25Jan

ESG criteria in business: Africa lags behind

African companies are being called upon more than ever to implement environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria and drive the ongoing economic acceleration in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

This is according to a survey conducted by the global research and advisory firm Oxford Business Group (OBG), which states that “although implementing ESG criteria should be a top priority for Africa, only a third of companies surveyed in the region currently have a dedicated ESG department”.

Entitled “Renewed focus: How the Covid-19 pandemic shaped priorities around ESG principles”, the survey found that only 22.4% of African business leaders surveyed said they had invested in ESG.

According to OBG, “Africa would benefit greatly from stricter regulations, more incentives, and more awareness and information related to ESG criteria”.

While explaining that ESG are “dimensions encompassing a company’s activities that may have impacts on society or the environment that constitute the three main dimensions used to measure the sustainability and ethical impact of an investment in a company or economic area and that make up responsible investment”, OBG revealed that “more than 60% of global respondents said the pandemic had moderately or significantly affected their understanding of and/or appetite for ESG, indicating that the health crisis had highlighted vulnerabilities in supply chains and other areas, and thus encouraged companies to bring sustainability to the forefront of new strategies.

Regarding barriers to ESG compliance, the same survey indicates that insufficient funding and incentives or penalties for non-compliance were cited as the biggest challenge faced by companies, with 20.4% of responses.

When asked what executives’ priorities are for environmental sustainability over the next 12 months, 22% of respondents said it was on their agenda, followed by renewable energy (19%) and, finally, reducing carbon emissions (10%).

The survey, based on 362 responses from business leaders, found that “shareholders and investors are now taking ESG strategy and trajectory into account in their decision making (…) This is also true for foreign investors who are looking at the ESG environment, regulations and incentives of the countries in which they are considering doing business”.

In contrast, the OBG survey reaffirmed that “while the battle for environmental sustainability to be taken seriously was being won at many levels, relatively weak governance performance was a challenge for some of the emerging markets seeking to attract foreign investment.

In the eyes of OBG’s researchers, “the tacit acceptance that corruption is simply part of doing business in some places is a significant barrier to advancing the governance segment.

Source: https://www.dzentreprise.net/criteres-esg-afrique-ogb

09Dec

Job interview: how to highlight your soft skills?

Adaptability, stress management, empathy, resilience, … Due to the obsolescence of technical skills (hard skills), behavioural skills (soft skills) are increasingly valued by companies. And it is often during the job interview that everything is decided for the candidate. Because while hard skills help you get a job interview, soft skills help you succeed. Discover our 3 tips for highlighting your soft skills during this crucial stage of the recruitment process!

Step 1: Know the soft skills most sought after by recruiters

First of all, it is important to know which human skills are most sought after in the world of work. According to the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs” report, 10 key skills – mainly soft skills – will make the difference in meeting companies’ recruitment needs by 2025. We have compiled a list of the soft skills that will make you the candidate that all companies are looking for:

Analytical skills
Complex problem solving
Critical thinking
Creativity
Leadership & influence
Team spirit
Emotional intelligence
Resilience, stress resistance and flexibility
Autonomy and initiative
Ability to adapt
Service orientation
Negotiation skills
While some of these skills are innate and difficult to acquire, others can be developed through appropriate training. Unlike hard skills, no artificial intelligence can, for the moment, replace soft skills, hence the importance of not neglecting them!

Step 2: Identify your soft skills to make the most of them

To talk about your qualities on your CV and then in a recruitment interview, it is important to know how to identify them. To do this, you need to do some real work on yourself. To help you do this, you must first of all have an exhaustive vision of the 3 major families of existing soft skills:

Soft skills related to communication

Ability to communicate, speaking
Ability to network
Sense of community, ability to work in a team
Negotiating power
Influence
Friendliness/Courtesy

Soft skills related to agility

Taking a step back, being open to criticism
Stress management, emotional stability
Open-mindedness, creativity
Adaptability, flexibility, problem solving
Proactivity, taking initiative, strength of proposal
Efficiency, ability to work under pressure
Ability to judge, decision making

Soft skills related to personality

Self-confidence, perseverance
Motivation, extraversion
Resilience
Organisation, time management, conscientiousness
Assertiveness
Convergence
Empathy
Reliability, loyalty
To find your own personality traits:

Draw on your personal and professional experiences: what personal skills enabled you to carry out your last mission successfully? How did you overcome this or that difficulty? Think back to all the situations where you made a difference thanks to your personality traits, and which quality(ies) you had to call on.
Ask your professional and personal entourage: don’t hesitate to ask your former colleagues as well as those close to you to name your 3 main soft skills from the list above. You will note which qualities come up most often.
Take a test: this is not about testing your technical knowledge but your personality. Certain psychological evaluation tests such as the MBTI (Myers Briggs Type Indicator) can help you identify the soft skills that stem from your personality.

Step 3: Showing your soft skills to a recruiter

It is during the job interview that you will be able to differentiate yourself from the other candidates. Make a point of verbalising your soft skills and contextualising them (in what professional situation(s) did you use such and such a personality trait?): the recruiter will be able to assess them all the better and thus judge the compatibility of your profile with the position to be filled.

If adaptability, good organisation, the ability to work in a team and autonomy are among the skills most commonly required in a company, you must ensure that you highlight the specific soft skills expected for the position in question. To do this, compare the behavioural skills that you have identified during your self-assessment with the qualities that promote performance in the position you are targeting. Be careful, however, to mention only the soft skills that you really possess, otherwise the recruiter may find you unmasked.

For example, an accountant who is able to highlight his or her ability to be proactive by explaining that he or she is capable of analysing and solving a problem when he or she detects it will have a better chance of attracting the recruiter’s attention than someone else. In the same way, an IS Project Manager in charge of implementing new software in a company will be able to promote himself by highlighting his soft skills related to communication. To do this, he or she can explain that he or she must communicate with the company’s various departments on a daily basis, demonstrate an analytical mind and, above all, negotiating skills in order to successfully complete the project.

In addition to the suitability of your behavioural skills for the position, the recruiter will also test your personality to see if it matches your future manager, the team and more generally the company’s culture. So before the interview, don’t forget to find out about the company!

Source : https://www.dogfinance.com/fr/news/entretien-embauche-comment-mettre-en-avant-ses-soft-skills

23Nov

ESG investment flourishes in infrastructure funds

Investors’ growing interest in the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects of investments is perfectly matched by their enthusiasm for infrastructure. ESG is the alpha and omega of infrastructure,” exclaims Charles Dupont, Head of Infrastructure Finance at Schroders. In essence, we finance assets that demonstrate a strong social utility. Our business is based precisely on an analysis of the balance between economic profitability and social interest. ESG aspects are the primary source of risk,” he points out. Proof that green finance and infrastructure go hand in hand is the fact that half of the 34 funds with the Greenfin state label are infrastructure funds (debt or equity).

At a time when the climate emergency is making the headlines, this concern is prompting us to take a fresh look at certain assets. Digitalization and de-carbonization of the economy are two strong trends,” says Harold d’Hauteville, head of infrastructure at DWS. Some time ago, we looked at a port asset whose activity was largely based on the transport of coal to power plants in Germany. We preferred not to do so. Conversely, data centers powered by clean energy can be interesting assets.”

Increasingly diverse assets

The growth of the market is allowing for increasingly targeted strategies. “We are initiating niche strategies where our expertise and commitment sets us apart from traditional players,” summarizes Johnny El Hachem, managing director of Edmond de Rothschild Private Equity. One example is the PEARL Infrastructure Capital fund, which focuses on water, waste management and renewable energy, with the ambition of promoting the circular economy.

The diversity of assets and their rapid evolution requires the use of more and more different expertise. This market is shifting from a system of fixed tariffs guaranteed by governments to over-the-counter energy sales contracts, which makes credit analysis more complex,” explains Philippe Garrel, head of the RE infrastructure funds at Acofi Gestion. And the assets themselves are also becoming more complex, with energy storage complementing traditional wind and solar projects. This complexity is also a source of barriers to entry for the managers of these very special assets.

Emmanuel Schafroth

Source : https://www.lesechos.fr/finance-marches/gestion-actifs/linvestissement-esg-sepanouit-dans-les-fonds-infrastructures-1140078

18Oct

9 HR JOBS IN NGOS: HOW TO APPLY?

NGOs often have a lot of staff. Large NGOs may have hundreds or even thousands of staff. An NGO’s human resources department is an essential part of effectively managing these staff. There is a wide range of jobs in the NGO sector for qualified human resources professionals. There are also entry-level positions for people who want to start a career in human resources in NGOs.

If you’re interested in working in human resources at an NGO, be sure to read our guide to the most common HR jobs. We’ve also included a section for each role on the experience and qualifications often needed to apply.

HR Manager

The HR Manager oversees all HR processes within an NGO mission. If working at the headquarters level, the HR Manager is likely to oversee a certain department or the NGO’s HR work in a number of country offices.

The job of the HR Manager in an NGO is to ensure the effective implementation of HR processes. This includes recruiting, managing staff, developing guidelines and tools, and coordinating with other teams. The HR Manager will oversee the HR team and often manage HR Officers and recruiters.

How to Apply

If you are interested in becoming an HR Manager in an NGO, we suggest you complete a formal qualification in Human Resources. As a management position, you will also need experience working in HR. Previous experience in an NGO would be an asset, but experience in the private and public sector may also be beneficial.

HR Officer

In an NGO, the HR Officer is the primary mid-level position within the human resources department. They are responsible for the day-to-day management of the NGO’s human resources procedures. This includes developing guidelines, assisting with recruitments, onboarding staff and entering monthly payroll.

The HR Officer often reports to the Human Resources Manager or Human Resources Coordinator. In smaller NGOs, the HR and finance teams may be combined into an administration team. In these cases, the HR Officer usually reports to the Administrative Coordinator. The HR Officer will provide line management for the HR assistants.

How to apply

To become an HR Officer in an NGO, you need between one and three years of professional experience. Previous experience in an HR position in an NGO would be an advantage, but relevant experience in the private and public sectors is often also considered. A formal qualification, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, in human resources would also be an asset.

Recruiter

Large NGOs have hundreds, sometimes thousands, of employees. Managing the turnover of this number of staff requires a significant amount of recruitment. Some NGOs have the dedicated role of Recruiter. This position is responsible for managing the hiring of new employees and ensuring their effective integration.

In an NGO, the Recruiter is often managed by the HR Manager. Their role is to oversee the entire recruitment process, from validating job descriptions and vacancies, to signing contracts for new employees and coordinating their onboarding.

How to apply

NGOs look for individuals with a proven track record of hiring staff when employing a recruiter. While previous experience in the NGO sector is an asset, this is certainly a role where private or public sector experience is also very valuable.

Talent Manager

The NGO sector has become increasingly professionalized over the past decades. As a result, some aspects of private sector HR are beginning to be used within NGOs. Talent managers in NGOs are responsible for recruiting senior staff and retaining talented staff. They also develop strategies to foster internal mobility within the NGO so that staff can develop their skills and grow in their careers.

Only large NGOs will have a Talent Manager on their HR team. The Talent Manager is often managed directly by the HR Coordinator or the Director of the Human Resources Department.

How to apply

If you are looking for a job as a Talent Manager in an NGO, you will need a proven track record of hiring senior staff and retaining talented staff within an organization. Many NGOs will look favorably on both private and public sector experience when recruiting for talent manager positions.

Administrative Coordinator

In some NGOs, usually smaller ones, the finance and human resources teams are combined into one administrative team. This team is managed by the administrative coordinator. The job of the administrative coordinator is to oversee the finance and HR functions of an NGO’s mission. They have ultimate responsibility for both areas.

As the senior HR position within an NGO, the administrative coordinator manages the HR staff. Often, they will provide line management to the HR manager and staff. The administrative coordinator will typically report to the head of mission. An important part of the Administrative Coordinator’s job is to ensure that HR processes are effectively implemented across all PVO programs.

How to Apply

To become an administrative coordinator in an NGO, you must have a solid understanding of finance and human resources management. Previous experience in HR roles would certainly be an asset. You will often need five or more years of experience to become an administrative coordinator. A formal qualification in finance or HR would also be beneficial.

Human Resources Coordinator

In most NGOs, the human resources coordinator is the most senior position on the human resources team. They have the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the effective implementation of HR processes. In most NGOs, the HR Coordinator is based in a country office and is responsible for HR management throughout the mission.

As the senior HR position, the HR Coordinator reports to the Country Director. They also manage the HR team, often reporting directly to HR managers and supervising HR assistants and recruiters. In most NGOs, the HR Coordinator will also report indirectly to HR Advisors at headquarters.

How to Apply

If you are interested in working as an HR coordinator for an NGO, you need several years of relevant work experience. NGOs usually look for previous experience in HR management positions within the NGO sector when recruiting HR coordinators. A formal degree or qualification in HR would also be an asset.

Administrative Officer

In the NGO sector, the administrative office role is the mid-level position within the administrative team. The administrative officer covers a range of bureaucratic and human resources tasks. Their role is to ensure the smooth running of the administration of an NGO. The administrative officer is managed by the administrative coordinator.

Many NGOs combine human resources with administration because the two functions overlap to some extent. In small NGOs, the administrator may cover all human resources work. In larger NGOs, the administrative manager may work alongside the human resources manager.

How to Apply

If you are looking for a position that covers both administration and human resources, consider applying for administrator positions with NGOs. As a mid-level position, you will need two to three years of work experience to get a job as an administrator.

HR Assistant

The HR assistant position is the entry-level position in an NGO’s human resources team. The HR assistant is responsible for the day-to-day management of the HR department. Their duties often include writing documents, arranging travel, issuing contracts, and providing assistants to the entire HR team.

The HR assistant is usually managed by the HR manager. They also often provide assistance to other departments regarding travel or HR administration. In some NGOs, HR assistants or similar roles are offered as internships.

How to apply

If you are interested in working in human resources for an NGO and are at the beginning of your career, apply for HR assistant jobs. You need a degree in human resource management if you want to enter the NGO sector as an HR assistant. A relevant internship can also help you land the job.

Administrative Assistant

In the NGO sector, the administrative assistant is the entry-level position on the administrative team. They often cover a range of HR tasks. Smaller NGOs may have the administrative assistant oversee the majority of the day-to-day HR work. In larger NGOs, the administrative assistant’s role covers both administration and human resources.

The administrative assistant may report to the administrative officer or the human resources officer. The administrative assistant role is in many ways similar to the HR assistant position, but with a greater focus on the day-to-day administration within the NGO.

How to Apply

Getting a job as an administrative assistant can be a fantastic way to start a career in the NGO sector. You will often need a relevant degree, but completing an internship will also give you an advantage. However, some NGOs will accept people who are simply willing and dedicated in administrative assistant roles.

Source : https://www.pageshumanitaires.com/devenez-humanitaire/9-emplois-rh-dans-les-ong-et-ce-dont-vous-avez-besoin-pour-postuler?_scpsug=crawled,10004551,fr_093110c2f2c1e10224d8ab307d4e9d93515fbd3de7d4769e9e6f1b02f27e82d4#_scpsug=crawled,10004551,fr_093110c2f2c1e10224d8ab307d4e9d93515fbd3de7d4769e9e6f1b02f27e82d4

24Aug

Human resources: the “great resignation” of talent

Monday: telecommuting. Tuesday: office. Wednesday: coworking. Such a schedule would have seemed inconceivable just a few years ago, but hybrid work has now become the norm. But its rise corresponds to a more worrying phenomenon for companies, that of the “Great Resignation”, i.e. a strong increase in resignations. How do you counter this phenomenon and re-engage employees?

A recent Gartner survey (2021) indicates that 39% of employees are likely to quit if their company insists on a “return to the office.” 55% of employees say that their ability to work flexibly will impact their decision on whether or not to stay with their employer. Among employees who currently work remotely or in a hybrid arrangement, 75% say their expectations for work flexibility have increased. Only 4% say they would prefer to work in the office full-time.
While all telecommuting makes most employers cringe, “remote” is an essential component of hybrid work practiced by many companies.

On a day-to-day basis, teams find themselves split up. A manager may only see his team a few days a week, and a new recruit will only meet his new colleagues very occasionally. A practice that necessarily impacts team spirit, the feeling of belonging to the company, but also the way of thinking about one’s career.

Hybrid work and resignation: out of sight, out of mind?

The Great Resignation is raging. This phenomenon began in the United States in the summer of 2020, when millions of Americans who were dissatisfied with their jobs or their pay quit. Today, the movement is affecting many countries, putting certain sectors in a bind. In France, all professions and markets seem to be impacted. The cause, in particular, is the loss of individual and collective meaning. This is precisely why companies must learn to combine hybrid work with a corporate project. The office must once again become the place where the organization’s culture is expressed, and a space for socialization. These two facets, corporate project and group life, are, more than ever, key elements in talent retention.

Companies must actively enable their employees to renew a strong relationship with them and with each other. Social interaction and the ability to put one’s individual contribution into the context of a corporate mission would allow employees to put meaning back into their work, and thereby influence their productivity. In fact, numerous research studies now show that the feeling of belonging to a community has a positive impact on the latter.

To give meaning back, companies must also give employees a voice. Whether it’s giving employees the flexibility to choose how to organize their work week, or even where they can work: you need to involve talent to get them on board – sustainably. It’s also a way to give substance to the company’s culture.

Make the office a unique (work) place

Moreover, most companies still have a key asset to retain their employees: their workspaces! No, the office is not dead. But it must reinvent itself. Studies show that it’s not the “fun bonuses” (juice bar, foosball, etc.) that make it valuable, but rather… serendipity, collaboration and informal social interactions.

For example, employees may miss impromptu exchanges, chance meetings, and impromptu brainstorming. Elements that are difficult to reproduce remotely…

To sum up, the Great Resignation is the strong signal of a quest for meaning and a questioning of the organization of work for a new project centered on the human. In the past, this human dimension was achieved by building relationships with colleagues on a daily basis in the office. Today, one of the challenges for companies is to revive this life. To make people want to go back to the office after months of isolation and disintegration of the common sense. A virtuous circle which, in order to work at full speed, must be implemented as soon as possible.

Source: https://www.lesechos.fr/idees-debats/cercle/opinion-non-la-grande-demission-des-talents-nest-pas-une-fatalite-1387869

19Jul

Working around the world: countries that offer the digital nomad visa

The telecommuting imposed during the pandemic has completely changed the work dynamic. An explosion of digital nomads, those remote workers who take advantage of the opportunity to travel, has taken place in 2020. According to a report published in March 2021 by The Adventure Travel, there was already a 20% increase between 2019 and 2020.

The digital nomad concept is one of win-win, where everyone benefits. For countries that have chosen to adapt their conditions of entry and work on their territory, it is a real opportunity to inject cash into their economy. As for digital nomads, freed from the office enclave, they will be able to enjoy the most beautiful landscapes from Mexican beaches to Dubai’s skyscrapers.

> List of countries offering a visa for digital nomads

Africa: Cape Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles
Europe: Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Georgia, Greece, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Romania
Asia: Indonesia, Thailand, United Arab Emirates
America: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominica, Cayman Islands, Mexico
Oceania: Australia

Source : https://www.francaisaletranger.fr/

23Jun

The future of fintech in Africa

The rise of digitalization on the African continent is one of the main factors behind the increase in financial inclusion.

Long perceived as the bank of the underprivileged, microfinance has historically targeted a large clientele excluded from traditional financing channels. Today, the reality of microfinance is that it is a mature market, conducive to the emergence of credible financial institutions alongside traditional players, particularly in Africa.

A sector in full transformation

The microfinance ecosystem today is very different from what it was in its early days and holds significant potential for growth and innovation. Indeed, the total outstanding amount of African Microfinance Institutes (MFIs) has grown by 56% since 2012 and a 46% increase in the number of borrowers over the same period in 2018 (Microfinance Barometer 2019, Convergences). In this context, MFIs are now at a key stage of their development, and find themselves facing the same issues as banking institutions: the need to optimize their business processes, find commercial differentiation strategies, meet the challenges of digitization of work methods… Like traditional banks, they are looking for continuous improvement of their productivity and face technological challenges. However, some of these challenges are unique to them. Indeed, the specific characteristics of microfinance, such as its alternative distribution networks, its clientele, etc. require technological solutions adapted to the reality of the field. The future of microfinance is based on a strategy of refocusing on the client and can only be built on the basis of innovative technological partnerships that enable a greater diversity of services to be offered while limiting risks and reinforcing the security of operations. For technology players, this is an area that promises to develop rapidly and promisingly.

Fintechs: opportunities to seize

The rise of digitalization on the African continent is one of the main factors behind the increase in financial inclusion. In sub-Saharan Africa, for example, 42.6% of the adult population had an account in 2017 compared to only 23.2% in 2011 (Source: Global Findex 2017). A trend observed over the past 10 years that continues and represents a unique opportunity. Yet, the microfinance sector is a fertile ground for experimentation. More flexible, pragmatic and often subject to lighter regulatory constraints, MFIs are generally more agile than the traditional banking sector. Their appetite for digital is a great opportunity for experimentation that will allow new solutions to emerge.

In fact, it is likely that the process of technological diffusion will be reversed in the future: MFIs will no longer be content to follow in the wake of banks, but will be the laboratories for technological advances and the creation of innovative solutions that will then benefit traditional banks. These are all issues that fintechs would benefit from taking on, especially since the technological maturity of microfinance is still in the “completion” phase, which has yet to develop. However, due to their history and implementation, fintechs have a place to take as true strategic partners to support the development of these institutions.

In Africa, microfinance has a strong potential for growth and development in terms of diversified digital solutions. Relying on MFIs would allow fintechs to consolidate their achievements in countries where they are already active, while reaching out to new customers. As microfinance is in essence a vector of positive values (social promotion, solidarity, economic development, etc.), it represents a differentiating factor for fintechs compared to the competition, while also providing a motivating environment for their employees.

Source : https://www.journaldunet.com/economie/finance/1502531-microfinance-et-l-avenir-des-fintechs-en-afrique/

27Jan

How do you defend your ideas in meetings?

Work meetings are privileged moments to demonstrate your skills and your mastery of your professional field. As a worker, you must then prepare them with great care. You should also know that just because you are creative and full of ideas does not mean that your team will necessarily accept your ideas. In order to arouse the curiosity and interest of your peers in meetings, it is imperative that you know how to make the most of your speaking skills. But how do you convince your colleagues and bosses of the validity of your ideas? There are a number of strategies to do this, which we provide here.

1. Capturing the attention of your colleagues

A good speaker is distinguished by his ability to capture the attention of his audience. In a business meeting, you can’t claim to convince your team if you can’t capture their attention. This is why, before you speak, do everything you can to make sure that those present listen to you. Don’t jump in until you do. There is a very effective technique for getting the silence you need to be heard. It involves taking a deep breath, waving lightly to get the attention or look for the eyes of others. This will allow you to let them know that you are about to speak. Your interlocutors will then turn to you. When you speak, put your voice down. Speak in a loud and clear voice, at a rate that is not too fast, and avoid language tics that can quickly distract your interlocutors from your speech.

2. Make sure your speech is well structured …

The more structured your message is, the better it will be understood. A well-structured idea is, indeed, much easier to get across. It is therefore imperative that you avoid making a fuss. You will then gain by preparing the structure of your message in a meticulous way. To do this, take the time to announce your main idea first. Then mention the number of points you will develop. Example: “I think we should develop a new product: the training offer. This will benefit the company on three levels. “If you are afraid of losing track, take note of some very succinct keywords as a lifeline.

3. Prove your motivation to galvanize your colleagues

When the person who comes up with an idea shows some motivation, it contaminates its audience, which will be galvanized. If you yourself are completely enthusiastic, you have a better chance of convincing your audience. So, to get your colleagues to buy into your ideas, you need to must be sincere and passionate. Your non-verbal language should not be outdone either. Smile, use positive verbs and speak in “we” rather than “I”. Forget speeches that are too technical and formal to bring a real emotional dimension.

4. Illustrate your ideas

The simplicity of an explanation is one of its most beautiful qualities. So, if you feel that the content of your explanation is technical or complex, make sure you keep it simple. You can, for example, prepare a visual support. A PowerPoint is not a bad idea. For simplicity, you can simply stand up and draw a diagram or write down key words on a board. This will also be effective in making your ideas understood by your colleagues.

5. Do not interfere with others

It is well known that a long speech is very likely to put an audience to sleep. This is why, in order not to make your colleagues tired or angry, do not keep speaking for too long. Under no circumstances should you monopolize the floor. Try to keep it concise. If your speech is very long, interrupt it with moments of interaction with your peers to wake them up and get them involved in your project.

12Nov

Is the letter of reference really useful ?

The requirement for a letter of recommendation is more common among students who want to enter a university or college. However, this letter is not excluded from the recruitment process. It is true that in terms of recruitment, resumes and cover letters are the most requested, but there is nothing to prevent you from including a letter of recommendation with your application. Many job seekers don’t think about it, and yet, they have everything to gain by doing so…

1. The letter of recommendation: an effective way to reassure the recruiter

As a job seeker, if you can reassure your recruiter, you will have done the hardest part. As headhunter Virginie Granier points out, “a recruiter needs to be reassured.” Therefore, a letter of recommendation can be a great idea if it comes from someone who has worked with you in a professional setting. If such a person bears a positive testimonial about you, your chances of reassuring your recruiter and getting your job will only increase. “A letter of recommendation written by a professor after successful studies, by an employer after a summer job or a successful internship, can highlight your personality, your soft kills. It’s a differentiating factor that should not be overlooked,” says Virginie Granier.

2. A letter of recommendation highlights you

If your former employers agree to write a cover letter for you, it means that your skills can be predicted. A letter of recommendation thus puts you in the spotlight. It confirms your skills and experience. Often there are many statements and mentions on your CV and during the interview. Without a letter of recommendation, the recruiter may doubt it because he has never practiced you. This letter, even if you are not asked, is then a real asset. Moreover, at the end of an interview, do not hesitate to inform your recruiter that you have a letter of recommendation at his disposal. Offer to give it to him/her. Likewise, in each of your motivational emails, do not hesitate to provide a letter of recommendation.

3. Mark your difference by submitting a letter of recommendation

Contrary to what many people think, a letter of recommendation can indeed influence the choice of recruiters. Virginie Granier sees it above all as an additional tool in the final decision-making process, just like a personality test, for example. This seemingly innocuous document allows the candidate to stand out from the crowd by having something more. It can thus make the difference in a shortlist. However, it should be specified that it cannot replace the CV which remains the determining element in an application. Moreover, a letter of recommendation also represents proof of motivation, since not everyone dares to ask their former employer for a letter of recommendation. It is not necessarily easy to obtain, as the interviewer may not have enough time to write it. He or she will need to be reminded, etc. “It shows the candidate’s determined character,” says the headhunter. Finally, it is important to note that a letter of recommendation can increase your chances of getting a job. It would be a shame not to take advantage of it…

05Nov

What jobs to become rich at 35?

The choice of a profession is motivated by several factors. Passion is often cited at the top of the list among the latter. However, money is still a key factor in choosing a professional career. If you are one of those who want to become rich at 35 years old, by betting on their You don’t have to opt for just any field of activity. But all in all, what sector and which profession to choose to become rich? We reviewed the new study from Robert Walters’ compensation package, which allows us to tell you where to work for the good of the company. earn your living without necessarily waiting to be a senior.

The real estate sector…

This is an area that is on the rise among many young people who want to make a lot of money. of money. Better still, experts predict an even faster salary progression in 2020 in this area. For example, executives who work in wealth management real estate seem to be able to easily reach important salaries. Real estate is in addition a sector where it is not very difficult to move forward. In any case, it is easier to climb the ladder, compared to other sectors. For example, after 6 years of experience, it is possible to become CFO and earn even more money. The vast majority of real estate wealth shows salaries far exceeding the other sectors, with key positions accessible in 10 years of experience.

Consulting, finance and business law, sectors that pay…

If you are looking for a job that will bring you a lot of money, you will not regret opting for the profession of strategy consultant. This is a field that pays very well. With an average seniority level of 8 to 12 years in the sector, consultants with a title of “principal” can claim a very interesting salary. Similarly, with more than 12 years of experience, a “partner” also earns a lot of money. In consulting, management and organization, the salaries are a little less interesting. However, senior managers (10-12 years of experience) earn a lot. In the financial sector in general, employees enjoy very high salaries. Thus, with more than 10 years of experience, an M&A manager can expect a very ambitious salary. An investment manager with between 6 and 12 years of experience can earn a lot of money. Finally, as for business lawyers, they have nothing to envy from their colleagues in consulting and finance. As an illustration, a senior partner with 7 years of experience can earn a lot of money.

Construction, IT and digital: profitable domains …

It is true that the construction sector is booming, but it must be said that it is still You must have more than 12 years of experience and hold a position of very high responsibility in order to be able to claim a very high salary. A general manager in project management, for example, earns more than of 120,000 euros. At the same time, “in a context of accelerating digitalization of the companies, the trend of strong search for IT and digital profiles continues”, says Coralie Redemption. From then on, join the IT departments with an experience of 10 to 15 years in 100,000 threshold,” she says.

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