Network Marketing Celebrates 5th Birthday

On 1st November 2001 Network Marketing celebrate their 5th Anniversary. Specialising in marketing recruitment Network has experienced consistent growth each year with 2001 proving to be their busiest yet. Operating from offices in Leeds and Manchester City Centres they recruit marketing professionals throughout the UK.

A strong foundation of clients across all market sectors has meant that Network’s business has been unaffected by the downturn in the IT/Telecoms and new media markets. Jonathan Hirst, Managing Director, comments, "Confidence in the economy is still high for clients in financial services, fmcg, consumer and advertising agency markets. There is little or no evidence that recruitment plans will be shelved. On the contrary, we have never been busier".

"The support we have received over the past 5 years from the Pertemps Group and Tim Watts has helped us achieve our corporate goals. We’re proud to be associated with the leading independent recruitment group in the UK".

Network Marketing are taking the opportunity to thank all their clients, candidates, colleagues and suppliers who have worked with them over the past five years by celebrating the occasion on the evening of 1st November at the Qube Café Bar in Leeds.

MAKING A SMOOTH START IN A NEW JOB

Research conducted by leading independent recruitment agency Pertemps shows that starting a new job is among the most feared situations of everyday life - worries about the unknown, strange surroundings and unfamiliar faces can be daunting for even the most confident recruits.

Pertemps surveyed 500 job-seekers through its 190 branches and discovered that almost three-quarters of them (72 per cent) suffered from acute first day nerves. When asked to classify the level of their fears on a first day, around half of the sufferers (46 per cent) said it was more stressful than moving house.

However, first days are a frequent occurrence for temps, who are expected to hit the ground running when they fill a vacancy for a month, a week, or perhaps just one day.

Pertemps has developed 10 top tips to help temporary workers make a smooth start.

1) Make sure your agency gives you an assignment note before you start work. This gives basic information, including the name of your main contact in the company and a brief outline of your duties. Do not forget this on your first day.

2) If you are unsure of the dress code - remember it is always better to be smart than casual. You can always dress down on the second day.

3) Aim to arrive at least five minutes early on your first day. Research your route –check about parking availability or the nearest station. Work out how long it will take to get to the office, and always allow extra time for delays. First-day impressions count, so do not be late. If you are behind schedule, call ahead and warn your employers. An A-to-Z and a mobile telephone are two of the temps’ most valuable tools.

4) If you use a computer, make a note of the password and user name so you do not have to ask someone twice. Do not customise the PC with your own screen-saver. Ensure the screen is at the right height and that your chair has been adjusted to a comfortable level. Remember that the information you encounter is confidential.

5) Write down the names of everyone who you will work with in the office. Find out what job they do and what support they can give you. This is especially critical if you are working on a central phone system. It also shows you have initiative and pay attention to detail. Check for colleagues with unusual names and ensure you know the correct pronunciation – this rule is especially important when dealing with senior staff. Introduce yourself to workers immediately around you and try to break the ice. Do not wait for someone else to make the first move.

6) Ask about the daily office routine, for example, when does the post arrive and what happens to it? What time is the post collected? This will help you plan your day and make your working life smoother. Enquire about lunch and when employees take breaks – however, do not ask immediately after arrival as it may give the wrong impression.

7) Do not use the Internet or email for personal reasons without permission. Companies often cite overuse of the Internet and email as a reason for switching temps. Similarly, do not make personal phone calls unless they are strictly necessary – this is a major annoyance for employers. Reading a newspaper during periods of inactivity can also give a poor impression. If the work dries up, ask if you can help in other areas. Proactive temps will be specifically requested again and again.

8) Be flexible and co-operative. Temps are often replacing someone who is off sick or on holiday and the person you are reporting to may not be aware of all the responsibilities the job entails. Do not be scared to jump in and help your new colleagues.

9) Each company should have a health and safety declaration. If this is not clearly visible ask to be shown it. Enquire about fire exits, toilets, and tea and coffee making facilities. Ask for a tour of the facilities. You do not want to barge into the boardroom or the chairman’s office by accident.

10) Not every temp job will be ideal. If you are unhappy, do not leave without warning. You may not only annoy the company but also the agency. Talk to your agency contact and attempt to find a solution. They will either help improve the position or find you another one. This shows both the agency and company that you are honest and reliable. Remember the second day will be much easier and far less nerve-wracking.