Blog
Advice For Job Seekers
1. Cindy – Motivation
General tips for the unemployed by Cindy Norcott
2. Cindy – Jobseeking
Tips on how to find a job by Cindy Norcott
3. Cindy – Before The Interview
Tips on how to prepare for an interview by Cindy Norcott
4. Nicky – CV Preparation
How to create the perfect CV by Nicky Henderson
5. Nicky – Appearance
How to prepare for an interview, relating to appearance by Nicky Henderson
6. Nicky – Interview
How to handle the job interview by Nicky Henderson
Our Blogs
December 4, 2024
September 19, 2023
When applying for a job, the body of your email serves as the first impression you make on potential employers. It is your chance to convey your motivation, enthusiasm, and
March 29, 2023
The workplace is a changing environment and talented professionals now have more freedom of choice of the company they want to work for. While financial gains is almost always at
October 5, 2022
So many people find themselves on a rollercoaster they can’t get off. Stuck in unfulfilling, life sapping jobs. I was one of those people and I managed to break the
September 14, 2022
I worked in Tintswalo Hospital in Mpumalanga, north-east South Africa, between February and July 2022. It was a hugely rewarding experience, both within and outside the hospital environment. The placement
September 1, 2022
The Covid pandemic has brought about seismic shifts in the way that employees and job-seekers are viewing the world of work. Employees have had a taste of freedom, flexibility and
August 25, 2022
I am Angela Foley, the Supply Chain Specialist at ProTalent. I have developed a passion and interest in the Supply chain field due to its fascinating roles and a high
April 14, 2022
What a week it has been for the people of KZN! We have experienced so much heartache, loss, challenges, and uncertainty and it has left many people feeling defeated and
February 16, 2022
How to put your best foot forward in an online interview There is no doubt that during these changing times, video calls are only going to become more popular. In
February 16, 2022
Having the right education and skills might get you an interview, but it’s what happens during the interview process that gets you hired. Take a look at these key traits
August 17, 2021
View Factsheet Article by: Rachel Manzie at HREZ4U
July 7, 2021
With the start of the COVID pandemic over a year ago 90% of companies are beginning their recruitment process with a video interview, whether on Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts or
July 7, 2021
I often get CVs from candidates that contain unnecessary or too much information. I have seen peoples’ blood types, family members’ names, full addresses, bank statements, and more. As a
May 3, 2021
May 3, 2021
Video interviews can be daunting, but it is the new normal, so we must embrace this change and ensure that we make the most of the opportunity. Here are a
May 3, 2021
2020 taught us many things, we can all agree. From appreciating the little things in life, valuing time with our loved ones, through to ensuring we know how to live
May 3, 2021
As a recruiter a common pet peeve is CV’s not being done correctly. These are a few common mistakes I come across on a daily basis: Spelling and bad grammar
May 3, 2021
So many of us have been so extremely negatively affected recently especially by Covid, which has caused serious unemployment, financial burdens, loss of loved ones, family separation and this list
May 3, 2021
As More and more companies implement Work from Home policies due to the spread of COVID-19, employees are now tasked with trying to be just as productive without their normal
February 22, 2021
Over the past three years, the job market has not been strong. In the past year, with the onset of the Covid pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the economy has been
January 11, 2021
Many business leaders are entering 2021 feeling rather hesitant, concerned and uncertain. 2020 was challenging in many ways and I believe that many business owners and managers had the fight
December 14, 2020
“My fellow South Africans” – The most terrifying word spoken this year! So, let’s face it. 2020 has been one hell of a year. And I get it, 2020 has
December 8, 2020
In March 2020 South Africa went into hard lockdown and almost everyone went into a panic. Entire industries ground to a halt and panic about salaries and retrenchments began. From
December 8, 2020
2020 has really been a challenging year, as Recruiters we have seen how the market has changed and the requirements for jobs have changed. In an ideal economy, many of
December 8, 2020
Since 2016 and possibly earlier, the construction industry has seen more people unemployed and seeking employment than vacancies available within the industry. Professions such as, Quantity Surveyors, Civil Engineers, Project
December 8, 2020
I am sure that we all had huge goals at the start of 2020 and the Corona Pandemic took us all by shock horror and terror. This resulted in some
November 2, 2020
We know that Leadership is a Science… meaning that everyone who understands its intention and steps to greatness can be a successful Leader. We are also able to learn the
September 30, 2020
Back in “the before”, I had the opportunity to listen to Carla Harris (Managing Director and Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley) when she spoke about leadership and the
September 30, 2020
During an in-house training sesh the team brainstormed some ideas around how to best give the candidates we represent a positive recruitment experience. While we don’t claim to be perfect
September 1, 2020
That dreaded event you thought only happened to other people has happened to you……retrenchment! What now? What next? Notice, I never said “You are made redundant” – you are never
July 1, 2020
How to be noticed in an overcrowded job market: Building a network Its not what you know, or who you know, but its who knows and trusts you. This has
June 23, 2020
What Makes You Stand Out As a Grad. In my line of work, I get to meet with some phenomenal, high-calibre individuals who have taken their passion for IT and
June 18, 2020
How to be noticed in an overcrowded job market First impressions: Imagine that you have been hunting for a very specific pair of Nike shoes. You have been searching
June 9, 2020
Frequently Asked Questions: Can I add my photograph to my CV? It’s not necessary, but at the same time it wouldn’t hurt – just make sure the photo is
June 9, 2020
Are you finding Job Hunting daunting? Are you considering a change in career? Here are some tips that might help you in your journey: First consider your skills
June 9, 2020
A cover letter is meant to be a summary of your resume and is meant to be a direct letter written to the Hiring Manager or Recruiter as a
June 9, 2020
Resume and CV Writing
We often get asked about this and I wanted to highlight some key aspects when it comes to CV content and CV writing. I hope you find this helpful!!
May 28, 2020
The Recruitment industry is fast paced, dynamic, exciting and very rewarding. I have realized that being a Recruiter lets me help candidates reach their career goals, be able to better
May 13, 2020
How to make yourself indispensable I have had quite the number of panicked phone calls from candidates over the past month who have expressed their concern that they may be
May 13, 2020
I often hear candidates say that their reason for wanting to leave their current Employer is a toxic work environment in the form of either an unreasonable or difficult boss,
May 12, 2020
My team and I have been learning about the importance of a “To Do” List. I personally always have one and believe in it, so I wanted to share my
April 30, 2020
This is an exceptional time that we are undergoing during the lockdown period of 2020. I need not explain the emotions that I know we are all feeling, but I
April 14, 2020
How to write an email properly can vary from company to company, it is best to find out the tone of your company’s address (formal or informal). If you are
March 24, 2020
Greetings Graduates! Are you feeling frustrated, and tired of hearing “I’m sorry, but you do not have enough experience for the position”, or simply not knowing where to look for
March 20, 2020
It has been said that “one should never let a good crisis go to waste”. I am an eternal optimist and I believe that in the midst of any crisis
March 20, 2020
Just over a week ago, our gifted colleague and Office Manager at Pro Talent Recruitment and I attempted a 10km Night run in Durban North. Nicky’s a legend in her
March 16, 2020
“This is not what I was promised”. These are the word that I often hear from candidates who are actively looking to leave their current company. After breaking down the
March 4, 2020
Why Clifton StrengthsFinder? Research shows that your greatest area that has room for improvement isn’t where you’re weakest, but rather where you are naturally strong. So, discovering your Strengths starts
January 15, 2020
After being in recruitment for a few years I have noticed a pattern with my top talent and their CVs. I thought I would share what I have noticed just
December 3, 2019
November 15, 2019
Introduction Our client in the steel manufacturing industry is looking for a Human Resources Manager to manage the Human Resources operations and provide overall direction and guidance to assigned staff, including direct
November 7, 2019
Pest Control Technician required for large organization in the Industry Must have registered “P” Number Must have 3-4 years experience in Pest Control Salary is Market Related Send CV’s to
November 4, 2019
I Would Like To Share Some Of My Tips On How To Create A Life Worth Living Don’t Worry Too Much: Don’t worry too much about what you are going
October 25, 2019
An ambitious and innovative manufacturing company is looking for a highly motivated Assistant Production Clerk to join their team. Salary: R8 000 – R10 000 Cost to Company (per month)
October 22, 2019
Large Corporate Organization is looking for candidates wanting to complete SAICA Articles Must have completed Qualification at University level Salary Stipend is R8000 CTC Applications may be sent to
October 22, 2019
We are recruiting for a Bookkeeper for our client based in the Assagay area Candidates must have 2-3 years experience as a Bookkeeper with experience on Pastel. The Salary
October 18, 2019
There is a new employment initiative call YES which all businesses and youth should know about. Youth play a critical role is shaping our economy and country. There is a
July 23, 2019
How to be even more successful as a woman in business Whether you are working for yourself or someone else there are a few pointers that every woman needs to
July 17, 2019
For many who can’t afford a tertiary education the end of the buildup of 12 years of schooling can be terrifying. Especially when the theorem of Pythagoras has no real
July 11, 2019
May 29, 2019
So… you’ve submitted your application for the ideal job, either directly or through your Recruitment Consultant. You’ve waited patiently for feedback… an update… acknowledgement… something at least!! Heaven knows you’ve
April 10, 2019
We have all had it happen before, we submit our CV to a recruiter for the PERFECT job, the one that has your name written all over it. We wait
March 12, 2019
Is there a need for reference checks? I’ve met with a number of business owners and employers who are asking if reference checks are still worth it or relevant. The
March 12, 2019
You will never make a good leader if you think like that. The words hit a chord, being a good leader was all I have ever wanted. I remember being
February 22, 2019
1. Marketing is the backbone of your business– always have a Marketing plan and ensure that every day you do something that will make you top of mind with your
January 24, 2019
To help with some of the questions you will need to answer in an interview, here are 6 of the most common ones. Don’t forget to do your research on
January 24, 2019
Being prepared for an interview is of utmost importance. It is the time for your skillset and personality to shine through and for you to not just be another CV
August 30, 2018
Hello, welcome! Bit (or a lot) of what goes on in the mind and nerves of an MC. With my many attempts to previously blog this part of my career
August 24, 2018
Dance is something that brings people together. It has roots in ancient times and is a social and celebratory aspect of life. We have both had a form of dance
July 25, 2018
Nowadays we communicate more online than in reality. From Facebook to Twitter & LinkedIn, our Professional Digital Identity is more important than we realize. It can be the deal breaker
July 25, 2018
When we say “Dressing for Success on a Budget”, we automatically think of a wardrobe full of clothing from a cheaper store. Not so. You need very little clothing to
July 25, 2018
Looking Stylish at the office can really boost your self-confidence resulting in an increase in productivity as well as taking pride in your work. We all want to put our
July 4, 2018
This is a question every business owner or manager needs to ask when they are looking to make a new hire. Every new person that you take on needs to
July 3, 2018
You stand behind the door, breath heavy, palms sweaty and your heart in your mouth. Will this be the one? No, don’t get emotionally involved you whisper to yourself as
June 27, 2018
As a Millennial, I have found that, for every door we knock on, there are 20 doors that won’t open. Why? Is it because some big corporates don’t believe that
June 20, 2018
1. Add a professional photo of yourself. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. Adding a head and shoulders picture of yourself allows the recruiter to
June 11, 2018
This weekend saw the 93rd running of the Comrades Marathon, one of South Africa’s most beloved sports events. It is an event that sees inspiration and motivation at its utmost
May 30, 2018
May 29, 2018
I have recently been involved in a few give back programs hosted by Pro Talent on the topic of careers and preparing properly for ones future. It has been an
April 16, 2018
Yesterday, after a year of intense training, my husband completed the Iron Man event in Port Elizabeth in a respectable time of 13 hours and 30 minutes. Having witnessed the
April 12, 2018
I was having breakfast with my family the other day and as we sat I looked across the café to the end of the table where I saw a lady
April 12, 2018
Advertising on job portals or on your company’s website, is a great way of finding the correct candidates. There are, however, certain legal parameters around advertising that, if not followed
April 12, 2018
From my previous article I mentioned that including an assessment along with an application will allow for easier shortlisting. Great examples are for applicants to use a unique pre-set subject
April 12, 2018
Before I joined the recruitment industry, I thought I knew all there was about hiring the right people. I had my own business and had hired a few people throughout
April 10, 2018
Nelita George, our Marketing and Advertising recruiter, came across this interesting article about creating a positive company culture for employees. It looks at ways in which a manager can create
April 5, 2018
Firstly, I believe recruitment is not a career anyone decides to pursue. Most recruiters I know have landed in recruitment by default! Being in recruitment for over 15 years has
April 2, 2018
Yesterday (28th March 2018), I went to Shongweni with our Robin hood team to distribute more than 8 tons of clothing, shoes, linen and toiletries to more than 250 of
March 29, 2018
It is common knowledge that many of the population are working for companies that they do not enjoy being a part of. This could be due to poor management, monotonous
March 1, 2018
Our Marketing recruiter, Nelita George, was doing some research and came a cross a very interesting article. Of course the title would catch anyone’s attention, but it speaks to those
March 1, 2018
We all want to be those people who reach their targets and meet our deadlines. But sometimes life happens and there are unfortunate circumstances that stop us in our tracks.
February 28, 2018
I have been recruiting sales people for the past 25 years and I have identified certain qualities that I look for when recruiting. I thought I would share them to
February 20, 2018
Following on from the previous blog about becoming a medical sales representative, below are some tips about hoe to the best you can be in this industry. (1)You need to
February 16, 2018
Medical representatives can be spotted from a mile away. The designer clothing, the bright smile and brand name car; they are often envied and as a medical recruiter I often
February 5, 2018
On a daily basis, I deal with clients who are recruiting staff. Despite seminars, articles and many books on the topic, it seems there are some common mistakes that employers
January 18, 2018
By Cindy Norcott, owner of Pro Talent – cindy@proappoint.co.za 1. Type up a cv that is no more than 3 pages in length. Keep it short and concise and to
January 10, 2018
Multi-award winning Westville based-recruitment agency, Pro Appointments has announced the launch of their specialist recruitment division, Pro Talent. Pro Talent will be recruiting in the fields of IT, Engineering and
December 20, 2017
We all know that in this day and age, finding a job can be challenging, and although IT is seen as a scare skill in some areas, finding that perfect
December 15, 2017
By Cindy Norcott, Owner of Pro Appointments & Pro Talent “Is it really possible to hire A-players or are most of the candidates out there just average?” I was recently
November 22, 2017
Hirsch’s Hillcrest recently hosted a Powerhouse Womens Breakfast where our very own Cindy Norcott was a guest speaker. The event was a fun and informative morning paying tribute to the
October 27, 2017
This is a really interesting little article, especially for Employers out there. Gone are the days (it seems) when salary packages were strictly confidential and you could literally be hauled
October 11, 2017
We all see it in the movies, the big boss sitting behind a huge table in his / her Victorian styled designer chair, whilst the employee sits quivering in their
October 3, 2017
September 6, 2017
There’s a new generation buzzword – Generation Z or iGeneration. Young, hip, techno-savvy kids and prospective employees coming up through the ranks. Having grown up in an age of technology
August 17, 2017
33 Recruitment experts share their views on the Top 3 mistakes people make on their CV. Check out our very own Ronel Irvine who contributed to this article. https://formfactory.co.za/top-3-mistakes-on-a-cv/
August 14, 2017
May 19, 2017
Interesting read – these cyber attacks are becoming a harsh reality with many businesses having to cough up 1000’s to have their sites/information returned. And even then it’s not a
April 19, 2017
Written by Matthew Neethling In recruitment, having a CV that stands out is the most important part in the job seeking process. Having to go job hunting is a difficult
March 23, 2017
March 23, 2017
March 1, 2017
By: Alyson Scheepers – Talent Specialist at Pro Appointments The first impression you make on a potential employer is incredibly meaningful and important. When you first meet, employers will form
February 13, 2017
By Cindy Norcott I am reading Simon Sinek’s best-selling book, “Start with Why” which essentially is a great reminder that successful companies and movements are not motivated by what they
February 1, 2017
*IN THE NEWS* Thank you People Magazine for this incredible 2-page feature in this week’s issue in your People has Heart segment. If you’d like to learn more about Robin
January 30, 2017
Extraordinary drive: Career advice for millennials, from a millennial by Elizabeth Ross A millennial is someone from the generation reaching young adulthood in the early twenty-first century, with birth
December 8, 2016
December 1, 2016
November 16, 2016
A must read article by guru Seth Godin for all company owners and employers! Click on the link. http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2016/11/its-not-the-bottom-its-the-foundation.html
October 20, 2016
The job market is tough for job seekers. Over my 25 years in recruitment, I have often seen job seekers unwittingly sabotage their chances of getting the job they want.
October 20, 2016
Gone are the days of getting excited about placing a new advert on job portals to attract new star candidates… Gone are the days where we could get our creative
October 20, 2016
Pro Appointments will be hosting a year-end motivational seminar for the ladies. This is a great networking opportunity where you will be inspired, educated, entertained and spoiled. Book seats today
October 20, 2016
The Pro Appointments Team are supporting The Robin Hood Foundation’s 2016 Spring campaign, “Choose your Shoes.” Get involved today by getting in touch with Kim: robinhoodfund@telkomsa.net.
October 20, 2016
So I’ve started to write this and I already have the theme song in my head: “I want to be the very best that no one ever was. To catch
October 20, 2016
The Robinhood Foundation welcome Spring with the launch of this exciting campaign “Choose Your Shoes Spring 2016” and a great reason to have a good spring clean of yours and
October 20, 2016
October 19, 2016
As most of us know, unemployment is not easy, it actually really sucks!!! Having to go through tons of job adverts and applying to them like there is no tomorrow
October 19, 2016
The traditional hiring process of application, job interview and assessment is dying. Today’s digitally-savvy jobseekers need convincing that a job is right for them, and expect employers to move as
October 19, 2016
There is nothing more frustrating to a prospective employer, and a recruitment consultant, than a candidate who comes in to register for a new position and when the time comes
October 19, 2016
I have been a fan of leadership guru, John Maxwell for many years. I thought I would share some of his advice with you. It is important to hire people
October 19, 2016
If you’re employed and have social media accounts then you need to read the following article. Read article by clicking here
October 19, 2016
The term ‘micro-jobbing’ is a new one in the South African vernacular. It refers to a growing trend whereby anyone with a smart phone and an internet connection is able
October 18, 2016
Tempted to Lie on Your CV? Here’s why you should tell the Truth – Michael Klazema April 2015 Resist the temptation to pad your CV. Doing so could come back
October 18, 2016
As we get into the last stretch of the year, it appears that everyone suddenly feels deflated and out of steam and the mental count-down towards the end of the
October 18, 2016
As a job seeker, often one does not know how the process works in Human Resource Departments or in Recruitment Agencies. Even though each agency is different the below points
October 17, 2016
(8 job-search tips to combat your professional greenness) – Nelita George, Recruiter 1. Figure out why you’d be great at the job.Spend some time thinking about why you would be
October 17, 2016
During the beginning of 2015, I found myself facing retrenchment in the first company that I entered straight out of University, my first permanent job, which I had been with
October 17, 2016
I am preparing for an upcoming seminar on time management and I thought I would share a few thoughts on the subject. I read a quote that said ‘Most people
August 10, 2016
I have just returned from a 12 day social trip to the United States. One of the highlights for me amongst the many exciting events we experienced was the service
August 1, 2016
I love August. It is womens’ month after all! I enjoy participating in the many events that celebrate women and the successes they have made. To be honest, I don’t
July 1, 2016
Quite often during job hunting you can allow yourself to slip into the downward spiral towards depression, anxiety and fear. This alone is not helpful when looking for a new
March 25, 2016
by Cindy Norcott At the start of every year, armed with renewed vim and vigour, I decide on my theme for the year. Last year was my “Unstoppable” year and
March 25, 2015
At our little recruitment agency in Westville, Durban we have found ourselves on the winning side quite a lot in 2014. At any given moment during our busy periods if
March 25, 2015
Have a read of this great article full of useful and insightful bits of information, and try not to fall into any of these categories:- Read article by clicking here.
March 25, 2015
How your spelling and grammar can ruin your chances of applying for a job Follow this link to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward at all times:-
March 25, 2015
When is it time to find a new job? Are you broke by the second week of each month? Are you going home each day completely stressed out? Are you
March 25, 2015
Why companies don’t hire the right people – from a recruiter’s point of view I have been a recruiter for 23 years and I thought I would share with you
February 25, 2015
With our connection with The Robin Hood Foundation the consultants are often invited to go along and experience some of the touching things Kim and her team do. Thursday 2nd
February 25, 2015
Ten Ways in Which Temps Can Make Your Life Easier This Festive Season Answering phones while your staff are on Christmas lunch Office temps while your admin staff take annual
February 25, 2015
Having been a recruiter for nearly 25 years, I have realized that some job-seekers are subconsciously sabotaging their job-seeking efforts. Here are a few things that you might be preventing
January 25, 2015
Malcolm Gladwell tells the world that it takes 10 000 hours for a person to become a world expert in your field. How do you rate? Are you an expert
January 25, 2015
I have been coaching business owners and speaking to large groups of people over the past 15 years. There is a question that I ask most of the audiences that
January 25, 2015
Last week, I hosted a marketing seminar for clients and her are some insights that I realized that some business people didn’t know. I have a different definition of Marketing