Human Resourcing: Reflecting on 2022
2022 seems to have gone in a flash. We’ve all been navigating our way through a post-covid world, whilst tackling the major economic challenges brought on because of War in Ukraine, turbulence in UK Government and the lasting impacts of the pandemic.
Human Resourcing marked it’s 21st year of trading this year, yet we saw changes in the recruitment market that we’ve never seen before. The market is still hugely candidate driven and for the first time ever, there are more job vacancies in the UK than there are available, suitably skilled people.
The hiring process has been significantly longer than it once was as it’s become harder to source the right candidates. Hiring managers have realised that quality is much more important than quantity and in such a challenging market, patience, perseverance and communication are key.
We’ve had a record year in business, and this has been down to our unrivalled network of candidates and clients across the board. We’ve built relationships based on honesty, loyalty and transparency which has enabled us to work closely with businesses to create sustainable, successful recruitment plans.
As the New Year approaches, I’d like to take a moment to look back on some of the key things we’ve learned in 2022.
- Forever learning, forever listening
The last few years have been unpredictable in so many ways, reinforcing how important it is that we’re always willing to learn and never too old to do so. I try to surround myself with people who inspire me and who I can learn from every day. Candidates, clients, support staff, family and friends. All ages and all backgrounds.
One of those people is my son Alex, who this year captained the Wales U20s team in the 6 Nations. Watching him lead his team confidently and compassionately at such a young age was awe inspiring. He set an example both on and off the pitch and both he and his team reaped the rewards because of their attitude and dedication.
Being open minded and willing to learn from people of all ages and skillsets can help us all meet our goals and gain the best results in the long term. This is something I have actively applied to my professional life and results have been noted.
- There’s no I in team
During challenging times, being surrounded by people you can truly rely on really does matter. It’s simply impossible to do everything alone and I’m pleased to say that the Human Resourcing ‘Dream Team’ has never been stronger.
A special mention to Rachel Kennedy, Senior Recruitment Consultant who was my original first line manager at a high street recruitment agency. We’ve now been working together for over 30 years and enjoy a mutually respectful, trustworthy loyalty which money cannot buy.
Grace Busby, our Social Media and Marketing Consultant who never fails to get our brand, messaging and vacancies out to clients and candidates in a timely, creative, honest and informative fashion.
Mack Deacon, Accounts and Admin support who is tirelessly loyal, reactive and reliable, offering first class admin and finance support service to the team, staff and temporary workers.
- Kindness matters
Treating ourselves and others with kindness and compassion is essential. We’ve seen a huge shift in terms of what employees want from an employer, placing much more emphasis on values and this is also true of what we expect in the wider business community now.
I’ve been determined to be more vocal about the things that really matter to me and to live my values every day. This has seen me undertake some personal challenges this year all in the name of fundraising and giving back. I completed a half marathon in March in aid of The Stroke Association and did a 50-mile bike ride in August to raise money for Velindre Cancer Centre. This inspired me to sign up for a week’s Fitness Bootcamp in Marbella in 2023 plus a four day Cycling experience through the Champagne region of France with my colleague Rachel Kennedy.
- It’s all about balance
After two years of being in and out of lockdowns, this year of freedom has felt especially busy and so getting that balance right between work and down time needed to be a priority.
It hasn’t been easy. Having lived with so many restrictions, saying yes to everything felt obligatory at the start of the year. However, I soon realised I needed to establish a better balance. We’ve had a record year in business but I have no shame in saying I’ve also set boundaries around work so I can enjoy the time I spend with my loved ones. There’s always room for improvement but I think it’s been a pretty good balance overall!
- Nothing beats in-person connections
I don’t know about you but for me, getting back to in-person meetings, events and networking reignited that spark in me and made me fall in love with my job and the wider industry all over again.
Yes, virtual has its place but there’s nothing like being in a room of people who share the same passion and being able to learn from each other and share ideas. It’s also been great to share a bottle of wine with them at the end of the day too! Long may that continue.
Our most recent in-person event was the CIPD Wales roadshow and what a fantastic day it was! We’re so lucky to have such an amazing HR community here in South Wales and I’m incredibly proud to be part of it. I personally can’t wait for the next annual Award’s ceremony in March 2023.
Thanks to everyone who I’ve had the absolute pleasure of working with and connecting with in 2022. Have a fantastic Christmas break and a happy and healthy 2023 to you all.
Mera .x