All posts by Rachel Rising

Navigating the job market can be daunting, but there are strategic steps you can take to supercharge your job search. Make yourself stand out from the crowd and take a look at our top tips to supercharge your job search:

1. Tailor Your CV – Customise your CV for each application. Highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job description. It shows your attention to detail and enthusiasm for the role.

2. Leverage Your Network – LinkedIn is a goldmine for networking. Engage with posts, join industry groups, and reach out to former colleagues. A recommendation from within can significantly boost your chances.

3. Stay Informed – Keep up with industry trends and company news. Being knowledgeable about a company’s latest achievements or challenges can set you apart in an interview.

4. Consider a Recruiter – We have access to a broad range of opportunities and can offer personalised guidance throughout your job search journey. Sign up to South 57 today!

5. Practice Your Interview Skills – Mock interviews can be incredibly beneficial. Practice makes perfect, and the more you prepare, the more confident you’ll be.

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

Shift working can at times mean that drivers find it difficult to get the adequate sleep and rest they require, especially if they are working through unsociable hours. Sleep deprivation can have massive consequences, especially for long distance drivers – here’s some top tips for avoiding mistakes.

Remember the rules. You shouldn’t be driving for more than 9 hours a day and you shouldn’t work more than 13 hours a day – following this guidance is vital for making sure you’re not too tired to work.

Make sure you take breaks. They may seem unimportant, but forgetting or neglecting to take breaks as required can have a huge impact and lead to accidents.

Stay refreshed. Take plenty of water with you on shifts and try to plan healthy and nutritious meals with slow burning energy to get your though. Coffee may seem like your best friend, but it really isn’t! Caffeine can give you a temporary boost but may leave you feeling more tired later on.

The best cure for driver fatigue? Avoid it! Ensure that you get a good rest between shifts – Exercise is also a great way to relax!

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

If you drive for a living, you’ll understand that it can sometimes be a highly pressured position, with demand for fast delivery now higher than ever.

However, van overloading can be a huge risk the driver and other drivers on the road. And yet, 9 out of 10 vehicles were found by the DVSA to be overloaded and therefore a risk to themselves and others on the road.

Vehicle manufacturers are trying to respond to the risk as best they can, with early collision warning systems becoming ever more sophisticated.

Whilst manufacturers are investing into new and more advanced safety technology, these advances are almost redundant if drivers don’t comply with weight specifications. Companies must actively remind all drivers of the risk and ensure correct procedures are followed.

Smaller vans remain unregulated when it comes to load, so organisations must take responsibility and promote good practise.

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

Forklift training isn’t a one-and-done deal. Regular refreshers are crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency. Did you know over 1,300 serious injuries involving forklifts occurred in the UK in the past year alone? (Source: HSE) These aren’t just numbers, they’re a reminder of the risks we face onsite daily.

Think of it as an investment in your career. Continuing forklift education sharpens skills, provides updates on the latest regulations, and decreases the likelihood of costly accidents.

Forklift operations are subject to constant evolution—new technologies, updated protocols, and refined techniques are continually being introduced. Regular training sessions ensure that operators are not only compliant with current safety standards but also proficient in utilising new equipment and methodologies. It is a proactive approach that can save lives and reduce downtime due to incidents.

Moreover, fostering a corporate culture that emphasizes continuous learning and safety can significantly boost employee morale and retention. Employees are likely to feel more valued and invested in an environment where their safety and ongoing education are prioritised.

And you’re in luck! The Forklift Truck Training Centre offers excellent forklift training from novice to expert and are RTITB accredited.

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

Creating a pedestrian-safe warehouse is crucial for ensuring the well-being of all employees. A safe environment not only ensures the health and safety of your workforce but also promotes efficiency and productivity. Here are my top tips for maintaining a secure environment within your warehouse:

1. Clear Signage: Clearly mark pedestrian zones and forklift lanes to avoid any confusion. Use vibrant colours and reflective materials to ensure visibility. Well-placed signs can guide both pedestrians and vehicle operators, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

2. Proper Lighting: Ensure that all areas, especially high-traffic and potentially hazardous zones, are well-lit. Proper illumination can prevent many accidents by increasing visibility. Consider adding motion-sensor lights to areas that aren’t constantly in use to save energy while maintaining safety.

3. Regular Training: Regularly train staff on safety protocols and emergency procedures. Ensure everyone knows how to move safely around the warehouse and handle equipment properly. Regular drills and updates on safety practices can help embed a culture of safety.

4. Safety Gear: Enforce the use of personal protective equipment, such as high-visibility vests, safety boots, and hard hats. This makes employees more noticeable and helps prevent injuries. Ensure that the gear is well-maintained and fits properly to maximise its effectiveness.

5. Manage Inventory Layout: Keep pathways clear and free from obstructions. A tidy, organised warehouse is not just efficient – it’s also safer. Regularly review layout and storage practices to ensure they meet safety standards and adjust as necessary to accommodate changes in operations or inventory.

Implementing these safety measures can significantly reduce incidents. By taking proactive steps, you can create a safer, more productive workplace.

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

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.