As Gordon Brown himself said, the worst kept secret is out. The General Elections will be held on May 6. I can't help but wonder how the run up to the elections and the aftermath will affect the sluggish job market. Will business take a wait and see approach, extending to hiring policies? Personally...

I followed the same old technique of applying through job portals. Hi nasirraza, By job portals do you mean websites which advertise jobs from a variety of agencies, using recruitment agents or direct to the companies? I am getting rather disillusioned with recruitment agents who appear enthusiasti...

I'd like to add that before doing anything, you should check out the current situation for your field - vacancies posted, asking those who work in your industry what the situtation is etc. Make an informed decision and be realistic. If in your opnion it's worth a shot, then go for it. All the best t...

kiwigirl25 wrote: You can gain a temporary NI number whilst waiting for your permanent number. NI contributions can also be backdated once you have a number.

I was just wondering in what situation would you be given a temporary NI number and the difference between that and a permanent number?

Thanks!

I've spent so many hours filling out applications it become very disconcerting when you get quick replies telling you that you've been unsuccessful, especially when you know you are well qualified for the position. I hope others are having luck. Best of luck to you. Hope you hear something soon. Th...

Of the many many ways one can use to transfer and bring funds into the UK when moving there, which are the ones that you used and prefer? It can be due to a personal preference, convenience, amount being transferred, low transaction fee, exchange rates etc. Might be helpful for those who are wonderi...

in general - think in terms of finding a shared accomodation, how you'll have internet access, phone, bank account opening , applying for NI, registering in jobsites and get a feel of skills in demand...etc. - most these can be done before coming to the uk... You can apply, but would need to be in ...

John wrote: The answer is simple ..... the truth ..... whatever that is.

Agreed. There isn't a need to hide anything, you ARE allowed to be there without a job.

If you're currently unemployed, there's not much harm in giving it another go. Why not? If that's what you want to do. Waiting for the right time is tricky, no one can predict when that'll be. There's always a bit of being at the right place at the right time that comes into play.

Things pretty much slow down with Christmas and New Years, don't they? Not much hiring for new positions at this time of the year, for full-time positions at least.

What would be the best and fastest way to go about looking for suitable accommodation? e.g. which websites are reliable?

and me. Thanks, Markie!

As the two of you are not married, my guess is that she will have to select one of the immigration categories and apply for it like everyone else.

BNO passports do not confer right of abode in the UK.

republique wrote:
I dont really remember what I said, I do remember I didn't think it was a big deal. However I agree, I felt by now that this distinguishing title would have been removed but alas it has not.

Don't worry, it gives you a bit of an edge!

Maybe say ur in Germany or wherever for interview? I was in Hamburg last week and got a few calls - I think it looks good - that u are in demand everywhere... That's difficult if you're on Tier 1 though, as it doesn't quite allow work in other countries. I go in and out of the country too, but tell...

I am a free roaming uk sim number as I prefer to live in Europe in between jobs as it is cheaper. Anyway lately the recruiters say off the bat, I know you are out of the country because the number rings differently when it has to roam to reach me. This sucks since the conversation takes a completel...

CRB?

They're checking proof of residence, eligibility to work, employment history and qualifications. Pretty much that.

I suppose that's the norm? I'll tell them that I've recently arrived. Should be acceptable, I hope?

Thanks, that looks like a higher level of security clearance though. They're basically conducting pre-employment security screening. Is that routinely carried out in the U.K.?

Thanks, I did and it looks reputable.

Seriously? What's the minimum period of residency required? Should I tell them and risk my chances then?

When proof of address is requested by prospective employers in the U.K. for security clearance, such as utility bills or banks statement, what should I do when I do not have them? I have recently arrived and am bunking in with a friend and hence do not have the proof required. Will that indicate a s...

Thanks again, kenfrapin!

pyke wrote:
Wouldn't they suspect something if you give an 020 number but the address doesn't correspond to the area code? You'd have to put a London address.

Checked and apparently you can choose from a few area codes. It doesn't have to be 020.

Thanks, kenfrapin. That does help! I'm tempted to go the PAYE route too - there's much less hassle although the hourly rate is significantly reduced. Question - as a PAYE employee, didn't Reed further deduct a percentage of the hourly rate for sick pay, NI etc? I'm hearing 30%, but not sure if that'...

Thank you, I'll send it to them then.