RECRUITMENT

In today’s competitive world, the success of any organisation hinges on its ability to attract, retain, and develop top talent. However, the process of recruiting skilled individuals can be time-consuming, resource-draining, and costly if not executed well. This is where GCS Associates steps in as your trusted recruitment partner, offering specialised services that not only streamline your hiring processes but also save you valuable time and resources.

As a leading specialist agency in the field of recruitment, GCS Associates brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. Here’s why reviewing your recruitment processes with us can make a significant difference.

Industry Insight and Expertise:

Navigating the complexities of the job market requires in-depth knowledge and understanding of industry trends, talent pools, and hiring best practices. GCS Associates’ team of seasoned professionals possesses a deep understanding of various sectors and niches, allowing us to tailor our recruitment strategies to your specific needs. By leveraging our industry insights and expertise, you can rest assured that you’re tapping into the most qualified candidates for your organization.

Access to a Diverse Talent Pool:

One of the most significant advantages of partnering with GCS Associates is gaining access to a vast and diverse talent pool that may not be readily available through traditional recruitment channels. Through our extensive network, we can connect you with top-tier candidates who possess the skills, experience, and cultural fit that align with your organization’s objectives. This access to a broader talent pool increases the likelihood of finding the perfect match for your vacancies, ultimately saving you time and effort in the recruitment process.

Streamlined Recruitment Processes:

Time is of the essence in today’s fast-paced business environment, and every moment spent on lengthy recruitment processes equates to potential productivity losses and increased costs. GCS Associates specialises in streamlining the recruitment journey, from initial candidate screening to final placement, ensuring that your vacancies are filled promptly and efficiently.

Our tailored approach to recruitment eliminates the need for extensive administrative tasks, allowing you to focus on core business activities while we handle the rest.

Cost-Effective Solutions:

Recruitment costs can quickly escalate if not managed effectively, particularly when considering expenses such as advertising, candidate screening, and onboarding. By partnering with GCS Associates, you can benefit from cost-effective recruitment solutions that are designed to maximize your return on investment. From fixed-fee arrangements to scalable recruitment packages, we offer flexible pricing models that align with your budgetary constraints without compromising on quality or results.

Mitigation of Recruitment Risks:

In today’s competitive talent landscape, the risk of making a bad hire can have far-reaching consequences for your organisation, ranging from financial losses to reputational damage. GCS Associates employs rigorous screening and assessment processes to mitigate these risks, ensuring that every candidate presented meets your stringent criteria and standards. Our thorough vetting procedures minimize the likelihood of costly hiring mistakes, allowing you to make informed decisions with confidence.

In conclusion, reviewing your recruitment processes with a specialist agency like GCS Associates is not just a prudent investment but a strategic imperative in today’s dynamic business environment. By leveraging our industry insight, access to diverse talent pools, streamlined processes, cost-effective solutions, and risk mitigation strategies, you can optimize your recruitment outcomes while saving valuable time and resources. Make GCS Associates your partner of choice and experience the difference firsthand as we help you unlock the full potential of your workforce.

About GCS Associates
GCS Associates are specialist consultancy providing talent acquisition and staffing solutions to the building materials, construction, technical & engineering sectors.

With over 15 years’ experience partnering with a wide range of businesses from FTSE 100s to SME’s & smaller independent businesses – we simply provide the right talent to the best organisations.

Can you tell me a little bit about your career and how you got into the sector, why you like it?

Absolutely. I started off somewhat uncertainly after leaving university, stumbling into a project management role for a firm in Sheffield. However, I quickly realised that much of what I was doing leaned heavily into marketing, particularly in terms of communication and community engagement. This realisation sparked my interest in marketing, leading me to join a management consultancy in Doncaster through a knowledge transfer partnership. Over the years, I obtained various CIM qualifications and underwent management training, eventually transitioning into a business development role while still overseeing marketing efforts. My journey through different companies and roles eventually led me to Talasey, where I’ve been for nearly nine years now.

Could you share a bit about your experiences at Talasey and how the company has evolved?

When I joined Talasey, the company was relatively small, with just around 20 team members operating out of makeshift offices. Over the years, we’ve experienced significant growth, both in terms of team size and market presence. We’ve expanded our product offerings and rebranded to Talasey, consolidating several brands under one umbrella. Our premises have evolved from those initial makeshift offices to purpose-built facilities, including showrooms and accommodations for customers. Today, Talasey has nearly 100 team members and a state-of-the-art headquarters in Scunthorpe, reflecting our growth and commitment to excellence.

Can you tell us about your team and how you’ve built it to support Talasey’s goals?

Building the right team has been crucial for our success. Initially, it was just me handling marketing responsibilities, but as the company grew, so did the team. We’ve brought in individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds, focusing on attitude and aptitude above all else. Recently, we’ve restructured roles to better align with our objectives, creating specialized positions such as Merchant Marketing Manager and Trade Marketing Manager. Our emphasis has always been on finding the right fit for both the role and the team dynamic.

How do you approach diversity and inclusion within Talasey?

Diversity and inclusion are essential aspects of our company culture. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Flexibility is key, whether it’s accommodating individual needs or fostering a supportive work culture. We’ve seen firsthand how offering flexibility and understanding can lead to greater employee satisfaction and loyalty.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

There are two highlights that I’m very proud of.

The first was being part of the team that oversaw the rebrand of Natural Paving to become the Talasey Group in 2017.

Such was the pace at which the business was bringing on new landscaping products to market that Talasey became the overarching brand, under which there were sub-brands for distinct product groups, including Natural Paving, Vitripiazza, Piranha, Pavetuf and Luxigraze.

The other was implementing a pilot loyalty programme for roofing merchants during my time as Head of Customer Marketing. The pilot achieved fantastic results with a return on investment of 2:1, and significant increases in sales of the customers involved. Just before I left, the green light was given to roll out the pilot nationally.

And if I can squeeze a third highlight in, it’s been building the marketing team I currently work with at Talasey. We have some very talented people who are all committed to supporting our merchant and landscaping customers.

Do you have any mentors or role models who have influenced your career?

While I haven’t had an official mentor, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with supportive colleagues who have steered me along my journey. One standout individual is Stephanie Bolton, a former Director at SIG. She identified my potential and encouraged me to venture beyond my comfort zone, offering invaluable support and motivation.

Another influential figure is Mark Wall, the founder and CEO of Talasey, whose insights constantly enrich my understanding of the business world’s commercial dynamics. Mark’s guidance, coupled with the opportunities he has extended to me in my professional capacity, have significantly influenced my career trajectory. For instance, Mark entrusted me with the task of supporting Talasey’s sister company in the USA, and last year, he facilitated my transition to the next level professionally by appointing me to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) in my current Director position at Talasey.

Can you offer any advice for individuals, particularly women, who are just starting out in this sector?

My journey into this sector wasn’t straightforward, and I understand it may seem daunting, especially for younger women. However, my advice is not to be discouraged by the perception of it being male dominated. While there may have been more men initially when I started, I’ve witnessed a significant shift with more women entering the industry over the years. And I must say, they bring a valuable perspective and are great to collaborate with.

It’s essential not to let stereotypes deter you. While there might be a higher ratio of men to women, I believe competence should be the sole determinant for any role. I’ve never let the gender balance affect my performance or sense of belonging. For instance, during a recent forum discussion, some women expressed concerns about standing out or feeling the need to overcompensate. However, I’ve always advocated for focusing on merit rather than gender. If someone, regardless of gender, is the right fit for a role, they should be given the opportunity.

I won’t deny there have been moments where I’ve felt outnumbered, such as when I attended events dominated by men. But I’ve learned to navigate such situations confidently. It’s about recognizing that diversity benefits everyone and ensuring that the best person for the job, regardless of gender, is given the chance to excel.

In the competitive job market of the Construction supplies sector, a well-crafted CV can be the key to unlocking exciting career opportunities. Whether you are an experienced professional or a newcomer to the industry, presenting your skills and achievements effectively is crucial. In this blog, we will explore some essential tips for writing a standout CV tailored specifically for the Construction Supplies sector.

Clear and Concise Formatting:

Begin with a clean and professional layout. Use a legible font and organize your CV into clearly defined sections such as personal information, professional summary, work experience, education, skills, and references. A well-structured CV is more likely to capture the attention of recruiters.

Tailor Your CV to the Industry:

Customise your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences specific to the construction supplies sector. Emphasize your knowledge of industry-specific tools, materials, and processes. Showcase any certifications or training related to construction supplies management.

Professional Summary:

Start your CV with a compelling professional summary. In a few sentences, summarise your expertise, achievements, and what makes you an ideal candidate for the construction supplies sector. Be sure to include any specific accomplishments that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Highlight Achievements and Responsibilities:

In the work experience section, detail your accomplishments and responsibilities in previous roles. Showcase your ability to manage procurement, inventory, and supply chain processes efficiently. Quantify your achievements when possible, using metrics and percentages to provide a tangible sense of your contributions.

Emphasize Technical and Soft Skills:

Clearly list both technical and soft skills relevant to the construction supplies sector. Technical skills may include knowledge of inventory management software, procurement processes, and familiarity with construction materials. Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally important in such a collaborative industry.

Education and Certifications:

Highlight your educational background and any relevant certifications related to the Construction Supplies sector. This could include certifications in supply chain management, logistics, or industry-specific courses. Mentioning relevant coursework or training programs can strengthen your profile.

Show Adaptability and Problem-Solving:

Demonstrate your ability to adapt to challenges and solve problems. The Construction Supplies sector often requires individuals who can think on their feet and navigate unexpected situations. Use specific examples from your experience to illustrate your problem-solving skills.

Include Keywords:

Incorporate industry-specific keywords throughout your CV. Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen CVs and using relevant keywords can help your CV pass through these systems and reach the hands of recruiters.

References:

If possible, include references from previous employers or colleagues who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. Ensure that you have obtained permission from your references before including their contact information.

Proofread and Edit:

Before submitting your CV, carefully proofread it for grammar and spelling errors. Attention to detail is crucial in the construction supplies sector, and a well-edited CV reflects positively on your professionalism.

Crafting a winning CV for the Construction Supplies sector requires a thoughtful approach that showcases your skills, experiences, and achievements. By following these tips and tailoring your CV to the industry’s specific demands, you can increase your chances of standing out in the competitive job market and securing your desired position in the Construction Supplies sector.

For help and guidance on your CV, please reach out to GCS Associates who will be happy to help!

GCS are your strategic partner in achieving unparalleled success in talent acquisition and recruitment. In today’s dynamic business landscape, securing the right talent is not just essential; it’s imperative for driving growth and maintaining a healthy bottom line. At GCS, we recognize the critical role that quality talent plays in shaping our clients’ success stories.

Tailored Recruitment Solutions for Unmatched Results:

In the fast-paced realm of recruitment, we deploy a diverse range of methodologies to ensure the swift delivery of top-tier talent aligned with your business objectives. We understand the stakes involved – our commitment is to tailor a service that guarantees continuous delivery against clear targets, safeguarding your organisation’s growth trajectory and financial performance.

National Coverage with Personalized Precision:

With a nationwide presence, our recruitment strategy is highly focused and custom-tailored to meet your specific requirements. Our robust processes, marked by responsiveness and confidentiality, forge a service that not only delivers results but also cultivates a confidential yet personal partnership with our clients.

Processes with a Personal Touch:

Our strength lies in the delicate balance between streamlined processes and the personal touch we extend to candidates and clients alike. Beyond validating candidates’ experience, we ensure that our selections align seamlessly with your business culture and ethos, finding the right ‘person’ for the unique role.

Our Comprehensive Service Portfolio:

Executive Search: Identifying and securing top-tier leadership talent.
Retained Search: Engaging in an exclusive partnership to fulfil critical roles.
Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO): Outsourcing your recruitment function for enhanced efficiency.
Flat Fee Recruitment: Transparent and cost-effective recruitment solutions.
Branded Advertising Campaigns: Strategic promotion to attract the best talent.
Managed Services: Efficiently managing end-to-end recruitment processes.

GCS Advantage: Saving You Time & Money:

Let us be the catalyst for optimising your talent acquisition efforts, saving you valuable time and resources. Our bespoke solutions merge cutting-edge technology with the expertise of our experienced consultants, ensuring the realization of your recruitment goals with unwavering consistency.

Your Recruitment Journey Starts Here:

Whether you’re embarking on a recruitment drive, facing an urgent vacancy, pressed for time, or reevaluating your recruitment process, GCS is your dedicated partner. We don’t just aim to meet expectations; we strive to exceed them by enhancing your recruitment processes, attracting top talent, improving staff retention, and fulfilling your unique recruitment goals.

Choose GCS Associates – where innovation meets experience, and success is not just a goal but a certainty.

This Summer, GCS Associates Recruitment Consultant, Kimberley Hollis took part in Spartan 5K obstacle race at Belvoir Castle in Grantham to raise money for the fantastic charity, Mind. Joined by our Managing Director, Michael Parry, Kimberley completed the race of 20 tough obstacles as well as finishing within 40 minutes!

Kimberley said,

“I am currently undertaking my Level 3- Recruitment Consultant NVQ with Apprenticeship Connect, as part of my Course I was asked to carry out an extracurricular activity! So, I chose to do something that I really hate 1- running, 2- obstacles (I have no upper body strength)! 3- MUD!

It was a really tough obstacle course, but MIND is a charity close to my heart and has really helped me and my family previously. I am so happy with the amount I raised and can’t wait to do another one!”

Kimberley is currently in this process of completing her qualification at Apprenticeship Connect and their apprentices and employees have been taking on several fitness challenges across the summer of 2023 to raise money for the mental health charity, Mind.

Apprentice Connect commented

“As a training provider, we believe in supporting our apprentices’ mental and physical well-being. Poor mental health impacts everyone and doesn’t discriminate; 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem every year in England*.

We’re passionate about contributing to social change and we encourage our employers, apprentices, and employees to get involved and help support us in giving back to the community.”

Well done to all and good luck at the next event!