, Bookkeeping, Business and more.

 

Product Management or PM is one career option that offers very favorable possibilities even if you’re a fresh graduate. One thing’s for sure, tech companies are constantly coming up with innovative solutions with new product lines being introduced each year. Added to that is the fact that startups are looking into developing disruptive products and services, creating numerous opportunities for goal-oriented individuals.

The demand for product managers is growing each year, but choosing the best people for this line of work has become even more competitive. Companies are willing to invest their time and resources on potential PM staffers who can help them realize the goals of their business.

It takes skill and experience to become a great product manager. That being said, here are the tips you need to go down that career path.

1. Know what the job covers

If there’s any practical advice you need to land a PM job, it’s that you will have to be familiar with the scope of the job itself. PM is closely tied to the development of technology, and as new hardware and software are introduced, it’s only proper the field has become even broader and demanding.

To put it generally, product managers handle the planning and execution of the production process. They oversee possible concepts and coordinate with other members of the design team in building the product. From this, you can say that PM involves a great deal of leadership, and if you’re the type of person who doesn’t have a problem along the lines of team management, then you may have found the right career.

2. Develop great research skills

A great product manager has an eye for detail. Come to think of it,  the details that really determine how your product will fare in the market. Doing your homework goes a long way since it’s something you will need to do to ensure the quality of the product.  

In this sense, product managers also spend ample time receiving and analyzing feedback from customers. They treat comments and complaints as a form of intelligence which they can use to develop future product lines and rectify or upgrade existing ones. You can also use your skills to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors. This allows you to refine your product for greater market penetration.

3. Learn from the masters

PM really takes a lot of time to take in. Nevertheless, you will have to get all the important skills you need to get started. After all, this career option involves a great deal of knowing the processes involved in product development. The best way to learn is through people who already have considerable experience in the field of PM.

Fortunately, there are numerous sites that offer courses in Product Management Training. To be sure, opt for online schools and courses that have extensive topics on PM. More importantly, get training from an online school where design, engineering, and management experts can provide you with advice on topics such as workflow management, marketing, research, and analytics.

by Amber Rolfe

Losing someone you love is never easy.

That’s why it’s important to ensure you allow yourself an appropriate amount of time off work to grieve, as well as organise any other essential duties you may need to fulfil. But how much time off is permitted, and how do you ask your employer?

Here’s everything you need to know about bereavement leave:

 

What is bereavement leave?

Bereavement leave (also known as compassionate leave) is an agreed upon time off of work an employee takes following the death of a family member or loved one.

The time allows individuals to make funeral arrangements, and complete tasks such as organising the deceased’s possessions and will, as well as pay their respects and begin the grieving process, in the event of the death of a loved one.

 

Am I entitled to bereavement leave?

According to the Employment Rights Act 1996, UK employers are obligated to give employees an unpaid “reasonable” number of days off following the death of a family member, or dependent.

 

Who are classed as family members?

This is usually defined as a spouse, partner, child, parent, brother, sister, grandparent, aunt/uncle, niece/nephew, or someone the employee cared for.

However, the rules for this are far from defined, meaning the death of people outside of your immediate family, such as friends, may be considered as grounds for allowing bereavement leave.

 

How much time off can I take?

There is no set amount of time an employer should allow when it comes to bereavement leave, and it’s usually given at their own discretion, depending on the situation.

Some may specify a set number of days, whilst others will make their decision on a case-by-case basis. On average, businesses will most commonly permit around 2-5 days.

This allows the employee to deal with an unforeseen emergency, along with the arranging and attending of a funeral.

 

Will I get paid?

Whilst employers have no legal obligation to pay employees while they are on bereavement leave, some may choose to.

To find out if your company offers paid bereavement or compassionate leave, check your employment contract or employee handbook.

 

What if I need more time off?

Whether you’re able to extend your bereavement leave past the average amount will once again depend on your employer and the individual situation.

If you need longer than is being allowed, always speak to your company’s HR team directly to see what other options are available.

 

Will my bereavement leave run out?

Bereavement/compassionate leave is completely separate to other types of leave (e.g. time off sick, annual leave), and doesn’t accumulate or formally ‘run out’.

 

Will I have to provide proof?

Some employers may ask an employee for evidence of the reason an employee is taking bereavement leave, although this must be a reasonable request.

This could be, for example, an obituary, or a death or funeral notice.

Details of whether you’ll need to provide these documents can be found in your employment contract.

 

How do I ask for bereavement leave?

The process for requesting bereavement leave will vary from company to company, and will usually be outlined in your employee handbook or contract.

Usually, it will involve telling your employer as soon as possible. If it’s an emergency, letting them know after you leave work, at your earliest opportunity, is recommended.

 

Final thoughts

Finally, it’s important to remember that every situation is different. However, you should never feel pressured to go back to work before you’re ready.

If you feel like the bereavement leave you’ve received isn’t enough, talk to your employer. Most are extremely understanding in situations like these, and will be willing to provide you with extra time off if you need it.

After all, they have a vested interest in the wellbeing of their employees, and providing the time off is warranted and reasonable, should be able to come to an arrangement that suits everyone involved.

Finally, if you’re unhappy with the treatment you’re receiving, or your employer has denied you any bereavement leave, consider raising a grievance with your HR team directly to find out more about your options.

 

 

Still searching for your perfect position? View all available jobs now

 

by Michael Cheary

If you’re looking for a career as an Engineer, you’ve come to the right place…

reed.co.uk has thousands of new engineering roles on offer every single month, with some of the top companies in the UK hiring on an ongoing basis. So, it doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out in the industry, or you’ve got years’ worth of experience – we’ve got you covered.

To help you start your search, here are five of the top engineering companies hiring right now:

 

Skanska

Who they are – Established in 1887, Skanska is one of the world’s largest project development and construction groups – and one of the UK’s leading contractors.

What they do – Skanska help to construct, upgrade and maintain buildings and infrastructure right across the country. Their work can be seen in everything from major projects, such as the Gherkin and Crossrail, through to smaller community developments. For example, they’ve built more than 40 schools in Bristol alone over the last 10 years, delivering 7,500 new primary school places.

What roles are on offer – Jobs with Skanska include top-level engineering roles, such as Project Engineers, Mechanical Engineers and Design Engineers, as well as jobs for Surveyors, Site Managers, and EWM consultants. They also offer a range of apprenticeships, for anyone just starting out in their career.

Why you should work for them – Skanksa really care about sustainability. In fact, they use their Skanska Color Palette™ to measure and guide their green activities – which helped produce their first Deep Green project in the UK, Bentley Works in Doncaster. It was built from sustainable sources, generates its own energy, harvests water and has a near zero carbon footprint. No hazardous materials were used and zero waste was sent to landfill during construction.

View all jobs with Skanska here

 

Scania

Who they are – Scania are one of Europe’s leading suppliers of heavy commercial vehicles, employing over 49,000 staff in 100 countries across the world.

What they do – They specialise in the manufacture of heavy trucks and buses. However, they also manufacture diesel engines for heavy vehicles, as well as other industrial and marine engines.

What roles are on offer – From Apprentice to Master Technician, from Parts Professional to Sales or Service Manager, the company offers a complete career track for anyone looking to pursue a career at the cutting-edge of the automotive industry.

Why you should work for them – As part of a global organisation, Scania can offer opportunities for career progression and self-development both within and outside of the UK. So if you’re looking for the opportunity to work abroad as part of your career, they could be the company for you. They also offer a full programme of training courses – from recognised qualifications to leadership initiatives delivered at their award-winning training centre in Loughborough.

View all jobs with Scania here

 

Severn Trent

Who they are – Severn Trent are one of ten regulated water and sewerage companies in England and Wales – and also one of the largest. Over their more than 100 years’ worth of history, they’ve gone from being a regional water authority to becoming an integral part of the FTSE 100.

What they do – They help over 8 million people – from the Bristol Channel to the Humber, mid-Wales to East Midlands – enjoy the wonders of water every day. Whether it’s for a cup of tea or a shower in your home, or life-dependent water supplies for hospitals, nursing homes, schools, or anywhere else.

What roles are on offer – If you’re passionate about solving some of the world’s biggest challenges and you’ve got enthusiasm in abundance, they want to hear from you. Jobs on offer with Severn Trent include Maintenance Technician and Design Engineer, as well as roles in commissioning projects and hydrogeology.

Why you should work for them – Water touches all aspects of our lives, defining everything from the clothes we wear to the food we eat, and even the way we build our communities. Working for Severn Trent means making a difference to people’s lives every single day. That could mean investing in renewable technologies, finding smarter ways of testing waste water, or reducing the use of chemicals in our water systems. And as they promote 60% of their staff from within, your career will have the opportunity to grow as you do.

View all jobs with Severn Trent here

 

HS2

Who they are – HS2 will be the UK’s newest dedicated high-speed railway, connecting London to Birmingham from 2026 and then, along a Y-shaped route, to Manchester in the West and Leeds in the East from 2033.

What they do – They’re responsible for delivering the whole HS2 project, which will involve laying 345 miles of track over the next 15 years – and connect over 100 UK cities as a result. Aside from helping bridge the north-south divide, the scheme will alleviate congestion on our current lines, as well as increase trade, boost tourism and regenerate towns across the country.

What roles are on offer – They’re looking to fill a wide range of positions, including Maintenance Engineers and Construction Managers, as well as Project Managers, Town Planners and procurement professionals.

Why you should work for them – HS2 is an unparalleled venture in modern engineering. As well as pioneering the use of leading technology, you’ll be setting new engineering, environmental and safety standards every single day. So, not only will it be a great learning experience, it’ll also be a great asset to add to your CV – instantly adding value and demonstrating to employers that you are one of the very best in your chose field.

View all jobs with HS2 here

 

Sir Robert McAlpine

Who they are – Established in 1869, Sir Robert McAlpine is a UK-based, family-owned building and civil engineering company.

What they do – Being a leading construction firm for more than two centuries, they’ve worked on everything from housing and building projects in small towns across the UK, through to constructing some of our country’s most iconic structures. Notable projects include the Olympic Stadium, O2 Arena, Emirates Stadium, the Eden Project, Cabot Circus in Bristol and the M74 Completion in Glasgow.

What roles are on offer – Anything and everything in engineering. So whether you’re a recent graduate looking for work as a Civil Engineer, a Quantity Surveyor, Planning Manager, or an experienced Chief Engineer, Sir Robert McAlpine have a role out there to suit you.

Why you should work for them – With an industry-leading package and exceptional training, this is your chance to develop an exciting and varied career path in a company which treats all of its employees like family. If you want to be the best at what you do and to work on projects you can be truly proud of, this is the right company for you.

View all jobs with Sir Robert McAlpine here

 

 

Honourable mentions: Balfour Beatty, Tata, National Rail, Mercedes, the British Army.

 

 

Ready to love Mondays? View all of our current engineering vacancies now.

 

In the words of the infinitely wise Mary Poppins, “Well begun is half done.” That is, if you start something off right, you lay a solid foundation for success – a principle that’s especially applicable to the world of work. It’s why productivity experts everywhere tout the importance of establishing an effective morning work routine if you want to improve your output and roll into bed at night with a great sense of accomplishment.

Of course, the ideal morning routine will look slightly different for everyone, but there are certain pre-noon habits that are worthwhile adopting regardless of who you are and what role you fill. If you’re looking to improve the way you start your workday, consider following this daily sequence of actions:

 

• Get up when your alarm sounds (the first time)

Far too many of us are in the habit of hitting the snooze button ten times over before we eventually haul ourselves out of bed. This means that the very first decision we make in the day is one based on a desire to procrastinate. Rather than giving in to this urge, set a more positive tone for the workday by rising on the first ring. If you get up with purpose, you can trick yourself into feeling more motivated, even when you’re not particularly excited about the day ahead.

 

• Remind yourself of your big-picture goals

It’s easy to get lost in all the little details of the daily grind – the emails you need to send, the meetings you need to attend – and forget about the reasons you’re doing it all in the first place. Kick off your day by actively reciting your longer-term goals and intentions. You can do so mentally while meditating or exercising, or you could write a few lines down in a journal.

 

• Read, watch, or listen to material that inspires you

Routines can quickly start to make life feel a bit, well, routine. Build novelty into your daily schedule by taking a few moments every morning to engage with new content that stimulates and motivates you. Listen to a short podcast episode, watch a TED talk, read a few pages of a novel, or browse your favorite websites, for example. By doing so, you treat yourself to precious me-time while also firing up your mind for the day ahead.

 

• Arrive at work 10 minutes early

Most of us have a few things we like to do when we arrive at our place of work before we actually sit down to tackle the day’s tasks – be it grab a cup of coffee, catch up with colleagues, or throw some cereal into a bowl, for instance. The problem is, all these little preparatory activities can quickly dig into precious work time, and before you know it, an hour has passed and you’ve done nothing particularly productive. To avoid spending most of the day playing catch-up, get to the office (or studio or sports field or dining room table) a few minutes early so you can get settled in and still get going with your formal duties on time.

 

• Fight the urge to open your inbox immediately

If you start your day by reading emails, you’ll likely end up spending the first few hours of the morning dealing with issues that others deem urgent, rather than checking off tasks you personally consider important. So, as difficult as it might be to do, try to avoid the black hole that is your email inbox for a little while – at least until you’ve accomplished a few of the goals you’ve set yourself for that day. If co-workers or family members desperately need you, they can always phone or text you.

 

• Draw up a clear, concrete plan for the day

If you want to squeeze the most out of any given day, integrate a mini-planning session into your morning work routine. Give careful thought to all the things you’d like to accomplish that day and write out a comprehensive to-do list detailing every step you need to take in order to achieve your goals. By drawing up a clear plan of action for your 9-to-5 first thing in the morning (or even the night before), you can up the chances that you’ll stay on track, and you can shift all the important decision-making to the first part of the day when you’re likely feeling most motivated.

 

• Start with the biggest, most daunting task first

In the popular book Eat That Frog!, author Brian Tracy touches on an effective time management strategy drawn from advice given by the great Mark Twain: start each day by tackling the task that you’re most dreading – that one big job that requires the most effort and resolve (in other words, your “frog”). By doing so, you’ll make the rest of the day feel easy by comparison and you’ll get to kick off your morning with a great sense of achievement. The idea is to launch into your frog immediately and to eat away at it with discipline until it’s done, so it’s best to eliminate potential distractions by avoiding emails, closing unnecessary browser tabs, and putting your phone off, or leaving it in another room. Only once you’ve put this one big must-do behind you should you then move on to other less demanding undertakings.

 

If you sit at your desk for too long without significant movement, fatigue will undoubtedly set in. So, when you’ve checked off your frog, get up and do a bit of walking. If you have a meeting to attend, suggest it’s held while on foot (walking meetings are the way forward, after all); if it’s lunchtime, take a stroll to a nearby restaurant or park. By building an opportunity for exercise into the later part of your morning work routine, you’ll wake up your mind and ready it to conquer the afternoon with renewed fervor.

Instantly create a resume that employers will love with Resume-Now. Whether you’re applying for your first job, changing careers, or returning to work, Resume-Now gives you the tools to help you find a career you will love, including resume templates, formatting tools, a collection of resume samples for every industry, and a resume builder.

Whether you are just finishing your university degree in Mumbai or needing a career change from that Kerala-based office role, finding a job you will enjoy is a priority. Taking the time to find a career that you are passionate about is just as important as how much it pays. One career that many are looking at in India right now is becoming an independent trader.

Why choose to be an independent trader?

If you are thinking of becoming an independent trader there are many great reasons to try it. It is an interesting profession to move into that allows you to use your analytical skills and initiative. It also gives you total freedom with the opportunity to work from home or anywhere else you like.

 

 

All you need is a PC, laptop or mobile device to connect to the internet and some initial funds. As you will be working for yourself you are not limited to set holidays, working times and are your own boss. In terms of pay. If you hit enough winning trades then the financial rewards can be generous.

How can you become an independent trader?

To move into trading on the financial markets for a living, it is essential to educate yourself first. While you don’t need any qualifications, jumping in before getting the basics covered is not recommended. Head online to find articles on how the stock market works, how to spot trading opportunities and other essential tips.

Once you feel informed enough to begin trading then you will need to find a broker online to trade with. Be sure to research who you choose to trade with carefully through online reviews. After creating your account, you would then need money to fund it with.

At this point, you should also have a trading plan written out. That will enable you to trade in a professional manner and not randomly put on trades instead. Once you have a portfolio of open positions then you will need to review them when you feel it is necessary to see how they are performing. How often you do this will depend on if you are only holding your trades for a short period of time or if you have decided to invest for the long haul

Keeping up with the markets is key

If you are looking at independent financial trading as a career, then you will also need to keep a daily check on the market news. All financial markets are sensitive to reports and figures which means they could affect the trades you make or have open. Having a stock events calendar is recommended so you always know when major news events are coming up that you need to be aware of.

Independent trading is a viable career

If you are thinking about becoming an independent trader, then the good news is that it is now a viable career choice for everyone. The rise of online trading and greater access to the financial markets as a result has opened the industry up in recent times. With patience, hard work and a firm grasp of how the markets work, it is a career that might be right for you.

FlexCareers has partnered with Beca to bring flexible working opportunities to our community across Australia and New Zealand.

Who is Beca?

Beca is a professional services consultancy with over 3,000 professionals spread across 20 locations in the Asia Pacific. With over 60 services across 30 industries, Beca offers a range of opportunities with them no matter your role or interests.

With a 98-year history, Beca brings a wide range of perspectives, skills and disciplines to every client and every challenge. The Beca team work together to deliver smart solutions drawn from their collective experience and insights. They embrace partnership, tenacity, enjoyment, and care in all they do.

How is Beca changing the world?

Beca’s creative people are their greatest asset – together they are transforming our world. They know that they are stronger when people from different backgrounds and perspectives work together.

The more diverse we are, the better our ideas, strategies and client solutions will be, and the more we will represent our world. We recognise that being inclusive of everyone, regardless of differences, is essential to maximising creativity.

Beca is committed to growing an environment where their people:

• Have equal opportunity to build a career that reflects their ability and passions
• Believe in their potential, feel they belong and can be their best selves

They are involved in several initiatives to drive equality across Australasia:

The Diversity Agenda in New Zealand

Beca is a Founding Partner of the Diversity Agenda – an industry-wide campaign that is galvanising scores of Kiwi companies around one common goal: 20 percent more women engineers and architects by 2021.

Beca’s Managing Director – New Zealand, Darryl-Lee Wendelborn, says she believes it’s critically important for leaders in the industry to collectively commit to the campaign for change.

There are so many good reasons to change the status quo. We want a more gender-balanced workforce and greater diversity of thought… Research shows us that companies with more women are 15 percent more likely to financially outperform in their industry, and companies with women on their boards are 26 percent more profitable than those with all male boards – stats like that should be a real rallying cry for us all.

Reconciliation Action Plan in Australia

Early this year, Beca launched their first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The ‘Reflect’ RAP, endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, is the first step of their journey to bridge the gap with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples at work and in society.

Male Champion of Change Initiative

Beca’s Managing Director – Australia, Craig Lee is a Male Champion of Change, one of many influential leaders that is redefining men’s role in taking action on gender inequality:

Increasing diversity in the workplace is not just the problem of the under-represented to solve. If we’re going to see real change, and diversity of thought and innovation in the workplace, the over-represented need to stand up and get behind the cause to champion this change… I’m proud to represent Beca as we work to bring about meaningful diversity and equity in our sector.

Click here to see the great opportunities that Beca is offering.

by Michael Cheary

Interested in a career in accountancy? Start with AAT…

Whether you’re looking to take the next step up in a current accounting role, or you’re just interested in becoming an Accountant and don’t have any previous experience, an AAT qualification could be the perfect way to kick-start your career.

Not sure what your options are? We spoke to Kaplan Financial, one of the UK’s leading providers of accountancy qualifications, for a quick rundown of everything you need to know about AAT:

 

What is AAT?

AAT stands for the Association of Accounting Technicians. It’s the UK’s leading professional membership body for accounting staff, and has over 120,000 members in over 90 countries worldwide.

AAT is sponsored by four of the UK’s leading chartered accountancy bodies – CIPFA, ICAEW, CIMA and ICAS.

 

What are the different AAT levels?

There are four main levels of AAT qualification. These range from the introductory AAT Access Level 1 course, through to the more advanced Level 4 diploma.

Here’s a quick rundown of the different AAT qualifications:

AAT Access (Level 1) – Basic introduction to accounting and finance skills. A short course, and the first step to becoming an AAT member. Once you have gained the AAT Access qualification, you have opened the door to a huge variety of accounting jobs. No pre-requisites, although candidates must be 16 and over.

AAT Level 2 – The foundation stage of AAT, this course introduces essential accounting skills and principles such as the double entry system, trial balances and credit control. No requirement to complete Level 1 in order to take this qualification.

AAT Level 3 – The intermediate stage of AAT, Level 3 builds on the theory learn at the previous stage, but places more of a focus on specific accounting tasks, including the formal preparation of accounts. Once completed you will be awarded the AAT Diploma in Accounting.

AAT Level 4 – The final and most advanced stage of AAT, Level 4 teaches key skills such as budget preparation, monitoring financial performance and drafting financial statements. Once completed you will automatically become an AAT affiliate member, validating your advanced skills in accountancy.

View all AAT courses now

 

Why do I need AAT?

The AAT Accounting Qualification is greatly respected in the financial industry, and is designed to give students all the practical skills they need to build a career in finance.

AAT qualifications are globally recognised, and are generally considered prerequisites for several accountancy positions. They can be studied regardless of age, experience or previous qualifications, so are perfect for anyone seriously considering a career in the accounting sector.

What’s more, employers including the NHS, HMV and Procter and Gamble have all successfully used AAT qualifications to help their employees develop their accounting skills, cementing AAT’s position as industry-leaders when it comes to accountancy.

 

How much can I earn once AAT qualified?

This will vary depending on individual employer, location, certification and job title. As a general guideline, once Level 1 or Level 2 qualified you could be earning somewhere in the region of £20,000 as a starting salary (as an Accounts Clerk, for example).

However, progressing through the levels will allow you to take the next step in your accounting career, which could see you move on to positions such as Purchase or Sales Ledger Supervisor, or Accounts Manager.

For these positions, you’ll be much more likely to command salaries above £30,000, even rising to the £50,000 mark for the most experienced.

 

What methods of learning AAT are there?

All AAT qualifications offer flexible and varied options when it comes to methods of study.

You can either choose to take them full-time or part-time, and online from your own home or within a classroom.

Kaplan, for example, offer both OnDemand and Distance Learning options – meaning you can study wherever, and whenever you want.

 

How long will it take to get AAT qualified?

As the courses are self-paced, this will largely be up to you.

As a general guideline, each level should take somewhere between six months and a year to complete (although this may be significantly less if you’re already working within the accountancy industry).

With Kaplan’s OnDemand service you’ll even be able to access the course at times that suit you – using tutor-led videos, that you can fit within your own unique timetable.

 

Advantages of becoming AAT qualified

Some key advantages of becoming AAT qualified include:

• A nationally and internationally recognised qualification
• A pathway for career development, training and progression
• Being in demand by employers in both the public and private sector, with many employers considering AAT qualifications as essential
• Greater confidence in your own skills and abilities
• Access to, and the support of, a professional body within the accountancy sector

 

Why study with Kaplan Financial?

Whatever study method or course you’re interested in, Kaplan have something for you.

Not only are they one of the UKs most respected course providers, offering industry leading training in accounting and business expertise, they also provide a wide range of different types of learning – including classroom, distance and online learning.

Other benefits of studying with Kaplan Financial include:

• Exceptional pass rates across all of their courses
• Interest free payment plans
• Prices inclusive of exams and study materials
• Industry leading support – whether online, or in class
• World recognised qualifications, and endorsements from some of the UKs biggest businesses (including all of the top 10 accounting firms)

Find out more

 

 

Ready to start studying? Find an AAT course with Kaplan today.

 

 

Kaplan Financial are the UK leader in financial, accountancy and business training. Their mission is to help individuals achieve their goals and realise their potential.

 

by Amber Rolfe

Ready to go back to work?

Whether you took a career break to travel the world, have children, care for relatives, or for any other reason, the transition back into the workplace isn’t always an easy one. Luckily, return to work programmes are here to help.

We spoke to Deloitte, the largest professional services network in the world, to find out more about their own Return to Work programme – and how it could be a great way for you to get your career back on track:

 

What is a return to work programme?

A return to work programme is a scheme designed by employers to help experienced people get back into work after a career break.

Providing a role at the same level as their previous position (often part-time and temporary), alongside training, support, and guidance, means employees are able to re-enter the workplace gradually – without being overwhelmed.

Not only can return to work programmes allow skilled workers to utilise their existing abilities and experience (in addition to any skills they’ve learnt during their break), but they also help them to gain new knowledge and boost their confidence in a work-based setting.

 

Here are five key reasons to apply for a return to work programme:

 

1. You can pick up where you left off

Return to work programmes are a great way to get back into work, without having to start from scratch.

And if you gained extensive experience in your field before your break, these dedicated return to work schemes provide the perfect opportunity to reignite your knowledge and bring your skills back up-to-date.

For example, Deloitte’s Return to Work programme is ideal for those who have taken a break of two years or more, after previously working in professional services for five years or more.

They also offer a wide range of financial roles all over the country, whether your skills lie in management, auditing, analytics, or anything else.

 

2. You’ll be supported

Return to work programmes are designed with you in mind, with the understanding that re-entering the workplace after a long break can be a daunting process.

This is why employers ensure you’re given essential training and support to help you learn, grow, and redevelop your skills.

In fact, Deloitte prides itself in offering a programme that provides a comprehensive induction, technical skills training, coaching, and the opportunity to work with the most inspiring and talented people in the business.

 

3. You’ll get flexibility

Many return to work programmes are flexible when it comes to your working hours – offering both part-time and full-time options. This makes working around other commitments easy, particularly if you have children to care for.

And, because they run on a temporary basis – you won’t be tied down. Whether it lasts a few weeks or a few months, you’ll have the chance to gain the skills and experience needed to jump into a permanent position once your scheme is complete.

Deloitte’s programme is particularly accommodating when it comes to working hours, providing part-time roles (4 days a week, for 25 weeks) with the option to work full-time if it suits you.

 

4. You’ll boost your workplace confidence

Going back to work after a career break can be a difficult step to make, particularly if you’ve been off for a long time.

Not only could it feel like your skills and experience are out of date, it may also be difficult to adjust to new responsibilities, a work-focused routine, communicating with colleagues and clients, and everything else that comes with it.

That’s where return to work programmes come in. Instead of being thrown in at the deep end, you’ll be able to rebuild your confidence with the help of carefully tailored support and guidance.

With many schemes (and with Deloitte’s in particular), you’ll also be able to work with other returners in the same boat as you – so you’ll never feel like you’re in it alone.

 

5. It could lead to a permanent role

So you’ve built your confidence, skills, and knowledge. But it doesn’t stop there.

With a return to work programme, you’ll continue to progress in your career. A large number of them come with the prospect of a permanent role on completion of the scheme – with Deloitte offering career opportunities to those who’ve made a great impression during their time at the firm.

Even if roles in your field aren’t available, or you aren’t selected for a permanent position, you’ll have gained a wide range of experience that’ll help you stand out for your next job.

You may even find that your hard work and ability to network at an organisation means you’re considered for a role there further down the line.

 

Why work for Deloitte?

Deloitte is the largest professional services network in the world, and one of the ‘big four’ firms (alongside PwC, Ernst & Young and KPMG).

As one of the most respected companies worldwide, they pride themselves in their ability to build talent, drive performance, and move together towards a strategic goal. At Deloitte, part-time isn’t seen as part commitment; value is measured through the impact you make, not hours spent behind a desk.

And with a number of roles available in their return to work programme starting in 2019, now’s the perfect time to get your foot (back) in the door.

Here are a few reasons to consider Deloitte’s return to work programme:

• They have opportunities nationwide
• They offer roles in everything from auditing and consulting, to financial advisory, internal, and tax services
• They provide both part-time and full-time opportunities
• You’ll be able to work alongside industry leaders
• You’ll benefit from training and coaching delivered by professionals
• You could be selected for a career opportunity at Deloitte the end of your scheme

 

 

Ready to get back to work? View all Deloitte return to work programmes now.

 

 

Deloitte is the largest professional services network in the world, providing auditing, consulting, financial advisory, tax advice and much more – to businesses in 150 countries across the globe.

 

 

 

by Michael Cheary

If you’re looking for a life-changing course in October, you’re in for a treat.

Aside from helping you find your perfect job over the autumn months, we’re also home to some of the best professional qualifications and training courses the UK has to offer. So whether you’re on the lookout for a standout certification for your CV, or you just want to find a more productive way to spend your Sunday evenings, we’ve got you covered.

To help inspire you, here are three of the top courses you could be starting right now:

 

Full Stack Web Developer

When it comes to careers in tech, it’s all about knowing the right code.

The problem is, with so many different coding languages on offer, being fluent in one or two might not be enough to help you find your perfect role. Luckily, that’s where this Full Stack Web Developer course comes in.

In just under six months, you’ll get-to-grips with some of the biggest coding languages out there, including SQL, HTML, Python and more.

The whole course can be taken online, at your own pace – giving you the flexibility to study at a time that suits you. And, as it’s delivered from scratch and tailored to you, no previous coding knowledge is needed to get started.

Want to find work as a Junior Web Developer, with the potential to earn over £25,000 as soon as you get your diploma? Just want to build your own website, and not have to pay for it?

Find out more about this Full Stack course today.

What do I need? A passion for coding. That’s pretty much it.

How long will it take? Six months.

Perfect for: People who always prefer the SQL.

Full Stack Web Developer course

 

Cyber Security

With more and more of us trusting technology to store our data, keeping our details safe is always a concern. Not to mention, big business.

In fact, cyber security is a billion pound industry – and with threats from the likes of malware, ransomware, phishing, DDoS attacks and hacking steadily increasing – it’s one that shows no signs of slowing down.

This Premium Cyber Security Collection is packed with everything you need to become an expert in the field. Whether it’s hardware or software based, network-based, or in the Cloud.

It also includes more nationally recognised qualifications than you can shake a USB stick at, allowing you to add industry leading certifications such as CompTIA, CCNA and CISM to your CV as part of the package.

And the best part? You can enrol at any time, and even have access to flexible finance plans. So you don’t have to pay everything up front before you start learning.

You also get one of the world’s most sought after certifications, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), exclusively available through the Learning People as part of the package. Which, at the very least, is enough to make your business cards infinitely more interesting.

What do I need? Some knowledge of cyber security basics would be beneficial (but is not essential).

How long will it take? It’s all self-paced, so total course length will be completely up to you.

Perfect for: People who don’t fully trust their antivirus.

Cyber Security course

 

Social Media

On Instagram all day? Why not get paid for it?

Well, with this comprehensive Social Media course, that dream could soon become a reality.  Not only will you find out how to manage all the major social media platforms, you’ll also learn how to create fully integrated digital marketing campaigns as part of the process.

In other words, how to turn likes and retweets into actual customers.

All the biggest platforms are covered, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram – making it the ideal choice for anyone looking for a multichannel approach (and/or those not waiting for Myspace to make a comeback).

You’ll even gain a good knowledge of other key digital marketing principles, such as SEO, CRM, PPC, mobile marketing, and more. Apart from adding to your extensive knowledge of acronyms, this will qualify you to apply for social media marketing roles – and help you to earn a salary of around £32,000.

Want to find out more? Simply RT and like this article right now. Also, click below. That too.

#socialmedia #yourdreamjob #engagement #allofthehashtags

What do I need? There are no formal requirements.

How long will it take? Around 30 hours.

Perfect for: People who have already shared this on Snapchat.

Social Media Marketing course

 

 

Not sure which course is right for you? View all available courses now.