Balancing Job Search and Mental Wellbeing: Tips for Job Seekers

Searching for a new role is a full-time job in itself.  Between updating your CV, tailoring cover letters, preparing for interviews, and waiting on feedback, it can be a rollercoaster of emotions. For many, it can also be a stressful and uncertain time. 

At First Base Employment we understand that your wellbeing during your job search is just as important as your next opportunity. Supporting your mental health during your job search isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for staying motivated and confident. Here’s how to stay grounded while you work toward your next career move. 

Why Job Search Stress Is Real and Normal

The pressure to find the “right” role can feel overwhelming. You might be dealing with financial uncertainty, recovering from redundancy, or simply feeling stuck after multiple rejections. This isn’t just frustrating, it’s emotionally taxing. Add to that the constant scrolling through job boards or the feeling of needing to always be “on,” and it’s easy to see how burnout happens. 

The important thing to remember is that these feelings are totally normal. The job market can be unpredictable, and it’s okay to feel discouraged at times. What matters is how you manage that stress and protect your wellbeing throughout the process. 

The Impact of Mental Health on Job Search Success

Mental wellbeing plays a critical role in how you present yourself during the job search. Confidence, focus and communication, all key to interviews and applications are harder to access when you’re feeling emotionally depleted. 

Taking care of your mental health isn’t just about feeling better; it actively improves your chances of success. If you take time to rest, reflect, and maintain perspective you can approach interviews with more clarity and composure. 

Practical Ways to Stay Well While Job Hunting

Staying mentally strong doesn’t mean pushing through nonstop. It means creating healthy habits and boundaries that help you move forward without burning out. Here are some strategies we recommend: 

  1. Create a Routine with Boundaries
    Set dedicated time each day for job search tasks and equally important, schedule time to disconnect. Treat your job hunt like a work project with defined hours. After that, allow yourself space to rest or enjoy non-career-related activities. 
  2. Celebrate Small Wins
    Every application sent, interview secured, or networking message answered is progress. Recognising and celebrating these small milestones helps build momentum and keeps your mindset positive when things are slow. 
  3. Talk About It
    Don’t bottle up the stress. Whether it’s a friend, a mentor, or a support group, sharing your experiences can ease the emotional load. You’ll often find others have felt the same way and their encouragement can be invaluable. 
  4. Manage Rejection Constructively
    Rejection is part of the process, but it doesn’t define your worth. Take time to reflect on feedback, then move forward without internalising the “no.” You’re not alone and the right role is out there. 
  5. Use Support Networks
    A recruitment agency isn’t just there to send you job alerts. We’re here to listen, coach, advise, and champion your goals. We can help make your search more efficient and more human. 

How We Can Support You

Our role as recruiters goes beyond matching CVs to job specs. We’re here to guide you, advocate for you, and support your wellbeing along the way. We’ll work with you to identify roles that align not only with your experience and skills, but also with your personal values and lifestyle goals. 

And when things feel overwhelming, we’re just a conversation away. Whether you need feedback, encouragement, or just someone to talk to who understands the process, we’re here

💬 Looking After Your People: The Key to Keeping Them

In today’s hiring landscape, it’s no longer just about flashy job titles or competitive salaries.

More than ever, candidates are asking:
“Will this company genuinely care about my wellbeing?”

Prospective employees will research you. They’ll scroll through your careers page, dig into employer review sites, and check your social media presence. If they see consistent feedback about burnout, poor support, or toxic culture, they’re likely to keep scrolling.

Why it matters:

The world of work has evolved dramatically. Hybrid setups, economic uncertainty, and rising stress levels have left many professionals rethinking what they need from an employer.

A 2023 Deloitte survey revealed that 60% of employees would leave their current role for one that supports mental health better.
That’s not just a trend, it’s a wake-up call.

The business case is clear:

✅ Lower turnover
✅ Higher productivity
✅ Stronger employer brand
✅ Fewer sick days
✅ Greater employee engagement

When people feel genuinely supported and cared for, they stay longer, contribute more, and speak positively about where they work. That ripple effect is powerful.


Here’s how to make a meaningful difference:

💬 Talk openly about mental health
Normalize the conversation. Leadership should model vulnerability, and managers should be trained to listen and respond with empathy. A culture of silence only reinforces stigma.

🧠 Provide accessible support
Employee Assistance Programs, mental health days, wellbeing apps, therapy sessions, these should be more than just policies in a handbook. Make access simple and regularly remind your team of what’s available.

📵 Encourage work-life balance
No one thrives in an “always on” culture. Set boundaries that respect people’s time. That might mean discouraging out-of-hours emails or embracing flexible start and finish times.

👂 Check in regularly
A weekly 1:1 or casual chat can make all the difference. It shows your people they’re seen, heard, and valued, not just as workers, but as human beings.


And if you’re hiring…

Recruitment today isn’t just about matching CVs to job specs. It’s about helping organisations build environments people want to stay in.

That means:

✔️ Hiring for cultural fit and values
✔️ Being transparent about your wellbeing offerings
✔️ Demonstrating flexibility from the very first interaction

Wellbeing initiatives shouldn’t be buried in the fine print. Make them a visible part of your employer brand, especially during the recruitment process.


Final thought:

Wellbeing isn’t a buzzword. It’s a business priority.

The organisations that lead with empathy, flexibility, and genuine care will be the ones that attract, engage, and retain the best talent, not just today, but long-term.

Let’s create workplaces where people, and businesses, truly thrive. 🌿

#EmployeeWellbeing #Retention #MentalHealthAtWork #Recruitment #WorkplaceCulture #Hiring #HR #Leadership

Why Employer Branding Is the Future of Recruitment

How to Attract Top Talent Through Strong Employer Branding

In today’s competitive job market, attracting and keeping top talent has become more of a challenge than ever. While the traditional recruitment methods will always have their place when it comes to hiring, one of the most effective (and potentially underused) tool will always be your employer branding.

When people genuinely see your company as the great place it is to work, they’re not just likely to apply for your roles. They will be much more likely to stay, thrive within their careers and shout about it to others too.

Employer branding can be implemented and used effectively whether you’re a growing start up or even a well-established organisation. Continuously building on your employer brand can give you the real edge when it comes to both finding and hiring the markets best talent.


What is Employer Branding?

Employer branding is how your company is viewed by your current employees and any future potential candidates. Your employer branding will be shaped by:

These can be ‘grouped’ as your company’s personality in the eyes of jobseekers. Having a strong employer brand will make you more attractive to people aligned with your mission. But will also help to deter those who are not the right fit.


Why Does Employer Branding Matter?

Employer branding needs to be a key part of your recruitment strategy for the following reasons:

✅ Better Hires

Companies with a clear, attractive brand tend to attract candidates who are genuinely passionate about what they do – leading to stronger and more engaged hires.

✅ Improved Retention

When people feel proud to work for your company and believe in what you stand for, they’re far more likely to stay. This in turn can work to reduce your overall hiring costs!

✅ A Competitive Advantage

In a sea of job opportunities, standing out as an employer of choice makes it easier to attract the best candidates – even when you’re not the biggest name in the market.


How to Build Your Employer Brand

LinkedIn (as well as utilising your website and other social platforms) is a fantastic tool to showcase what makes your workplace special. We can use it to your advantage by implementing the following:

1. Optimise Your LinkedIn Company Page

This is often the first-place people go to learn about you. Make sure it’s updated with your values, culture, employee stories, and day-to-day insights. Think of it as your online shop window.

2. Encourage Employee Advocacy

Ask your team to share their own stories and experiences – whether it’s a post, a video, or even a short article. People trust people, and genuine employee content speaks volumes.

3. Showcase the Human Side of Your Brand

Don’t just post job ads. Share behind-the-scenes moments, shout-outs to team members, community involvement, or company milestones. Help people feel what it’s like to work with you.

4. Write Job Posts with Purpose

When sharing vacancies, don’t just list tasks. Talk about what it’s really like to work with you. What kind of team will they be joining? What opportunities are there for growth? What values do you live by?

A strong employer brand doesn’t just help you fill roles; it helps you attract the right people, foster loyalty, and build a positive workplace culture that others want to be part of.

By sharing the story behind your business, you can set yourself apart and build lasting connections with candidates who truly align with your mission and values.

👉 Ready to attract the right talent? Start your candidate search today

Looking for Your Next Role? Start with Employer Branding!

Job Hunting? Here’s Why Employer Branding Should Be on Your Radar (and How LinkedIn Can Help)

Employer branding is how companies appear to the outside world and is a major factor to attracting top talent in the market. As a job seeker, getting under the skin of an employer’s brand can help you to make more informed career decisions, be able to find a company culture that aligns perfectly with your values and ultimately land the best job for you.

What Is Employer Branding?

Employer branding is the reputation company’s build in order to attract and retain talent within the market. It’s overall how they portray their work environment, the values and the benefits they can offer to its employees.

A strong employer brand creates a positive perception of the company, which can entice stronger and higher-level applicants.

So, why does understanding employer branding matter to Job Seekers?

Understanding an employer’s brand will ultimately help you decide if it’s the company for you. It will allow you to see their values, mission and overall culture and you can decide if this aligns with your own.

It can also help guide you to companies that offer the work-life balance, career growth and types you work you’ll thrive best in. Finding a company that feels like a “true match” will make the process of interviewing become smoother.

Here’s a summary of why its crucial to understand for job seekers:

How can we use LinkedIn to Assess Employers Branding

A fantastic tool to evaluate an employer’s brand is through LinkedIn. The platform allows you to get the best insider’s view of a company’s work culture and its employees overall experience.

Here’s our tips on how you can leverage LinkedIn to assess potential employers:

It’s important to understand employer branding is as much about choosing that right company for you, as it is them making sure you’re a good fit for their team. By using LinkedIn to research potential companies you can gain these valuable insights before even having that 1st interview.

When you find a company that aligns with your career goals, values, and working style, you’ll be much more likely to find success and satisfaction in your role.

✅ Ready to put your knowledge into action? Search our latest job opportunities and find your perfect match today!

Top Soft Skills for Career Success: Why They Matter & How to Improve Them

In today’s job market, we all know how crucial technical skills are. Whether it’s knowing how to code, mastering specific tools, or understanding key industry knowledge, those hard skills often get the spotlight. But here’s the thing: what really helps you stand out to employers is something you can’t always see on a resume your soft skills. These are the personal attributes that influence how well you interact with others, solve problems, and adapt to change.

Why Soft Skills Are Your Secret Weapon

Employers are starting to realise that, while technical skills are important, it’s the soft skills that truly make a difference. These are the qualities that help you thrive in the workplace and set you up for long-term success. It’s how you handle challenges, work with your team, and communicate with clients that really make an impact.

Here’s why soft skills are worth investing in:

The Top Soft Skills Employers Are Looking For

There are a lot of soft skills that make a difference, but these are some of the key ones employers really value:

How to Develop and Showcase Your Soft Skills

The cool thing about soft skills is they can be developed over time. You don’t need to have it all figured out right away! Here’s how you can build them:

When it’s time to apply for a job, don’t forget to highlight these skills. Share examples of times when you’ve used them to succeed, whether it’s solving a problem at work or helping your team hit a big goal.

Wrapping It Up

Soft skills may not always be as easy to quantify as technical skills, but they can make all the difference in helping you land that job and thrive in your career. By developing your communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability, you’ll show employers that you have the full package.

Looking for your next opportunity? At First Base Employment, we focus on connecting great candidates with businesses that value not just technical know-how, but also the people skills that create lasting success. Ready to take your career to the next level? Check out our latest openings and apply today!

Hiring for Soft Skills: Why They Matter & How to Find the Best Talent

As a business owner or hiring manager, you know that finding the right person for the job isn’t just about looking at a resume full of qualifications. Sure, hard skills whether it’s expertise in accounting, coding, or sales, are important. But it’s the soft skills that often make the biggest impact in the workplace. These are the traits that help employees collaborate, adapt, and thrive, and they’re increasingly what separate the best candidates from the rest.

Why Soft Skills Should Be a Top Priority When Hiring

Soft skills are the personal attributes that influence how someone works and interacts with others. In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, employees with strong soft skills are the ones who not only succeed but also drive positive outcomes for your business.

Here’s why soft skills matter so much:

Top Soft Skills to Look for in Candidates

When it comes to hiring, it’s important to look beyond the technical qualifications and assess the soft skills that will help your employees thrive in the role. Here are some key traits to focus on:

How to Assess Soft Skills in Candidates

It’s not always easy to assess soft skills, but there are a few ways to get a good sense of a candidate’s abilities:

Wrapping It Up

While technical expertise is important, it’s the soft skills that help employees thrive, lead teams, adapt to change, and build lasting relationships with clients. When hiring, don’t just look for the right qualifications, look for the right soft skills that will help your employees succeed.

At First Base Employment, we get that finding the perfect candidate isn’t just about technical know-how. That’s why we focus on connecting businesses with candidates who bring a strong blend of both hard and soft skills. Need help finding your next great hire? Reach out to us and let’s work together to build the perfect team for your business.

Why Company Culture is Key to Retaining Top Talent

In today’s competitive job market, finding top talent is only half the battle—keeping them is where the real challenge lies. While salary and benefits play a role, company culture is often the deciding factor in whether employees stay long-term or start looking for opportunities elsewhere.

So, why is company culture so important for employee retention, and how can businesses build an environment that keeps their best people engaged and motivated?

1. Employees Want More Than Just a Salary

Job seekers today—especially Millennials and Gen Z—value workplace culture just as much as salary. They want to work in an environment that aligns with their values, fosters collaboration, and promotes growth. A toxic or disengaged workplace will quickly drive them to seek other opportunities.

2. A Strong Culture Creates a Sense of Belonging

People thrive when they feel connected to their workplace. A company culture that encourages teamwork, open communication, and recognition, helps employees feel valued and included. This sense of belonging boosts morale and reduces turnover. If you’re looking to build a stronger team, explore our business support services.

3. Culture Impacts Employee Engagement

Engaged employees are productive employees. A positive workplace culture encourages enthusiasm, innovation, and a willingness to go the extra mile. On the other hand, a disengaged workforce can lead to low productivity and increased absenteeism. Find out how we can help you attract and retain top talent.

4. It Influences Work-Life Balance

A culture that respects work-life balance will naturally retain employees longer. Companies that offer flexible working arrangements, mental health support, and a positive work environment are more likely to keep their talent happy and committed.

5. Happy Employees Attract More Talent

Your company culture directly impacts your reputation as an employer. When employees enjoy their work environment, they become brand ambassadors, helping to attract other high-quality candidates through word of mouth and positive online reviews. If you’re looking to hire, we can connect you with the right talent—learn more here.

6. How to Build a Strong Company Culture

Retaining top talent isn’t just about offering a competitive salary—it’s about creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and inspired to do their best work. A strong company culture not only helps you keep your best employees but also turns them into advocates for your business, making it easier to attract even more top-tier talent in the future.

Looking for talent that fits your company culture? Get in touch with our recruitment specialists today!

How to Identify a Company’s Culture at Interview

When job hunting, it’s easy to focus on salary, benefits, and job responsibilities – but company culture is just as important. A great work environment can boost job satisfaction, career growth, and work-life balance, while a toxic culture can leave you feeling drained and looking for another job sooner than you’d like.

So, how can you assess a company’s culture before you accept a job offer? The interview process is your best opportunity to find out. Here’s what to look for and the questions to ask.

1. Observe the Atmosphere

From the moment you walk in (or join a virtual interview), take note of the environment.

First impressions matter, and the way employees interact with each other can give you a strong indication of the company’s culture. Looking for a workplace where you’ll feel comfortable? Browse our latest job opportunities.

2. Pay Attention to the Interviewer’s Tone and Approach

How you’re treated in the interview can reflect how the company treats its employees. Are the interviewers engaged, respectful, and enthusiastic about their work? Or do they seem rushed, uninterested, or overly formal?

If an interviewer struggles to describe what makes the company a great place to work, it could be a red flag. Need help preparing for interviews? Check out our career advice.

3. Ask About Values and Work Environment

Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions about company culture. Here are a few to consider:

A strong company culture isn’t just about words – it’s backed up by actions. Pay attention to how confidently and specifically the interviewer answers these questions. Looking for a company that values its employees? We connect candidates with great employers.

4. Research Employee Reviews and Social Media

Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and the company’s own social media pages can provide valuable insight. Look at employee reviews for patterns – do people mention positive leadership, career growth, and a supportive environment? Or are there repeated complaints about management, long hours, and high turnover?

While every company will have some negative reviews, consistent themes (good or bad) can reveal a lot. Want insights into employer reputations? Speak to our recruitment specialists.

5. Consider Work-Life Balance and Flexibility

If work-life balance is important to you, ask about:

A company that prioritises a healthy balance between work and personal life is more likely to have a positive and supportive culture. Interested in roles with flexibility? Check out our job listings.

6. Trust Your Instincts

Sometimes, the best indicator is your gut feeling. Did the interview leave you feeling excited and confident about the role, or hesitant and unsure? If something doesn’t sit right, don’t ignore it—explore further before making a decision.

Finding the right job isn’t just about responsibilities and salary – it’s about working in a culture where you can thrive. By asking the right questions, doing your research, and paying attention to subtle cues in the interview process, you can make an informed decision and choose a company that aligns with your values and career goals.

Looking for opportunities with companies that prioritise great culture? Get in touch with our recruitment team today!

New Year, New Career: Tips for Kickstarting Your Job Search in 2025!

The start of a new year is the perfect time for a fresh start. Whether you’re looking to take the next step in your career or explore an entirely new path, now is the moment to set your intentions and take action. To help you succeed, we’ve compiled our top tips for kickstarting your job search in 2025.

Looking for opportunities right now? Check out the latest openings in commercial roles, engineering positions, and industrial jobs.

1. Refresh Your CV

Your resume is your first impression, so make it count. Here’s how:

2. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers. Use it to showcase your professional brand and connect with opportunities:

3. Set Clear Career Goals

Before diving into your job search, take some time to reflect and plan:

4. Network, Network, Network

Building connections can open doors to opportunities you might not find online:

5. Stay Positive and Persistent

Job searching can be challenging, but maintaining a positive mindset is key:

Ready to Take the Leap?

At First Base Employment, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for expert advice, resume tips, or connections to top employers, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals in 2025.

Get in touch with us today and let’s turn your New Year’s resolutions into reality. Here’s to your success in the year ahead!

Is Your Team Ready for the New Year? Here’s How We Can Help You Build It 

As the New Year approaches, it’s a perfect time to reflect, strategise, and prepare for the opportunities ahead. One key question to ask yourself is: Is my team ready to hit the ground running in January? If your answer is anything less than a confident “yes,” we’re here to help. 

Why Now Is the Time to Act 

The start of the year often brings fresh challenges and ambitious goals, making it essential to have the right people in the right roles. Whether you’re looking to fill skill gaps, expand your team, or enhance performance, starting early ensures you’re fully prepared when business ramps up. 

Recruitment can be a time-consuming process, but with the right partner, you can navigate it efficiently and effectively. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid the scramble of last-minute hires and set your business up for a successful year. 

How We Can Support You 

At First Base Employment we specialise in connecting businesses with exceptional talent. Here’s how we can help you: 

  1. Strategic Workforce Planning 
    Our team works closely with you to understand your business goals and identify your workforce needs. Whether it’s temporary staff to cover a seasonal peak or permanent hires to support long-term growth, we’ve got you covered. 
  1. Access to Top Talent 
    With an extensive network of skilled professionals across various industries, we can quickly find candidates who are not only qualified but also a great fit for your company culture. 
  1. Streamlined Recruitment Process 
    From drafting job descriptions to screening candidates and arranging interviews, we handle the heavy lifting. This allows you to focus on running your business while we find the talent you need. 
  1. Tailored Solutions 
    No two businesses are the same, which is why we offer bespoke recruitment strategies. Whether you need a single hire or an entire team, we’ll craft a solution that aligns with your unique needs. 
  1. Post-Hire Support 
    Our support doesn’t end once the candidate starts. We offer onboarding assistance and check-ins to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success. 

Start the Year Strong 

Imagine starting the New Year with a team that’s motivated, skilled, and ready to achieve your business goals. By partnering with us, you’ll gain a recruitment ally dedicated to your success. 

Don’t let staffing challenges hold you back in 2025. Contact us today to discuss your hiring needs and discover how we can help you build a stronger, more resilient team.