Archives 2025

Working in hospitality demands a unique set of qualities that set the stage for exceptional service and memorable experiences. At its core, this industry thrives on human connection and seamless coordination. These are the elements that not only define the industry but can significantly elevate your career:

1. Adaptability: The hospitality environment can be unpredictable. From fluctuating guest expectations to sudden changes in occupancy, being adaptable is crucial.

2. Communication skills: Clear, effective communication ensures that teams operate smoothly and guests feel valued and understood. Whether it’s communicating with team members or engaging with guests, clear communication builds trust and helps prevent misunderstandings.

3. Problem-solving ability: Challenges are inevitable. Quick thinking and resourcefulness can turn a potential issue into a positive guest experience. Being proactive in finding solutions not only resolves immediate concerns but also enhances the overall guest experience.

4. Attention to detail: It’s the little things that often make the biggest impact. A meticulous eye ensures that no stone is left unturned in providing top-notch service.

5. Empathy: Understanding and catering to the diverse needs of guests requires a deep sense of empathy. It’s all about creating a home away from home.

These skills not only enhance guest satisfaction but also foster a rewarding work environment. They contribute to building a cohesive team, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving career growth in the industry.

For more information about our hospitality roles, or to find out how South 57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk

Looking after yourself as an HGV driver is crucial for both your health and your career. Long hours on the road can take a toll on your body if you don’t take conscious steps to maintain well-being. Being proactive about your health ensures that you can continue to do your job effectively, and it enhances your overall quality of life – here’s our top tips:

Make breaks a priority. According to UK law, HGV drivers must take breaks totalling at least 45 minutes after no more than 4.5 hours of driving (UK Government, 2023). This is not just a legal requirement but a vital aspect of staying alert and focused on the road. Use this time to stretch, walk around a bit, and get a breath of fresh air.

Stay hydrated and eat healthily. Long journeys can often tempt you to snack on convenient but unhealthy foods. Instead, stock up on water and healthy snacks like fruits and nuts to keep your energy levels up without relying on unhealthy foods from service stations.

Don’t underestimate the power of sleep. Quality sleep is essential for maintaining your alertness and reaction time. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep whenever possible. If you’re finding it difficult to sleep during trips, invest in a comfortable mattress or sleep aid that suits your needs.

Your mental health is just as important. Connect with family and friends regularly, even if it’s just a quick call. Being on the road can be isolating, and having a support system back home can make all the difference. Keeping in touch can help you feel less isolated and more supported.

To all the HGV drivers out there – stay safe, stay healthy, and keep on trucking! Remember, your well-being is the key to a long and successful career.

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how South57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.

Exploring the pros and cons of temp work can be essential in shaping career decisions. We often encounter people grappling with whether a temporary position is the right step for them. Here we explore the benefits and considerations of temporary work.

Pros:

1. Flexibility – Temp work can offer a significant degree of flexibility, allowing individuals to manage their work-life balance more easily.

2. Skill Development – It provides an opportunity to quickly gain diverse experience and develop new skills in various roles and industries.

3. Networking – Temp roles can expand your professional network, leading to future job opportunities.

Cons:

1. Job Security – Temporary positions, by nature, lack long-term security, which can be a significant drawback for many.

2. Benefits – At times temp workers can miss out on benefits that permanent workers are entitled to, depending on the organisation

3. Career Progression – Temporary roles might not always offer the clear career progression found in permanent positions.

Recent statistics show that the temporary employment market in the UK is growing, with a 5% year-on-year increase in temporary roles (ONS, 2024). This suggests that while there are certainly challenges, the opportunity for temporary work is expanding.

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how South57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.

Most people find that preparing for a job interview can feel like preparing for a big game – the more you practise, the better you perform! The butterflies, the anticipation, the nerves – they’re all part of the process that can push you to give your best performance. Here are some top tips to help you ace your next job interview:

1. Research the Company: It’s crucial to understand the company’s culture, values, and recent achievements. Browse their website, recent news articles, and LinkedIn page to gather insights. Knowing the company’s dress code can also help you decide how to dress appropriately.

2. Know Your CV Inside Out: Be ready to discuss any part of your CV in detail. This shows confidence and helps you link your experience to the job you’re applying for. It also demonstrates that you’ve made thoughtful connections between your past experiences and the new opportunity.

3. Practice Common Interview Questions: Classic questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” tend to come up frequently. Practice your answers to these and other industry-specific questions.

4. Prepare Your Questions: Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewer. This not only shows you’ve done your homework but also that you’re genuinely interested in the role. Asking about team dynamics, company goals, and growth opportunities can provide deeper insights and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the potential role.

5. Relax and Be Yourself: Remember, the interview is as much about you finding the right fit as it is about the company finding the right candidate. Be genuine and let your personality shine through.

What are your top tips for preparing for an interview?

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how South57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.

Warehouses are busy places! One thing is for sure; in any busy warehouse, you’ll find both forklifts and pedestrians – and when the two mix accidents can happen. It’s vital that everyone understands the importance of safety – so here’s our tips for making sure both forklift operators and pedestrians stay safe at all times.

Start with signs! Warning signs might not be noticed every time, but they do serve as a constant reminder of safety procedures and could jog someone’s memory at just the right time.

Keep forklifts and pedestrians apart. Not always possible or easy, but where you can create forklift only and pedestrian only spaces, or two tracks for both to use separately where possible.

Make some noise! Warning sounds and lights can provide an immediate visual reminder to keep safe and help team members to avoid numerous easily done accidents.

Make sure everyone knows everyone. Helping forklift operators and pedestrians to know one another and therefore be accountable for one another is incredibly helpful for forklift drivers to be aware of who they can see (and not, as the case may be) when they’re operating their equipment.

Stay safe!

For more information about our latest forklift vacancies, or to find out how South57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.

As January kicks off 2025, it’s crystal clear that employers are seeking specific skills to navigate this ever-evolving landscape. Let’s dive deeper into the top competencies that are catching recruiters’ eyes this month.

Firstly, digital literacy remains paramount. With rapid technological advancements, especially in AI, employers are actively searching for candidates who can not only adapt but also leverage these tools to drive innovation. For instance, knowing the basics of AI or a willingness to learn and work with technology is important.

Soft skills are gaining even more traction too. Emotional intelligence, effective communication, and flexibility have become non-negotiables. Being able to navigate interpersonal relationships and demonstrate empathy is crucial. Practicing active listening, engaging in team-building exercises, and constantly working on personal growth are just a few ways to sharpen these essential skills.

Lastly, sustainability awareness is climbing the priority ladder. Companies are not just paying lip service to green initiatives anymore—they’re integrating sustainability into their core business models. Increasingly, businesses are seeking individuals who can contribute to their sustainability goals and drive eco-friendly practices.

Make this January one to remember and develop your skills with South 57 today!

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how South 57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.