musterrecruit

Effective Interviewing

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 22:37:36 GMT

In this post, Pierre shares insights on how poor interviewing practices can lead to missed opportunities and costly hires. You’ll also learn why preparation, active listening, and deeper candidate assessments are key to getting it right!

Hiring Managers

Coming from the Automotive Industry as a Hiring Manager into recruitment I thought how hard can this be?

You just screen CV’s, look for longevity, ability, experience and then ensure when interviewing the shortlisted applicants they’d be a good fit, right?

Boy was I wrong.

Over the last few years of detailing into the art of effective interviewing and working with a variety of clients and candidates, it made me wonder how many good job seekers are dismissed, due to Hiring Managers not being good or effective at interviewing.

Business leaders train our department Managers in every aspect of doing their job, except “Hiring new staff”

You may be leaving the responsibility with a Hiring Manager in your business to make significant decisions on whether to employ, or decline candidates, but how well experienced are they at interviewing?

How many times do companies lose out on an asset for the business, or progress with a ticking time bomb?

This unfortunately swings both ways when deciding to progress with a candidate you feel is the right “Fit”, or someone you feel is not.

When effectively interviewing there is preparation, background work / checks, skill assessments, active listening, building report, gaining trust, and several unscripted moments which often reveal genuine intent or motivation why they are interviewing at your business, and honestly how many hiring managers take the time to be well prepared for an interview?

I refuse to believe a 20-minute sit-down gives any Hiring Manager the ability to decide whether a candidate is right or wrong for their business.

We are known as Recruiters, but clients forget the second part of that word “consultants” that can aid, support or do this groundwork for you.

You don’t just pay us for sending you a glorified looking CV with some positive glam in the intro.

Lastly, I am yet to understand what “Right or Wrong Fit” means.

If you want any advice, feel free contact Pierre!

pierre@musterrecruit.co.nz

09 394 7444

New Zealand Migrant Exploitation

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 20:28:14 GMT

The Dark Side of the Dream... Unveiling Migrant Exploitation in New Zealand's Automotive Industry

Muster recruit specialise in the recruitment of staff in the Automotive Industry in New Zealand. We recruit candidates both locally here in New Zealand and also from overseas, particularly automotive technicians.

New Zealand, renowned for its breath-taking landscapes and progressive social policies, is often hailed as a destination of dreams for migrants seeking a better life. However, beneath the picturesque scenery lies a complex issue that demands our attention - the exploitation of migrants.

This blog post delves into the dark underbelly of migration in New Zealand, shedding light on the challenges faced by vulnerable migrant workers and a small number of agencies looking at clipping a ticket.

The Promise of New Zealand

New Zealand's reputation as a land of opportunities has attracted a significant number of migrants. Many arrive with high hopes of a brighter future, driven by promises of stable employment and better living conditions. Unfortunately, for some, these promises remain unfulfilled.

Precarious Employment

A significant proportion of migrants, particularly those on temporary visas, find themselves in precarious employment situations by being sold unrealistic dreams by agencies with ulterior agendas. This often includes underpayment, long working hours, lack of employment rights and in some cases, agencies being the employer and contracting out the candidate without placement fees as a unique selling point. Many are unable to negotiate better conditions due to fear of deportation or losing their visa status.

Exploitation in Key Industries

Industries such as agriculture, hospitality, construction and the automotive industry are particularly susceptible to migrant worker exploitation. Many migrants, desperate for work, are forced into accepting low-wage, labour-intensive jobs with minimal job security.

Lack of Protection

Despite New Zealand's labour laws and regulations, there are still gaps that leave migrant workers vulnerable. Language barriers, unfamiliarity with local laws, and limited access to legal assistance contribute to their exploitation. Additionally, unscrupulous employers may threaten deportation or visa revocation to keep workers compliant.

The Way Forward

Addressing migration exploitation in New Zealand requires a multi-pronged approach:

1. Strengthen Legal Protections: The government should enhance legal protections for migrant workers, ensuring they have equal rights and are not at risk of exploitation due to their immigration status.

2. Empowerment Through Education: Providing migrants with better information about their rights, access to language classes, and knowledge of local laws can help them navigate the job market more effectively.

3. Collaboration with NGOs: Government agencies and NGOs must collaborate to provide support and resources to exploited migrants, including legal aid, counselling, and access to safe accommodations.

4. Enforcement and Oversight: Authorities should increase efforts to enforce labour laws, inspect workplaces, and hold exploitative employers accountable.

5. Raising Awareness: Creating awareness campaigns about migration exploitation can help potential migrants make informed decisions and highlight the importance of this issue to the public.

Although these are all great initiatives that can be implemented to avoid this from happening, due diligence should also be done by International applicants on who they deal/work with.

Candidates should never pay for employment in NZ
Only use reputable agencies/recruiters that specialise in the industry / profession you are applying for. They should be members of the industry Governing Body – Recruitment, Consulting & Staffing Association (RCSA)
Research company testimonials and full transparency from employers about who they are, what they offer and locations

Conclusion

Migration exploitation in New Zealand is a stark reminder that even in the most idyllic settings, there are vulnerable individuals who face injustice. Addressing this issue is not only a moral imperative but also vital for maintaining New Zealand's reputation as a progressive and fair society.

It is time to shed light on these unseen realities and work collectively to protect the rights and dignity of all migrants within the country and the many employers that play by the rules and offering international candidates a prosperous career in New Zealand.

As the old saying go, if it sounds to good to be true……it usually is.

If you wish to discuss any of the points raised in this blog, our team is always available.

From Boomers to Zoomers

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 18:49:04 GMT

What Matters Most at Work Across Generations

At Muster recruit, we specialise in recruiting across the automotive sector, which includes a large range of different types of roles. Our pursuit for the perfect candidate transcends generations, spanning from the experienced Baby Boomers to the tech-savvy Generation Z.

Our unique strength lies in our diverse team, which comprises staff across many different age groups. With eyes and ears from every era, we are well-equipped to match the right talent with the right opportunities. Check out our latest job opportunities or get in touch with one of our consultants today!

In the ever-changing modern workplace, one constant remains: change. As each new generation enters the workforce, it brings a dynamic shift in expectations, values, and workstyles. Navigating these generational differences can be challenging, but it also offers opportunities for growth and innovation.

Before delving into what each generation values in the workplace, let's briefly recap on how we define the generations:

Baby Boomers (1946-1964): Independent, self-assured, and competitive, they grew up during events like the Vietnam War and the moon landing.
Generation X (1965-1980): Independent, resourceful, and hard-working, they experienced the AIDS epidemic and the rise of personal computers.
Millennials (1981-1996): Goal-oriented, ambitious, and collaborative, they came of age during 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis, and the tech boom.
Generation Z (1997-2010): Open-minded, ambitious, and pragmatic, they are tech-savvy and outspoken about social issues, experiencing the rise of social media and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Generations in the Workforce:

As of September 2023, New Zealand's working-age population is approximately 4.2 million people. Generation X and Millennials, aged 25-59, constitute the largest portion of the workforce. Interestingly, Generation Z has surpassed Baby Boomers in numbers and is projected to make up 30% of the workforce by 2030.

What Each Generation Values Most in the Workplace:

Due to differing life stages and experiences, each generation values different aspects of the workplace:

Baby Boomers: Value health insurance, wellness benefits, and engagement with managers.
Generation X: Prioritise work-life balance, autonomy, clear goals, and expectations.
Millennials: Seek work-life balance, social responsibility, flexibility, and career growth opportunities.
Generation Z: Value diversity and inclusion, mental health awareness, flexible work schedules, financial stability, and pay equity.

While generations have unique preferences, some elements are universally valued:

Flexible Working Arrangements: Offering options like work-from-home days, flexible hours, and hybrid work setups is appreciated by employees of all generations.
Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is a top priority for all generations.
People-First Culture: Fostering positive workplace relationships and recognising employees' contributions are universally important.

Understanding generational dynamics in the workplace is essential. Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z bring distinct perspectives and expectations shaped by their life experiences. As the workforce evolves, with Generation Z becoming increasingly significant, employers must adapt their strategies to meet diverse generational needs.

Embracing generational diversity can drive innovation and growth, making workplaces more adaptable and resilient. Ultimately, what matters most at work transcends generations—it's about valuing the people who contribute to the success of organisations.

The Impact of New Zealand's Election on the Job Market

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 02:16:16 GMT

Analysing New Zealand's Employment Landscape

We have known since January this year, when the date of the 14 ^{th of} October election would be, and it seems like we have been talking about it all year. Not long to go now.

As we all know, it’s a tough time out there for many people in New Zealand right now and the upcoming election isn’t currently helping that, due to the uncertainty of what the political landscape will look like after the 14 ^th .

Here at Muster, we are seeing the impact first hand in a number of ways including candidates not applying for roles and clients not committing to new hires. Is there logic to this? What will change depending on the election result?

Let’s look at the major factors in play that are currently affecting the employment market.

Economic Policies: One of the most significant ways an election can affect the job market is through changes in economic policies. New Zealand's government plays a crucial role in shaping the nation's economy, and the policies it implements can directly impact businesses and, in turn, job creation.

Following the election, the new government may introduce policies aimed at stimulating economic growth, which can lead to increased job opportunities in various sectors, they may also not do this.

Infrastructure Development: Elections often highlight the need for infrastructure improvements and development. Campaign promises to invest in infrastructure can translate into job opportunities in construction, engineering, and related industries. If the newly elected government follows through on its infrastructure plans, it could lead to a surge in job openings in these sectors.

Industry specific impacts: Muster predominantly recruits in the automotive sector and this has been widely impacted largely due to the CCD – Clean Car Discount. Due to the uncertainty of who the new government will be and whether they will continue with the CCD, automotive sales are currently very low as consumers wait until the outcome of the election. This is directly impacting businesses in and connected to the sector so may be less committed to hiring.

Immigration Policies: Elections can also influence immigration policies, affecting the availability of skilled workers in the job market. The current government has made many changes to immigration laws. The jury is out on whether this has helped immigration to the benefit of all parties involved. A change in government may well lead to things changing again so creating further uncertainty for migrants and businesses.

Wage and Labour Laws: Changes in labour laws and minimum wage rates are common discussion points during election campaigns. A government's stance on these issues can directly impact the labour market. Policies favouring minimum wage hikes can improve the financial well-being of low-wage workers but may also influence hiring decisions for employers which has a knock-on impact across the wider market.

All these factors are currently in play and affecting the overall job market across the country. It impacts certain sectors more than others as seen with the automotive sector at present.

It’s really important that we all follow things closely to understand the changes on our job or hiring prospects and furthermore we all have a say to determine the outcome.

At Muster, we understand the challenges and complexities that this election season brings to job seekers and hiring managers alike. We are here to provide guidance and support during these uncertain times. Whether you're an individual seeking new opportunities or a business looking to make strategic hiring decisions, our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the evolving landscape.

Now, more than ever, it's crucial to stay informed, stay engaged, and have a voice in shaping the future of New Zealand's job market. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in achieving your job-seeking or hiring goals, and let's work together to navigate the impact of the election on your career or business.

Our very own Daryl Feast’s journey on immigrating to New Zealand

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 04:23:25 GMT

Unlock Your New Zealand Dream with Daryl Feast

Deciding to move to a new country is a life-altering decision that comes with its fair share of challenges and uncertainties. However, with the right guidance and support, this daunting process can be made much smoother. If you are considering relocating to New Zealand, let me, Daryl, share my experience to make your journey successful and rewarding.

My journey to New Zealand was an exceptionally fortunate one. With trades on the essential skills list in New Zealand, my wife and I had a head start. Having worked in the automotive trade, I gradually climbed the ladder to management. My wife's career in procurement added to our advantage. Additionally, we had the privilege of visiting New Zealand multiple times and had friends already living there, making our location decision easier.

We went through interviews during one of our visits and received a job offer, after which we handled our visa application ourselves. However, the process has become more stringent over time, and I now strongly recommend candidates to use an advisor. Even then, it's essential to be well-prepared with the necessary paperwork, certificates, police clearances, and medical reports.

At Muster, we understand the challenges of immigrating to New Zealand, and we are here to make your transition smoother. Our comprehensive process and information page will guide you every step of the way, from the first conversation to your arrival in New Zealand. We have been working with reliable immigration advisors for over 10 years, and they will ensure you are well-prepared to meet all requirements.

Moving countries is undoubtedly a massive undertaking, but with the right support and planning, it can be a transformative and rewarding experience. Together, we will work towards making your dreams of living and working in New Zealand a reality. Reach out to us today, and let's begin this exciting journey together!