A senior or principal civil design engineer leads the design and development of civil engineering projects, ensuring they meet technical, regulatory, and safety standards. They work on large-scale infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems, providing technical expertise and overseeing design teams.
Key tasks include preparing detailed designs, conducting site assessments, coordinating with project teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. They also manage design reviews, solve complex engineering problems, and mentor junior engineers.
Strong design skills, proficiency in CAD and civil engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D), and experience in project management are essential. Many senior civil design engineers hold Chartered Engineer status (CEng) and have extensive experience in civil engineering design, construction, and regulatory compliance.
A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces, ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability. They work on a range of projects, from public parks and gardens to urban developments and infrastructure projects, integrating both natural and built environments.
Key tasks include creating design concepts, preparing detailed plans and specifications, managing site assessments, and collaborating with engineers, planners, and clients. They also ensure designs comply with local regulations, environmental guidelines, and sustainability goals.
Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or GIS, along with a strong understanding of horticulture, environmental design, and planning regulations, is essential. Many landscape architects hold professional qualifications and are members of organisations like the Landscape Institute (LI).
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
An installation manager oversees the installation of equipment, systems, or infrastructure on-site, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards. They coordinate with project teams, contractors, and clients to manage resources, schedules, and quality control.
Key tasks include planning and supervising installation activities, managing teams of installers, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during installation. They also provide technical guidance, maintain project documentation, and report progress to stakeholders.
Strong organisational, leadership, and problem-solving skills are essential. Installation managers should have experience with project management, installation processes, and health and safety standards, often holding qualifications in engineering or construction management.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
An electrical design engineer is responsible for designing and developing electrical systems for various industries, including construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing. They create technical drawings, specify components, and ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards.
Key tasks include producing electrical schematics, selecting materials, performing load calculations, and coordinating with project teams to integrate electrical designs into broader engineering projects. They also conduct design reviews, troubleshoot issues, and ensure adherence to regulations such as BS 7671 and IEC standards.
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, or EPLAN), knowledge of power distribution and control systems, and strong problem-solving skills are essential. Many electrical design engineers hold degrees in electrical engineering and work towards or hold professional accreditation such as IEng or CEng.
A senior or principal safety assurance engineer ensures that engineering projects comply with safety regulations, standards, and best practices. They develop and implement safety assurance processes, conducting risk assessments and hazard analyses to minimise risks in complex systems.
Key tasks include leading safety case development, ensuring compliance with industry standards (e.g., CSM-RA, EN 50126/8/9 for rail), performing safety audits, and advising on risk mitigation strategies. They also liaise with regulatory bodies, clients, and project teams, providing technical guidance on safety requirements.
Strong analytical skills, knowledge of safety engineering principles, and experience with regulatory frameworks are essential. Many safety assurance engineers hold qualifications in systems or safety engineering and work towards or hold professional accreditation such as CEng.
A GIS Analyst is responsible for managing, analysing, and interpreting spatial data to support planning, design, and decision-making processes. You will work with GIS software to create maps, visualisations, and spatial models, integrating data from various sources.
Your role includes performing geospatial analysis, maintaining GIS databases, and providing technical support to teams using GIS applications. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience with GIS tools such as ArcGIS or QGIS are essential.
You’ll need a solid understanding of geospatial data, coordinate systems, and mapping techniques to deliver accurate and useful insights for projects.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
A quantity surveyor manages the financial and contractual aspects of construction and engineering projects, ensuring cost control and value for money. They work closely with project teams, contractors, and clients to manage budgets, procurement, and contract administration.
Key tasks include cost estimation, preparing tenders, assessing variations, conducting valuations, and ensuring compliance with industry contracts such as NEC or JCT. They also monitor project costs, identify financial risks, and provide regular cost reports to support decision-making.
Strong analytical skills, commercial awareness, and knowledge of contract law are essential. Many quantity surveyors hold professional accreditation such as MRICS or MCICES and have experience in cost management, procurement strategies, and dispute resolution.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
A lead planner is responsible for developing and managing project schedules to ensure timely and efficient delivery. They work across industries such as construction, engineering, and infrastructure, coordinating with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to maintain accurate timelines and resource planning.
Key tasks include creating and maintaining project schedules, identifying risks and delays, conducting progress analysis, and reporting on project performance. They also optimise workflows, ensure alignment with contractual deadlines, and support decision-making through data-driven insights.
Proficiency in planning software such as Primavera P6 or MS Project is essential, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Lead planners typically have experience in project controls, scheduling methodologies, and risk management, often working towards or holding professional accreditation in project management or planning.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
A senior or principal quantity surveyor manages the financial and contractual aspects of large-scale construction and engineering projects, ensuring cost efficiency and profitability. They provide strategic commercial guidance, oversee procurement, and manage project budgets to minimise financial risk.
Key tasks include cost estimation, contract negotiation, value engineering, and financial reporting. They also handle dispute resolution, assess project risks, and ensure compliance with industry contracts such as NEC or JCT. Additionally, they mentor junior surveyors and contribute to business development through bid support and client management.
Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills, and experience in cost management are essential. Many senior quantity surveyors hold professional accreditation such as MRICS or MCICES and have expertise in contract law, procurement strategies, and financial forecasting.
A senior or principal project engineer leads the planning and execution of complex engineering projects, ensuring they meet technical, budgetary, and schedule requirements. They provide technical leadership, oversee project teams, and liaise with clients, contractors, and stakeholders to drive project success.
Key tasks include reviewing and approving designs, managing project risks, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and resolving high-level technical challenges. They also contribute to project strategy, mentor junior engineers, and support business development through bid preparation and client engagement.
Extensive experience in project delivery, strong leadership skills, and in-depth knowledge of engineering principles and project management methodologies are essential. Many senior project engineers work towards or hold Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and have expertise in contract management, cost control, and regulatory compliance.
A Senior/Principal CAD Technician plays a key role in creating detailed technical drawings and plans using CAD software, supporting the design and engineering teams across various projects. They ensure accuracy in design documentation and collaborate closely with engineers and architects to bring concepts to life.
Key tasks include creating and modifying CAD drawings, reviewing technical specifications, and ensuring that designs meet required standards. They also provide guidance to junior technicians, ensure quality control in design outputs, and contribute to problem-solving in complex projects. Senior/Principal CAD Technicians are often involved in project planning, managing timelines, and ensuring that designs adhere to safety regulations and industry standards.
Expertise in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) is essential, along with a solid understanding of engineering or architectural principles. Strong attention to detail, leadership, and communication skills are required. Experience in mentoring teams and handling multiple projects simultaneously is beneficial.
Looking for your next opportunity? Take a look at our latest job openings, here.
A commercial manager oversees the financial and contractual aspects of projects, ensuring profitability and compliance with industry regulations. They manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and assess commercial risks to protect the company’s interests.
Key tasks include cost forecasting, contract administration, managing supplier and client relationships, and ensuring projects meet financial targets. Commercial managers also lead on dispute resolution, procurement strategies, and commercial reporting.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and financial management skills are essential. Experience with contract law, procurement processes, and industry-standard contracts (e.g., NEC, JCT) is often required. Many commercial managers have a background in quantity surveying, finance, or business management, with professional accreditation such as RICS or CICES.
A project engineer oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects across various sectors, ensuring they meet technical, budgetary, and time constraints. They coordinate between design teams, contractors, and clients to streamline project workflows and resolve technical challenges.
Key tasks include preparing technical specifications, reviewing designs, managing risks, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Project engineers also monitor project progress, conduct site inspections, and provide solutions to engineering issues as they arise.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, along with experience in project management tools and methodologies. Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations, contract management, and cost control is also important. Many project engineers hold a degree in engineering and work towards professional accreditation, such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
While the recruiters at Advance TRS are front and centre in matching candidates with roles, there’s a whole team behind the scenes making sure everything runs seamlessly. From finance to compliance, marketing to admin, our Business Services team is the backbone that supports the company’s day-to-day success.
In this blog, we’ll explore why working in Business Services at Advance TRS can be a rewarding choice. These teams may not be directly involved in recruitment, but their work is vital to how we operate.
Payroll and Finance: Keeping Everything on Track
Our payroll team is responsible for managing the pay for contractors and clients across both Advance TRS and CITILINE. They ensure that contractors are onboarded smoothly, and that pay is accurate and delivered on time. Beyond just numbers, this team plays a key role in maintaining financial accuracy and building trust with clients and candidates alike.
Marketing at Advance TRS isn’t just about external campaigns – it’s about building a positive internal culture too. The marketing team crafts the stories that showcase who we are and what we do, from content creation to brand positioning. Their work helps to maintain Advance TRS as a trusted brand and also creates a positive workplace culture that attracts the right talent.
Compliance: Ensuring We Stay Compliant
In recruitment, staying compliant with industry regulations is essential. Our Compliance team manages all the necessary paperwork, from contracts to legal documents, making sure we stay fully aligned with industry standards. Their role is about protecting the integrity of the business and maintaining the trust of our clients and candidates.
Sales Support: The Glue that Holds It Together
The Sales Support teams are the behind-the-scenes workers that keep everything running smoothly. From managing candidate and client data to assisting with logistics, they ensure that the recruiters can focus on what they do best – finding the right candidates. Without their help, the recruitment process would quickly grind to a halt.
HSQE, Bids, and Audits: Keeping Standards High
HSQE (Health, Safety, Quality, and Environment), Bids, and Audits are the team ensuring that everything we do aligns with strict quality standards. From maintaining safety procedures to securing certifications, their work ensures we remain a trusted partner for clients and contractors. They also support the sales team in ensuring bids and tenders are comprehensive and accurate.
The success of Advance TRS is built on the strong collaboration between our recruiters and Business Services team. Every team member, no matter the department, contributes to the company’s overall success. If you’re looking for a role that supports a growing, high-energy business, Business Services at Advance TRS offers the chance to make an impact.
If you’re interested in business operations, finance, compliance, or marketing, there’s a place for you in our Business Services team. Every role is integral to keeping Advance TRS at the top of its game, and we’re always looking for talented individuals to help us grow.
Check out the latest openings and find out how you can contribute to the smooth running of Advance TRS.
Building a strong professional network can open doors to new job opportunities, industry insights, and career growth. Whether you’re an experienced engineer or just starting out, making the right connections is key. Here’s how to do it effectively.
Industry events are a great way to meet professionals, learn about trends, and showcase your expertise. Conferences and trade shows, such as Railtex, UK Construction Week, or Renewable Energy Conferences, attract key players in the industry. Attending talks, asking questions, and introducing yourself to speakers and attendees can help you stand out. Networking meetups and professional body gatherings, like those hosted by ICE, IET, or IMechE, offer a more personal setting to engage with peers. Workshops and training sessions also provide opportunities to expand your technical skills while meeting like-minded professionals.
Engage on Social Media
A strong online presence helps you connect with the right people and stay visible in your industry. Keeping your LinkedIn profile updated, sharing industry news, and engaging with posts from professionals and companies can help establish your presence. Engineering forums, such as The Engineer or Engineering.com, are great spaces for technical discussions and networking with others in your field.
Networking is about building relationships, not just collecting contacts. When reaching out to someone, start with common ground, such as a shared interest, mutual connection, or industry event. Being active in professional groups and contributing to discussions can strengthen your credibility. After meeting someone, following up with a short LinkedIn message or email can keep the conversation going and build long-term connections.
Networking works best when it’s a two-way street. Sharing useful insights, job leads, or project updates can make you a valuable connection. Introducing contacts who might benefit from knowing each other also strengthens your network. Supporting others by engaging with their posts or attending their events helps form and maintain strong professional relationships.
Building a professional network takes time, but consistent engagement will help you get noticed and stay connected in your field.
At Advance TRS, we connect engineering professionals with top employers across the built environment. If you’re looking for new opportunities or industry connections, get in touch with our team today.
The infrastructure sector is undergoing a significant transformation as digital technologies reshape the industry. With digital transformation impacting sectors globally, the demand for tech-savvy professionals in engineering and infrastructure has never been greater. From automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to data analysis and smart systems, emerging technologies are driving innovation and efficiency in projects across the UK.
At Advance TRS, we understand that staying ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape requires more than just traditional engineering expertise – which is why we’re committed to sourcing and placing talent with the digital skills needed to power infrastructure’s future.
The Growing Demand for Digital Skills in Infrastructure
The integration of digital technologies into infrastructure projects is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Here’s why:
Automation: From automated construction equipment to smart traffic management systems, automation is streamlining processes, reducing costs, and improving safety. Professionals with experience in robotics, IoT (Internet of Things), and process automation are in high demand.
Artificial Intelligence: AI is transforming how infrastructure projects are planned, designed, and maintained. Predictive analytics, machine learning, and AI-driven decision-making tools are helping organisations optimise resources and mitigate risks.
Data Analysis: Data is the backbone of modern infrastructure. Engineers and analysts who can collect, interpret, and leverage data to drive insights are critical to the success of projects in sectors like rail, energy, and water management.
Sustainability and Smart Systems: As the push for sustainable infrastructure grows, digital tools are enabling smarter energy use, waste reduction, and environmental monitoring. Professionals skilled in green technologies and smart systems are essential to achieving these goals.
How Advance TRS is Adapting to Source Tech-Savvy Talent
At Advance TRS, we recognise that the future of infrastructure lies at the intersection of engineering and technology. As a specialist recruitment consultancy for the built environment, we’re committed to helping our clients stay ahead of the curve by connecting them with professionals who possess both technical expertise and digital fluency. Here’s how we’re doing it:
1. Expanding Our Talent Pool
We’ve broadened our search to include candidates with hybrid skill sets—those who combine traditional engineering expertise with proficiency in emerging technologies. Whether it’s a civil engineer with experience in AI-driven design tools or a project manager skilled in data-driven decision-making, we’re focused on finding the right talent for modern infrastructure projects.
2. Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
Our team keeps a close eye on the latest developments in digital transformation and their impact on the infrastructure sector. By understanding the skills and technologies shaping the future, we can anticipate our clients’ needs and source candidates who are ready to hit the ground running.
3. Building Partnerships with Tech-Savvy Professionals
We actively engage with professionals who are at the forefront of digital innovation in infrastructure. Through industry events, online communities, and targeted outreach, we’ve built a network of candidates who bring cutting-edge skills to the table.
4. Providing Tailored Recruitment Solutions
Every project is unique, and so are the skills required to deliver it. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific needs, whether they’re looking for permanent hires or contract professionals. Our bespoke recruitment solutions ensure that we match the right talent to the right opportunity.
As a leading specialist recruitment agency for the engineering and infrastructure sectors, Advance TRS is your partner in navigating the digital future. Our expertise spans key industries such as Rail, Water & Environment, Highways, Energy & Renewables, and Buildings & Groundworks, making us the recruitment partner of choice for industry-leading projects across the UK.
Want to find out more about the services we offer? Take a look, here.
The job search process can feel overwhelming, especially for experienced engineers who are looking to take the next step in their careers. With so many options available – from job platforms to recruitment agencies and networking – it’s important to have a clear strategy in place. At Advance TRS, we specialise in helping highly skilled technical professionals like you find the right opportunities. Here’s our guide to navigating the job search process effectively.
1. Leverage Job Platforms
Job platforms are a great starting point for your search, offering a wide range of opportunities at your fingertips. However, with so many options available, it’s important to use them strategically:
Tailor Your Search: Use filters to narrow down roles by location, industry, and experience level. Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and CV-Library are popular and allow you to save searches and set up alerts for new postings.
Optimise Your Profile: Ensure your CV and online profiles are up to date, highlighting your key skills, achievements, and experience. Use keywords relevant to your industry to make your profile more discoverable by recruiters and hiring managers.
Research Companies: Look beyond the job description. Research the companies posting roles to understand their culture, values, and projects. This will help you identify organisations that align with your career goals.
For experienced engineers, working with a specialist recruitment agency like Advance TRS can be a game-changer. Here’s why:
Access to Exclusive Opportunities: Many roles, especially senior or niche positions, are never advertised publicly. Recruitment agencies often have access to these hidden opportunities.
Industry Expertise: As a specialist consultancy for the built environment, we understand the unique demands of sectors like Rail, Water & Environment, Highways, Energy & Renewables, and Buildings & Groundworks. Our expertise ensures we can match you with roles that align with your skills and aspirations.
Personalised Support: From CV advice to interview preparation, we provide tailored guidance to help you stand out in a competitive market.
Networking remains one of the most powerful tools in any job search. For experienced engineers, building and maintaining professional relationships can open doors to unadvertised roles and valuable career advice. Here’s how to make the most of networking:
Attend Industry Events: Conferences, seminars, and trade shows are excellent opportunities to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential employers. Look for events in your sector, such as those hosted by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).
Engage on LinkedIn: Share insights, comment on posts, and join industry-specific groups to expand your network. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals in your field for informational interviews or advice.
Reconnect with Your Existing Network: Former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts can be invaluable resources. Let them know you’re exploring new opportunities – they might have leads or recommendations.
The job search process can take time, particularly for senior or specialised roles. Stay proactive by regularly updating your CV, applying for roles that match your skills, and following up on applications. If you’re working with a recruitment agency, keep in touch with your consultant and provide feedback on the roles they present.
At Advance TRS, we’re more than just a recruitment consultancy – we’re your partner in career success. With deep expertise in the engineering and infrastructure sectors, we’re dedicated to helping experienced professionals like you find roles that align with your skills and ambitions. Whether you’re seeking permanent positions or contract opportunities, we offer bespoke recruitment solutions tailored to your needs.
Ready to take the next step in your engineering career? Take a look at our latest jobs, here.
At Advance TRS, we know that recruitment is more than just matching candidates to roles – it’s about building relationships, understanding needs, and delivering results. And if you’ve got a background in sales, you’re already well-equipped to excel in this dynamic industry.
Recruitment and sales share a common thread: the art of closing deals. Whether you’re selling a product, a service, or a career opportunity, the core skills are the same. Here’s why your sales experience makes you a natural fit for recruitment – and how it can help you thrive at Advance TRS.
1. You Know How to Build Relationships
In sales, success hinges on your ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and earn their trust. The same is true in recruitment. Candidates and clients alike want to work with someone who listens, communicates clearly, and genuinely cares about their goals. Your experience in building rapport and nurturing long-term relationships is a huge asset in this people-driven industry.
Every sales professional knows that objections aren’t roadblocks – they’re opportunities. In recruitment, you’ll encounter similar challenges. A candidate might hesitate about a role, or a client might push back on a shortlist. Your ability to address concerns, provide solutions, and turn a “no” into a “yes” will set you apart as a recruiter who gets results.
3. You Understand the Power of Persuasion
Closing a deal requires more than just presenting facts – it’s about crafting a compelling narrative. In recruitment, you’ll use this skill to sell opportunities to candidates and candidates to clients. Your ability to highlight the right benefits, at the right time, will make you a trusted advisor to both sides of the equation.
Sales teaches you to stay focused on targets, even when the going gets tough. Recruitment is no different. There will be ups and downs, but your drive to hit goals and your resilience in the face of challenges will keep you moving forward. At Advance TRS, we value that determination and provide the support and tools you need to succeed.
5. You Thrive in a Competitive Environment
If you’ve worked in sales, you’re no stranger to competition. Recruitment offers a similarly fast-paced, results-driven environment where your efforts directly impact your success. At Advance TRS, we celebrate that competitive spirit and reward those who go the extra mile to deliver for their clients and candidates.
Advance TRS is a specialist recruitment consultancy dedicated to providing highly skilled technical professionals and bespoke recruitment solutions for the engineering and infrastructure sectors.
If you’re ready to take your sales skills to the next level and build a rewarding career in recruitment, we’d love to hear from you. Delve into our latest opportunities, here.
Recruitment offers a unique foundation for nearly any career path. Working in recruitment teaches a range of transferable skills that are valuable in various industries. Here’s how a career in recruitment can set you up for success, no matter where you go next:
1. Communication Skills
Recruitment requires constant communication with clients, candidates, and colleagues. You quickly learn how to:
Communicate effectively across different channels (phone, email, in person)
Adapt your tone and approach to suit different people
Listen actively and address concerns clearly
These communication skills are essential in almost every job and industry.
2. Negotiation and Persuasion
Recruitment involves negotiation—whether it’s salary discussions, job offers, or managing client expectations. You develop the ability to:
Negotiate terms in a way that benefits both parties
Persuade and influence others based on logic and emotion
These skills apply to sales, management, and leadership roles, among many others.
3. Problem-Solving
In recruitment, challenges arise regularly, whether it’s filling a tough role or handling difficult client demands. You’ll learn to:
Identify the root of the problem
Find creative solutions under time pressure
Think critically to resolve issues
Problem-solving is a crucial skill across all professions.
4. Time Management
Recruitment often involves juggling multiple clients, candidates, and deadlines. You quickly master the art of:
Prioritising tasks based on urgency
Managing competing demands effectively
Staying organised under pressure
This is useful in any fast-paced or high-demand role.
5. Networking
Building relationships is key in recruitment. Over time, you’ll:
Develop a strong professional network
Learn how to maintain relationships over time
Gain insights into various industries and job markets
Networking is a skill that benefits anyone looking to grow their career.
6. Resilience
The recruitment world can be tough—dealing with rejection, meeting targets, and managing fluctuating workloads. You’ll develop:
Mental toughness and the ability to stay focused
A proactive attitude toward overcoming setbacks
Resilience helps you thrive in high-pressure environments in any career.
7. Understanding People
You spend a lot of time interacting with different personalities in recruitment. This helps you:
Understand what motivates people
Identify skill sets, strengths, and weaknesses
Manage people effectively
These insights are valuable whether you go into leadership or any role that requires interpersonal skills. Explore our opportunities, here.
Recruitment is an ever-evolving field, shaped by shifts in technology, market demands, and candidate expectations. At Advance TRS, we’ve adapted to these changes to remain at the forefront of the recruitment industry. Here’s how we’re navigating these trends and preparing for the future.
1. Embracing Technology
The role of technology in recruitment has grown significantly. Key changes include:
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Streamlining candidate management and ensuring no talent is overlooked.
AI and automation: Helping us screen CVs, schedule interviews, and identify top candidates faster.
Digital tools for remote hiring: Platforms like video conferencing enable seamless recruitment processes for global talent.
2. Adapting to Candidate Expectations
Today’s candidates expect more from employers and recruiters. We’ve seen:
A shift towards flexible working arrangements.
Increased demand for diversity and inclusion in workplaces.
Greater emphasis on career growth and development opportunities.
3. Industry-Specific Challenges
Recruitment within infrastructure markets such as rail, water, and construction faces unique challenges, including:
Skills shortages in critical areas.
Increasing demand for sustainable practices and green skills.
The impact of large-scale infrastructure projects on workforce needs.
Our team’s specialised knowledge ensures we can navigate these complexities and deliver high-quality recruitment solutions.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making
Data plays a vital role in modern recruitment. At Advance TRS, we use insights to:
Monitor market trends and salary benchmarks.
Understand client and candidate behaviours.
Refine our strategies for better outcomes.
These data-driven decisions help us provide tailored services that meet evolving needs.
5. Prioritising Relationships
Despite technological advancements, recruitment remains a people-focused industry. We prioritise:
Building lasting relationships with clients and candidates.
Providing ongoing support after placements.
Maintaining open communication throughout the recruitment process.
This commitment to personalised service sets us apart in an increasingly automated landscape.
Preparing for the Future
As the recruitment industry continues to evolve, we’re focused on staying ahead by:
Investing in the latest tools and training.
Expanding our expertise in key infrastructure markets.
Championing diversity and sustainability in recruitment practices.
Interested in working with us? Check out our available opportunities, here.
If you’re considering a move from sales to recruitment, you’re already equipped with valuable skills that can help you succeed. Recruitment shares many similarities with sales, from building relationships to achieving targets. Here are five transferable skills that will give you a head start in the recruitment industry.
1. Communication and Relationship Building
In sales, you’ve learned to:
Build trust with clients through clear and persuasive communication.
Understand client needs and tailor your approach accordingly.
Maintain relationships over time to encourage repeat business.
In recruitment, these skills help you connect with candidates and clients, ensuring you match the right people to the right opportunities.
2. Negotiation
Successful sales professionals know how to negotiate deals that work for everyone involved. This skill directly applies to recruitment, where you’ll:
Negotiate salaries, benefits, and contracts between candidates and employers.
Balance the expectations of both parties to create win-win outcomes.
Your ability to navigate these conversations can make placements smoother and more successful.
3. Target-Driven Mindset
Sales roles often involve meeting quotas and achieving KPIs. In recruitment, you’ll need the same focus on targets, including:
Filling roles within specific timeframes.
Achieving placement or revenue goals.
Building and maintaining a healthy pipeline of candidates and clients.
A competitive mindset and goal-oriented approach are key in both industries.
4. Problem-Solving
In sales, overcoming objections and finding solutions for clients are everyday tasks. Recruitment similarly requires:
Resolving mismatches between candidate skills and job requirements.
Addressing client concerns about candidates.
Adapting quickly to changing priorities or urgent roles.
Your problem-solving skills ensure you can tackle challenges effectively.
5. Time Management
Managing leads, calls, and meetings efficiently is a cornerstone of sales success. In recruitment, you’ll juggle:
Effective time management allows you to stay productive and meet deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Sales professionals often transition smoothly into recruitment because of these transferable skills. If you’re ready for a career that combines relationship-building, problem-solving, and achieving results, recruitment could be the perfect fit.
Negotiating a salary can be daunting, but as an engineer, your skills are in demand, and you deserve to be compensated fairly. Here are practical steps to approach salary discussions with confidence and secure the best offer.
1. Research Market Rates
Understanding your value in the market is essential. To do this:
Check industry benchmarks: Use resources like salary surveys, job boards, and industry reports.
Factor in location and specialisms: Salaries vary by region and expertise (e.g., civil engineering vs. software engineering).
Network with peers: Join professional groups or forums to gain insights into typical compensation packages.
This knowledge gives you a solid foundation for your negotiations.
2. Evaluate Your Worth
Consider what makes you stand out as a candidate. Assess:
Your skills and experience: Highlight technical proficiencies, certifications, and years in the field.
Achievements: Quantify your impact on previous projects (e.g., “Saved £50,000 by optimising design processes”).
Soft skills: Team leadership, problem-solving, and communication can boost your value.
Be ready to articulate these points during discussions.
3. Time It Right
Timing is key to successful salary negotiations.
Job offer stage: Negotiate after receiving an offer but before accepting it.
Annual reviews: Use performance appraisals to discuss raises if you’re in a current role.
Industry demand: Leverage times when your expertise is highly sought after (e.g., post-pandemic infrastructure growth).
Approaching negotiations at the right moment increases your leverage.
4. Approach the Conversation Confidently
Preparation helps you communicate effectively:
Set a range: Have a realistic salary range in mind based on your research.
Focus on value: Frame your request around the value you bring to the organisation.
Stay professional: Use clear, respectful language and avoid emotional arguments.
For example, say, “Based on my skills and the market rate for this role, I believe a salary of £60,000 aligns with my expertise and contributions.”
5. Consider the Entire Package
Salary isn’t the only factor in negotiations. Assess:
Bonuses: Performance-based or signing bonuses.
Benefits: Pension contributions, healthcare, or training budgets.
Work-life balance: Flexible hours, remote options, or additional leave.
Weighing the total package ensures you make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
Negotiating your salary as an engineer is about preparation, confidence, and understanding your worth. By researching market rates, presenting your value, and maintaining professionalism, you can secure a compensation package that reflects your skills and contributions.
Ready to explore roles that value your expertise? Head here.
As an engineering professional, it’s easy to get comfortable in your current role. But staying too long in a job that no longer serves your career goals can hold you back. Here are five signs it might be time to look for new opportunities.
1. You’ve Stopped Growing
Engineering is a field that thrives on innovation and continuous learning. If you’re:
No longer challenged by your projects
Stuck in repetitive tasks with no scope for growth
Or not gaining new skills
It could mean your current role isn’t helping you progress. Growth stagnation often signals it’s time to move on.
2. Lack of Job Satisfaction
Your work should feel fulfilling. If you’re:
Dreading Mondays
Feeling disconnected from your projects
Or noticing a drop in motivation
It’s worth considering whether your role aligns with your interests and values.
3. No Clear Path Forward
A lack of advancement opportunities can be frustrating. Ask yourself:
Are promotions rare or non-existent?
Are you unsure about what’s next for your career?
Is the company’s vision misaligned with your goals?
If the answers point to a dead end, exploring new roles could open doors to leadership or specialised positions.
4. You’re Undervalued
Feeling undervalued is a common reason to seek change. Signs include:
Not being recognised for your contributions,
Receiving stagnant or below-market compensation,
Or being passed over for promotions.
In a competitive industry like engineering, your skills and effort should be appreciated.
5. Better Opportunities Are Available
Sometimes the decision to leave isn’t about dissatisfaction but about growth. Keep an eye on:
Roles offering higher pay or better benefits,
Opportunities to work on exciting projects,
Or companies with a stronger commitment to professional development.
The engineering market often has a wealth of options, so don’t be afraid to explore them.
Taking the Next Step
If these signs resonate, it’s time to assess your career direction. Research opportunities, update your CV, and connect with recruitment specialists who can help you find a role that matches your aspirations.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for engineering professionals to showcase skills, connect with industry leaders, and find career opportunities. A strong profile can help you stand out in a competitive market. Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Optimise Your Profile Basics
Professional Photo: Use a high-quality image in business attire or project-appropriate clothing.
Headline: Highlight your role and specialisms (e.g., “Civil Engineer | Rail Infrastructure Specialist”).
Location: Set your current location or target area to improve search visibility.
2. Craft a Strong Summary
Your summary is your elevator pitch. Include:
Key skills and expertise.
Notable projects or achievements.
Career aspirations and what sets you apart.
For example: “Experienced structural engineer with a track record of delivering complex infrastructure projects on time and within budget. Skilled in BIM and sustainable design.”
3. Highlight Experience and Achievements
Project-Specific Roles: Detail your contributions to major projects.
Metrics: Use numbers to quantify your impact (e.g., “Saved 20% in material costs by implementing alternative design solutions”).
Keywords: Include industry-relevant terms to improve searchability.
4. Leverage Recommendations and Skills
Request recommendations from supervisors, colleagues, or clients to validate your expertise.
List skills that align with your industry (e.g., AutoCAD, geotechnical engineering, project management).
Ask for endorsements to boost profile credibility.
5. Stay Active and Engage
Post Regular Updates: Share industry news, opinions, or your achievements.
Engage with Content: Comment on or share posts from peers and industry leaders.
Join Groups: Participate in engineering-related discussions to expand your network.
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained LinkedIn profile can open doors to new projects, partnerships, and career advancements. Invest time in presenting your professional brand effectively, and you’ll be well-placed to capitalise on opportunities in the engineering field.
At Advance TRS, quality isn’t a buzzword; it’s the foundation of everything we do. Our rigorous standards ensure that every placement delivers value for clients, candidates, and contractors. Here’s how we measure and maintain quality at every stage of the recruitment process.
Rigorous Candidate Screening
We thoroughly assess each candidate’s:
Technical Skills: Verifying qualifications, certifications, and practical expertise.
Industry Experience: Ensuring familiarity with sector-specific requirements.
Cultural Fit: Matching candidates with the values and environment of the client’s organisation.
Our in-depth interviews and reference checks reduce mismatches and ensure candidates are well-suited to the role.
Tailored Recruitment Processes
Each placement begins with a detailed consultation to understand:
Client Objectives: The role’s responsibilities and how it supports broader business goals.
Project Requirements: Technical demands, timelines, and compliance needs.
Candidate Expectations: Aligning opportunities with career aspirations and availability.
This personalised approach helps us consistently deliver high-quality matches.
Metrics That Matter
We track our performance using key metrics, including:
Time-to-Fill: Measuring efficiency without sacrificing quality.
Retention Rates: Tracking how well placements meet long-term client needs.
Candidate Satisfaction: Using post-placement surveys to evaluate the experience.
Client Feedback: Regular reviews to ensure ongoing alignment with expectations.
These metrics provide actionable insights to refine our processes and maintain service excellence.
Client Feedback Loops
We believe continuous improvement starts with listening. Our feedback mechanisms include:
Regular Check-Ins: Ongoing communication during and after placements.
Performance Reviews: Discussing the success of placements and areas for improvement.
Structured Feedback Forms: Gathering data from clients and candidates for analysis.
This proactive approach helps us adapt and refine our services over time.
Post-Placement Support
Our commitment doesn’t end when the contract is signed. We provide:
Onboarding Assistance: Helping candidates transition smoothly into new roles.
Performance Monitoring: Checking in with both parties to address any issues early.
Contractor Care: Ensuring contractors have ongoing support throughout their assignments.
This support system fosters strong relationships and ensures placements remain successful.
High Standards, Proven Results
With over a decade of experience in infrastructure recruitment, our dedication to quality has earned us:
A reputation for delivering skilled professionals for critical projects.
Long-term partnerships with leading companies in rail, construction, and energy.
Repeat business driven by client and candidate trust.
Partner with Advance TRS
If you’re looking for recruitment solutions that prioritise quality at every step, Advance TRS is here to help. Let’s achieve excellence together.
The rail and construction sectors are evolving rapidly, driven by new technologies, sustainability demands, and stricter safety and compliance standards. At Advance TRS, we specialise in matching skilled professionals with roles that align with these evolving industry requirements. Here’s how we do it.
Understanding Industry Evolution
Key changes shaping rail and construction include:
Digital Transformation: Adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins, and automated systems.
Sustainability Goals: A focus on low-carbon construction, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials.
Modern Safety Standards: Adherence to rigorous health and safety protocols across all project stages.
Infrastructure Investments: Projects like HS2 and smart city developments demand specialised expertise.
Our team stays ahead of these trends to deliver recruitment solutions that support innovation and compliance.
Tailored Recruitment for Rail
In the rail sector, we provide professionals skilled in:
Signalling and Telecommunications: Supporting modern train control systems and connectivity.
Civil Engineering: Expertise in geotechnical, structural design, and bridge construction.
Project Management: Leadership for large-scale infrastructure projects.
These roles are essential for the safe and efficient operation of the UK’s rail network.
Bespoke Solutions for Construction
For construction, we match candidates with expertise in:
Site Management: Coordinating project timelines, resources, and on-site safety.
Structural Engineering: Designing and assessing frameworks for durability and efficiency.
Quantity Surveying: Managing budgets and ensuring cost-effective delivery.
Sustainable Practices: Professionals with experience in green building techniques.
Whether it’s a commercial development or infrastructure upgrade, we source talent equipped to meet project goals.
A People-First Approach
We know that the right people make all the difference. Our recruitment process focuses on:
Client Collaboration: Understanding project requirements and business objectives.
Candidate Vetting: Ensuring professionals meet the technical and behavioural demands of the role.
Ongoing Support: Maintaining relationships with contractors and staff throughout their placements.
This approach helps us build long-term partnerships with both clients and candidates.
Adapting to Future Demands
As rail and construction industries embrace innovations like modular building and electrified transport systems, the need for adaptable, skilled professionals will only grow. Advance TRS is committed to connecting businesses with the talent they need to thrive in this dynamic environment.
Partner with Us
Looking to meet evolving industry standards in rail or construction? Let Advance TRS help you find the right skillsets to deliver success, here.
When it comes to infrastructure recruitment, Advance TRS stands out for delivering high-quality services tailored to the needs of clients, candidates, and contractors. Here’s how we differentiate ourselves:
Specialist Expertise
We focus exclusively on key infrastructure markets, including:
Rail
Energy and Renewables
Water and Environment
Bridges & Highways
Aviation
Buildings & Groundworks
This targeted approach ensures we understand the technical and regulatory challenges unique to each sector. We’re not generalists; we’re specialists who know what it takes to deliver successful placements for complex projects.
Comprehensive Recruitment Solutions
Our services go beyond filling roles. We offer:
Permanent and Contract Recruitment: Matching skilled professionals with the right opportunities.
Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO): Streamlining hiring for businesses.
Managed Services and Consultancy: Supporting project delivery through roles like programme management, design, and commercial contract management.
We work with some of the UK’s leading infrastructure companies, including Network Rail, Balfour Beatty, and Kier Group. Our track record speaks for itself.
Quality-Driven Approach
Advance TRS is built on a foundation of:
Integrity: We deliver honest, transparent recruitment services.
Commitment: We’re dedicated to finding the right match for every role.
Collaboration: We work closely with clients and candidates to achieve shared success.
Our rigorous processes mean every candidate is thoroughly vetted, and every client receives a tailored recruitment strategy.
Industry Knowledge
Infrastructure markets are constantly evolving, with emerging trends in sustainability, digital transformation, and workforce diversity. Our team stays ahead of these changes to provide informed recruitment solutions that meet modern demands.
People-Centric Focus
We’re more than a recruitment consultancy. We build lasting relationships by:
Supporting career development for candidates
Helping clients meet their long-term hiring goals
Providing contractors with consistent opportunities
Proven Results
With over a decade of experience, Advance TRS has achieved year-on-year growth. We’ve earned a reputation for:
Placing top talent in critical infrastructure roles
Supporting major infrastructure projects with skilled professionals
Delivering recruitment solutions that make a measurable impact
Ready to Partner?
Whether you’re a candidate looking for your next opportunity, a contractor seeking projects, or a client in need of expert recruitment support, Advance TRS has the expertise and resources to help you succeed.
Advance TRS is excited to announce the launch of our dedicated MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Public Health) Building Services desk, a strategic step in expanding our expertise across the built environment. This desk enhances our ability to provide high-quality staffing solutions to a variety of specialised roles, supporting both clients and candidates in the building services sector.
We’re delighted to welcome Darryll Gibson, Principal Consultant for MEP Building Services, to drive this market expansion. Darryll brings over 12 years of recruitment experience, with a proven track record of connecting skilled professionals with key opportunities in building services engineering. His deep understanding of technical disciplines, combined with his consultative approach, will ensure the success of this desk.
Meeting the Industry’s Needs
Our MEP Building Services desk focuses on providing recruitment solutions for an extensive range of roles, including:
Electrical Design Engineers
HVAC Design Engineers
Public Health Design Engineers
Revit CAD Coordinators and Microstation Operators
Fire Engineers
Sustainability Engineers
Clerks of Works
Commercial Managers
Commissioning Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
MEP Resident Engineers
By concentrating on these specialised disciplines, we’re committed to helping clients secure the talent they need to deliver successful projects while supporting candidates in advancing their careers.
Enhancing Our Recruitment Expertise
This launch strengthens Advance TRS’s position as a recruitment leader in key infrastructure markets, including rail, water, construction, and now MEP building services. By leveraging Darryll’s expertise and network, we’re well-placed to address the increasing demand for technical professionals in complex, high-value projects.
A Bright Future Ahead
The MEP Building Services desk follows the Advance TRS model, offering tailored recruitment services, including permanent placements, contract recruitment, and executive search. Whether you’re looking to hire for a specific project or seeking your next opportunity in building services, our team is ready to deliver.
Advance TRS Director, Rob Kelly shares: “Our success is built on the knowledge and expertise of our team. Darryll’s addition strengthens our ability to provide consultative and collaborative recruitment solutions in the building services sector, and we’re excited about what this means for the future.”
With the launch of the MEP Building Services desk, Advance TRS continues to expand its reach, offering unparalleled recruitment solutions across the UK and Ireland’s built environment.
Connect with us today to explore how we can support your recruitment or career goals.
The infrastructure sector is booming, with numerous projects underway and more on the horizon. However, this rapid growth is being held back by a significant challenge—skills shortages. With the demand for skilled professionals in fields like rail, construction, and energy outpacing supply, many businesses are struggling to find the right talent to complete their projects on time and within budget.
At Advance TRS, we recognise this challenge and have developed strategies to help our clients navigate the talent gap in today’s tight market.
The Skills Shortage Challenge
The infrastructure industry is experiencing an acute shortage of qualified professionals across various disciplines. The shortage is especially pronounced in specialised areas like civil engineering, project management, signalling and telecommunications, and construction management. With many workers in the sector nearing retirement and few new professionals entering, businesses face heightened competition for the available talent, which often leads to project delays.
Organisations need a recruitment partner who understands the industry’s complexities and can access a wide pool of skilled candidates. That’s where we come in.
At Advance TRS, our industry expertise and extensive network enable us to effectively address the skills gap. Here’s how we help clients find the right talent:
Industry Expertise and Network
Our team consists of professionals with a deep understanding of the built environment and infrastructure sectors. This allows us to quickly identify candidates with the right skills and experience. We don’t just focus on qualifications—we consider cultural fit, ensuring the talent we source aligns with our clients’ values and team dynamics.
Proactive Talent Sourcing
In a competitive market, sourcing talent often requires a proactive approach. We engage with candidates who may not be actively job hunting but are open to discussing future opportunities. For example, when a rail sector client needed a signalling design engineer, we tapped into our specialised network and found an experienced candidate who had worked on large infrastructure projects. This candidate had the technical expertise and experience to integrate quickly into the team.
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
At Advance TRS, we don’t just fill current vacancies; we focus on building long-term talent pipelines. We collaborate with educational institutions and industry bodies to promote careers in infrastructure, helping attract new professionals to the sector. Through partnerships with universities and training programmes, we’re helping to nurture the next generation of skilled workers.
Our ongoing engagement with candidates ensures that we have access to a steady stream of potential talent, keeping them informed about industry developments and future opportunities.
Supporting Clients in a Competitive Market
As skills shortages continue to challenge the infrastructure sector, Advance TRS is committed to helping clients find the right talent to meet their needs. By combining our expertise, proactive approach, and long-term talent strategies, we’re ensuring that our clients can overcome these challenges and deliver their projects successfully.
Partner with us to navigate today’s talent acquisition challenges and secure the skilled professionals you need to succeed. Explore our services, here.
At Advance TRS, we see ourselves as more than just a recruitment agency. Our focus goes beyond simply filling positions; we strive to be a trusted partner to our clients, offering tailored recruitment solutions while nurturing long-term relationships. Here’s how our approach sets us apart and allows us to deliver exceptional value to our clients.
Putting Clients First
Our consultative model starts with a deep understanding of our clients’ specific needs. Rather than just filling vacancies, we engage with each business to understand their unique challenges, goals, and culture. This allows us to provide recruitment solutions that are closely aligned with the company’s objectives and specific role requirements.
Through consistent communication and collaboration, we seamlessly integrate with our clients’ teams. By providing strategic insights and advice, we help shape their recruitment strategies, allowing us to stay ahead of trends and provide ongoing value throughout the hiring process.
Commitment to Quality at Every Stage
At Advance TRS, we know the importance of quality in recruitment. From the first point of contact, we’re focused on delivering a high standard of service. We follow a rigorous vetting process to ensure that every candidate we present is technically qualified and a strong cultural fit.
Our dedication to quality ensures that the candidates we place contribute not only to the immediate success of the role but to the long-term success of the organisation. This commitment strengthens the trust we build with clients and reinforces our ongoing relationships.
For us, success is measured by the lasting relationships we create. We take pride in being a long-term partner, not just a transactional service provider. By keeping communication channels open and delivering consistent results, we foster relationships that grow stronger over time.
Our consultative model doesn’t end once a placement is made. We continue to engage with both the candidate and the client, ensuring smooth transitions and offering support where needed. This proactive approach helps build trust, ensures long-term success, and solidifies our role as a trusted partner.
Experience the Value of a Trusted Partner
At Advance TRS, we’re about more than just recruitment—we’re about partnership and collaboration. By taking a consultative approach, we work closely with our clients to ensure a seamless recruitment experience that delivers long-term success. Our focus on understanding client needs, providing exceptional service, and building lasting relationships sets us apart.
Discover how our approach can make a difference for you—explore the services we offer here.
As an engineer, your portfolio is your chance to showcase your expertise and prove your capabilities to potential employers. A strong portfolio highlights relevant projects, demonstrates your technical skills, and reflects your professional approach to problem-solving. Here’s how to craft one that stands out.
1. Focus on Relevant Projects
Include projects that are directly related to the type of engineering roles you’re applying for. Employers want to see your experience aligns with their needs.
Highlight projects that solve problems similar to those in the role you’re targeting.
For each project, include a clear description, objectives, and outcomes.
Quantify your results wherever possible (e.g., “Reduced system downtime by 25%”).
2. Demonstrate Technical Skills
Your portfolio should showcase your technical expertise through the tools, techniques, and methodologies you’ve used.
List specific technologies, programming languages, or equipment used in each project.
Include diagrams, CAD models, or screenshots that illustrate your work.
If applicable, link to a GitHub repository or other digital platform where employers can explore your code or designs.
Clear and professional visuals can make your portfolio more engaging and easier to understand.
Use images of completed projects, prototypes, or test setups.
Incorporate annotated diagrams to explain complex concepts.
Keep visuals consistent in style and quality throughout.
4. Tailor It for Each Application
Different roles may require different emphases. Tailor your portfolio to showcase the most relevant skills and projects for each position.
For example, for a structural engineering role, focus on projects with load analysis and construction documentation. For an electronics position, emphasise circuit design and testing.
Adjust the order of your portfolio to feature the most impactful projects first.
How you present your portfolio matters as much as its content.
Organise your portfolio into clear sections (e.g., About Me, Key Projects, Skills).
Include a brief introduction for context. For example, “I specialise in renewable energy systems, focusing on efficiency and sustainability.”
Use a professional, clean layout to ensure it’s easy to read.
Bonus Tip: Keep It Up-to-Date
Your portfolio should reflect your latest experience and skills. Regularly update it with new projects and remove outdated or less relevant ones.
Why Your Portfolio Matters
A well-crafted engineering portfolio does more than just show your skills—it sets you apart from other candidates. It gives employers confidence in your abilities and provides concrete evidence of your expertise. Take the time to create a portfolio that leaves a lasting impression.
Looking to advance your career? Check out our jobs available, here.
Recruitment and sales share a fundamental principle: success depends on effective communication. If you have a background in sales, the skills you’ve developed—like active listening, persuasion, and managing relationships—provide a strong foundation for a career in recruitment. Here’s how these skills translate seamlessly to the recruitment world.
In sales, listening to your client’s needs is essential for closing deals. Recruitment works the same way. Understanding what a client wants in a candidate—or what a candidate seeks in a role—requires you to actively listen, not just hear. Asking the right follow-up questions and showing genuine interest builds trust and helps you uncover insights that lead to better matches.
Persuasion
Sales experience equips you with the art of persuasion, a key skill in recruitment. Whether you’re encouraging a client to consider a candidate outside the original brief or helping a candidate see the benefits of a particular role, your ability to present compelling arguments makes all the difference. Effective persuasion isn’t about being pushy; it’s about understanding needs and framing solutions in a way that resonates.
Building Relationships
Strong relationships are central to both sales and recruitment. In sales, you work to build trust with clients to secure repeat business. In recruitment, the relationships you develop with candidates and clients create long-term partnerships. Your sales background likely taught you how to nurture these connections, handle objections, and maintain a professional rapport—skills that are just as important when managing recruitment pipelines.
Tailoring Your Communication
Salespeople excel at adapting their pitch to suit different audiences, and this adaptability is crucial in recruitment. You might need to explain technical roles to candidates with limited industry knowledge or present a candidate’s strengths to a sceptical client. Tailored communication ensures your message lands effectively, no matter who you’re speaking to.
Handling Rejections
Both sales and recruitment come with their fair share of rejections. Your experience in sales likely taught you to handle “no” professionally and pivot to the next opportunity. In recruitment, this resilience helps you stay motivated when placements don’t work out and keeps you focused on finding the right solution.
Why Communication Matters in Recruitment
Recruitment is about connecting the right people to the right opportunities, and communication is the glue that holds everything together. Sales experience gives you the tools to engage effectively with people, adapt to their needs, and build trust. These skills help you not just succeed in recruitment but thrive.
If you’re considering a career in recruitment, your sales background may already have set you up for success. Ready to take the leap? Get in touch to learn more about recruitment opportunities with us, here.
Recruitment is often seen as a role focused on matching candidates to jobs, but it’s far more dynamic than that. A career in recruitment equips you with a diverse range of skills that you might not anticipate when starting out. These abilities can shape you into a well-rounded professional, opening doors to other industries and leadership roles. Here are five unexpected skills you’ll gain as a recruiter:
1. Negotiation
Recruitment is all about balancing the needs of candidates and clients. You’ll regularly negotiate salaries, benefits, and start dates, finding solutions that work for everyone involved. These negotiations often go beyond numbers, requiring you to manage expectations and align interests delicately. Over time, you’ll develop a confident and persuasive approach to handling these conversations, a skill that’s invaluable in business, sales, and leadership roles.
2. Emotional Intelligence
Recruitment puts you in the middle of people’s career journeys, often during moments of change or uncertainty. You’ll need to understand motivations, read body language, and respond empathetically to concerns. Emotional intelligence becomes second nature, allowing you to build trust and maintain strong relationships with both candidates and clients. This skill isn’t just about connecting with others—it’s about managing your own emotions during high-pressure situations, which is essential for professional growth.
3. Time Management
Recruiters juggle a lot—multiple vacancies, competing client deadlines, and candidate communications. You’ll quickly learn how to prioritise tasks, work efficiently, and manage your time effectively. With so many moving parts, recruitment sharpens your ability to keep things running smoothly without missing key details. This level of organisation and adaptability is highly transferable to project management, operations, and other demanding roles.
4. Industry Expertise
When you recruit for a specific sector, you gain a deep understanding of that field. You’ll learn about industry trends, technical jargon, and what top talent looks like for various roles. Over time, this knowledge makes you a trusted advisor to clients and candidates alike. Whether it’s construction, telecoms, or finance, this expertise sets you apart as someone who doesn’t just fill jobs but truly understands the market.
5. Resilience
Recruitment is a high-pressure field with plenty of highs and lows. Candidates might drop out at the last minute, or clients could change their requirements unexpectedly. These challenges teach you to bounce back quickly, stay positive, and focus on the next opportunity. Resilience is an underrated skill, but it’s crucial for thriving in any fast-paced or competitive environment.
The skills you develop in recruitment aren’t limited to the job itself. They can enhance your performance in other industries, strengthen your ability to lead, and make you more effective in building meaningful professional relationships. Recruitment doesn’t just grow your career—it equips you with tools that stay with you for life.
We are delighted to announce that Advance TRS and CITILINE have been recommended for full recertification of ISO 45001 (Health & Safety) and ISO 27001 (Information Security) following a rigorous two-day audit. Impressively, no non-conformances or areas for improvement were identified, underscoring our commitment to operational excellence.
Achieving ISO 45001 demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of health and safety across our operations. This is vital for protecting our staff, clients, contractors, and candidates in often challenging industries such as rail, water, environment, highways, energy, and telecoms.
ISO 27001 highlights our dedication to safeguarding information and data security. In a world where data breaches and cyber threats are on the rise, this certification reassures our clients and stakeholders that their information is handled with the utmost care.
These certifications not only solidify our reputation as a trusted recruitment partner but also enable us to maintain our place on key Preferred Supplier Lists (PSLs) and frameworks. This means our clients can have confidence in our systems, processes, and ability to deliver safe, secure, and reliable services.
Maintaining these high standards requires hard work and collaboration. A huge thank you to everyone who works hard year-round to uphold these management systems, and to those who supported the audit process by answering questions and demonstrating our commitment to compliance.
A special congratulations goes to our Health & Safety Manager, Lauren, and our Group Business Operations Director, Ella Gardiner, for their exceptional work on our information security systems – the auditor’s positive feedback led to a reduced audit schedule, recognising the efficiency and excellence of the systems in place.
With this achievement secured, our focus now turns to preparing for the upcoming RISQS audit in three weeks. We remain committed to continuous improvement, ensuring we deliver the best possible service for our clients, candidates, and contractors.
If you’d like to learn more about how our certifications support our work across our sectors, head here.
Recruitment offers a level of variety and unpredictability that keeps the job fresh and engaging. No two days are the same, thanks to the mix of tasks, challenges, and opportunities to work with people. If you enjoy a fast-moving environment with plenty of variety, it’s a career worth considering.
A Mix of Tasks Every Day
As a recruiter, your day could involve:
Sourcing candidates: Using job boards, LinkedIn, and your network to find the right talent.
Screening CVs and conducting interviews: Evaluating skills, experience, and cultural fit.
Building relationships: Speaking with clients to understand their needs and candidates to support their career goals.
Negotiating offers: Acting as a mediator to align expectations and finalise placements.
Recruitment is inherently unpredictable. Candidates can drop out of interviews, clients may change their requirements, or new roles can suddenly land in your lap. Success often depends on your ability to adapt quickly and find solutions.
Recruitment isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about connecting people to opportunities. On one side, you’re a trusted advisor to candidates, helping them navigate their careers. On the other, you’re a partner to businesses, ensuring they find the talent they need to thrive. This dual focus means your role is always evolving.
Celebrating Wins
From placing a candidate in their dream role to helping a client achieve their hiring goals, recruitment has tangible rewards. These moments of success make the effort worth it and motivate you to tackle the next challenge.
Why It Works for the Right People
If you enjoy problem-solving, working with people, and thrive in a fast-moving environment, recruitment might be the career for you. It’s challenging, but the variety and unpredictability make it a job where you’ll never feel stuck in a routine.
Ready for a career where no two days are the same? Explore opportunities to join our team, here.
Finding the right role in competitive industries like construction, rail, and water can feel overwhelming. A recruitment consultancy, especially those specialising in technical sectors, offer tailored support to help you secure the right position. Here’s how working with a specialist consultancy like Advance TRS can benefit your career search.
1. Access to Exclusive Job Opportunities
Many companies rely on recruitment consultancies to fill roles that aren’t advertised publicly. This means consultancies like Advance TRS can connect you with positions you won’t find on job boards or through general searches. These exclusive roles are often with leading employers, giving you the chance to apply for projects and positions that directly match your skills and experience.
Specialist consultancies understand the industries they recruit for inside out. Advance TRS focuses on sectors such as rail, infrastructure, and energy, so we know what employers are looking for, from certifications to soft skills. This expertise ensures you’re matched with roles suited to your capabilities, while also giving you valuable insights into market trends, expected salaries, and in-demand skills.
Working with a consultancy means you’re not navigating the recruitment process alone. From helping you create a standout CV to offering interview preparation tailored to the employer, a recruitment consultancy provides personalised support. They also assist in negotiating job offers, ensuring you secure the best possible terms. This hands-on guidance can boost your confidence and make the entire process less stressful.
Searching for jobs, tailoring applications, and keeping track of deadlines can be time-consuming. Recruitment consultancies streamline this process by actively searching for roles on your behalf and managing applications. This leaves you free to focus on preparation or personal commitments, knowing that someone is working behind the scenes to find the right opportunities for you.
5. A Partner for Long-Term Career Growth
The relationship with a recruitment consultancy doesn’t have to end after you land a job. Consultancies like Advance TRS aim to build long-term connections with candidates, offering advice on career progression and letting you know about future opportunities that match your ambitions. This ongoing partnership can help you stay informed about the industry and develop your career over time.
Why Choose Advance TRS?
Advance TRS has a proven track record in connecting skilled professionals with leading built environment companies and projects. Our team works closely with candidates to provide a professional, consultative, and personable service. From CV advice to post-placement support, we’re committed to helping you achieve your career goals.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our latest opportunities, here.
If you’re thinking about a career in recruitment, it’s easy to assume the job is all about finding people to fill roles. In reality, recruitment is much more dynamic and rewarding. It’s about building relationships, shaping careers, and influencing industries. Here’s why recruitment is a strategic, consultative career that’s far more than just filling vacancies.
Building Partnerships with Clients
As a recruiter, you’ll work closely with businesses to help them build teams that align with their goals. It’s not just about placing people—it’s about understanding what the company needs to thrive.
Advising on hiring strategies: You’ll guide clients on the skills, salaries, and structures needed to stay competitive.
Shaping roles: Many clients rely on recruiters to refine job descriptions to attract the best talent.
Planning ahead: Recruitment involves anticipating what businesses will need in the future and helping them prepare.
Recruitment isn’t just about ticking boxes for job requirements. It’s about helping people take the next step in their careers. You’ll act as a career coach, guiding candidates toward opportunities they might not have considered.
Identifying potential: You’ll help candidates see how their skills apply to new roles or industries.
Advising on development: Suggesting courses, certifications, or experiences can help candidates become stronger applicants.
Providing feedback: Constructive feedback from you can help candidates improve and succeed, even if they don’t get the role they applied for.
Influencing Industry Trends
Recruitment keeps you at the centre of industry trends. You’ll gain insights into what businesses need and where the market is heading. This knowledge allows you to shape how industries evolve.
Help businesses adapt to new technologies or changing regulations.
Promote diversity and inclusion by championing underrepresented talent.
Guide clients and candidates through economic or market shifts.
Recruitment is about connecting the right people with the right opportunities, but it’s also about making an impact. You’ll help businesses succeed, support candidates in reaching their goals, and contribute to shaping industries.
If you’re ready for a career that’s challenging, rewarding, and impactful, recruitment could be the perfect fit for you – check out our work for us page to find out about our current opportunities, here.
In the built environment, contract roles are common, especially in industries like rail, construction, and infrastructure. These positions are often tied to short-term projects but offer far more. For candidates looking to advance their careers, contract roles provide opportunities to gain experience, expand networks, and even transition into permanent roles.
Build Diverse Experience
Contract roles expose you to a wide variety of projects, teams, and challenges. This allows you to:
Gain specialised knowledge: Working on focused, high-impact projects sharpens your technical skills.
Broaden your expertise: Moving between roles can give you experience across disciplines, such as design, project management, or geotechnical engineering.
Develop adaptability: Being part of different organisations teaches you to navigate various work environments and systems.
Over time, this variety builds a strong CV that highlights your versatility and practical skills, making you a more attractive candidate for future roles.
Expand Your Professional Network
Each contract role introduces you to new colleagues, managers, and industry leaders. Building strong relationships with these professionals can help you:
Access unadvertised roles: Many jobs in the built environment are filled through recommendations.
Gain mentors: Experienced professionals can offer guidance and support as your career develops.
Create future opportunities: Impressing key stakeholders during a contract can lead to repeat engagements or offers of permanent roles.
Treat every contract as an opportunity to grow your reputation. Being reliable, professional, and skilled leaves a lasting impression.
Many candidates use contract positions as a stepping stone to secure permanent roles. Employers often recruit contractors for short-term needs but look to retain top performers for the long term. To improve your chances of making this transition:
Communicate your interest: Let your manager know you’re open to permanent opportunities.
Go beyond the role: Show initiative by contributing ideas or taking on additional responsibilities.
Demonstrate alignment: Highlight how your values and long-term goals align with the organisation’s mission.
Even if a permanent role isn’t immediately available, leaving on good terms keeps the door open for future opportunities.
To maximise the career benefits of contracting, stay strategic about the roles you accept. Look for positions that:
Enhance your skill set in line with your long-term goals.
Offer exposure to high-profile projects or reputable organisations.
Provide networking opportunities with influential professionals in your field.
Balance short-term flexibility with long-term planning to ensure each contract builds towards your career ambitions.
Contract positions are more than temporary work. They’re a platform to build skills, expand networks, and create opportunities for long-term growth.
If you’re looking for your next contract role in the built environment, we can connect you with projects that align with your goals – take a look at our jobs available, here.
Recruitment isn’t always straightforward. Beyond finding the right skills for the job, recruiters face unique challenges that can complicate even the best-laid plans. At Advance TRS, we’ve developed ways to handle these issues efficiently, ensuring our clients and candidates both get the best possible experience – looking at 5 unexpected challenges in recruitment.
1. Managing Candidate Expectations
Candidates often come with set ideas about salary, benefits, or role progression. Balancing these expectations with market realities can be a challenge.
Our Approach: We start with honest, transparent conversations about salary ranges, role requirements, and growth potential. By setting realistic expectations from the start, we help candidates see the full picture and reduce the chance of surprises later in the process.
2. Balancing Client Needs with Candidate Fit
Clients often want very specific skills or experience, but matching these exact needs with candidate availability isn’t always possible.
Our Approach: We focus on understanding the core requirements and identifying transferrable skills that could also benefit the client. By presenting flexible options and explaining how candidates’ experiences can align with the client’s goals, we maintain a strong balance between exact needs and realistic matches.
In a competitive market, good candidates often receive counteroffers from their current employers when they announce plans to leave.
Our Approach: We prepare candidates for this possibility by discussing it early on, helping them weigh the pros and cons. If a counteroffer does come in, we guide them to consider their long-term goals, making the decision that’s genuinely best for them—not just the highest offer on the table.
The built environment can experience rapid changes in demand due to new regulations or project funding shifts.
Our Approach: We stay informed on industry trends and client pipeline needs, which allows us to anticipate shifts and adjust our recruiting approach. Our agility ensures we have a proactive plan, keeping placements steady even in a fluctuating market.
The work doesn’t end after a candidate is placed; support during onboarding and early stages is just as important for a successful placement.
Our Approach: We keep communication open with both clients and candidate’s post-placement. By checking in regularly, we ensure everything is on track, address any early concerns, and maintain long-term relationships that make future placements even smoother.
Recruitment is full of unexpected challenges, but at Advance TRS, we thrive on tackling them head-on. By staying proactive, transparent, and flexible, we ensure that both our clients and candidates have the best experience possible. Our ability to manage expectations, balance competing needs, and provide ongoing support makes us a reliable partner in the recruitment process. No matter the challenge, we’re here to find the right solution and deliver the results you need.
If you think you’re up for these recruitment hurdles, check out our Work for Us page to see current opportunities!
Compliance isn’t just a checkbox for us at Advance TRS—it’s the foundation of every candidate placement, especially in high-regulation fields like rail and construction. By prioritising rigorous background checks, certifications, and continuous training, we ensure that every professional we place meets industry and safety standards, helping our clients stay compliant and reducing risk across all project sites.
We place skilled professionals in heavily regulated sectors, where non-compliance can have serious consequences. Here’s how we keep compliance at the forefront of our recruitment process:
1. Background Checks
Comprehensive Vetting: Each candidate goes through thorough background checks that cover employment history, criminal records, and other regulatory requirements specific to the role and industry.
Verification: We verify key qualifications and experiences, ensuring that each candidate holds the credentials and practical expertise needed for their role. This helps eliminate unqualified candidates and maintains high standards across client projects.
2. Certifications and Qualifications
Regulatory Compliance: In sectors like rail and construction, certifications are critical. We check each candidate’s credentials, ensuring they meet the current standards set by regulatory bodies such as the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Up-to-Date Documentation: We keep track of certification expiration dates and support candidates in renewing any necessary qualifications to stay compliant. This proactive approach allows us to supply professionals who are fully qualified for every project phase.
Safety and Industry Training: As regulatory standards evolve, so do our training requirements. We coordinate with candidates to help them access necessary courses, keeping their skills relevant and aligned with industry demands.
Client-Specific Standards: Some clients have unique compliance needs. For these, we provide additional training options to make sure candidates are ready to meet specific standards on-site.
4. Continuous Improvement and Monitoring
Regular Audits: Our compliance team regularly reviews our processes, ensuring we maintain best practices and adapt to changes in industry standards.
Feedback Loops: We welcome input from clients and candidates on compliance matters, using this feedback to fine-tune our approach and keep our practices effective and up to date.
Why Compliance Matters
In high-stakes industries like rail and construction, where safety and quality are paramount, compliance isn’t just about meeting requirements—it’s essential for maintaining safety, reliability, and trust. By committing to these rigorous compliance practices, Advance TRS helps create safe, compliant work environments that benefit everyone involved.
Creating a CV that gets noticed by employers requires clarity, structure, and relevance. Hiring managers sift through numerous CVs, so yours needs to make a strong impression from the start. Here’s what they’re looking for and how to make your CV stand out:
1. Structure it clearly
Start with your contact information at the top: name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile. Next, include a personal summary—a brief overview of your key skills, experience, and goals. Keep this to a few sentences that convey your strengths effectively.
Skills: List your top skills in a dedicated section. Focus on skills that align with the job description, making it easy for recruiters to see what you bring to the table.
Experience: Start with your latest role and work backward. Rather than listing tasks, highlight your contributions and results. For instance, instead of “Managed a team,” try “Managed a team of five, increasing project efficiency by 25%.”
2. Tailor it for each role
A generic CV doesn’t capture the unique needs of each position. Review the job description and pull-out keywords, especially specific skills, tools, or certifications that match your experience. This helps ensure your CV aligns with the role and improves its chances with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which scan CVs for relevant terms.
3. Stick to a professional, simple design
Choose a clear layout with consistent formatting and enough white space. Use an easy-to-read font like Arial or Calibri, size 10-12, and avoid distracting colours or graphics. This keeps the focus on your experience and makes it easy for recruiters to navigate.
4. Focus on achievements, not just duties
Employers want to see what you’ve accomplished in each role. Use specific numbers and results where you can. Example:
Instead of: “Managed construction site activities.”
Try: “Coordinated daily site operations for a £10 million infrastructure project, improving project timelines by 10% and reducing downtime by 15%.”
5. Include action verbs and relevant keywords
Start bullet points with action verbs like “Led,” “Developed,” or “Achieved.” These words show initiative and clearly communicate your contributions. Incorporate keywords naturally to match the role description but avoid overloading your CV with terms—make sure each word adds value.
6. Avoid common pitfalls
Typos and Grammar Errors: Proofread carefully or ask someone else to review.
Clichés: Terms like “hard worker” or “excellent communicator” are overused. Show these traits instead through examples.
Length: Keep your CV focused, ideally within one or two pages. Emphasise recent and relevant experience.
Creating a standout CV in the built environment sector means focusing on structure, relevant skills, and clear achievements. Tailor each application to the role, use metrics to highlight your impact, and keep formatting clean and professional. By showing to hiring managers not just what you did, but how you contributed, you’ll improve your chances of securing an interview.
For more career tips or to explore opportunities with Advance TRS, check out our latest jobs, here.
The infrastructure sector, whilst experiencing a surge in demand due to ongoing and upcoming projects, is also experiencing an increasingly prevalent situation of skills shortages – posing significant challenges for companies hoping to deliver projects on time and within budget.
As industries like rail, construction, and energy expand, the demand for skilled professionals continues to outweigh supply, making it essential for businesses to partner with recruitment specialists who understand these unique challenges. At Advance TRS, we leverage our expertise and extensive network to help clients source the right talent in this tight market.
Understanding the Challenge of Skills Shortages
With the projects there and ready to be manned, the growth is hampered by a critical shortage of skilled professionals across various disciplines, including engineering, project management, and technical roles. The challenge is particularly acute in specialised fields such as signalling and telecommunications, civil engineering, and construction management, where qualified candidates are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
Many companies are facing the realities of an aging workforce, coupled with a lack of new entrants into the industry. This creates a perfect storm, resulting in heightened competition for talent and delays in project delivery. To map out these turbulent waters, organisations need a recruitment partner that not only understands the nuances of the infrastructure landscape but also has the capability to tap into a broad talent pool.
How Advance TRS Stands Out
At Advance TRS, our deep industry knowledge and extensive professional network allows us to effectively bridge the gap between talent supply and demand. We take a consultative approach to recruitment, understanding each client’s specific needs and challenges, and tailoring our strategies accordingly.
Leveraging Industry Expertise
Our team consists of professionals with extensive experience in the built environment and infrastructure sectors – enabling us to identify candidates with the right skills and experience quickly. We focus not just on qualifications but also on cultural fit, ensuring that the talent we source aligns with our clients’ values and work environments.
Sourcing Hard-to-Find Talent
In recent projects, we have successfully sourced candidates for roles that are hard to fill, demonstrating our ability to navigate the skills shortage effectively. For instance, when a client in the rail sector needed a signalling design engineer, we leveraged our specialised network to identify a top candidate who had previously worked on major infrastructure projects. This individual possessed not only the technical skills required but also the experience necessary to integrate seamlessly into the client’s team.
By approaching recruitment with a proactive mindset, we can often uncover talent that isn’t actively seeking new opportunities but is open to engaging in conversations about their next career move.
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
Advance TRS is committed to not just filling immediate vacancies but also building sustainable talent pipelines for our clients. We work closely with educational institutions and industry bodies to promote careers in the built environment, aiming to attract new entrants into the workforce. Our initiatives include partnerships with universities and training programs, where we help nurture the next generation of skilled professionals.
Our candidate engagement strategies ensure that we maintain strong relationships with potential candidates, keeping them up to date with industry trends and opportunities.
As skills shortages continue to challenge the infrastructure sectors, Advance TRS remains dedicated to sourcing the right talent in a tight market. By combining our industry expertise with an extensive network and proactive recruitment strategies, we empower our clients to overcome these obstacles and achieve their project goals.
Partner with us to navigate the complexities of talent acquisition in today’s demanding environment and secure the skilled professionals you need to thrive, here!
When you think recruitment, high-energy sales environments, endless calls, and constant negotiation may spring to mind – however, whilst some of these aspects are indeed part of the job, there’s so much more to working in recruitment beginning with these 5 things you might not know about working in recruitment with us…
1. It’s About Building Lasting Relationships, Not Just Filling Jobs
At Advance TRS, recruitment is much more than matching candidates with job openings. It’s about creating partnerships and building trust with both clients and candidates. Our consultants work closely with industry leaders in sectors like rail, construction, and water & environment, helping them find skilled professionals for critical infrastructure projects across the UK and Ireland. Our success comes from understanding each client’s unique needs and nurturing strong relationships that last. We’re not just filling roles; we’re helping shape successful teams and supporting long-term career growth for our candidates.
2. You’ll Gain a Deep Understanding of the Built Environment Sector
Advance TRS specialises in recruiting for key infrastructure markets such as energy, renewables, rail, transport, aviation, water, environment, highways, and construction, giving our consultants an in-depth look into these industries. Unlike other recruitment agencies, we offer specialist insights into technical roles, skill demands, and industry trends within the built environment. This focus on niche sectors means that every day, you’re learning something new about the industries that shape our world and will always be up to date with the emerging industry practices.
3. Your Success is Our Priority with Comprehensive Training and Development
We believe that investing in our team members is essential to delivering the best service to clients and candidates. At Advance TRS, we provide continuous training and development opportunities to support your growth, whether you’re an entry-level recruiter or an experienced consultant. From leadership training to skills development, we empower you to reach your career goals. Our focus on professional development means that working here isn’t just a job; it’s a pathway to personal and professional success.
Advance TRS is built on a foundation of strong core values that guide our approach to recruitment. Integrity, commitment, and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do. These values aren’t just words on a wall—they influence our daily interactions, our strategies, and our decision-making processes. Working here means joining a team that’s committed to delivering a quality service, upholding high standards, and building trust with our clients and candidates. It’s a culture of support and accountability that empowers each team member to perform at their best.
As we mentioned at the start, recruitment can be fast-paced and high-energy, but at Advance TRS, we recognise the importance of work-life balance. Our company culture supports a healthy balance, with flexibility and an understanding that well-being is key to long-term success. We also enjoy social events, team outings, and charitable initiatives that bring us together as a team and allow us to give back to the community. From tackling marathons for charity to celebrating team milestones, there’s always something happening to keep our team motivated and engaged.
Working in recruitment at Advance TRS offers a unique combination of personal growth, industry knowledge, and a supportive team environment. Whether you’re just starting out in recruitment or looking to take the next step in your career, Advance TRS is a place where you can make a real impact, build meaningful relationships, and grow alongside a passionate team.
Interested in joining us? Discover more about career opportunities with Advance TRS and take the next step towards a fulfilling career in recruitment, here.
At Advance TRS, we understand that each person’s career journey is different, and we’re committed to supporting our team members as they work towards their professional goals. Through dedicated career coaching, structured mentorship programs, and personalised development plans, we empower our staff to grow and excel in their roles.
Our approach isn’t a one-size-fits-all model; instead, we work closely with each team member to create a tailored roadmap that aligns with their ambitions and strengths, helping them thrive in a rewarding and challenging career.
Career Coaching
Career coaching is a key part of how we support development at Advance TRS. Our experienced leaders work with team members to identify strengths, overcome challenges, and set realistic, inspiring goals. Whether you’re looking to advance within your current role or explore new areas, career coaching provides the guidance and clarity needed to help you make confident, informed decisions about your future.
The career coaching process is ongoing, ensuring that as your career evolves, so do the support and resources available to you. Through regular check-ins and constructive feedback, our coaches work closely with team members to address any obstacles, refine skills, and celebrate achievements.
Mentorship is another cornerstone of our approach to career development. Our team of experienced professionals offer valuable insights, practical advice, and encouragement to new team members, helping them gain new perspectives and build the skills necessary to excel in their roles.
Our team are passionate about sharing their expertise and helping new team members grow within the company. Through this guidance, team members not only develop professionally but also build meaningful connections with their colleagues. This supportive network fosters an environment where everyone can learn from each other, contributing to a collaborative culture that strengthens the team as a whole.
Personalised Development Plans
Recognising that each team member’s career path is unique, we prioritise personalised development plans as part of our commitment to growth. These plans are designed in collaboration with the individual, allowing us to create a tailored strategy that reflects their aspirations and career goals. By setting clear objectives and actionable steps, our personalised development plans ensure each team member has a roadmap for their journey with Advance TRS.
Personalised development plans are flexible and dynamic, evolving with everyone’s career as they reach new milestones and identify new areas of interest – giving our team members control over their professional development, empowering them to shape their careers and pursue their goals with confidence.
Empowering Your Growth with Advance TRS
At Advance TRS, we’re dedicated to fostering an environment where team members can grow, succeed, and build long-lasting careers – ensuring that each person has the support, resources, and encouragement needed to reach their full potential.
Ready to take the next step? Discover the opportunities we have available at Advance TRS and see how we can help you reach your career goals, here.
With the likes of ChatGPT and other AI tools changing and reshaping the ways industries work – the recruitment industry hasn’t been left behind. Many are finding that these tools are streamlining processes, matching candidates to jobs faster, and providing valuable insights for hiring decisions without even opening a CV. However, at Advance TRS, we believe that while these advancements enhance efficiency, they should never replace the personal touch that defines effective recruitment. Relationships remain at the heart of our approach, and it’s this commitment to human connection that sets us apart.
Why Relationships Matter in Recruitment
In our experience, successful recruitment is built on trust, understanding, and genuine connections with people. Each candidate we work with has unique skills, experiences, and career aspirations, while each client brings a distinct vision, culture, and set of needs. This understanding drives us to look beyond just the technical requirements of a role or a candidate’s CV. By engaging with candidates and clients personally, we’re able to understand not only what they need but also what motivates them, creating a more accurate and meaningful fit.
As more tools appear and technology continues to advance, many recruitment tasks have become more automated, from applicant tracking systems to AI-driven candidate matching. These tools undoubtedly support the efficiency of recruitment processes, but they can lack the nuance that human relationships provide. For us, we see automation as a way to enhance our capabilities—not replace the personal interactions that are key to long-term success.
By maintaining a people-first approach, our consultants can offer a supportive and responsive recruitment experience that technology alone cannot achieve. We focus on active listening and open communication, building relationships that last beyond a single placement. This dedication to personal engagement allows us to not only meet immediate needs but also support clients and candidates as their goals and circumstances evolve.
Why We Prioritise the Personal Touch
For our team, recruitment is not simply about filling a vacancy; it’s about fostering a mutually beneficial relationship. By investing in each connection, we offer a consultative service that helps candidates and clients alike navigate the complexities of today’s job market. When candidates join our network, they know they’re not just numbers in a database; they are valued individuals whose aspirations and concerns matter to us. The same goes for our clients, who appreciate the consultative support we offer as they grow their teams with skilled professionals who are committed to their vision.
How Relationships Impact Quality of Service
Our consultative approach enables us to better support our clients and candidates, ensuring we place the right people in the right roles every time. Through building these relationships, we have seen candidates return to us when they are ready to make their next career move, and clients repeatedly trust us with their hiring needs. This strong network underscores the reputation of Advance TRS as a recruitment consultancy that delivers an honest, quality service and a personal commitment to every relationship we form.
Building Connections for the Future
As recruitment continues to evolve, the personal touch remains an essential aspect of our work. We are committed to maintaining and growing our network through genuine relationships, helping us better serve both candidates and clients. Human connection is something tech can enhance, but never replace, and it’s what continues to make recruitment meaningful to us and valuable to those we serve.
Ready for a recruitment experience where relationships come first? See how Advance TRS can help you achieve your career or hiring goals today, here.
In a competitive job market, having opportunities to grow into leadership roles is essential for career-focused professionals. At Advance TRS, we support ambitious team members in building the skills and experience necessary to succeed in management roles, empowering them to advance within our company. Here’s how we help our employees develop as leaders and grow their careers.
Clear Career Progression Paths
For team members aiming to advance, we outline clear steps for career progression within Advance TRS. These paths provide guidance on the skills and competencies necessary for different roles, including leadership positions. By ensuring transparency in the steps needed to progress, we help our team members understand the requirements and reach their goals effectively.
Advance TRS is committed to helping staff continuously enhance their skills, offering a range of development opportunities suited to both aspiring leaders and experienced professionals. Our approach may include tailored coaching programmes, courses, or other resources to ensure team members are ready to take on the responsibilities that come with leadership roles.
Mentorship and Guidance from Senior Leaders
Our leaders are dedicated to supporting the growth of each team member. Senior leaders provide guidance and mentorship to help employees achieve their professional aspirations, whether that’s through formal mentoring or regular check-ins with weekly 1to1s and monthly’s. By sharing insights and advice, our leaders offer valuable support, helping team members navigate their career journey.
An Environment that Encourages Growth
A supportive culture is essential for anyone looking to advance in their career, and at Advance TRS, we work hard to create an environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Our team members are encouraged to take on new challenges, lead projects, and actively participate in initiatives that build their experience and confidence.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?
Advance TRS is committed to empowering our team members to achieve their career goals and realise their potential. We provide the structure, support, and opportunities needed to grow into leadership roles within our team.
Interested in a career with growth opportunities? Explore our available roles and see how we can help take your career to the next level, here.
In a fast-evolving industry such as engineering – many professionals worry that a career gap might hinder any potential jobs. However, taking time away from work is becoming increasingly common and can offer new skills and perspectives. Whether your gap was due to family responsibilities, personal health, or a chance to pursue other interests- we’re here to help you effectively address your time away and set yourself up for success in your return to the industry! Here are some strategies to help you explain your career gap and improve your employability as you re-enter the workforce.
Be Transparent and Confident When Explaining Gaps
When discussing a career gap, honesty is crucial. Employers always appreciate transparency, and you don’t need to go into every detail. Instead, focus on briefly explaining the reason for your break and then emphasise your eagerness to rejoin the engineering field.
For example, you could say something on the lines of: “I took a year off to focus on personal development and I’m now motivated and ready to bring my renewed focus and skills back to engineering.”
This approach shows that you acknowledge the gap positively but shifts the conversation to what you’re currently looking forward to in your career.
Transferable Skills
Even if you weren’t working in an engineering role during your time off, there are often valuable skills you can bring from other experiences. Think about whether you engaged in any project work, freelance tasks, or had any community involvement that developed skills relevant to engineering roles, such as project management, leadership, or problem-solving.
Highlighting these transferable skills on your CV and in interviews can make a big difference. For example, if you worked on personal projects, managed a home renovation, or led a community initiative – emphasise the ways in which those responsibilities have prepared you for this next role.
Staying up to date on the latest industry practices can show potential employers your commitment to advancing in your field. There are many certifications and training options available that can help bridge any skills gap from your time away. Consider popular courses and certifications available to you online or in person, doing any health and safety certifications, or software courses related to industry-standard tools.
Taking these courses not only updates your technical knowledge but also demonstrates your adaptability—a valuable trait in any engineering role.
Networking
Re-establishing connections in the industry is essential for returning after a gap. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, or contacts in the field, and attend industry events or conferences. Online platforms like LinkedIn and engineering-specific forums can be useful for expanding your professional network as well.
Attending these kinds of events or participating in online discussions keeps you informed about industry developments, helping you to feel more prepared as you look for new opportunities.
A contract or project-based role can be a good way to ease back into the workforce. These roles often provide the flexibility to start rebuilding your skills and confidence in a structured environment while allowing you to decide if you’re ready for a permanent position later on.
As a specialist recruitment consultancy in the built environment, Advance TRS has access to a variety of project roles that are perfect for those looking to rebuild momentum in their careers. Contracting can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise, adapt to new industry standards, and work on high-impact projects.
Navigating a career gap may seem challenging, but with a few proactive strategies, you can position yourself as a confident, capable and candidate ready to take on the next opportunity. If you’re looking for support in your return to engineering, our team at Advance TRS is here to help. We understand the unique challenges of a career gap and are dedicated to matching skilled engineers with roles that suit their experience and aspirations.
Experienced in engineering and ready to rejoin the workforce? Explore our current roles, here!
At Advance TRS, we pride ourselves on being more than just a recruitment service. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our role as a consultative partner for our clients, ensuring that we deliver tailored, high-quality recruitment solutions while building strong, long lasting relationships. Here’s how our consultative approach sets us apart and allows us to provide an exceptional experience to our clients.
A Client-Centric Approach
Our consultative approach begins with truly understanding our clients’ needs. We don’t just aim to fill vacancies—we partner with each organisation to grasp the unique requirements, challenges, and goals of their business. By getting to know our clients at a deeper level, we can offer tailored solutions that ensure a perfect match between the roles and the professionals we recommend.
Through ongoing conversations and close collaboration, we become an extension of our clients’ teams, offering strategic insights and advice to help shape their recruitment strategy. This enables us to anticipate their needs, adapt to market trends, and deliver value that goes beyond the hiring process.
High Quality Service Every Step of the Way
At Advance TRS, we understand that quality matters. From the moment we engage with a client, our focus is on delivering exceptional service throughout the entire recruitment journey. We adhere to rigorous standards of quality, ensuring that every candidate we put forward meets not only the technical qualifications but also aligns with the company culture and long-term objectives.
This dedication to quality ensures that we’re placing candidates who are not just the right fit for the role but also for the organisation. Our commitment to providing high quality service builds trust with our clients and strengthens our relationship with them over time.
For Advance TRS, success is measured by the relationships we build. We value long-term partnerships with our clients, seeing ourselves as more than just a recruitment service provider. By maintaining open communication and delivering consistent results, we ensure that our relationships with clients grow stronger over time.
Our consultative partnership model allows us to remain engaged with clients even after placements are made. We follow up to ensure that both the candidate and the employer are thriving, providing ongoing support and adjusting if necessary. This proactive approach builds confidence in our services and allows us to retain lasting, trusted relationships with our clients.
Experience the Difference of a Consultative Partner
Advance TRS isn’t just about providing recruitment solutions—it’s about partnering with you to drive long-term success. As a consultative partner, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and goals, ensuring a seamless and collaborative recruitment process. Our client-centric approach, high-quality service, and commitment to building lasting relationships set us apart.
Experience the difference of a consultative partner – find out more about the services we offer, here.
We are excited to announce that on 27th November, Sam Riley, Recruitment Consultant at Advance TRS and Executive External Engagement Lead at Young Rail Professionals (YRP), will be hosting a YRP event in London, exploring the transformative power of Virtual Reality (VR) and Digital AI in the rail industry. The event, which is free for YRP members, promises an engaging and informative session, delving into the future of rail technology.
Sam has been a driving force in organising this event, bringing together industry professionals and innovative technology. On the day, he will be joined by Mark Robinson, Managing Director of Chrome Angel – a company at the forefront of digital transformation within rail. Mark’s extensive career and expertise in VR and AI will offer invaluable insights into how these technologies are reshaping rail engineering and operations.
Sam Riley
Sam Riley has made significant strides in both of his roles, specialising in recruiting skilled professionals across digital engineering, cybersecurity, software, and systems engineering, particularly within the rail, defence, aviation, and other public sectors.
He has been instrumental in fostering partnerships between rail organisations and the YRP, promoting collaboration and supporting the development of young talent. Sam’s journey in the rail sector is a testament to his dedication, and hosting this event further highlights his commitment to advancing both recruitment and digital engineering within the rail industry.
Mark Robinson: VR & Digital AI in Rail
Mark Robinson, Managing Director at Chrome Angel, brings over 30 years of expertise in the rail industry. From his early career at London Underground to his role at Chrome Angel, Mark has championed the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in rail. Chrome Angel is known for its work in VR & AR, machine learning, remote monitoring, and data analytics, all designed to improve rail operations and asset management.
Attendees at the event will also have the exciting opportunity to experience Chrome Angel’s Rail Simulator equipment, including VR headsets and iPads, giving a real-world application of how these technologies can enhance the rail industry.
Why Attend?
This event will provide attendees with:
Expert insights into VR and AI applications in rail
Hands-on experience with advanced simulator equipment
Opportunities to network with industry professionals and peers
A look into how digital engineering is shaping the future of rail
This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and explore how technology is transforming rail.
Register Now
Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot for this exciting event, here!
At Advance TRS, we understand that recruitment is about more than just placing candidates into roles and there are different career paths to explore. Behind every successful placement and client partnership, there is a diverse team of business services professionals working in roles that are critical to our operations and keeping the business running smoothly. Allowing our recruiters to focus on what they do best—connecting top talent with exciting opportunities!
In this blog, we delve into the wide range of alternative career paths within the business services team at Advance TRS, aside from a career in recruitment. From finance and compliance to marketing and HR – whilst recruiters are often the face of the business, these roles make an impact behind the scenes and are essential to the success of the company, offering exciting opportunities.
Key Roles in the Business Services Team:
Finance and Payroll
The Advance TRS payroll team take care of the payroll for both Advance TRS and our sister company CITILINE – from contractor onboarding to looking after client accounts and credit control. Each team member plays an important role in making this as seamless as possible for candidates, contractors and clients.
Whilst also internally, managing everything from employee payroll to invoicing clients and keeping the company’s finances in check.
Playing a key role in both the external image of Advance TRS and the internal culture, from running impactful campaigns to ensuring a positive employee experience, our marketing and HR team is integral to making Advance TRS a great place to work and a trusted brand for clients and candidates alike.
From fun TikTok’s to keeping the Advance TRS LinkedIn updated with the latest Hot Jobs and company news – our marketing team is responsible for driving brand visibility and generating leads. Whilst our HR team takes care of all things employee engagement, events, well-being, talent acquisition, and professional development within the company.
In an industry as regulated as the built environment and recruitment, compliance is crucial. Our Compliance team ensures that Advance TRS adheres to all legal and regulatory standards, manages contracts, and ensures all candidate and client documentation is in order. They are responsible for safeguarding the integrity of the company and making sure every transaction is fully compliant with industry rules.
The Sales Support team is the engine behind the scenes that enables our recruitment consultants to focus on delivering exceptional service to clients and candidates. They handle administrative tasks, ensure the accuracy of client and candidate data, and assist with the logistical aspects of recruitment. Without them, our consultants wouldn’t be able to perform at their best.
Our Health and Safety, Bids & Audits team look after the safety and wellbeing of contractors and internal employees, supporting us to stay healthy and supported throughout our work. The team are also responsible for maintaining company policies and procedures and processes to maintain our RISQs certification and ISO 9001, 27001 and 45001 accreditations. Our bids team support the sales team to ensure all sales pitches, supplier questionnaires, bids and tenders are accurate and evidenced.
Opportunities for Growth and Development
Just like our recruitment team, the Business Services team has access to a range of professional development opportunities. We invest in our people, offering training programs and clear career progression paths to help you grow and advance in your career. Whether you want to move into management or develop a specialization, we’ll support your journey.
A Supportive, Inclusive Environment
We’re proud of the inclusive culture we’ve built at Advance TRS, where all team member’s contributions are valued. Whether you’re in recruitment or business services, we make sure everyone feels part of the team and that their work is recognised and appreciated.
Interested in a career outside of recruitment? Explore our current opportunities, here.
In the fast-paced world of recruitment, the ability to understand clients’ needs are essential. For sales professionals, this is second nature—your ability to build relationships and tailor solutions is exactly what makes you an asset in recruitment. This blog explores how your client-centric skills can seamlessly transfer into recruitment, helping you thrive in a new field.
The Power of Client-Centric Solutions
Sales professionals thrive on client relationships, often spending considerable time understanding their clients’ unique challenges, goals, and dynamics. This client-focused mindset is directly transferable to recruitment. Just as salespeople tailor their offerings to meet client needs, recruitment consultants must actively listen and adapt their strategies to deliver the best talent solutions.
By leveraging insights gathered from client interactions, recruitment professionals can offer bespoke solutions that resonate with client expectations. This consultative approach fosters trust, allowing recruiters to act as strategic partners rather than just service providers.
Delivering Value Beyond Candidate Placement
In recruitment, delivering value means not only finding suitable candidates but also enhancing the overall hiring experience for clients. A recruiter who understands the nuances of a client’s industry, company culture, and specific requirements can provide invaluable insights that go beyond a standard candidate search.
For instance, understanding whether a client prioritises cultural fit, technical expertise, or leadership potential can inform how recruiters present candidates. This tailored approach results in higher satisfaction rates for clients and candidates alike, leading to successful placements and long-term partnerships.
The Consultative Approach to Recruitment
A consultative recruitment approach involves ongoing communication and collaboration between recruiters and clients. By asking the right questions and encouraging open dialogue, recruiters can uncover deeper insights into the client’s needs.
Sales professionals are skilled at asking probing questions to understand the full context of a client’s requirements. By applying this technique in recruitment, they can better assess which candidates will align with the client’s expectations, ultimately leading to successful outcomes.
Ready to Transition Your Skills to Recruitment?
Are you a sales professional ready for a new challenge? Your ability to understand client needs, build relationships, and deliver tailored solutions is highly transferable to recruitment. At Advance TRS, we recognise the value of your experience and are ready to help you make the transition.
Explore our current openings and discover how you can apply your client-centric expertise to connect top talent with leading organisations.
Join us today and take the next step in your career – view our current opportunities, here.
At Advance TRS, we believe that success isn’t just about delivering exceptional recruitment services—it’s about making a lasting, positive impact on the communities we serve. As a rapidly growing recruitment consultancy, we are committed to giving back through various charitable and community-focused initiatives. Whether it’s volunteering our time, raising funds for important causes, or sponsoring local events, we’re passionate about making a difference.
Volunteering: Giving Time to Make a Difference
We believe that everyone has the power to contribute to their community, and we actively encourage our team to get involved through volunteering. From participating in charity events to supporting local causes, our employees are dedicated to making a difference beyond the workplace. Volunteering provides our team with an opportunity to give back while building strong connections with their colleagues and the local community.
Charity Fundraising: Raising Funds for Causes That Matter
Our commitment to charity is one of the core values that define Advance TRS. Over the years, we have proudly raised over £100,000 for various charities, including Railway Children, Water Aid, and Macmillan Cancer Support. We’ve taken part in an array of fundraising challenges, from Tough Mudder’s and fire walks to mountain climbs and marathons. These events not only help raise vital funds for important causes but also foster a sense of camaraderie and team spirit within our business.
Whether we’re riding 100 miles for charity or doing a sponsored walk, we are always looking for new and exciting ways to support the charities we care about. And our ambition doesn’t stop here—we’re eager to continue growing our charitable efforts and raise even more in the years to come.
We’re also passionate about supporting local organisations and events through sponsorships. By partnering with local businesses, schools, and sports teams, we aim to foster long-term relationships that benefit our community. Our sponsorship efforts provide essential funding for local projects and create opportunities for young people and community groups to grow and thrive.
Training Opportunities: Building Skills in the Community
At Advance TRS, we’re not only focused on recruitment but also on nurturing talent and offering training opportunities to help individuals in our community develop valuable skills. We offer work experience placements, training programmes, and opportunities for young professionals to gain insight into the recruitment industry. By investing in people, we aim to create a lasting positive impact that helps build stronger, more resilient communities.
At Advance TRS, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made in our local communities, and we’re always looking for new ways to expand our reach. Whether through volunteering, charity fundraising, local sponsorships, or providing training opportunities, we’re dedicated to making a real difference.
Are you an experienced recruiter looking for the next challenge in your career? At Advance TRS, we provide a unique opportunity to elevate your career with your experienced recruitment expertise by offering access to major projects, working alongside a high-performing team, and leadership roles within a company known for its integrity and quality.
Why Choose Advance TRS?
As a leading specialist recruitment consultancy in the built environment, Advance TRS supports ambitious recruiters in taking their careers to the next level. Here’s why seasoned professionals should consider joining our team:
1. Higher Earning Potential
Advance TRS values the experience and skills that you bring to the table. With competitive packages and an uncapped commission structure, your hard work is directly reflected in your earning potential. We understand the importance of rewarding top performers and ensuring you are well compensated for your contributions.
Our team works on some of the largest and most exciting infrastructure projects across the UK and Ireland. With clients in sectors such as construction, rail, highways, water, and energy, recruiters at Advance TRS can work on high-profile placements that shape the future of key projects in the built environment. This exposure enables you to grow your expertise while connecting with some of the industry’s most influential organisations.
We believe in empowering our staff to achieve their full potential. At Advance TRS, we offer clear pathways for career progression, whether you’re looking to step into a leadership role or deepen your expertise in a specialised recruitment sector. You’ll be part of a company that is committed to continuous growth and development, giving you every opportunity to take on greater responsibility and achieve your career goals.
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. Our team of recruitment consultants is built around strong core values such as commitment, integrity, and collaboration. Working in top-performing teams means you’ll have the support and resources needed to succeed, surrounded by like-minded professionals who are just as passionate about delivering excellence.
For experienced recruiters ready to step into management, Advance TRS offers leadership opportunities where you can drive the success of your own team. Whether you’re building a niche sector or mentoring consultants that are just starting out, you’ll have the autonomy and support to make a lasting impact.
If you’re an experienced recruiter ready for more responsibility, higher earning potential, and the chance to work on big projects, Advance TRS is the place for you. Our focus on career progression and high-performance culture means there’s no limit to what you can achieve!
Experienced in recruitment? See how Advance TRS the roles we have available, here.
Whether you’re accepting a new job offer or seeking a raise in your current role, knowing how to negotiate a salary is essential. It can be intimidating, but with the right preparation and approach, you can secure a salary that reflects your value. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when negotiating a salary.
Do Your Research
Before entering any salary negotiation, it’s vital to know your market value. Research salary ranges for your role based on industry standards, your location, and your experience level. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and industry-specific salary reports can provide valuable insights. Additionally, speaking to recruiters or industry professionals can give you a better understanding of what others in your field are earning.
By building up your knowledge base with data, you will be able to confidently present a reasonable figure and back it up with market trends.
Work with Your Recruitment Consultant
Partnering with a recruitment consultant can significantly strengthen your position during salary negotiations. As experts in the job market, they have access to up-to-date salary data and insights into what companies are willing to offer for roles like yours.
Your consultant can act as a valuable mediator, advocating for your desired compensation while maintaining a positive relationship with the employer. They can help frame your requests professionally, ensuring the negotiation process stays balanced and collaborative. Additionally, they’ll often know what benefits or perks are negotiable, allowing you to secure a better overall package.
Evaluate the Entire Compensation Package
When negotiating salary with a potential employer, remember that base salary is only part of the overall compensation package. Benefits such as bonuses, healthcare, pension contributions, holiday entitlement, flexible working, and even stock options can add substantial value.
If the employer’s budget is tight or they can’t meet your ideal salary, negotiating on these other aspects can make the overall offer more attractive. Be open to discussing the full package to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Timing is Key
When joining a new company, the best time to negotiate salary is after you’ve received the job offer rather than beforehand. Employers expect negotiations at this stage, so it’s the perfect moment to raise your requests.
However, avoid bringing up salary too early in the interview process, as it can give the impression that you’re more focused on pay than the role itself. Let the employer see your enthusiasm for the position and wait until they’re keen to hire you before discussing money.
Understand Your Value to the Company
When a company is eager to hire you, it’s because they believe you will bring value to the team. Reflect on your unique skills, qualifications, and experience that set you apart from other candidates. Think about how you can solve problems for them or help them achieve their goals. This understanding strengthens your position during salary negotiations.
During the discussion, reference specific skills, accomplishments, or certifications that make you a strong fit for the role. This helps the employer see why paying a higher salary is a good investment in your potential.
Stay Flexible
While salary is a key part of the negotiation, flexibility in your approach can help you reach a better outcome. If the company can’t meet your salary expectations, consider negotiating other perks like professional development opportunities, career progression plans, or an earlier salary review.
You can also explore things like remote working options or reduced commuting expenses, which might improve your work-life balance and make the offer more attractive overall.
Negotiating your salary when joining a new company can be nerve-racking but by doing your research, understanding your value, and staying professional throughout the process, you’ll be in a strong position to secure a fair offer. Remember, the negotiation is a two-way conversation, and with the right approach, you can find a salary and benefits package that works for both you and your future employer.
Looking to change careers? Take a look at the roles we have available, here.
Are you ready to embark on an exciting and rewarding recruitment career? At Advance TRS, we offer entry-level opportunities for ambitious individuals looking to start their journey in the recruitment industry. With comprehensive training, mentorship, and fast-track career paths, we ensure that our resourcers have all the tools needed to succeed and thrive in their roles.
Why Start Your Recruitment Career with Advance TRS?
As a specialist recruitment consultancy in the built environment, we provide a platform for entry-level recruiters to gain invaluable experience and build successful careers. Here’s what you can expect from joining our team:
1. Skills Required for Success
Recruitment is a dynamic and people-centric career, requiring a combination of communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills. At entry-level, we look for individuals who are driven, resilient, and eager to learn. While no prior experience in recruitment is necessary, a passion for connecting people with opportunities and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are key.
If you’re someone who enjoys building relationships and is motivated by results, recruitment could be the perfect career for you.
At Advance TRS, we believe in setting our new recruiters up for success from day one. Through our structured training and development programmes, you will learn the ins and outs of the recruitment process, from understanding client needs to mastering candidate management. We provide all the tools and resources you need to thrive, ensuring that you are fully equipped to start making an impact.
Our training is designed to fast-track your development, enabling you to quickly take on responsibilities and build your portfolio of clients and candidates.
At Advance TRS, we understand the importance of guidance when starting a new career. That’s why we pair all our new starters with experienced mentors who provide continuous support and advice. Working alongside industry experts, you’ll gain insights into best practices and receive valuable feedback that will help you grow and develop as a consultant.
You won’t be doing it alone—our collaborative environment ensures that you’re supported every step of the way.
We recognise and reward talent and ambition. For high-performing individuals, Advance TRS offers fast-track career paths that enable you to progress quickly through the ranks. Whether you aim to specialise in a particular sector or want to lead a team, there’s plenty of room for growth and progression within our company. We provide opportunities to take on more responsibility as you gain experience, helping you shape the career you want.
Starting your recruitment career at Advance TRS opens up a world of opportunities. With a solid foundation in recruitment, you can advance to roles such as Senior Consultant and Account Manager. As you build your expertise and client relationships, you’ll have the chance to influence major infrastructure projects and contribute to shaping the future of key industries across the UK and Ireland.
If you’re looking for a career where you can make a real impact, Advance TRS offers an exciting path with plenty of growth opportunities. With comprehensive training, mentorship, and the potential for rapid progression, this is your chance to build a rewarding career in recruitment!
Ready to start your journey in recruitment? Check out our positions, here.
At Advance TRS, we understand that strong relationships are the foundation of success in any field—particularly in both sales and recruitment. In both industries, the ability to build long-term, trusting relationships is what separates top performers from the rest. Whether it’s nurturing client relationships or connecting with candidates, the principles remain the same.
Do you have what it takes to use your relationship building skills to pursue a career in recruitment? Here are some of the transferrable skills you can use to boost your start in recruitment.
Long-Term Relationship Building
In recruitment, just as in sales, developing relationships that stand the test of time is key. It’s not just about making one placement or closing one deal—it’s about cultivating partnerships that last for years. By understanding our clients’ needs and ensuring we maintain open communication, we can position ourselves as trusted advisors – which is the same when it comes to candidates. When we help professionals secure their ideal roles, we also build a network of skilled individuals who return to us when it’s time for their next career move.
Trust and Stakeholder Management
Trust is at the heart of any successful relationship. Whether you’re working with clients, candidates, or internal stakeholders, trust ensures that people feel confident in your ability to deliver. Sales professionals often excel in this area because they understand the importance of clear communication, managing expectations, and always acting with integrity. In recruitment, these same qualities are crucial for building rapport with clients and candidates alike, ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected throughout the process.
Why Relationship Management Matters in Recruitment
At Advance TRS, we pride ourselves on creating long-lasting relationships that benefit both our clients and candidates. By taking the time to understand each parties goals and priorities, we ensure that we can consistently match top talent with the right opportunities. Our consultative approach to recruitment, built on trust and collaboration, is what sets us apart in the sectors we serve.
Great at building relationships? Use your expertise in recruitment—see the jobs we have available.
Navigating the job market in the built environment sector can be challenging. Partnering with a specialist recruitment consultancy like Advance TRS can make all the difference. Here’s how our expertise and services provide distinct advantages to help you find the right role.
In-Depth Industry Knowledge
At Advance TRS, our consultants have specialised knowledge across sectors in the built environment, including rail, construction, and engineering. We understand the nuances of these sectors, allowing us to match you with roles that perfectly fit your skills and career aspirations.
Current Market Trends
Our team keep up to date with the latest industry trends and demands. This means you receive valuable insights on emerging opportunities, in-demand skills, and market conditions, giving you a competitive edge in your job search.
Personalised Service
We take the time to understand your unique career goals, preferences, and strengths. By getting to know you and your professional background, we ensure that we match you with roles that align with your individual needs and ambitions.
Access to Exclusive Opportunities
Thanks to our strong industry connections, Advance TRS offers access to a wide range of job opportunities, including exclusive roles that aren’t advertised publicly. This gives you access to a broader spectrum of positions that might be a perfect fit for you.
Efficient Job Search
The recruitment process can be time-consuming and complex. We handle the legwork, from identifying suitable roles to preparing your CV and arranging interviews. This makes your job search more efficient and less stressful.
Expert Advice and Support
Our consultants provide expert advice on CV writing, interview preparation, and salary negotiations. We guide you through each step of the recruitment process, ensuring you present yourself effectively and secure the role that’s right for you.
Career Development
Working with Advance TRS isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about building a long-term career. We’re committed to your professional growth and providing you with ongoing support and advice as you advance in your career, helping you make informed decisions about future opportunities.
Ongoing Support
Even after you’ve secured a role, our support continues. We maintain relationships with both candidates and clients, offering continued assistance to ensure that you thrive in your new position and continue to grow professionally.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Role?
Partnering with a specialised recruitment consultancy like us provides you with expert knowledge, personalised job matching, and comprehensive support throughout the recruitment process. Let us help you navigate the job market and find the role that’s right for you.
Explore the opportunities available on our website and take the next step in your career.
Navigating the job market in the built environment sector can be challenging. To stand out in this competitive field, avoiding common application mistakes is crucial. Here’s a guide to the top 5 pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
1. Not Tailoring Your CV and Cover Letter
Tip: Customise your application for each role. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the job description and company’s needs.
Pitfall number one is sending generic applications to employers. In the built environment sector, where roles can vary significantly, a tailored CV and cover letter are essential to demonstrate your fit and showcasing your skills for a specific job.
2. Overlooking Keywords in Job Descriptions
Tip: Use keywords from the job description in your CV and cover letter to improve your chances of passing the ATS screening.
Many applications are filtered by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that search for specific keywords. Failing to include these can result in your application being overlooked.
3. Lack of Clear Career Progression
Tip: Show a clear career path with relevant roles and projects that highlight your development and expertise.
A CV that lacks a clear career trajectory can be confusing. Demonstrating how you’ve grown and specialised in your career is crucial in the built environment sector.
4. Inadequate Interview Preparation
Tip: Prepare for technical assessments with industry-specific questions and review common behavioural interview questions to showcase your fit for the role.
Technical and behavioural interviews are critical in the built environment sector. Insufficient preparation can impact your performance.
5. Poor Attention to Detail
Tip: Proofread your CV and cover letter multiple times and seek feedback from others to ensure accuracy and professionalism.
Errors in your application, such as typos or incorrect details, can undermine your professionalism. Attention to detail is key in a sector where precision matters.
How to Improve Your Chances of Success
Research the Employer: Understand the company’s projects and values to tailor your application effectively.
Network with Professionals: Build connections within the sector to gain insights and opportunities.
Engage in Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and consider further training to enhance your skills.
Seek Feedback: Get input on your CV and interview techniques to refine your approach.
By avoiding these common pitfalls and implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of landing a job in the built environment sector. Present a well-prepared, tailored application to stand out in this competitive field.
Follow us on LinkedIn to view our latest roles and opportunities, or sign up for our job alerts, here.
Choosing between contracting and a permanent role in the built environment can make a big difference to your career path and lifestyle. Both routes offer distinct advantages and challenges, making it crucial to consider which aligns best with your professional goals and personal preferences.
Contractor Roles: Flexibility and Independence
Pros:
Flexibility: Contracting in the built environment allows you to choose projects and set your own hours. This can be especially appealing for those who prefer varied work or wish to work remotely.
Higher Earning Potential: Contractors often have the opportunity to earn more per project compared to permanent roles, particularly if they have niche skills that are in high demand.
Diverse Experience: Working on different projects with various clients can provide a broad range of experience, from commercial buildings to infrastructure projects, enhancing your skills and portfolio.
Cons:
Inconsistent Income: The variability in project availability can lead to fluctuating income, which might be challenging if you prefer financial stability.
Lack of Benefits: Contractors do not typically receive benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, or pension contributions that are common in permanent positions.
Administrative Burden: Contractors must manage their own business tasks, including taxes, contracts, and client negotiations, which can be time-consuming.
Permanent Roles: Stability and Structured Growth
Pros:
Job Security: Permanent roles offer more financial stability and job security, which can be reassuring, especially in sectors like construction or infrastructure where long-term projects are prevalent.
Career Development: Permanent positions often come with clear career progression pathways, training opportunities, and professional development, helping you advance within the company.
Company Benefits: In addition to a steady salary, permanent employees typically receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Cons:
Less Flexibility: Permanent roles usually involve set working hours and less freedom to choose projects or work remotely, which might not suit those seeking flexibility.
Potential Monotony: Working for one employer may limit the variety of projects you work on, which could be less appealing if you thrive on diverse experiences.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Deciding between a contractor and a permanent role largely depends on your personal and professional priorities. If you value flexibility, diverse experiences, and are comfortable with the administrative aspects of freelancing, it might be the right path for you. On the other hand, if you prefer stability, structured career development, and comprehensive benefits, a permanent role could be more suitable.
Ready to explore your options?
Check out the latest roles available in the built environment on our website and find the perfect opportunity that matches your career goals, whether you’re considering a contractor role or seeking a permanent position.
At Advance TRS, our culture & core values aren’t just guidelines – we believe in them, and we recognise each of them in the way we act both with each other and with those we support.
Building Trust Through Integrity
For us, integrity is more than just a buzzword – it’s our promise. We commit to delivering only what we know we can achieve and take pride in being honest in every interaction. Whether we’re working with clients or supporting colleagues, transparency is key to building trust.
We know that challenges arise, but we face them head-on with openness, giving realistic timelines and asking for help when needed. This culture of honesty drives our strong relationships both inside and outside the company.
Dedication to Quality and Strong Connections
We believe quality should never be compromised, and our commitment to high standards is what sets us apart. From sourcing the best candidates to ensuring a smooth onboarding process, our dedication to excellence is consistent at every step.
Relationships are the foundation of our business. Whether it’s with clients, candidates, or colleagues, we work hard to build connections that last! This same dedication extends to how we treat each other within the team, ensuring everyone feels valued and empowered.
Teamwork and Collaboration Lead to Success
We’re strong believers that collaboration is key to achieving success. We work together—whether internally or alongside our clients—to meet shared goals. No two roles or projects are the same, so we take a tailored approach to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties.
This culture of teamwork is what drives our ability to consistently deliver the right results, ensuring that we meet both client expectations and personal development goals.
Our Values in Action
What makes Advance TRS unique is how our core values and personal qualities are intertwined to form the basis of the Advance TRS DNA we look for in every recruit:
These traits, alongside our core values of Integrity, Loyalty, Quality, Commitment, and Honesty, create an environment where success thrives, both for the business and for our employees. It’s a place where you can grow, challenge yourself, and be supported every step of the way.
Why Choose Us?
We don’t just talk about our values—we live them every day. Our ability to align these principles with our performance ensures that we’re not only delivering outstanding service to our clients but also fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive.
Want to work for a values-driven organisation? Explore the job opportunities we have available, here.
In today’s competitive job market, traditional methods of job hunting are no longer sufficient. To stay ahead, job seekers must embrace digital tools and strategic networking to uncover hidden opportunities that may not be advertised on conventional job boards. Here’s how you can leverage digital networking effectively to enhance your job search:
1. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn remains a cornerstone for professional networking and job searching. To maximise its potential:
Complete Your Profile: Ensure your profile is comprehensive and up-to-date. Include a professional photo, a compelling headline, and a detailed summary of your skills and experiences.
Highlight Achievements: Showcase key achievements and relevant skills that align with your career goals and target industries, such as rail, water & environment, or energy & renewables.
Join Industry Groups: Engage with industry-specific groups and communities to expand your network. Participate in discussions, share insights, and connect with professionals who can offer valuable advice or job leads.
In the era of remote work and virtual connectivity, attending online events is an excellent way to stay informed and network effectively:
Participate Actively: Register for virtual industry events, webinars, and conferences related to engineering and your specific job sectors. These events provide opportunities to learn about industry trends, advancements, and potential job openings.
Network Virtually: Take advantage of networking sessions during these events to connect with industry professionals, recruiters, and potential employers. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and exchange contact information to nurture valuable connections.
3. Network Strategically
Effective networking goes beyond online platforms—it involves building meaningful relationships:
Reach Out to Contacts: Leverage your existing network of alumni, colleagues, and industry contacts for informational interviews or casual coffee chats. These interactions can provide insights into company cultures, job roles, and potential opportunities.
Seek Referrals: Networking often leads to referrals for job openings that may not be publicly advertised. Building rapport with professionals in your industry increases your chances of receiving recommendations for suitable positions.
4. Utilise Job Search Engines and Niche Websites
While general job boards are useful, niche websites and specialised job search engines offer targeted opportunities:
Explore Niche Websites: Look for specialised job boards focusing on engineering sectors like rail, water & environment, bridges & highways, and more. These platforms often feature industry-specific vacancies that match your skills and interests.
Set Up Alerts: Create alerts on job search engines and niche websites to receive notifications about new job postings relevant to your expertise. This proactive approach ensures you stay informed about potential opportunities as soon as they become available.
At Advance TRS, we understand the importance of digital networking in today’s job market. Explore our comprehensive resources and expert guidance to support your career advancement in rail, water & environment, energy & renewables, and beyond. Connect with us today to discover how we can empower you to seize hidden opportunities and achieve your professional goals.
In today’s digital landscape, leveraging online platforms and networking strategically is essential for uncovering hidden job opportunities and advancing your career in engineering and specialised sectors. By optimising your LinkedIn profile, participating in virtual events, strategically networking with industry professionals, and exploring niche job boards, you can significantly enhance your job search effectiveness. At Advance TRS, we understand the importance of digital networking in today’s job market.
Explore our comprehensive resources and expert guidance to support your career advancement in rail, water & environment, energy & renewables, and beyond. Connect with us today to discover how we can empower you to seize hidden opportunities and achieve your professional goals.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Contact Advance TRS today and let us help you navigate the digital landscape with confidence.
Your CV is more than just a document—it’s your first opportunity to make a lasting impression on recruiters and hiring managers. Tailoring your CV specifically for engineering and specialised sectors such as rail, water & environment, bridges & highways, energy & renewables, buildings & groundwork, or aviation is crucial to showcasing your relevant skills and experiences effectively. Here’s how you can craft a standout CV that sets you apart:
1. Highlight Relevant Skills and Keywords
In the competitive field of engineering and specialised sectors, recruiters often look for specific technical proficiencies, certifications, and project experiences. To ensure your CV catches their attention:
Identify Key Skills: Review job descriptions of positions you’re targeting to identify the essential skills and qualifications. These could include software proficiencies, technical expertise (e.g., CAD software, project management tools), and industry-specific knowledge.
Incorporate Keywords: Integrate these identified skills and keywords throughout your CV, especially in your summary, skills section, and experience descriptions. This not only aligns your CV with the job requirements but also helps with applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan CVs for relevant keywords.
2. Quantify Achievements
Numbers and metrics speak volumes in demonstrating your impact and achievements. When describing your work experiences:
Use Concrete Examples: Quantify your achievements with specific numbers and metrics wherever possible. For instance, highlight cost savings achieved through process improvements, percentage reductions in project timelines, or increases in efficiency and productivity.
Showcase Results: Illustrate how your contributions positively impacted previous employers or projects. Whether it’s completing projects under budget, exceeding performance targets, or successfully implementing solutions, quantify these achievements to substantiate your capabilities.
3. Customise for Each Application
Resist the urge to use a generic CV for multiple job applications. Instead:
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV for each job application by emphasising skills, experiences, and achievements most relevant to the specific role and company. This tailored approach demonstrates your genuine interest and alignment with the employer’s needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Prioritise and showcase experiences that directly relate to the job requirements and industry focus. This targeted approach helps recruiters quickly see your suitability for the position.
4. Professional Summary
At the top of your CV, include a concise professional summary that serves as your elevator pitch:
Highlight Your Career Goals: Briefly outline your career objectives and aspirations within the engineering or specialised sectors. This helps recruiters understand your motivations and career trajectory.
Key Qualifications: Summarise your key qualifications, including your most relevant skills, certifications, and years of experience. This section provides a snapshot of your strengths and capabilities right from the start.
At Advance TRS, our recruitment consultants are dedicated to helping you navigate the competitive job market with confidence. When you partner with an Advance TRS consultant, you gain access to expert guidance tailored to enhance your CV and maximize your job search success. Our consultants offer personalized support in identifying and highlighting your key skills, certifications, and industry-specific experience relevant to sectors such as rail, water & environment, bridges & highways, energy & renewables, buildings & groundwork, and aviation.
They provide valuable insights into current industry trends and employer expectations, ensuring your CV stands out to recruiters and hiring managers. Moreover, working with a recruitment consultant at Advance TRS means you benefit from our extensive network of industry contacts and exclusive job opportunities. Whether you’re seeking career advice, interview preparation, or targeted job placements, our consultants are committed to empowering you throughout your professional journey. Partner with Advance TRS today and let us help you achieve your career goals with confidence and expertise.
Crafting a standout CV tailored for engineering and specialised sectors requires a strategic approach that aligns your skills and experiences with the specific demands of the industry. By highlighting relevant skills, quantifying achievements, customising for each application, and including a compelling professional summary, you can significantly increase your chances of securing interviews and advancing your career goals.
At Advance TRS, we understand the importance of a well-crafted CV in achieving career success. Explore our comprehensive resources and upskilling programs designed to support engineering professionals across rail, water & environment, bridges & highways, energy & renewables, buildings & groundworks and aviation, and more. Let us empower you to stand out in your job search journey and reach new heights in your career.
Connect with us today to learn more about how we can help you craft a CV that makes a powerful impact.
The Advance TRS team, including members Jake, Sam, Mike, Sissy, Lauren, Simon, Rob, Charlie, Alex, and Jake J, is preparing for the WaterAid Dragon Boat Race on 11th July. This exciting event aims to raise awareness and funds for WaterAid’s mission to provide clean water and hygiene education to those in need.
“Signing up for dragon boat race seemed like a great way to challenge myself, work in a team and raise money for an important cause”
Mike Buttler Recruitment Consultant
About the event
Dragon boat racing is a traditional Chinese sport that dates back over 2,000 years and is now one of the fastest-growing corporate sports in the UK. The WaterAid Dragon Boat Race is an exciting event that combines the thrill of competition with the mission of improving global access to clean water. Teams from various organizations come together to paddle towards victory while raising funds for WaterAid. These funds are crucial in supporting sustainable water projects and educating communities on hygiene practices.
Spread the word: Share their mission on social media to help raise awareness about the global water crisis and the importance of clean water and sanitation.
Cheer them on: Join the event on 11th July to support the Advance TRS team.
WaterAid
WaterAid is dedicated to addressing the global water crisis. Currently 771 million people lack access to clean water close to home, impacting education, livelihoods, and health. Supporting WaterAid through events like the Dragon Boat Race can transform lives and communities by providing essential water and hygiene solutions. Together, we can ensure that everyone has access to clean water, creating a healthier future for all.. Read more about the charity here
Advance TRS
At Advance TRS, our commitment to personal challenge and community support Is at the heart of our company. Under the leadership of our Founder and Managing Director, Andy, we have embraced fundraising as a core principle, raising over £85.000 for impactful charities like Railway Children and Action for Children.
We are actively seeking new team members! Visit our “Work for Us” page to explore the exciting opportunities we currently have available.
Join us in supporting the Advance TRS team at the WaterAid Dragon Boat Race and contribute to a cause that brings clean water and hope to millions around the world.
Navigating the job market as a technical professional can be challenging, whether you’re a seasoned engineer or just starting your career in the technical field. Recruitment agencies offer a unique set of advantages that can streamline your job search and provide valuable support throughout the process. At Advance TRS, we understand the specific needs of technical professionals, and our tailored recruitment services can help you find your ideal role. Here’s why working with a recruitment agency can be a game-changer for your career.
1. Expert Insights into the Recruitment Process
Recruitment agencies like Advance TRS have a deep understanding of the hiring landscape in various technical industries. Our consultants are experts in their fields and can guide you through every step of the recruitment process. From resume preparation to interview coaching, we offer personalised advice to help you stand out to potential employers. With our expertise, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the job search.
2. Access to Exclusive Job Opportunities
One of the most significant benefits of working with a recruitment agency is access to a broader range of job opportunities. Agencies often have established relationships with leading companies and receive job openings that may not be publicly advertised. This gives you an edge in finding unique positions that match your skills and career aspirations. Whether you’re seeking contract work, permanent placements, or executive roles, a recruitment agency can connect you with positions you might not find on your own.
Recruitment agencies offer more than just job placements; they provide ongoing career guidance to help you achieve your professional goals. At Advance TRS, our consultants take the time to understand your career aspirations and work with you to identify suitable opportunities. We offer support in developing your career path, identifying areas for skill enhancement, and providing feedback for continuous improvement. Our goal is to help you build a successful and fulfilling career.
Recruitment agencies use advanced tools and technology to match candidates with suitable job openings. This means you spend less time searching for roles and more time preparing for interviews and honing your skills. Our streamlined job matching process ensures that you receive relevant job offers that align with your experience, qualifications, and career goals.
5. Reduced Stress and Time Savings
Searching for a job can be time-consuming and stressful. Working with a recruitment agency can alleviate this burden by handling much of the job search process on your behalf. At Advance TRS, we manage job applications, interview scheduling, and offer negotiations, allowing you to focus on preparing for your new role. This level of support can significantly reduce stress and save you valuable time.
Experience the Advance TRS Difference
If you’re a technical professional looking for your next career move, Advance TRS is here to help. Our team of experienced consultants specializes in technical recruitment and is dedicated to helping you find the perfect role.
In the dynamic world of technical recruitment within the built environment, industry professionals often encounter unique challenges that require innovative solutions. Navigating the complexities of identifying, attracting, and retaining top-tier technical talent demands a strategic approach. In this blog post, we delve into the common challenges faced in technical recruitment and explore actionable solutions to address these issues.
Talent Shortage in Specialised Areas– Foster Skills Development Initiatives and Look for Transferrable Skills
The shortage of qualified candidates in specialised technical areas can hinder recruitment efforts. To overcome this challenge, companies can invest in skills development initiatives. Collaborate with educational institutions, offer training programs, and support certifications to build a pipeline of skilled professionals.
At Advance TRS, when collaborating with clients on specialised and underrepresented skill sets, our approach involves a consultative partnership with both the hiring community and HR teams. We aim to discern market constraints and challenges, offering tailored solutions that address these issues by delving into the fundamental requirements for each role. Our team engages in discussions to broaden the talent pool by exploring options such as role adjustments, balancing both soft skills and experience, identifying transferable skills, and considering talent from related industries. The goal is to cultivate a community of prospective talent by proactively addressing market dynamics and fostering inclusivity in recruitment practices.
Competing for Top Talent – Strengthen Employer Branding
Attracting the best technical talent often involves fierce competition. Strengthen your employer brand by showcasing the exciting projects your company is involved in, emphasising a positive workplace culture, and highlighting career advancement opportunities. An attractive employer brand can significantly increase the appeal of your organisation.
For our clients seeking elevated service levels, Advance TRS offers bespoke employer branding packages tailored to individual requirements. These comprehensive packages encompass a range of options, from dedicated employer mini-sites to impactful PR campaigns and meticulously planned recruitment events. Functioning as your dedicated talent partner, Advance TRS serves as your representative in the talent market, effectively showcasing your brand as an employer of choice.
Our team goes beyond the surface, investing time to comprehend your business culture, values, employee offerings, project pipeline and career development opportunities. This holistic understanding allows us to authentically represent your business, ensuring we not only meet your skill requirements but also find candidates who seamlessly align with your organisational culture.
Lengthy Recruitment Processes – Streamline and Optimise Recruitment Processes
Lengthy and cumbersome recruitment processes can deter potential candidates. Streamline and optimise your recruitment processes by utilising technology, implementing efficient applicant tracking systems, and minimising unnecessary stages. A swift and well-organised process enhances the candidate experience and increases the likelihood of securing top talent.
At Advance TRS, our commitment extends beyond connecting clients with top-tier talent – we actively support organisations in streamlining and optimising their recruitment processes. We leverage advanced technologies, implement effective applicant tracking systems, and strategically minimise unnecessary stages in the recruitment journey.
By doing so, we enhance the overall candidate experience, making the process more transparent, responsive, and engaging. Our goal is to not only attract top talent but also ensure that the recruitment process itself becomes a positive reflection of our clients’ organisations. Through these efforts, we increase the likelihood of securing the most qualified candidates, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between our clients and the top-tier talent they seek to attract.
Find out how Advance TRS can help you overcome challenges in technical recruitment
Top of FormReady to revolutionise your technical recruitment strategy and overcome industry challenges? Explore the full spectrum of solutions offered by Advance TRS through our comprehensive client service offerings. From talent acquisition strategies to skills development initiatives, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate the intricacies of technical recruitment in the built environment.
Uncover the power of innovative solutions and strategic insights by delving into our client service offerings. Reach out to our expert team.
Chris Spurdle is our Business Development Manager, get in touch to discuss how Advance TRS can elevate your recruitment process and unlock unparalleled success in securing top-tier technical talent.
Advance TRS is a proud member of the SME Climate Hub, a global initiative that empowers small to medium sized companies to take climate action and build more resilient businesses. Through the SME Climate Hub, we commit to lowering our impact on the environment through authentic action, halving our emissions by 2030. In making the commitment, we have joined the United Nations Race to Zero campaign.
At Advance TRS Ltd., we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment and are committed to taking meaningful actions to address climate change. Our commitment is grounded in a set of specific goals and milestones that reflect our dedication to sustainability. By adhering to the following targets, we strive to contribute to a more sustainable future:
SME Climate Hub Membership: We have joined the SME Climate Hub, a global initiative that aligns small and medium-sized enterprises with the goals of the Paris Agreement. By doing so, we commit to actively participate in collaborative efforts to mitigate climate change and foster sustainable practices within our operations.
Signed the Climate Pledge by December 2024: By December 2024, Advance TRS Ltd. commits to signing the Climate Pledge, signaling our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions and actively working towards a sustainable and resilient future. This pledge reinforces our dedication to environmental stewardship and aligns us with global efforts to combat climate change.
Set Science-Based Targets by December 2024: We recognize the importance of sciencebased targets in driving meaningful change. By December 2024, Advance TRS Ltd. will establish and communicate science-based targets, ensuring that our emissions reduction goals are in line with what is necessary to limit global temperature rise and contribute to a low-carbon economy.
Archived ISO14001 Certification by December 2025: Environmental management is a cornerstone of our sustainability efforts. By December 2025, we commit to achieving and maintaining ISO14001 certification, demonstrating our commitment to systematically managing our environmental impact and continuously improving our environmental performance.
Achieved Carbon Neutral Status by December 2027: We understand the urgency of addressing climate change, and by December 2027, we aspire to achieve Carbon Neutral Status. Through a combination of emissions reduction measures and offsetting initiatives, we aim to balance our carbon footprint, contributing to the global effort to stabilize and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As members of the Supply Chain Sustainability School, we are working through online learning resources surrounding various sustainability, offsite, BIM, lean and management topics relevant to the built environment to further our company and staff knowledge. Our team are able to gain CPD points by attending training workshops, networking events or completing e-learning modules.
As we move into the new year it is a perfect time to hit the reset button and focus on what matters both personally and professionally. Setting goals not only gives us a roadmap for the year ahead but also provides motivation.
The recruitment industry is forever evolving. Next year provides you with the perfect opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to the changing dynamics.
Benefits of setting personal and professional goals for well-being
Promotes a healthy work-life balance.
This approach encourages you to prioritize aspects of life beyond professional achievements, striking this balance is crucial for overall wellbeing and helps prevent burnout.
Enhance emotional well-being.
Working towards and achieving personal goals provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This contributes to improved emotional well-being, reducing feelings of dissatisfaction. Achieving the set personal goals can lead to a more fulfilled and positive outlook.
Clarity and Focus
Setting personal goals provides clarity about what truly matters to us in life, it helps us identify our values and aspirations. This clarity helps to enhance job satisfaction and reduce stress, whereas having professional goals ensures that your efforts are focused on tasks that align with your career aspirations.
Motivation and drive
Pursuing personal goals creates a sense of motivation. As you make progress and achieve milestones, the sense of accomplishment fuels your drive to continue working towards it. Similarly accomplishing tasks and achieving career milestones enhances job satisfaction and provides a basis for ongoing success.
Personal growth
Goals push you to step outside your comfort zone promoting personal growth. As you strive to achieve new things, you learn, adapt, and develop valuable skills.
Increased happiness
Accomplishing goals, experiencing progress, and living in alignment with your values contribute to a more positive outlook on life, leading to increased happiness.
As the recruitment industry undergoes continuous evolution, the coming year presents a prime opportunity to not only adapt but to lead the change.
Join us.
At Advance TRS we understand the significance of leading the way in the ever-evolving recruitment landscape. As we step into the new year, we invite you to be part of our journey characterised by innovation, growth, and success. Join us at Advance TRS as we embark on a year of possibilities and opportunities. Your journey to success starts here.
The annual Advance TRS Golf Day for Rail Aid returned to Celtic Manor in Wales on Tuesday 5th September.
Unlike the weather we have experienced all summer, the golfers enjoyed a delightful 30-degree sunny weather while competing for the charity. There were 18 fourballs in total, all sent out in buggies for a shotgun start at 11:00 Prizes to be won involved competitions such as Longest Drive, Beat the Pro, nearest to the pin, Driving range competition individual Stableford, and the winning Four-Ball.
The course
The Montgomerie course – A dramatic par 69 challenge designed by Ryder Cup legend Colin Montgomerie. Offering a spectacular par 69 challenge, the legendary Colin Montgomerie has called on all his Ryder Cup experience to create a course with many exciting tests of strategy.
The Evening – Speakers & Rewards
After a fantastic day of golf, everyone enjoyed a 3-course dinner, a talk from Jack from Railway Children. Jack enlightened the room with a talk about how the money helps the charity, whilst sharing some emotional stories, emphasising the need to donate and support this cause. Finally joined by guest speaker Billy Foster. Billy is one of the most recognised caddies in the world, having been on the bag for the likes of Westwood, Steve Ballesteros, Sergio Garcia, Thomas Bjorn, Darren Clarke, and even Tiger Woods. The Yorkshireman has seen many of the players he’s caddied win titles but, up until this point, he has never experienced major glory.
Results
Longest Drive – Martin Headly
Nearest to the pin – Frank Cardona
Driving Range – Martin Headly
Individual Stableford – William Gates (41 points)
Winning Four-Ball – Atkins (Adrian Charlton, Nick Ansell, Steve Owens and Trian Bootle)
With outstanding prizes to win, complemented by a wide selection of amazing experiences in our auction. We raised a magnificent £14,000 for a great cause in Rail Aid. Added to the previous year’s totals, we are delighted that the Advance TRS Golf Day for Rail Aid has now raised a total of £57,395 for Children In need across the UK, Africa, and India.
Thank you
We would like to thank our sponsors who have made this feat possible not only this year but for the last 3 years. Thank you to MACE Dragados for joining us as a partner sponsor for all three years and to our competition sponsors, Gleeds, Atkins, and Turner & Townsend.
Thank you to our hole sponsors; Clipfine, Clemtech, Amey, Protech, BAM Nuttall, and to our prize and merchandise sponsors; Mick Schruyers, Neil Webber, Liquid Friday, Willie Mitchell, Kingsbridge, Brookson, Warren Jones, Coombes, Global Rail, Sam & Ella Gilbody, Chris Spurdle, Sean Clarke, Rob Love and Chix Shah.
Finally, thank you to Mark Thurston and Dave Ellis, without your support and energy to get this event up and running, we could never have achieved what we have.
Railway Children
Railway Children has been fighting for children alone and at risk on the street for over 25 years. During this time, they have reached more than 275,000 children in India, the UK, and East Africa.
Children run away or are forced to leave home, where they suffer poverty, violence, and neglect. They find themselves living on the streets because there is nowhere else to, and no one left to turn to. The problems they face on the streets are often even worse than those they endured at home. Every day they fight to change their story.
Rail Aid is a major fundraising initiative in support of Railway Children, the Rail industry’s charity. It was launched in direct response to the Covid-19 outbreak, which has made our work with vulnerable young people even more vital.
Advance TRS founder, Andy Ridout and a few other members of our team have completed numerous challenges such as climbing Mt Everest and Kilimanjaro, Ride Vietnam Challenge, Three Peaks By Rail 2023. These are just some of the amazing challenges we have done to raise funds for Railway Children.
Supporting charities is a core element of life at Advance TRS, Since its establishment, our staff has raised over £85,000 for charities including Railway Children and Action for Children. Taking on personal challenges and fundraising activities to advance others has been a core founding principle and staff are encouraged to support charitable causes.
Advance TRS are always looking for more people to join the team, Find out more about our latest vacancies.
Advance TRS and Alstom are delighted to announce a huge milestone achieved in our recruitment partnership as our 300th permanent starter joins the business this week, following 3 years of tremendous growth across the business!
Advance TRS are the recruitment partner for Alstom UK & Ireland’s rail recruitment programme, sourcing rail signalling management, engineering, and installation professionals. The Advance TRS and Alstom UK & Ireland partnership has placed over 300 new professionals in permanent roles across the business.
Working in a truly collaborative manner has been a vital factor in the success to date which has seen both businesses work tirelessly to attract and engage with some of the brightest and most committed individuals across the country. Whilst in the company, the opportunities have not stopped with new starters building development career paths, taking on additional responsibilities, and achieving promotions as the benefits of working for a leading global engineering firm become a reality.
Having taken a proactive approach to appoint a diverse workforce, we have seen numerous key roles being filled by candidates outside of the sector, with management driving a recruitment focus on individual skills & behaviours rather than time spent in the railways. This has led to fresh ideas, new approaches, and opportunities for people to join and excel in the industry.
But the hard work doesn’t stop here! Thanks to an enviable work bank and constantly expanding product offering, Alstom is growing further and can offer outstanding opportunities across engineering, operations, and management as we gear up for the years ahead.
Advance TRS & Alstom are recruiting Commercial, Planning, Engineering, Management, Health & Safety professionals for the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) upgrade, a transformative rail improvement programme for the Cork Rail Network.
The Cork Area Commuter Rail programme is the heavy rail element of CMATS and is a transformative rail improvement programme for the Cork Rail Network. Delivering increased train capacity and frequency, providing for more connected communities and a more sustainable transport network, the project represents the largest-ever investment in the Cork Rail Network.
The programme involves developments and enhancements to the rail network from Mallow through Cork to Cobh and Midleton and will include the delivery of new rail infrastructure and electrification and re-signalling across the 3 main lines of Mallow, Cobh and Glounthaune to Midleton.
The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is being progressed through a number of separate but interrelated projects which will be delivered in specific work packages.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work on the Signalling and Communications Upgrade to facilitate the proposed capacity and service frequency increases across the Cork Area Commuter Rail network. The preliminary design of the project is well-advanced, and the implementation stage is starting now.
A key focus for Alstom is to build a diverse and entrepreneurial workforce with inclusivity at its core. Alstom knows that employee empowerment is crucial to its success and continues to strengthen its culture by promoting diversity and entrepreneurial spirit with a fundamental commitment to integrity and high ethical business standards and practices.
This key commitment has been embraced and mirrored by Advance TRS, working together to establish a non-discriminative recruitment process to ensure a diverse candidate pool is available, and promoting opportunities for under-represented communities. At Advance TRS, we believe everyone deserves the same opportunities, and that the diversity of the workforce is an essential part of success. We are committed to supporting clients to build work environments that are free from discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all.
At Advance TRS providing a premium quality service to candidates and clients alike is a core founding principle and forms the backbone of how we approach our work.
We pride ourselves on our exceptional level of customer service and seek to create long-lasting and dependable relationships. Advance TRS support candidates throughout the entire process from initial contact and interview, through to remuneration negotiations and onboarding.
ALSTOM PRIORITIZING CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Professional development is part of Alstom’s recruitment strategy, with the organisation firmly believing that employee motivation and performance are intrinsically linked and that the nurturing of employee potential and competencies are key to ensuring the ongoing success of the international brand.
All employees are offered development opportunities via the ‘People Management Cycle’, which helps line managers and HR to design a bespoke training plan for each employee. This offers high-quality learning and development opportunities and supports employees through professional mentoring or coaching.
For those hesitant to take the next step in their career and explore opportunities, such a solid investment into personal development has proven to temper nerves and ease the transition when joining the business.
“My favourite part of my role is enhancing and developing new skills and expertise in the development of people. I have fully embraced Alstom’s People Management Cycle and encourage the development of my team members.”
Lead Commercial Manager, Alstom.
“Alstom has committed to training the right candidates to be the perfect fit for the business. They understand that not everyone will be the finished article straight away, but their development opportunities are really encouraging and quick to materialise.”
Advance TRS are delighted to welcome experienced rail industry recruiter, Chris Spurdle to join the business as Business Development Manager – Rail. Chris has over 14 years experience in the rail industry predominantly working in the rail civils and permanent way specialism and joins Advance TRS to focus on white collar recruitment in rail civils and permanent way.
Chris is looking forward to progressing his industry knowledge and network from the blue-collar and labour side of the rail sector into white-collar recruitment.
“This is an exciting new opportunity to build on the established reputation I have built in the blue collar and labour market, and a natural continuation of my work in the sector.”
Explains Chris.
Chris will be focused on business development, supporting the current team building on established relationships and also bid development. Chris Spurdle will also be the main point of contact for a new client partnership Advance TRS have recently secured providing construction managers, project managers, civils, permanent way, signalling, planning and commercial engineering professionals into key rail projects across the UK rail network. These projects range across the UK & Ireland from a couple of million budgets to major infrastructure projects with budgets up to 200 million.
“We are delighted to welcome Chris into the Advance TRS team, and more personally, I am so pleased to work with him in the business development team. His experience and industry knowledge will prove to be a great asset to our business.”
Shares Business Development Director, Michael Schruyers.
When asked why Chris chose to join Advance TRS, Chris explained:
“I wanted to work for a specialist company, a niche recruiter. It was important for me to join a flexible and agile business where the team are skilled, well networked and have the ability to support clients throughout the process rather than a large corporate business. Advance TRS offer all this and have a really good team, both in sales and business services, and provide a positive work environment.”
Chris Spurdle will be supporting the business development team across the full spectrum of permanent and contract supply, both in rail and also reaching across the wider infrastructure piece.
Chris goes on to say:
“I love the ambition and trajectory Advance TRS offer as a growing SME. It gives me an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the business growth trajectory and adding value. Everyone has been so helpful and welcoming – particularly Jake and Josh who I have been working with a lot, and have helped me settle in. The business services support and payroll teams are brilliant too – shout out to everybody!”
Join Advance TRS
If you are looking for a new opportunity to further your career with an established and growing business providing quality recruitment solutions in the built environment and engineering markets, we are always looking for new talented staff to join our team. Find out what it is like to work for us and see our live opportunities.
Expert Rail Recruiters
Advance TRS know the rail industry like no one else. We work with some of the world’s biggest engineering organisations, creating bespoke recruitment solutions for some of the UK’s biggest rail projects.
Our team of experts are well established in the sector and expertly networked to ensure the best results for clients every time with specialisms focused on signalling, telecoms, E&P, OLE, Civils, M&E, Pway and Project Services. With over 400 contractors working across the UK rail network we are proud to be committed to high safety standards.
The new London office will be a permanent office for some of our Rail recruitment business and provide a base for other members of the team who have meetings in London.
The new office is led by Specialist Consultant in the Rail & Civil Engineering Industry, Craig Outhwaite. Craig joined Advance TRS in autumn 2021 and after one year is stepping up into this new role. Craig focuses on the recruitment of freelance Quantity Surveyors and Commercial professionals across the UK.
“I’m really proud and excited to open and grow a London Branch for the company. London excites me, you can’t help but feel invigorated heading into the city each morning. The market is really busy and we are now expertly positioned to meet all our clients and candidates as needed”
Shares Craig.
Craig is joined by Victoria Bartram (nee. Satterley), who joined Advance TRS earlier this month after a few years out to grow her family, Victoria is a brilliant addition to the team and back with a bang!
“I’m very excited to of joined Advance TRS and to be involved in the opening of our new London office with Craig Outhwaite. Extremely busy and exciting times ahead!”
Explains Victoria.
If you are a QS, at any level, with Civil Engineering experience, and you are feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and just a bit meh about your role, then please get in contact with the team who has various roles with contractors, subcontractors and consultancies that may be your perfect job. Even if you are not ready to make the move just yet, they would love to meet you for a coffee and chat about the market, and what your perfect role would look like, so can contact you in the future about suitable opportunities.
The new London office will specialise in the recruitment of Commercial (Quantity Surveyors’) Rail and Civil staff for “blue chip” clients across the UK. The team are currently recruiting Commercial Managers/Directors, Estimating Managers, Managing Quantity Surveyors and all other levels of Quantity Surveyors, Estimators as well as Risk Managers and procurement staff for major rail projects and frameworks including HS2.
Join the Team
Are you working in London and looking for a new opportunity in engineering recruitment? We are looking to expand our team from our London office. Find out more about working life at Advance TRS or contact our Head of Talent Acquisition, Jessica Wells, to find out about our opportunities across all three offices and all built environment teams.
Last week, seven of our avid golfers took on the Longest Day Golf Challenge to raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. They raised a total of £1,175!
They completed 4 rounds of golf, 72 holes, in 31-degree heat, taking a total of 16 hours and walking over21 miles!
Rail Business Development Manager Chris shared:
“It was a really good day. As someone who has recently joined the business, taking on the Longest Day Golf Challenge was a great way for me to get to know some of my team.”
The team teed off at 5:30am, long before some of us were even out of bed and finished the last round at approximately 8:30pm! Each round of golf took roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, but the team admit they lost track after the first couple of rounds.
Speaking to them about the distance they said:
“The last we checked it was about 46,000 steps, however, the watch we were using ran out of charge, so we don’t know the exact count. This happened on the second hole of the last round so you can guess the next 16 holes…”
We would like to again extend our thanks to Blacknest Golf and Country Club who supported us on the day and allowed us to use their course.
“We started very strong and played some good golf, but with the heat and exhaustion, it did go a bit downhill each round we played. Despite struggling to walk the next day, it was very good fun and something I would do again.” Explained our consultant, Sam.
Fundraising can make a huge difference, so we are pleased to have contributed to an important cause. Taking on this challenge will help Macmillan make a real difference to people living with cancer. They will be able to give people going through a cancer experience practical, emotional and personal support.
Business Development Director Mick shared some final thoughts from the day:
“The day was great, it was a real team effort. It was certainly a hard day but hearing a number of people at the club cheering us on during the day helped get us through. We even had a lady who thought we were crazy and was leaving the course after 9 holes as it was too hot. We told her what we were doing, and she waited for us to return and donated £20 towards the day. It was a real good, spirited team event and still managed to recognise good shots even on the last 18 holes.
The funniest part of the day was watching Jake try and save Andy’s ball going in the pond, however, while doing so he fell down the bank…luckily, he only got his feet wet but was so close to going all the way in…”
Advance TRS have a strong history of taking on personal challenges to raise money for causes important to the team. This is the latest challenge in a line of activities that has seen the team raise over £65,000 for charities in 10 years.
It has been an exciting six months for the Advance TRS team! Although it’s hard to believe we are over halfway through 2022 already, we have been reflecting on the company’s achievements and highlights from what has been a successful start to the year so far.
Getting back out and meeting face to face
At the end of 2021, we spoke to Managing Director Andy about where he wanted the company to be in the immediate future. He spoke about wanting to re-engage with clients face to face, rather than remotely via zoom or teams. Whilst these tools were an important part of business over the past two years, nothing beats working together face to face.
In addition to getting out and about visiting clients on-site, our team have been delighted to attend a number of industry events including:
We understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. Therefore, we support staff to grow and succeed as the company does the same.
Already this year we have celebrated as 15 staff members mark an anniversary with Advance TRS. Plus, three of our team have earned hard-won promotions. These team members have demonstrated their hard work, skill and fully embody the core values that the business was founded on. Our company values run at the heart of our approach, we believe in them and recognise each of them in the way we act, both with each other and those we support.
Notably, our Operations Director Paul Merton marked 10 years at Advance TRS in April. As our resident expert of legislation, Paul oversees the continual development of Advance TRS’s compliance and operational systems.
Coming together as a team
At Advance TRS, we work hard to deliver the best possible service for our clients and candidates, so enjoy taking the time to celebrate together as one united team. This unified approach is a core part of our success and ongoing practices towards those we work with.
With COVID-19 restrictions finally lifted we’ve taken the time to come together as a team and celebrate our achievements. At the start of our financial year, we brought the team together for our annual Kick-Off Conference. We shared our upcoming business plans for the year and celebrated achievements from 2021-22. Since then, our teams have enjoyed trips to Brighton, clay pigeon shooting, go-karting, driving experience days, and lunches out. More recently our whole team enjoyed a day out at Sandown races for our Summer Social.
Growing our team
Due to a period of rapid growth, we have welcomed nine new starters across our Guildford and Port Solent offices. The new additions are proving to be great assets to the sectors they have joined and excelling in their roles. We’re excited to witness the positive impact this has on the services we deliver to our clients and candidates. A warm welcome to Advance TRS’ new team members of 2022.
Managing Director Andy said:
“These new appointments have come at an exciting phase of our development and growth strategy. These new starters join us to build out teams across the business. Whilst some bring years of industry experience, and others are showing incredible promise at the start of their recruitment career, they are all showing to be brilliant additions to the team and share our core values and commitment to being the best.”
For a confidential chat about our current vacancies, the opportunity to discuss your potential and the possibility of making a career move, contact our Talent Acquisition Manager Jess.
Launching our new website
Our marketing team and developers worked behind the scenes to launch our new website, with a key focus on improving user experience and creating a seamless job search.
Not only have we given it a brand-new look, but we have made extensive adjustments to our job boards and candidate zone. By registering an account with us, you can:
Set up detailed job alerts relevant to your skills and disciplines
Upload and manage multiple CVs
Shortlist your favourite jobs and easily apply at a time suitable to you
Access additional resources and advice to support your job search
With new vacancies added regularly, you can search our job boards and quickly apply to various opportunities across our sectors, with some roles exclusively available to us.
Company video production
This year we are delighted to have partnered with a video production company for the first time. Arranging a number of filming days with our team helps support our internal recruitment drive and provides a fresh, dynamic insight into life at Advance TRS. Look out for these new videos coming soon.
Giving back to charities
Advance TRS have a strong history of taking on personal challenges to raise money for causes important to the team. This year has seen us continue to raise money for good causes, with preparations for more activities later in the year.
Most recently we assembled 7 of our rail consultants to take on the Longest Golf Day Challenge. The challenge saw the team complete 72 holes and 4 rounds of golf, in 16 hours. This is the latest challenge in a line of activities that has seen the team raise over £65,000 for charities in 10 years.
Looking forward
The next 6 months look to be as exciting as the first!
Following the success of last year’s event, Railway Children and Advance TRS have again teamed up for the annual Advance TRS Golf Day for Rail Aid, at the prestigious Belfry Hotel & Resort. The day brings together industry leaders for some healthy competition, networking and most importantly to raise money for the Rail Aid campaign.
This October our Director of Client Services & Rail Signalling, Sam Jennings will be taking part in Railway Children’s Ride Vietnam Challenge. The trip will see Sam spend between six and eight hours in the saddle each day, travelling across waterways and plantations on unpaved and dusty roads, slightly different surfaces to the hills he will be training on but all part of the challenge for a true bike novice! Sam is well on his way with his training journey. You can keep up to date with his progress or donate to his fundraising total on his JustGiving page. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sam-jennings4
As well as continued growth and driving our internal recruitment, we are also looking forward to opening new offices later in 2022/2023.
Advance TRS
Advance TRS offers a supportive environment to help you to be the best you can be and reach your career goals as part of our team, whether you are an established recruiter or just starting out on your journey. View our latest vacancies here.
We are delighted to celebrate Sam Jennings, Director of Client Services and Rail Signalling for his eight years of service at Advance TRS. In his time at Advance TRS, Sam has managed the delivery of a series of Managed Service Programmes and Recruitment Process Outsourcing partnerships with key client accounts for the rail sector and was promoted to Client Services and Rail Signalling last year.
“Sam is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and an influential figure within the business. He is always the first to get involved in company activities and is an active fundraiser, often putting his body (and facial hair!) on the line to raise money for a good cause.”
Explains Group Managing Director, Andy Ridout.
Sam has previously completed the London Marathon raising over £2,500 for Action for Children, Movember, Surrey Half Marathon and #WalkAllOverCancer challenge for Cancer Research UK.
Ride Vietnam Challenge
This year he is taking on a new challenge, Railway Children’s Ride Vietnam Challenge. As a novice cyclist, Sam will be confronting a challenging 450km cycle across 7 days in 30 degrees. He is now well into his training before the October trip. Please support his efforts and donate via his JustGiving page.
Client Services
As Director of Client Services, Sam is responsible for delivering service level agreements and key performance indicators for our key client partnerships, recruitment process outsourcing and managed service contracts. He works closely with clients to create and deliver custom recruitment solutions to support business needs. From contingent recruitment to managed services and recruitment process outsourcing. For key clients Sam acts as a delivery director, offering a single point of contact for line managers. He works closely with the Advance TRS recruitment delivery team to fulfil technical recruitment SLAs and KPIs.
Alstom Partnership
Notably, Sam is the Key Account Director for our recruitment partnership with Alstom. Sam leads our client services team to deliver a planned programme of recruitment to an exciting portfolio of projects across the UK. Advance TRS was appointed as RPO partners for Alstom’s permanent staff recruitment drive. We supply rail signalling management, engineering and installation professionals in York, Derby, Birmingham, London and Bristol, as part of CP6 in early 2020.
Railway Signalling
Outside of his work with key clients in Client Services, Sam is incredibly well networked within the Railway Signalling sector. He has led the Advance TRS rail signalling department, following in company founder, Andy Ridout’s footsteps.
Join the team
Sam is expanding his team! Check out our live vacancies to find out how you can join the Advance TRS client services team, delivering an internal recruitment function for our key clients.
23rd June 2022 marks International Women in Engineering Day, giving women engineers around the world a profile in an under-represented profession. As of June 2021, figures show that 16.5% of engineers are women. It’s an important day to recognise those paving the way and encourage young women to take up engineering careers.
Why do we need more women in engineering?
There are many answers to this question, but ultimately studies have shown that diverse teams tend to perform better. With different approaches to tasks, various skillsets and ways of thinking, diverse teams can strike a great balance. Men and women often have different strengths, which can create a powerful result when combined.
With quickly developing technology and the 21st century advancing quicker than ever before, we need engineers with a wide range of skills and abilities. There are countless options, fields, and industries available to an engineer. From the built environment which encompasses roads, waterworks, railways and much more, to tackling climate change.
What can be done?
There are a number of organisations promoting the education and development of women or young girls to fulfil their potential and pursue engineering careers.
It’s important to shake the bias that girls can’t be or are not good in science and mathematics. From a young age, we can encourage girls to develop these skills. Such as learning code, carrying out science experiments (safely!) and taking these subjects through to further education.
STEM Women run graduate careers events and promote jobs aimed at university students and recent graduates who identify as women or non-binary, and study a STEM-related subject; science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
At the start of the year, they published a Whitepaper exploring students’ and graduates’ attitudes towards gender issues prevalent within STEM.
As a society, we should be shining the light on the contributions of women in engineering and encourage female innovators. Films such as Hidden Figures, Engima, Gravity and even Big Hero 6 are a great representation of women in STEM. We should also improve the images used when talking about science and engineering. A quick search online will often show images of men on a construction site and very few women. Imagine getting to a point where you don’t have to specifically search for “women engineer”.
The Women’s Engineering Society is a charitable company founded to support women in engineering. They were the ones who founded International Women in Engineering Day. Their vision is to see an engineering industry that employs the diversity of the society it serves, solving the biggest societal issues of our time. It is their mission to support women in engineering careers to fulfil their potential and support the industry to be inclusive.
We’re Hiring
At Advance TRS, we believe everyone deserves the same opportunities, regardless of age, race, gender, religion or sexual orientation. The diversity of our workforce is an essential part of our success. As such, we are committed to supporting contractors and staff to work in an environment that is free from discrimination and promotes equal opportunities for all.
We are currently recruiting for a number of positions across our Guildford and Port Solent offices. Check out our latest opportunities.
Are you feeling fed up with your job search? Are you feeling stressed and wanting to just give up? Is your job search affecting your mental health? Searching for a new job can be both mentally and emotionally draining. We’ve put together these tips on how to look after your mental health during this period.
Be selective
Whether you’re looking for a job full-time or doing this alongside a current position, avoid just thoughtlessly applying to every job you see. Targeting your search and focusing on the quality of your application can improve your chances of success. Hiring managers can tell the difference between someone just applying for the sake of it, to someone really wanting the job. If you have put time, effort, and passion into your application this will show.
Finding a new job doesn’t happen overnight, so applying to loads of jobs and not getting a response can leave you feeling discouraged.
Rather than waste your energy on jobs you don’t really want, try to find something that will work for you in the long run.
Take a break
It can be easy to get lost in hours and hours of job searching! That could be searching for vacancies, completing applications, amending your CV or writing cover letters. If you’re applying for a job full-time, make sure you set yourself a schedule and take regular breaks. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be job searching all day long. Get some fresh air, exercise, and regularly eat healthy snacks and meals to keep your energy levels up.
Why not set up job alerts so that relevant roles go straight to your inbox? This streamlines some of the searching process and saves you time.
Positive Targets
It’s natural for job searching to feel negative, especially when you get rejection emails or even no response at all. This can lower your confidence and leave you feeling low, so find ways to give yourself a boost. It’s so important to not let your job search affect your mental health.
Each day, set yourself three tasks you wish to accomplish. Each time you tick off a task it will give you a sense of achievement. No matter how big or small, celebrate your wins!
Ask for help
Taking on this burden can be a lot for one person to manage and lead to feelings of loneliness. Why not enlist the help of a recruitment agency? An agency like Advance TRS will have a vast network of clients looking for staff, with some vacancies exclusive to that agency.
Our recruitment consultants have a strong understanding of the employer and jobs they are recruiting for, business culture and values. It is their job to work with you and align your ambitions, personality, and suitability.
Contacts Us
Searching for a job within the built environment? Having successfully placed hundreds of skilled candidates into major organisations at all levels, Advance TRS are best placed to find your next role.
Upload your CV and register an account with us to receive the following benefits:
Upload and manage multiple CVs
Set up personalised job alerts
Shortlist your favourite jobs
View your applications
Access to additional resources to support your job search
Work with our dedicated and experienced consultants
Brand new website, same quality recruitment solution!
We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website. Our marketing team and developers have been tirelessly working behind the scenes to improve user experience and make your job search seamless.
Not only have we given it a brand-new look, but we have also made extensive adjustments to our job boards and candidate zone.
By registering an account with us, you can:
Set up detailed job alerts relevant to your skills and disciplines
Upload and manage multiple CVs
Shortlist your favourite jobs and easily apply at a time suitable to you
Access additional resources and advice to support your job search
Having your CVs uploaded to your account speeds up the application process by up to 5 minutes!
With new vacancies added regularly, you can search our job board and quickly apply to various opportunities across our sectors. Some roles are exclusively available to us. We have also added additional filters so you can find the jobs most suitable for you.
We could go on and on about the features and information available on the site, but don’t just take our word for it, look for yourself.
So what’s next?
We will continue developing and improving our website, providing you with information about the industry and our business.
Stay up to date with our regular blog posts and news updates!
We’re hiring
Due to a period of rapid growth, Advance TRS are seeking Recruitment Consultants of all levels.
We are always looking for talented and ambitious people to join our team. We have opportunities available across our offices and in sales, management, or business services.
For a confidential chat, the opportunity to discuss your potential and the possibility of making a career move, or simply exploring the countless options available to you, get in touch with our Talent Acquisition Manager Jess.
Advance TRS are excited to celebrate the six-year anniversary and promotion of Ella Gardiner. Having joined back in May 2016, she demonstrated a drive and passion for marketing and quickly increased her responsibilities. To recognise all her hard work and achievements over the years, Ella has now been promoted to our Marketing and Development Director.
Speaking to Group Managing Director Andy, he says:
“Ella offers a “can do” approach and isn’t afraid to think outside the box, offering Advance TRS innovative and inspiring ideas to promote our services to clients and candidates alike. Professional, passionate, hardworking, and committed are all words that I and many will associate with Ella. She truly embodies our company values.”
Always looking to learn, develop and increase her skills, with an open mind to new ways of working, she has been part of an incredible journey with the company. In 2021, Ella was recognised for her exceptional performance in organising Advance TRS’ first executive Golf Day. The event saw C-suites of the rail industry come together for a day of healthy competition, networking and raise money for the charity Railway Children. It was a huge success and raised an incredible £18,000, as well as becoming a key event for the Rail Industry.
Ella now joins the Advance TRS Senior Leadership Team as Marketing and Development Director at a very exciting period for the company. She will not only increase her responsibility for directing the marketing of the business but will be instrumental in helping to lead the next exciting growth period for Advance TRS. With the opening of our London office, expansion of our South Coast and Guildford HQ and role out of our latest Managed Service framework, she will be a welcome addition to the Senior Leadership Team.
Please join us in congratulating her on a fantastic promotion and anniversary!
We’re Hiring!
Due to unprecedented demand, Advance TRS have job vacancies across all levels. From entry-level resources to senior recruitment consultants, we’re looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
Contact our Talent Acquisition Manager for a confidential conversation, or find out about our current opportunities.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Advance TRS are exploring male mental health and raising awareness of the importance of talking about your mental wellbeing.
In England, around one in eight men has a common mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It’s hard to ignore the statistics, with suicide being a leading cause of death for men up to the age of forty. Three times as many men as women die by suicide.
So why do men struggle to open up about their mental health? Society’s expectations and gender roles may play a part in the difficulty to discuss or seek help for their troubles. Men were often encouraged to appear “manly” or not show their emotions, in control and a provider for the home. This stigma can cause men to suppress their emotions for fear of how they will be received.
It is also thought that men may be less able to recognise symptoms of mental health problems in themselves and unable to process the way they are feeling. Many might find themselves engaging in risky activities, picking fights and substance misuse to cope.
It is clear that more needs to be done to improve the reality that men are facing. So what can we do to support and encourage change? Several campaigns have recently emerged, encouraging men to talk about their mental health. To help break the stigma, be sure to check in on your colleagues, employees, friends, and family. Regularly ask how they are to show they have your support. As a result, this will open up the conversation for you to both discuss worries if necessary.
What is the industry doing to support mental health?
More than 25,000 railway staff have now been trained to identify and help vulnerable people, inside and outside of the rail network, thanks to a Samaritans’ partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry.
The charity also runs a Small Talk Saves Lives campaign in partnership with Network Rail and British Transport Police. The campaign aims to encourage the public to use the skills they already have by simply starting a conversation if they see someone who needs help. A little small talk and simple question can be all it takes to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts and help start them on the journey to recovery.
More and more construction businesses are also starting to see their staff’s mental health as a priority. Mates in Mind is a leading UK charity raising awareness and addressing poor mental health across industries, focusing on construction, as well as related sectors. They work in partnership with industry-leading organisations with the aim to break the silence surrounding mental ill-health.
Helpful resources
Charity Movember has a variety of great tools on how to have a conversation with someone you believe is struggling.
If you need someone to talk to then Samaritans are available on 116 123 (UK) for free, 24/7. They are there to talk to, listen and they won’t judge or tell you what to do.
C.A.L.M is a National helpline for men to talk about any troubles they are feeling. Call 0800 58 58 58 (UK). They are available from 5pm-midnight 365 days a year.
When you’re experiencing a mental health problem, supportive and reliable information can change your life. Mind mental health charity believes no one should have to face this alone. Infoline: 0300 123 3393.
For support when you’re struggling to cope, Text Shout to 85258. If you’re experiencing a personal crisis, are unable to cope and need support.
The Construction Industry Helpline provides a 24/7 safety net for all construction workers and their families in the UK and Ireland. Call their helpline on 0345 605 1956 (UK) or text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK). They also offer a free Helpline App, offering advice on a variety of conditions or issues, self- assessment tools, coping strategies and referral pathways to access expert advice and support.
Advance TRS
Advance TRS is a niche recruitment consultancy specialising in the provision of highly-skilled technical professionals for the built environment.
We have appointed qualified Mental Health First Aiders to provide a first point of contact for our staff if needed. We also offer our a Wellbeing Hub, where confidential support via an EAP helpline can be accessed at any time.
From the very beginning our Group Managing Director Andy has nurtured a close family feel office culture, where colleagues work together, socialise and look out for each other.
We are always looking for new talented and ambitious people to join our team, across our offices and in sales, management or business services.
Our Group Operations Director Paul Merton has been with Advance TRS since its humble beginnings, joining just 6 months after it was founded. He is now celebrating 10 years with the company, and what a decade it has been.
Group MD and Founder Andy Ridout explains:
“Paul was such a welcome addition to the team. Aside from being a good friend, he brought a wealth of experience and industry knowledge. In his time with the company, he has worked tirelessly to ensure we have solid systems, policies and procedures that provide the foundations to support the success and growth of Advance TRS.”
As our resident expert of legislation, Paul oversees the continual development of Advance TRS’s compliance and operational systems.
Our compliance procedures, regulations, accreditations, and client processes are essential. This gives clients and candidates the confidence that our systems are robust enough to support any service they require.
Today, our Marketing Consultant sits down with Paul to understand more about his time with Advance TRS and the last 10 years of working with a growing company.
How did you secure your role with Advance TRS?
I’ve actually known Andy for over 30 years and worked closely with him in rail recruitment for 12 years prior to Advance TRS. During my career I built up extensive knowledge within the Rail Telecommunications and Mechanical & Electrical sectors. I developed strong relationships and grew an excellent network of respected clients and candidates.
Once Andy started the business, he approached me and asked if I’d come on board. We share the same beliefs and values and had the same visions for what makes a successful business. We used our experiences to learn from what we had done previously, and implement this in what we would do going forward.
What made you pursue this career?
Well, I decided to join the business to support its growth. With my experience in rail, I knew what we needed to do to offer the best service, especially when it came to being compliant and legal. The role offered a great balance of my skills. Andy and I also had complementary skills that worked well together.
How has the business changed in the past decade?
It’s been fantastic. The business has seen incredible growth and continues to provide honest, reliable, and top-quality recruitment solutions. I think that’s part of the success of the business, that the values we implemented at the start, have been bought into by staff and maintained. They really believe in the service that we’ve always wanted to provide. Genuinely, the key part of the business is the people.
To be honest the job has also become more of a passion. I want to make sure that whatever we’re doing, we are doing to the best of our ability. I’m always looking for ways in which I can improve what we do.
Have you seen changes in the sector in the past 10 years?
Whilst there have been a lot of changes in legislation, compliance, policies etc, the service we provide and the sector we work in have all stayed fairly constant. Legislation, equality & diversity, environment & sustainability, modern slavery etc – none of that was as prolific 10-15 years ago when I was a recruiter as it is now. It is fantastic that we are now so focused on these factors in both our own employment activities as well as our service provision, however change takes time and have to be administered carefully to ensure everyone understands the need and buys into it.
The business continues to evolve, as do our sectors. We’re providing services to more and more sectors, headed up by fantastic sector experts like Rob Kelly and Matt Bray. However, at the heart of it all are the same beliefs and values Andy and I have from 10 years ago.
What would you say is your greatest professional achievement so far?
I’d have to say it doesn’t necessarily come down to one project or one moment, but where the business is today is such an achievement. The fact we have a team of people that are so dedicated and committed to the business and their role within their team as a whole, is very rewarding. I feel so fortunate to be part of it. All that dedication plays a huge part in our qualifications, certifications etc, I can’t take responsibility for that on a personal level. The whole team contributes to our successes. 10 years ago, I could never have imagined we’d be where we are today!
What challenges have you faced in the last 10 years?
The challenges have changed over the years. A decade ago, it was the challenge of being a new company, trying to go out into the market and present yourself as a new brand. We had to get clients to buy into the company, not just myself or Andy and our experience. Luckily, we made sure a lot of our systems, IT infrastructure etc was scalable so that helped us a lot as we grew. COVID-19 was one of the biggest challenges we’ve faced, but our IT systems all being online meant we could switch from office to home working within 24 hours.
As the years go by everything becomes easier, but the challenges of growth then develop in other ways.
The other challenge is always staying one step ahead. As Group Operations Director, it’s my job to make sure the company runs smoothly and try to anticipate anything that might throw that.
What has been the key to a successful career with Advance?
I think it comes down to my belief in the business and the service we provide. I’ve always worked in a customer-facing role, so I know that if the business is stable from a legal/compliance/systems aspect, it can support our teams to deliver the best service to clients and candidates.
It always comes down to offering the best services, so I know I need to do whatever I can to make sure that happens.
Do you have any advice/words of wisdom for new starters or people entering the recruitment industry?
There is no part of this business that can operate as a sole entity, we’re all part of the chain and each person, department etc plays a vital role in that. We want each person to come on board and be part of the journey. I would advise new starters to take responsibility for their job role. As the company continues to grow, everybody has an opportunity to grow in their role, to flourish and be the best version of themselves. If you take pride in your own role, it helps you to develop. We reward success so we’re really looking for people who are determined, driven, and wanting to succeed.
Any final words?
It’s a never-ending job! It doesn’t matter what I do, there will always be something new, something different or something we can do better. Even now I’m constantly learning new things, it’s a very varied role. I feel so privileged to be where I am today, bring on the next 10 years!
Why Advance TRS?
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, 2022 is an exciting time to kick-start your career with Advance TRS. We have fantastic opportunities available across all levels, from entry-level resourcers to senior recruitment consultants. As recruiters we understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to a successful business.
For a confidential chat, contact our Talent Acquisition Manager Jessica Wells on 07432 356 750, email or connect on LinkedIn. Alternatively, head to our job search page to view all our latest vacancies.
This October our Director of Client Services & Rail Signalling, Sam Jennings will be taking part in Railway Children’s Ride Vietnam Challenge.
As a novice cyclist, Sam will be confronting a challenging 450km cycle across 7 days in 30 degrees, on a (barely used) bike!
“Having never previously ridden a bike without balancing a child on the back, it seemed like a great opportunity to take on a huge personal challenge and raise money that will go to support some of the most vulnerable children in the world” shares Sam.
The trip itself will see Sam spend between six and eight hours in the saddle each day, travelling across waterways and plantations on unpaved and dusty roads, slightly different surfaces to the hills he will be training on but all part of the challenge for a true bike novice!
Throughout the summer Sam will be up early and home late, trying to fit the training in and around family and working life, with 1,250 miles of training to be done before he even flies out.
Sam will be keeping us up to date with regular updates from his training and welcomes offers for anyone to join him on a training ride! Get in touch if you would like to join Sam on a ride.
Sam has previously completed the London Marathon raising over £2,500 for Action for Children but is a complete newbie to the world of cycling and hoping to make the challenge worth whilst by beating his previous total. Donate via his JustGiving page.
Giving Back
Since Advance TRS was established in 2011, advancing less fortunate people has always been a central motivator for founder Andy Ridout and the Advance TRS team. To date, our staff have raised over £65,000 for charities completing an incredible array of personal challenges to raise money and awareness for those less fortunate. Find out more.
Railway Children
Advance TRS has been a long term supporter and partner of Railway Children and the Rail Aid campaign. Railway Children is an international children’s charity that funds rescue workers and street teams that seek out vulnerable children living on the streets before potential abusers get to them first. Our staff have completed a number of challenges to raise money and awareness for the charity including Three Peaks By Rail, Three Ironman’s, a trek up Kilimanjaro and to Everest Base Camp.
Looking for a new challenge?
We are always looking for talented new staff to join the Advance TRS team. Advance TRS offers a supportive environment to help you to be the best you can be and reach your career goals as part of our team, whether you are an established recruiter or just starting out on your journey. With access to the biggest clients in each market sector, a strongly networked and experienced Senior Leadership Team and great compensation, at Advance TRS we can help people grow and succeed as the company does the same. Find out about our current opportunities or contact Jess Wells, our Talent Acquisition Manager for a more detailed and confidential conversation.
Job searching in 2022? You may find yourself wondering if writing a cover letter is still necessary, and our answer? Absolutely. It is thought that at least 56% of employers still expect a cover letter to accompany a job application.
A cover letter shows prospective employers that you’re committed to the job and willing to put in the extra effort. It can set you apart from other candidates and help you stand out from the crowd.
We conducted a recent survey and found that 34% of candidates least like writing a cover letter in their job search. So, we’ve put together some tips to give you confidence in submitting a cover letter and make the process easier:
Research the company
Before writing a cover letter, you should take some time to dig a little deeper into the role you’re applying for and the company. You can then use this information to tailor your letter accordingly.
Some things you want to find out are:
What does the company do?
Who are their competitors? (this develops your understanding of the industry)
Who are their target audience?
What skills and experience do they value?
What does the role involve and how does this sit within the rest of the company?
Start with a header
Include all essential information about yourself, including name, phone number, email, and the date you’ve written the letter on. Most of this information should already be on your CV, but this saves the employer having to go between the two documents.
Write an impactful introduction
It’s essential to catch the employer’s attention from the very first paragraph. Most candidates start with a simple introduction, stating who they are, their interest in the role and previous work experience.
For example, “With over 10 years’ experience at my current company, I wish to apply for the role of Creative Director being advertised on your website.”
As this is quite generic and a common opening from candidates, you could get lost in the sea of cover letters the recruiter is receiving.
To really grab their attention, start off introducing yourself and your top 2-3 achievements (most relevant to the company or role). This is a great way to impress the employer and shine the light on yourself.
Why you’re suitable for the job
In your second paragraph, describe your professional skills and how you meet the role requirements. Read the job description and identify which of the responsibilities are of high importance for the employer. You’ll need to demonstrate how you meet these and why you’re the perfect fit for the job.
If you’re trying to change role, industry, or struggling to meet all requirements, think about skills and attributes that are transferable.
Try to be specific and give examples of your skills in action.
For example, a statement like “I’m a team player” is very vague.
A statement such as “In my previous role, I worked with a team of 10 on a project and ensured everyone was working towards the same goal. This project led to a 12% rise in sales in first 3 months of completion” is more specific and showcasing what you can do.
What you offer the company
Now is your opportunity to emphasise what you can do for the company and that you’ll be a good fit for their business. This is also a great time for you to state exactly why you want the job and why you’re passionate about working for them.
Again, don’t be too generic just for the sake of writing something. It’s very easy to look up the values of an organisation and simply say these align with your own values. Instead, be as specific as possible, giving example of something they’ve done or detailed knowledge of their culture.
Closing the letter
Wrap up your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time or consideration and include a call to action. This could be the opportunity to discuss further or arranging an interview.
At this point, you should also double check the length of your cover letter. Whilst it is important to cover all the information we’ve advised; you don’t want to put off an employer because it is too lengthy. Aim for half a side of A4 or at a maximum, one A4 page.
Finally, make sure you proofread your letter before sending. Having put so much effort into producing the perfect cover letter, you don’t want to be let down by any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes. There are some great online tools such as Grammarly that can help you check, or maybe even ask a friend or family member to look.
Our final checklist
Have you done your research into the company?
Have you provided all essential information?
Does your introductory paragraph make an impact?
Have you detailed why you’re suitable for the job?
Do you state what you can offer the company?
Did you close the letter with a call to action?
Have you checked the length of your letter?
Have you proofread and checked for errors?
Why Advance TRS?
We offer an in-depth candidate management process supporting you through interview, remuneration negotiation, resignation, counteroffer and notice period. Our consultants go out of their way to keep you informed throughout every stage of the recruitment process.
While all interviews and interviewers are different, there are some common interview questions that are asked to find out more about the candidate and how they deal with certain situations. We’ve compiled a list of some of those questions and guidance on how to confidently answer them.
Tell me about yourself
Some interviewers will start the conversation by giving a little insight into the business and will then most likely ask you to tell them a little bit about yourself.
Give them a quick summary of who you are and what you have been doing and some insight on any experience you’ve had which is relevant to the job. It’s a great point in the interview to mention your top achievements and to say why you think you’d be perfect for the role.
The interviewer won’t want to hear your life story or about your family history here. Make sure to talk about experience relevant to the position instead.
Why are you looking to leave your current role
Make sure you are honest about why you’re looking for work, but try not to talk too negatively about your current employer. Try focusing on something like you are looking for new challenges, possibly even highlighting aspects of the job you are interviewing for which aren’t available with your current employer.
Tell me about a tricky situation you have dealt with and how you solved it
When being asked this kind of question, the interviewers want to find out more about your negotiating skills or potential clashes with colleagues. The best way to approach these type of interview questions is to explain the situation, how you resolved it and what the outcome was.
Try to steer clear of describing a situation where you caused conflict as this might give them the wrong impression.
What are your weaknesses
Being asked this question can be quite daunting, but don’t let it scare you. We previously dedicated a blog to this question that you may find useful.
Talk about something you know isn’t your strongest point but which you are working on. Picking something that you can get training on and willing to develop will be the kind of answer the interviewer is looking for.
What are your career goals?
When answering these interview questions, it’s important to differentiate between your long-term and short-term career goals. Your long-term goals may be wider, overarching achievements that you would like to accomplish in the future. Whereas your short-term goals should be smaller, actionable objectives that may improve relevant skills or performance.
The salary question
Don’t undersell yourself here or say to the interviewer that you’re happy to take whatever they think will be best.
A lot of job adverts will include a salary band and if this isn’t the case, you can take a look at similar roles and get a good idea of an appropriate salary from those. There may also be some room for negotiation between you and the employer, so bare this in mind.
You can then justify what you are asking for by mentioning relevant knowledge and experience you will bring to the team.
Do you have any questions
Avoid asking about working hours and holidays here but instead, ask something about the business. Something you might have read about and you’d like to find out more. Maybe there is a new product or service they are launching which you can ask about. This shows the interviewer that you have done your research on the company.
You could also ask what goals and objectives the company has over the next, 3, 5, 10 years etc. This will indicate your interest in their mission and longer-term commitment to the business.
Are you looking to take the next step in your career?
Advance TRS is growing quickly and we are always looking for ambitious, driven people to join the team. Find out more about our current opportunities or for a detailed and confidential conversation, contact our Talent Acquisition Manager Jess.
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”
Benjamin Franklin
Never has the old adage been more appropriate than when thinking about interviewing. Many things about the interview process have changed or evolved in response to the global pandemic, including the inclusion and often used virtual interview. However, the importance of preparation remains a vital step.
Whilst the interview is an opportunity to learn more about the role and your potential new employer, it is important to make a strong first impression.
Take a look at our helpful tips on how you can prepare for an interview and ensure that you stand out from the other applicants.
Understand The Job
Read through the job specification again and ensure you thoroughly understand any qualifications, qualities and background the employer is looking for. This will help you determine your previous experience and exactly what you wish to demonstrate in the interview.
Make notes on key points or where you have any questions about the role or company.
Research
Look at their company website, key personnel, social media platforms and note down any relevant information to have with you for the interview. Find out about:
Vision / Mission / Values / Purpose
Key selling points and differentiators
Key specialism and area of expertise
Service offerings
Geographical coverage
Key milestones achieved
Key messaging on social media / current campaigns
Your CV
To help you prepare for an interview, it’s good practice to read through your CV. Do this prior to the interview and make sure you are aware of the information you have included. The interviewer will likely ask you to talk them through your CV. Decide which areas you wish to focus on and which parts can be skimmed over if less relevant to the role.
Questions
Come to the interview with some well prepared questions that demonstrate your interest and intent for the company and role. An employer will often ask if you have any questions, so make sure you have a list of about 3-5 questions (possibly more depending on the situation).
Pre-Preparation
Face to Face: Plan your journey beforehand and leave plenty of time to get there early. If you are unable to demonstrate good timekeeping, you will be on the back foot for the rest of the interview. It is better to arrive early, be able to grab a coffee and mentally prepare yourself for the interview ahead.
Depending on your mode of transport, there are some great journey planner and travel apps to assist your preparation.
Telephone: Make sure you are somewhere quiet with good phone reception. Set up a space where you can focus and have a surface where you can keep any documents to hand or write notes. Make sure any other devices are on silent/do not disturb and make sure you pick up the first call.
Video: Test your camera and microphone set up before your meeting. Do a couple of test runs with the specific software being used to become familiar with the software. Often you can open the interview link early to test your camera and mic. Make sure you are in a quiet location with strong wifi signal and good lighting so you can be clearly seen. Make sure your background is suitable and you are well presented. Click the link in good time to make sure you do not miss the meeting.
First Impression
First impressions are key in all walks of life, especially interviews. Ask the employer or recruiter (if you’re speaking with one) what the dress code is so you can dress appropriately. If it is face to face, be early for the meeting and enter with a firm handshake whilst maintaining eye contact throughout the interview. Non-verbal communication can be just as important as anything you say, so use confident, accessible body language. Smile frequently, maintain a good posture and stay relaxed.
If the meeting is virtual, even though you may not be able to be seen, your posture dictates a lot about how your voice is perceived. Make sure if seated, you are comfortable, and sitting upright (not slumped).
Consider your answers
Though it’s hard to know exactly what questions you’ll be asked, you can prepare for your interview by considering how you will answer. Ensure you respond truthfully, tying your answers back to any key skills and accomplishments. Keep your answers short and focused on the question you’ve been asked, to avoid rambling and going off topic.
As much as possible, avoid speaking negatively about your current or former employers/colleagues. Your new employer will be looking for a positive approach and ability to overcome challenges. Even if you’re feeling discouraged, try to explore the good things, what you’ve learned and what you’ve gained from your experience.
Closing
The final part of the interview is a great opportunity for you to close the client/sell yourself so don’t be afraid to ask how they felt the interview went. Did they have any reservations? What are the next stages? These will give you clarity and further opportunity to shut down any of their reservations.
Advance TRS
For more helpful interview tips, and job search advice check out our other Advance Advice articles.
We have a variety of opportunities available on our job boards and a team of talented consultants to speak to on 01483 361 061.
We’ve rounded up some top news stories from across the Built Environment
Network Rail have completed hundreds of Christmas and New Year projects across Britain’s railway. Giving you better and more reliable journeys for the long term. Read more…
The number of construction projects started at the back end of the year has dropped sharply. However, a spike in contract awards indicates that the sector remains on track as it recovers from the Covid-19 hit. Read more…
Joint venture developer Stanhope, Mitsui Fudosan has picked Kier to build 142 affordable homes at its wider former BBC Television Centre development in West London. Read more…
It was a huge breakthrough to see water play a central role for the first time at any COP, with the first ever dedicated Water Pavilion and widespread acknowledgement that water is critical to the climate debate. Read more…
Industry body Water UK is encouraging customers to take some immediate steps, such as lagging pipes and checking central heating, to ensure they stay safe and warm over the winter months. Read more…
Having a personal statement on your CV is the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to prospective employers. It should be a short paragraph, around 5-6 lines, detailing your attributes, what you can offer the company, and your career goals.
We’ve put together some top tips on writing your personal statement:
What should you include?
You should think about the following points:
• A statement about who are you • What you currently do? (if applicable) • What are your career goals/what are you searching for? • Your value to the company
As employers will only spend a short time reviewing your CV, it’s important to highlight your potential straight away.
Why you should vary your personal statement:
If you have time, it would be beneficial to adapt your personal statement each job you apply for. This allows you to make it as relevant as possible to the role you are applying for. Make sure you do your research on the specific requirements the employer is asking for, both for the job and personal skills. This shows potential employers that you understand the requirements for the role.
Employers may also use applicant tracking systems that analyse your CV for keywords and phrases. Having these included in your personal statement, increases your chances of being seen and progressed in the application stage.
Remember, your personal statement gives you a chance to sell yourself in one paragraph. The rest of your CV is your work experience and your qualifications, so this gives you the opportunity to add that personal touch.
How to structure your statement:
• State who you are – Begin your statement by detailing who you are, your qualities and where you are in your career. Use of buzzwords can capture the attention of potential employers and help you stand out from the crowd.
Example: As an experienced project manager, I have over 10 years of experience across the rail industry. I am a reliable and well-organised manager, bringing a variety of expertise and knowledge to the table
• Communicate your value – The second section should state why you are suitable for the role and what value you bring to the company. This is your chance to highlight any key achievements relevant to the position and distinct qualities.
Example: In my current role, my determination and proactive approach resulted in several successful completions of important projects. The combination of my time management, communication and decision-making skills ensured maximum productivity of each project and of those involved.
• Detail your career goals – In the final part of your statement, you should explain what your career goals are and why you’re applying for this role.
Example: I am now coming to the end of my current role and am seeking a new challenge. I’m looking for a position which will allow me to contribute my skills and experience, whilst increasing my current knowledge.
Advance TRS
For more helpful tips and job search advice check out our website. We have various Advance Advice articles that cover all aspects of job hunting.
If you are looking for a new career in the built environment, contact us today on 01483 361 061. Alternatively, contact us via email at info@advance-trs.com. We have plenty of permanent and contract roles across all our sectors. Our recruiters are here to help!
Despite the challenges of 2021, the Advance TRS team have had some big celebrations as the company reached an incredible 10-year milestone. From its humble beginnings in 2011, Advance TRS has shown remarkable growth. It has gone from a £0 to a £25m turnover business, delivering MSPs and RPOs for some of the biggest businesses in the built environment. To this day the team work closely with clients and candidates to provide honest, reliable, and top-quality recruitment solutions.
In the second part of our blog series, we sit down with Andy, Founder and Group Managing Director, to discuss the company today and what makes Advance TRS different.
Where is the business currently?
Andy: Right now, we are very established. Each sector has developed a strong client base and recognised recruiters that have a deep understanding of their sectors, from both the client and candidates. They have learnt what the clients expectations and requirements are, plus what a candidate wants, and needs. We offer a professional service and expert advice to our clients. With this critical client base, we can operate fantastic recruitment solutions.
The pandemic, the general election and Brexit have all had a knock-on effect to the recruitment market. This has been challenging at times, however, we have not let this slow us down. We stayed motivated and worked hard, no matter what the circumstances. The markets are recovering well and now picking up pace on projects or programmes that had been delayed during the challenging period. This creates a greater need for us to deliver suitable candidates and help catch up on any delays.
The future is looking very exciting for Advance TRS! We’re expanding geographically and aiming for a greater presence in London. This would give us the opportunity to attract a different portfolio of recruitment consultants. We can offer a greater service, with even more experience and knowledgeable people.
What makes Advance TRS different?
Andy: Despite being a SME business we are running two successful offices and looking to open a third. We are committed to delivering our service in a responsible, safe, and sustainable way. From our environmental footprint to site-based health and safety, and from legal compliance to giving back to local communities, our attention to detail and dedication to delivering a quality service rings true throughout everything we do.
From the beginning, staff wellbeing and company values have been highly important to me. I’ve tried to nurture a close office culture, where colleagues work together and look out for each other. It is a culture we work hard to protect and continue, so finding the right people for the company is just as important as finding the right people for the job. By collaborating in a friendly, open office, we work together to deliver the best possible service for our customers.
Advancing those less fortunate has also been a central motivator for me and the Advance TRS team. To date, our staff have raised over £65,000 for charities, completing an incredible array of personal challenges to raise money and awareness for those less fortunate.
So, why join Advance?
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, we have fantastic opportunities for career development. We pride ourselves on rewarding success and promoting from within. However, we are always looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
Working with our experienced training and development team, you’ll develop your skills and abilities even further to ensure you reach your maximum potential in your role. We also have a company intranet, with online training courses available for your own progress.
As recruiters, we really understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. Check out our website to find out more and contact us today!
Do you need an up-to-date CV? Remember your CV represents you to your future employer. Your employer wants to know why they should hire you and not any of the other applicants. So, how do you make your CV and experience stand out? Here are some top tips from our team that you need to think about when writing your CV.
When structuring your CV, remember employers see lots of applications for each role, so if yours doesn’t make the right information easily accessible it will go straight to the bottom of the pile. The simpler it looks, the easier it is to read.
Invest time to tailor your personal summary specifically for the job you are applying for. This is your primary opportunity to highlight your strengths and previous successes
Follow on from this with your qualifications
Keep the font to one standard type and size
Don’t begin each sentence with ‘I’. Unfortunately, it is not the way to create a compelling CV
Keep your education and job history in chronological order. It makes sense to put the most recent achievement or job at the top of the list as this is what the employer is interested in
Be truthful
Noting down truthful experience is essential. If you feel that you have to add in an experience you haven’t completed, this job is not for you! Note down all experience you think is related to the job you are wanting to apply for and you will find the perfect employer who wants to invest in you.
Employment history
Keep this short and sweet. Employers don’t need to know every job you’ve had throughout your life. If you think, on average, 50 people apply for every job on the market. If those 50 people all have 8 paged CVs, the employer will quickly become disinterested in reading through all of that information. Save the long explanations of your employment for your interview. Just note the job role, the company and the dates you worked there and add a little bit more information on what you’ve done in your most recent roles.
Check, check and check again – no typos!
Checking your spelling and grammar is essential. You might want to ask someone to look over your work as well as using spell check and looking up any words you’re unsure of!
TOP TIP! Why not check out some brilliant spelling and grammar checkers to improve your writing? We particularly like Grammarly.
Make your CV role specific
Make sure you tailor your CV to suit the job you’re applying for. It’s very tempting to try to cut corners with a generic ‘one size fits all’ CV, but it is unlikely you’ll get away with it. Always read the role’s exact requirements and re-word your CV accordingly. This will involve you doing your research so you know exactly what the employer is looking for, it may take a bit of effort, but if it puts you one step closer to your dream job so it’s well worth it!
Once you are convinced that your CV meets all the job criteria and portrays you in the best possible way you are ready to search and apply!
Take a look at our Advance Advice for more help with CVs, interview preparation, and all things relating to your job search!
Floods, high winds and landslips can destroy railway infrastructure and block lines. Network Rail teams repair damage and clear debris to ensure trains can continue to run. Read more…
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has told that hundreds of high-rise buildings in the UK were clad with combustible materials because the government failed to crack down on a loophole after colluding with the construction industry. Read more…
A glow in the dark paving system that absorbs ultraviolet rays during the day and radiates light at night has been used for the first time on a major commercial development in Derbyshire. Read more…
British Water’s unique Women on Water campaign continues to build momentum, with the renewal of a successful mentoring programme and the announcement of an in-person networking reception. Read more…
United Utilities has seen a growing uptake by water retailers of its non-household meter reading service – more than 90 per cent of non-household meters in the North West are now being read by the water company. Read more…
The pandemic has triggered an exodus of more than 100,000 skilled workers as they vanish from the industry’s core 45-55 years old age group. Read more…
HIS Markit and CIPS UK report that UK construction companies have indicated a sharp increase in business activity, and the fastest upturn in commercial work. Read more…
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has told that hundreds of high-rise buildings in the UK were clad with combustible materials because the government failed to crack down on a loophole after colluding with the construction industry. Read more…
A glow in the dark paving system that absorbs ultraviolet rays during the day and radiates light at night has been used for the first time on a major commercial development in Derbyshire. Read more…
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has vowed to increase its scrutiny of future road funding for the strategic road network as plans are drawn up for the third road investment strategy (RIS3). Read more…
This September the Advance TRS team celebrates the recruitment agency’s remarkable 10-year milestone, as they gear up for some well-deserved anniversary celebrations in London at the end of the month.
In the past decade, the business has shown incredible growth, starting as a one-man band and turning into a £25m business. Founder and Group Managing Director Andy Ridout employs some of the industry’s most knowledgeable recruitment experts who provide a 5-star service to both clients and candidates.
In this 3-part blog series, Andy tells us what sparked the idea of setting up the business, where he sees the company going in the coming months and years and reveals some exciting plans.
Andy, what motivated you to start your own recruitment business 10 years ago and what was your vision?
Andy: I come from a recruitment background. Prior to setting up Advance TRS, I had already spent 25 years being a leading recruitment expert in the built environment. I saw a lot of poor quality service that barely scratched the surface, so I wanted to offer a service that really focused on quality over quantity, building close relationships with clients, getting a deep technical understanding of their needs to be able to find the top-quality talent they’re looking for.
I also knew I wanted it to be a multi-sector business within the built environment to enable us to cross-sell skill sets and opportunities that would complement each other.
How has the business changed in the past decade?
Andy: In the beginning, I knew we needed to build a good reputation, establish our presence on the market and deliver what we said we would, to the high-quality standards we had set ourselves. Being such a small team at the beginning, it wasn’t always easy but we worked hard and it paid off.
In no time at all Advance TRS started attracting top sector experts into the business, seasoned recruiters who know their industries and who live by the same values we had set for ourselves. And there’s no end in sight! We continue to grow and recruit new team members who bring the right ethos and drive.
These fantastic individuals have been integral in driving the business forward. Our grown Guildford and South Coast teams are stronger than ever and we’re ready to take the business to the next level.
Why Advance TRS?
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, we have fantastic opportunities for career development. We pride ourselves on rewarding success and promoting from within. However, we are always looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
As recruiters, we really understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. To help us develop our team into the best they can be, all staff receive invaluable mentorship from our experienced senior leaders and are able to shape a clear career path bespoke to them, mapping out potential routes of progression within the company.
Our dedication to creating a fantastic working environment was recognised at the 2018 Toast of Surrey Business Awards when we were announced as Employer of the Year and Leadership Team of the Year.
As well as a competitive salary, you’ll also be able to take advantage of our fantastic benefits package including; Discounts and Perks, Private Pension Plan, Team Building & Incentives (Climb the O2, powerboat down the Thames or enjoy a night out on the company. We ensure hard work and dedication is rightly rewarded), Break Out Room, Private Health Insurance, Uncapped Commission, Life Assurance, and Workplace Wellbeing program.
During the Covid pandemic, a large proportion of the UK public lost their jobs due to businesses having to cut costs and save wherever they could. In addition to that, many young people graduate from university each year and it can be challenging to find a job.
We are a rapidly growing recruitment business always looking for motivated individuals to join our team! In this two-part blog series, we have spoken to some of our colleagues about how they got into recruitment and whether they felt that their experience of having gone to university helped them in their job.
In this week’s post, we find out more from Water & Infrastructure Director Rob and his colleague Alex, Principal Consultant on the Advance TRS water team.
Rob: I studied Environmental Science at the University of Southampton.
Alex: I went to the University of Portsmouth and have got a BA (Hons) in Architecture.
How did you get into recruitment?
Rob: At the time, I went to a careers fair where I met a graduate recruiter. He was working at the business I later joined, so it all went from there.
Alex: My first child was born the day before I started my third year at University. Whilst this focused my mind to complete the third year I decided that I needed to start earning good money to provide for my family. Staying in architecture would have meant a further one to two years in a work placement, followed by another year to complete a Masters Degree which would have meant struggling financially. My best friend’s mum was the HR Director at a big recruitment firm at the time and I had heard that there was good money to be made in recruitment. Whilst having a fairly quiet disposition and not being a typical ‘salesperson’, I did have bucket loads of drive and determination so I thought I’d give it a shot.
How has your degree and going to uni helped you in your career?
Rob: My degree included units on key water and environmental management and engineering sectors so I have a good understanding of lots of the key components which I recruit for. Having a broad understanding of the technical aspects allowed me to focus on learning the nuts and bolts of recruitment and was definitely an advantage.
Alex: The experience of university helped in my overall maturity and built my confidence in communicating with a variety of people. It also helped to instil and build various characteristics including drive, commitment, persistence, determination, work ethic, listening skills, initiative and innovation. Having good knowledge of architecture and the built environment helped me to adapt to recruiting within the civil engineering design sector as I already had an understanding of various aspects of the design & build process.
Why Advance TRS?
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, we have fantastic opportunities for career development. We pride ourselves on rewarding success and promoting from within. However, we are always looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
As recruiters, we really understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. To help us develop our team into the best they can be, all staff receive invaluable mentorship from our experienced senior leaders and are able to shape a clear career path bespoke to them, mapping out potential routes of progression within the company.
Our dedication to creating a fantastic working environment was recognised at the 2018 Toast of Surrey Business Awards when we were announced as Employer of the Year and Leadership Team of the Year.
As well as a competitive salary, you’ll also be able to take advantage of our fantastic benefits package including; Discounts and Perks, Private Pension Plan, Team Building & Incentives (Climb the O2, powerboat down the Thames or enjoy a night out on the company. We ensure hard work and dedication is rightly rewarded), Break Out Room, Private Health Insurance, Uncapped Commission, Life Assurance, and Workplace Wellbeing program.
During the Covid pandemic, a large proportion of the UK public lost their jobs due to businesses having to cut costs and save wherever they could. In addition to that, many young people graduate from university each year and it can be challenging to find a job.
We are a rapidly growing recruitment business always looking for motivated individuals to join our team! In this two-part blog series, we have spoken to some of our colleagues about how they got into recruitment and whether they felt that their experience of having gone to university helped them in their job.
In this week’s article, we spoke to Client Services and Rail Signalling Director Sam and his colleague Josh, Principal Consultant on the Advance TRS rail team.
What did you study?
Sam: I went to the University of Winchester where I studied Sports Management combined with Business Administration.
Josh: I studied BA in Law and Business Management at Keele University.
How did you get into recruitment?
Sam: A friend of a friend knew of some recruitment vacancies at a business in Twyford, the same company Advance TRS Founder and Group MD Andy Ridout and Operations Director Paul Merton worked for at the time. I didn’t hesitate and applied; there was high earnings potential and great opportunities for career progression. I also enjoy working with people which, as a recruiter, you do on a daily basis.
Josh: A friend of mine ran a recruitment company and I did some work for him while I was at uni. I liked the work and the fast-paced, competitive environment that comes with recruitment and it all went from there.
How has the experience of going to uni helped you in your career?
Sam: It has certainly taught me discipline and what it means to work hard, which have been really valuable traits working in recruitment.
Josh: Yes, to the extent it helps with being thorough in what you do and not take things at face value, which in recruitment can lead to issues down the line. It helps with discipline in terms of covering things off and not letting issues stay live.
Why Advance TRS?
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, we have fantastic opportunities for career development. We pride ourselves on rewarding success and promoting from within. However, we are always looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
As recruiters, we really understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. To help us develop our team into the best they can be, all staff receive invaluable mentorship from our experienced senior leaders and are able to shape a clear career path bespoke to them, mapping out potential routes of progression within the company.
Our dedication to creating a fantastic working environment was recognised at the 2018 Toast of Surrey Business Awards when we were announced as Employer of the Year and Leadership Team of the Year.
As well as a competitive salary, you’ll also be able to take advantage of our fantastic benefits package including; Discounts and Perks, Private Pension Plan, Team Building & Incentives (Climb the O2, powerboat down the Thames or enjoy a night out on the company. We ensure hard work and dedication is rightly rewarded), Break Out Room, Private Health Insurance, Uncapped Commission, Life Assurance, and Workplace Wellbeing program.
Created by The Women’s Engineering Society (WES), 23rd June 2021 marks International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), the only day in the calendar that celebrates women in engineering and similar professions.
According to WES, latest figures show that just under 13% of the engineering workforce is female. INWED gives women engineers around the world a profile when they are still hugely under-represented in their professions. It plays a vital role in encouraging more girls and young women to take up engineering careers.
In 2020 the International Women in Engineering Day Twitter campaign recorded a potential impact of 103 million, with the official #INWED hashtag trending at number one in the UK on the day. The website was viewed 56,000 times during the month of June, with hundreds of events registered and taking place in countries all across the world.
In a blog we published recently, we spoke about a BBC article on the topic of youth unemployment and women between 15 to 24 being most affected in the UK. After reading the article, Advance TRS Group Managing Director Andy Ridout decided to offer three fast-track positions to young women wanting to start a career in recruitment.
We’re hiring
At Advance TRS, we believe everyone deserves the same opportunities, regardless of age, race, gender, religion or sexual orientation. The diversity of our workforce is an essential part of our success. As such, we are committed to supporting contractors and staff to work in an environment that is free from discrimination and promotes equal opportunities for all.
We are currently recruiting for a number of positions across our Guildford and South Coast teams in recruitment, payroll and sales administration. Check out our latest opportunities.
Why Advance TRS?
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, we have fantastic opportunities for career development. We pride ourselves on rewarding success and promoting from within. However, we are always looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
As recruiters we really understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. To help us develop our team into the best they can be, all staff receive invaluable mentorship from our experienced senior leaders and are able to shape a clear career path bespoke to them, mapping out potential routes of progression within the company.
Our dedication to creating a fantastic working environment was recognised at the 2018 Toast of Surrey Business Awards when we were announced as Employer of the Year and Leadership Team of the Year.
As well as a competitive salary, you’ll also be able to take advantage of our fantastic benefits package including; Discounts and Perks, Private Pension Plan, Team Building & Incentives
(Climb the O2, powerboat down the Thames or enjoy a night out on the company. We ensure hard work and dedication is rightly rewarded), Break Out Room, Private Health Insurance, Uncapped Commission, Life Assurance, and Workplace Wellbeing program.
The BBC recently reported that during the Covid pandemic, a large proportion of the UK public lost their jobs due to businesses having to cut costs and save wherever they could. Young people were more affected by this, with young women aged 15 to 24 being hit the hardest.
That is partly because women are more likely than men to work in some of the hardest-hit industries such as hospitality. The International Labour Office (ILO) estimated that around the world, about 55% of workers in hotel, catering and tourism were women.
Some have been looking for a new role for almost two years with no luck. Businesses are still struggling, and while recruitment in some areas is on the rise, other industries are still very cautious or simply can’t afford to employ again yet.
Advance TRS creating opportunities for young people
“I was really moved by this, no young person should have to struggle so much to find a job or start a career.” explained Andy Ridout, Founder and Group MD of Advance TRS. As a father of teenagers who will soon be job hunting themselves, he understands why being rejected for roles time and time again can knock applicants’ confidence.
We are hiring
In order to help combat the issue, especially when it comes to young women being unable to find employment, Andy came up with the idea of opening three fast-track recruitment trainee jobs in the company’s Guildford head office. This will provide ambitious young women with an opportunity to start a career in recruitment and, depending on their drive and motivation, quickly move up the career ladder with nearly unlimited earning potential.
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, we have fantastic opportunities for career development. We pride ourselves on rewarding success and promoting from within. However, we are always looking for new talent to further strengthen and expand our teams.
As recruiters, we really understand that talented and motivated staff is the key to any successful business. To help us develop our team into the best they can be, all staff receive invaluable mentorship from our experienced senior leaders and are able to shape a clear career path bespoke to them, mapping out potential routes of progression within the company.
Our dedication to creating a fantastic working environment was recognised at the 2018 Toast of Surrey Business Awards when we were announced as Employer of the Year and Leadership Team of the Year.
World Environment Day has become a platform to raise awareness on the dangers to our environment such as air and plastic pollution, illegal wildlife trade, sea-level increase and food security to name just a few.
The theme this year is Ecosystem Restoration, which means assisting the recovery of destroyed ecosystems and conserving those that are still intact. It can take many forms, from growing trees, to rewilding gardens, changing diets, making cities greener or cleaning up rivers and coasts. Healthier ecosystems with richer biodiversity yield greater benefits such as more fertile soils, bigger yields of timber and fish, and larger stores of greenhouse gases.
The official World Environment Day website holds a wealth of information on how this awareness day came about, what we can all do to help the environment and much more. Take a look to see what you might be able to do, as even the smallest changes can have a big impact.
There are many things businesses can do to become more environmentally friendly too, from cutting down on paper to turning off computers when not in use and switching off the lights when leaving the office in the evening. We previously published a blog with some suggestions.
At Advance TRS, we care about the environment and we are making more and more changes to make sure that we minimise our impact on it. If you want to work for a business that places the environment as a priority, send your CV to info@advance-trs.com or take a look at our latest vacancies.
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, continuing to improve equality, diversity and inclusion is vital to us at Advance TRS. We always strive to create a working environment that is free from discrimination and promotes equal opportunities for all, and we work with our clients to help them do the same.
In a series of interviews we have spoken to some of the talented women working at Advance TRS and asked them what challenges they might have faced in their careers so far and what advice they would give other women wanting to start working in their sectors.
In this part of the blog series we spoke to Senior Resourcer Emily and Client Services Delivery Manager Louise.
What made you want to start a career in your sector?
Louise: I have always worked in a sales environment ever since finishing college, and I thrive on working towards a target and being driven by earning commission. The last 10 years have been in the recruitment sector and I would never look back. It can be a rollercoaster ride, the highs are high but the lows can be really low. However for me, I wouldn’t change it as being rewarded for working hard is what motivates me every day. I have always been competitive whether that be in sports or work and enjoy the challenge of constantly pushing myself to be better.
Emily: I’ve always been interested in a career in recruitment, it’s always seemed like a job I wanted to do. The role itself is rewarding in so many ways; you’re given great career development opportunities, you get to help people reach their career goals, you have the incentive of earning additional income by working hard. Working in rail wasn’t something I initially ever saw myself being capable of doing, but it’s been great learning about an interesting sector that was brand new to me. I think the best and honest way to describe being in recruitment is that it’s a feast and famine environment but the good massively outweighs the bad because there is so much reward in doing well.
Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?
Louise: You always look up to the “top billers” within the company and strive to get closer to them. Obviously our MD Andy is a huge inspiration as he has taken Advance TRS from nothing to where we are today. I also admire our Finance Director Carolyn, as she has made her way to a Board Director position through her hard work and commitment to the company and as the only female Director she of course is also inspiring to me!
Emily: Everyone at Advance TRS inspires me. Everyone has achieved something and it’s great to see others doing well as it’s a great insight into the potential your career has.
If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Louise: My nan, Marilyn Monroe, Beyonce
Emily: Princess Diana, Kim Kardashian, my Auntie
Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women considering a career in your sector?
Louise: You have to be thick skinned to work in recruitment, strong willed and persistent. Never give up and even if you get knocked back pick yourself up and try again
Emily: Stay positive, trust in yourself and be confident in your work, always be willing to pick yourself back up after a setback and not let it affect you and don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd.
How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?
Louise: I think it’s very important for women to support other women, we should embrace each other’s strengths and not feel threatened or jealous but be proud of each other.
Emily: It is extremely important for women to feel empowered and to empower other women in return, It’s the greatest gift we can give each other and it doesn’t cost a penny.
How do you find being a woman working in your sector?
Louise:Being in recruitment, it is quite a male-driven environment, particularly with the sectors we work in, so it can be tough as you do find you are the minority but the key is to stand strong and don’t be a pushover. Also it’s nice giving the boys a run for their money too!! (Nothing like a bit of healthy competition)
At Advance TRS we are always looking for talented and driven new team members. If this is you and you would like to work for a business that values its employees’ contribution to its success then we would love to hear from you!
To find out more about our current opportunities, visit our careers page, or for a discrete conversation, contact Paul Metcalfe, Advance TRS CEO on 07793 554 413 or email pme@advance-trs.com.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2021 was all about nature and the positive effect it has on our mental wellbeing. In a previous blog, we spoke about a great article Mentalhealth.org.uk published, talking about their top tips on connecting with nature to improve your mental health.
Growing food or flowers, exercising outdoors or being around animals can have lots of physical and psychological benefits and in this post, we wanted to share some of our favourite ideas with you.
Growing space
Not everyone has access to a garden, so instead, you could plant salad leaves or herbs in a window box or plant pot and watch them grow.
Bring nature to your home
Buy yourself some potted plants or flowers, or arrange a comfortable space to sit by a window where you can look out over a view of trees or the sky.
Connect with animals
The positive effect animals have on our mental health are well-known, so maybe you could benefit from visiting a local farm, hanging a bird feeder outside your window or even borrowing your friend’s dog to take for a walk.
Help the environment
There are countless things you can do to help protect the environment, for example going on a litter picking walk – you will be surprised how much rubbish you will find! Or, if you have some outdoor space of your own, you could plant seeds, such as bushes and flowers to help bees and other wildlife.
It’s the simple things
If the above don’t really work for you, you could simply enjoy your morning cup of coffee or tea outside or sit in the local park during your lunch break.
There are many more things you can do to help you (re)connect with nature. Mental health charities like mind.org.uk, as well as the MentalHealth.org.uk website offer great resources to help you.
At Advance TRS, we prioritise our staff’s wellbeing. We offer a Wellbeing Hub and have appointed qualified Mental Health First Aiders, who will act as the first point of contact for anyone feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
We are currently recruiting, so if you want to work for a company that places mental wellbeing and dealing with the causes of stress as a priority, send us your CV or take a look at our latest vacancies.
Today, Monday 10th May, marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week 2021, and this year, the theme is nature.
Nature is vital to our psychological and emotional health. In fact, it is almost impossible to achieve mental wellbeing without a connection to the natural world. You might even have noticed before how much better you feel after a walk or simply spending some time outside. This is because for a big chunk of human history, we lived as part of nature and this only drastically changed with the last five generations, when many of us lived and worked much more separated from it.
The good news is, you don’t have to go for a 10k run or 2-hour long walk everyday to reap the benefits of being outdoors. Even short amounts of time reduce feelings of social isolation and protect our mental health efficiently while also preventing stress.
There are many ways you can reconnect with nature and even bring it to you! Mentalhealth.org.uk have published a great article and an accompanying document listing some of their top tips on the topic. You can find the blog here.
At Advance TRS, we prioritise our staff’s wellbeing. We offer a Wellbeing Hub and have appointed qualified Mental Health First Aiders, who will act as the first point of contact for anyone feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
We are currently recruiting, so if you want to work for a company that places mental wellbeing and dealing with the causes of stress as a priority, send us your CV or take a look at our latest vacancies.
As a rapidly growing recruitment business, continuing to improve equality, diversity and inclusion is vital to us at Advance TRS. We always strive to create a working environment that is free from discrimination and promotes equal opportunities for all, and we work with our clients to help them do the same.
In a series of interviews we have spoken to some of the talented women working at Advance TRS and asked them what challenges they might have faced in their careers so far and what advice they would give other women wanting to start working in their sectors.
We are starting this short blog series with our Accounts Manager Michelle, and Katie, who is our Compliance & Administration Manager.
What made you want to start a career in your sector?
Michelle: I always wanted to start a career in accounting as it has been my lifelong goal. It wasn’t until my school friend passed away that gave me the push to start up a course in accounting at college and then apply to be a junior accounts assistant at Advance TRS. I haven’t looked back since.
Katie: To be honest I fell into my career at Advance TRS. I was going away travelling around Asia when a now-colleague found my CV online and persuaded me to come for a coffee before I left. When I returned from my adventure I started my new job!
Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?
Michelle: I don’t have anyone in particular who has inspired me but I always look up to people who do their best every day.
Katie: I find seeing the success of my colleagues inspires me daily, especially the strong successful women at Advance TRS.
If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Michelle: Tina Turner – after years of domestic abuse, physical and mental, she rose above to become one of the most powerful female black artists in the world.
Caitlyn Jenner – the strength she has to publicly become the woman she wants to be.
Katie Piper – the confidence to tell her story and reclaim her life after such a horrific ordeal. She’s done a lot of campaigning and documentaries getting people talking about mental health, domestic abuse etc.
Katie: Michelle Obama (who wouldn’t want dinner with Michelle!), Rhianna because I think her success is inspiring, and my mum.
Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women considering a career in your sector?
Michelle: I don’t believe there is any specific advice depending on gender. If you work to your best potential everyday that’s all that matters.
How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?
Katie: Support, empowerment and positivity amongst women is so important, there is no end to what can be achieved when you look out for one another and lift each other up.
What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?
Michelle: If you believe you can do something, you can. It does not matter who you are or where you are from, you just need to believe.
How do you find being a woman working in your sector?
Katie: It is a very male dominated environment, but I think that only makes you stand up more, be confident and strive to succeed.
Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?
Michelle: I think that having diversity in the workplace is very important. Having a diverse team means we have a variety of ideas and perspectives. Everyone is being valued and accepted regardless of age, gender, religious beliefs, etc.
At Advance TRS we are always looking for talented and driven new team members. If this is you and you would like to work for a business that values its employees’ contribution to its success then we would love to hear from you!
To find out more about our current opportunities, visit our careers page, or for a discrete conversation, contact Paul Metcalfe, Advance TRS CEO on 07793 554 413 or email pme@advance-trs.com.
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