CKS Finance are working with Top Tier Recruitment to expand their Corporate Finance team - hear from Gavin Pitcher, Head of Corporate Finance & Tech Advisory on what makes this such an exceptional opportunity!... read more
Flexible hybrid is the go to for most people, turns out, most people also want some part of an interview process in person – nearly 60% in fact. Higher at the executive end (70%). Be warned though, 40% of technology candidates and 38% of junior non tech professionals want to keep the process fully remote.... read more
Ever wondered why the top driver is for people to leave your organisation? No doubt, it can often be a mix of factors but data suggests ‘Progression’ is the main reason, particularly at the Executive end (48%). For more junior, non technology staff, compensation is the main reason (43%).... read more
Regardless of your opinion on making counter offers, the data suggests there is a reasonable chance of retaining someone if you simply match a competing offer and make some changes to someone’s role. Overall, 43% of people polled would definitely accept or strongly consider a counter offer with some interesting variances between functions and levels…... read more
One of the main tools of retention is being able to offer talent the opportunity to move internally. Whether that is more seniority, a new team, a different function, a secondment to a project or something else, pastures new are attractive. Retaining a good employee is better for the business, although may cause an issue for their current team. ... read more
This week, we wanted to test our theory that people don’t really apply to jobs anymore and the data backs that up in a big way. Only 9% of people currently looking or who have recently moved job found, or are planning to find, their next job by applying through a jobs board.... read more
It seems like you can’t turn on the radio, flick through social media, read a newspaper or watch the news without constantly hearing about inflation. We have noticed an increase in prospective candidates looking for more than ‘normal’ salary increases when considering new opportunities and anecdotally, this is due to the increasing cost of living. ... read more
People will vote with their feet and it is already happening....... read more
Although the data would suggest that the majority of the candidate market are still happy to move, 28% of people indicated they are either not moving or less likely to move which is significant. ... read more
Transitioning into a career in Blockchain Well, it is that time of the year again and another super exciting Blockchain week was and is in store for all participants. While this year all events were hosted online, the value gained was just as exciting as the past face to face events. We have all become experts at feeding and consuming information via video / online thanks to Covid. The event I chose to focus on is one that was hosted by an incredible group of women, I have had the honour to get to know since their first event in September 2018, BlockW. The event title was also of interest to me given the fact we work with candidates who are actively looking to transition into Blockchain. The panel line-up was fantastic with each person adding lots of value to all the attendees. ... read more
In this Blog and Podcast, we give you lots of insights to help you perfect your cv when applying for a new role.... read more
Is this year any different from previous ones? • Interviews are all online, so we need to be able to adapt our style and be comfortable with zoom or other video methods • Finding ways to give that “firm handshake” virtually will be important. For example, try to research your interviewers on LinkedIn and find some commonalities in interests etc which you can use as an icebreaker to create rapport • There is absolutely no excuse for being late! You need to ensure your internet is working and the interview link is working at least 30 minutes in advance of your interview ... read more
In this episode Paul and Laura give you an insight into different pieces you need to consider when making a career change.... read more
We are now in our second lockdown, however, this time does feel a lot less severe – perhaps it has become out new normal. ... read more
Recruitment always gets slower coming up to Christmas. Companies are focused on their end of year results and hiring Managers take time off to spend with their families, so it always takes a back seat. It is the perfect time to brush up on your cv, interview skills and job search strategies.... read more
Financial Services Recruitment post lockdown, pre-Brexit! Tune in as Paul and Laura discuss FS recruitment during these times. There will answer questions 1. What are you seeing in the financial services market at the moment and how has it changed over the course of the pandemic? 2. Are there any particular sectors that are hiring at the moment? 3. What types of roles are particularly in demand? 4. In terms of level, anything standing out? 5. What impact is Brexit having now? ... read more
Wow, what a hectic year!!! 2020 will certainly be one we will all never forget. For some, it has been stressful, sorrowful and an unenjoyable experience. For others, it has given them the chance to press the reset button, get their exercise and eating patterns at a satisfactory level, and has allowed them reassess what is important to them. Regardless of where you are on your Covid journey, an interesting question is continually raised from our clients and candidates – “when do you think we will return to the office?”. ... read more
We were delighted to have Adrian Whelan join Paul on this episode of Your Pursuit of Happiness.... read more
As we know Pride week is themed every year and this year the theme was “In this together” due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen in to our Podcast as Vessy shares some intimate details about her story and how she celebrated Pride Week this year.... read more
After a few months of lockdown, those of us who can, have found their rhythm with working from home. Everything happened so quickly, so getting the appropriate equipment was not possible for everyone. Not all of us had a home office at the ready and we were forced to use our imaginations when it came to creating our own spaces. ... read more
When Covid 19 hit, the world literally stopped! Everything halted. We are so blessed to be working in Financial Services and Fintech as these industries have remined strong. We quickly adapted as everything we use is cloud based anyway so we literally took our laptops home and started working. Our clients were also quick to adapt – screening, interviewing, onboarding was and is been done remotely and it has worked out well. I am truly impressed at the resilience and adaptability of our clients. To quote Charles Darwin, “ It is not the most intellectual of the species that survives; it is not the strongest that survives; but the species that survives is the one that is able best to adapt and adjust to the changing environment in which it finds itself.”. This is so true – we have seen other businesses adapt during lockdown like restaurants doing heat at home meals, pubs transforming themselves into shops/takeaways and many, many more. ... read more
For anyone on the job hunt, you will know the market is starting to pick up again and there are more and more roles being released every day. We have gathered some tips to help you with your next video interview.... read more
"What Basis.Point does is it puts together those people who want to make a difference and want to make a change with those who can" - Edel O'Malley's succinct description of what Basis.Point do. ... read more
In this special episode, we welcome back Pete Townsend of Norio Ventures to discuss the impact Covid 19 is having on the FinTech, Blockchain and Financial Services market with Paul. ... read more
![Understanding Brexit [With The British Irish Chamber of Commerce]](https://www.toptierrecruitment.com/images/uploads/blog/_listing/Pursuit_of_Happiness_Podcast_-_Katie_Daughen_-_British_Irish_Chamber_of_Commerce.png)
Brexit has come to pass and will affect Irish business and employment for years to come. We spoke with the former Brexit spokesperson at the British Irish Chamber of Commerce, Katie Daughen, for her thoughts on how best to deal with this huge change.... read more
![One To Watch - R3 [With Katelyn Baker and Dave Hudson]](https://www.toptierrecruitment.com/images/uploads/blog/_listing/Pursuit_of_Happiness_Podcast_-_R3.png)
R3 is an exciting international enterprise blockchain software firm that continues to grow in Ireland. Join us as we talk with Dave Hudson and Katelyn Baker from R3.... read more
The Funds Industry in Ireland has gone from strength to strength and today we're joined by an industry leader, Karen Malone. Karen is Founding Partner & CEO of Centaur. With offices in Europe and North America, Centaur delivers independent fund administration and regulatory services worldwide.... read more
"Come here often? Well, you should." Cheesy one-liners are predictable, and most people are used to them, but preparation is key. Just like interview questions. Here are the most common ‘Chat Up Lines’ you are likely to be asked at interview and a light-hearted steer on how to approach them.... read more
We're joined on the show by a former international rugby player, Jamie Heaslip. Jamie joined us to talk about his rugby career, life after rugby, the Irish tech scene, Flender, and lessons he's learned along the way.... read more
FINTECH Circle is the leading FinTech angel investment network. It also helps banks and service providers to make sense of FinTech. We spoke with Michal Bezak, Head of Partnerships at FINTECH Circle, all about FINTECH Circle and the future of FinTech.... read more
![Growing Starling - Interview With Felim O’Donnell [COO with Starling International]](https://www.toptierrecruitment.com/images/uploads/blog/_listing/Pursuit_of_Happiness_Podcast_wide_-_Felim_ODonnell_-_Starling_Bank.png)
Starling is an exciting Fintech company that is reshaping the world of financial services. We spoke with Felim O'Donnell, COO with Starling International, about Starling's journey past, present, and future. Felim also shared some fascinating insights on creating a positive, powerful workplace culture. Listen to the discussion below.... read more
Laura and Paul had a fascinating conversation with Coral Movasseli (Managing Director of Girls in Tech Dublin) about how to get more women into the tech industry.... read more
![New Report: Future Of The Funds Industry In Ireland [Free Download]](https://www.toptierrecruitment.com/images/uploads/blog/_listing/Post_-_LinkedIn_-_Fund_Report.png)
The funds industry in Ireland has been in a state of constant change so we've put together a report on the future of the industry. The report covers FinTech, fund managers, fund services firms, advisory companies, ManCos and others who have a vested interest in the changing nature of the funds industry in Ireland.... read more
Following her excellent article in the Employee Retention Guide, productivity expert Moira Dunne from BeProductive.ie joined Laura & Paul to share her ever-useful advice on how to be more productive at work.... read more
Top Tier Recruitment is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Dublin Simon Community to help support their efforts to provide services at all stages of homelessness and enable people to move to a place they can call home. Listen to Pat Greene describe how they've been helping people over the last 50 years.... read more
Following her excellent article in the Employee Retention Guide, peak performance strategist Abigail Ireland joined Laura & Paul to talk about employee engagement and peak performance.... read more
Made it through the first interview? Well done! Now, Laura and Paul explain how to handle the second and third-round job interviews . . . ... read more
How would you rate your company culture? Laura & Paul had a fascinating discussion with Evelien Veenman about her unusual role as 'Chief Happiness Officer' at the innovative Dutch company, Experius.... read more
Laura & Paul had a fascinating discussion with Joanne Hession of LIFT Ireland about LIFT's inspiring mission to increase the level of positive leadership in Ireland.... read more
![The Power Of Your Employer Brand [Discussion With Niamh O’Connor]](https://www.toptierrecruitment.com/images/uploads/blog/_listing/Pursuit_of_Happiness_Podcast_cover_-_Nimh_OConnor.png)
Laura & Paul had a fascinating discussion about employer branding with Niamh O'Connor, Brand Strategist at The Pudding. The Pudding is a commercial and creative brand agency in Dublin. They work with companies to build, re-position and grow game-changing corporate and employer brands. Read on or listen in to understand the power of employer branding and how to make it work in your business to attract (and retain) talent in the financial services and Fintech industries.... read more
Building an inclusive business, an inclusive culture, is a challenge. In this extract from our Diversity & Inclusion Guide, Andrew Keating (former Group Chief Financial Officer and Executive Sponsor of Inclusion & Diversity at Bank of Ireland) shares his insights on this key issue.... read more
Congratulations! You got the job! Now, let's look at how to hand in your resignation in the right way.... read more
Paul recently had a fascinating talk with Enda Lynch who's the Head of Enterprise at Munster Rugby. Enda runs the Munster Rugby, High Performance Leadership business in partnership with the University of Limerick. Read on or listen in to learn how to achieve high performance in your career and in your business.... read more
It can be really disheartening when you're unsuccessful in your job application. How to handle an unsuccessful job application? Read on (or listen in) as Laura and Paul help you through this difficult time . . .... read more
Industry expert, Pedro Angulo of AIB & the Irish Institute of Management, shares his advice and insights on how to retain staff in the Irish financial services & Fintech industries.... read more
![How To Create A Great Place To Work [Interview With Fania Stoney]](https://www.toptierrecruitment.com/images/uploads/blog/_listing/Pursuit_of_Happiness_Podcast_cover_-_Fania_Stoney_of_Great_Place_To_Work.png)
We had a fascinating conversation about employee engagement (and a lot more) with Fania Stoney of Great Place To Work on a recent episode of the Your Pursuit of Happiness podcast.... read more
You got the job! Congratulations! Now it's time to work out the agreement. We'll walk you through the tricky question of how to negotiate a job offer.... read more
We were very pleased to discuss employee financial wellness with Adam Hankin (General Manager - Ireland) of Wagestream, a rapidly-growing Fintech on a recent episode of the Your Pursuit of Happiness podcast.... read more
We were very pleased to be joined on the Your Pursuit of Happiness podcast by Andrew Quinn, Course Director for Accountancy, Finance, Financial Technology & Business Analytics Programs at Dublin Business School.... read more
We were very pleased to be joined by David Kindlon, CEO and Co-Founder of Eppione, a company which offers cloud-based HR and Employee Benefits software as well as a complete insurance broker service. David joined us on the Your Pursuit Of Happiness podcast to talk about how he and the Eppione team have transitioned an offline business to become an HR & Employee Benefits tech company with a worldwide audience.... read more
Today, we're very pleased to be joined by Hesus Inoma, a leader from Grant Thornton's Financial Services Advisory practice where he leads the FinTech service offering. Hesus kindly joined us to talk about all things Fintech, funds, and financial services.... read more
Ever wondered whether it's necessary to keep track of job applications and to follow-up? If so, how and when do you do it? Laura and Paul give you the low-down on this issue.... read more
Ever wondered whether you should you try to steer the interview discussion or is it best simply to respond to questions? If trying to steer the conversation, how and when do you do this? Laura and Paul walk you through this dilemma.... read more
We’re joined on this blog post by Philip Coffey, an Executive Career and Life Coach based in Dublin. Philip is a senior HR professional with over 14 years’ private, public, multinational and HR consultancy experience. He is very passionate about the value of implementing Coaching, Mentoring, Career Development and Employee Engagement programmes in organisations. In fact, he was the winner of the 2018 HR Champion Leadership Award for the successful delivery of a Mentoring & Career Development Programme in Trinity College Dublin. He was also a keynote speaker for at the European Mentoring and Coaching Council International Mentoring Day event. As an Executive Career and Life Coach, Philip enjoys helping people navigate life and career obstacles so they can realise their true potential. He has developed and delivered Personal Branding, CV, LinkedIn & Interview Skills Programmes for individuals and organisations. Philip has joined us to talk all things corporate coaching & mentoring. ... read more
Pete Townsend is a fascinating guy. An influential leader with an extensive career in asset management, asset servicing and advisory, he regularly delivers insight as a keynote speaker, moderator, MC, and podcaster. We spoke with Pete about his background, how he helps tech businesses via Norio Ventures, and about the future of the funds industry in Ireland.... read more
Ever wondered about the impact of your social media activity on your career? Are there things you should do? Are there things you shouldn't do? Today on the Your Pursuit Of Happiness podcast, Laura and Paul walk you through the social media minefield.... read more
Ever wondered whether you should apply to a job directly or via a recruitment firm? Sure, we lean a particular way on this but, today, Laura and Paul will give you their honest opinions and give you some tips to consider either way.... read more
We talked with Vessy Tasheva of Vessy.com about how we can make the Irish financial services industry a more diverse and inclusive place to work.... read more
If you've applied for a job or been asked in for an interview in the last few years, the chances are good that your potential employer will take a look at your LinkedIn profile. Here's why and how to optimise your LinkedIn profile.... read more
Paul Smyth from Top Tier Recruitment gave the opening address at the FuSIoN event with an exploration of the concept of 'safety' and how it applies to financial services companies in Ireland seeking to improve their diversity & inclusion.... read more
We talked with Sarah Johnston of Briefcasecoach.com about how she helps high performers land amazing jobs thanks to her services as an interview coach, executive resume writer, LinkedIn Branding expert, and Career Coach.... read more
Many businesses use behavioural interviews to assess the skills, knowledge, and values of potential new employees. Here's how to answer behavioural interview questions in the financial services and Fintech industry.... read more
The Brexit saga continues. Today, we look at how Brexit impacts upon the Irish jobs market and how you should react.... read more
In this helpful episode of the 'Your Pursuit Of Happiness' podcast, Laura & Paul help you manage your job search so you can get the career you want.... read more
FuSIoN (Financial Services Inclusion Network) and Top Tier Recruitment welcome members of Ireland's financial services & Fintech industry to an evening of networking and lively discussion around the topic: Inclusive Ireland - A Destination of Choice for Financial Services & Fintech Professionals on Thursday 9 May 2019.... read more
Today, Paul talks with Claire Savage (COO) and Lorraine Lyons (Senior Business Development) from Irish financial services success story, AQMetrics, to learn a little about the company's story and to discuss new opportunities opening up at the rapidly-growing Fintech.... read more
In this episode of the Your Pursuit Of Happiness podcast, Laura & Paul share their career development tips and advice on how to achieve the career you want and deserve.... read more
In this helpful episode of the Your Pursuit Of Happiness podcast, Laura & Paul help you answer some of the most difficult questions you're likely to be asked in your next job interviews.... read more
In the recent episode of the Your Pursuit Of Happiness podcast, Laura quizzed Paul on the rise of ManCo's in Ireland.... read more
Landed a new job in Dublin? Congratulations! Now wondering how to find a place to live in Dublin (or Ireland)? This will help...... read more
In the recent episode of the Your Pursuit Of Happiness podcast, Laura & Paul discussed what's involved in moving from the corporate world to a startup. Have a listen to the episode and then let's take a look at some of the key questions . . .... read more
Stamp this, stamp that, stamp the other. What does it all mean? You have found the perfect candidate but you simply do not understand if you can hire them based on their visa status. Sounds familiar, right? Here's how to hire non-EU citizens in Ireland.... read more
Today's we're looking at how to understand your workplace culture and its impact on your company's EVP (Employer Value Proposition). ... read more
Managers are measured by the success of their team so leaving a key team member can have a serious impact on your own performance. So, if you're wondering how to prevent a 'shock' resignation, here are seven steps you can take. ... read more
Interviews have stages and structures that rarely change. Regardless of the level or type of role you are interviewing for, you are likely to be asked a question that resembles:... read more
Being called for an interview means that the potential employer feels that you have the skills required. Give yourself the best chance of success by understanding how to use an employer job spec ('job specification') to prepare for the interview.... read more
Enterprise Ireland’s 2019 'Appetite for Disruption' was a fascinating event. I had the pleasure of speaking with and hearing from, many entrepreneurs, business leaders, advisors and influencers within the world of FinTech and financial services. Here's a quick summary of the event . . . ... read more
Every interview will go through your CV / experience at some point and in some way. One of the surprising stumbling blocks that we would see is a lack of prep around the actual CV. Knowing your CV well might seem like a given but sometimes, can be the very thing that trips you up. Here are some CV preparation tips to give you the best chance of success in your next interview.... read more
Ready for a big new year? Here are some of the hot topics in FinTech & Financial Services for you to consider.... read more
If you're an employee or employer in the Irish FinTech and Financial Services industry, you'd probably agree that 2018 was quite a year. The Irish economy continues to grow but has been both buoyed and battered by Brexit.... read more
As we approach Christmas, here are some of the hot topics in FinTech & Financial Services that have people talking. ... read more
Many people looking for a Fintech role in Ireland believe they are better off waiting until January to hunt for a new job. Some feel that looking prior to Christmas is a waste of time or, in a lot of cases, just put it off due to the time of year... read more
We all understand the importance of fitness, not only for slimming done or improving the appearance of our bodies, but from a mental health perspective. When our bodies and minds are fit, we are less prone to medical... read more
I will begin with saying, what a fantastic event I attended yesterday with special thanks to Eoin Fitzgerald of Enterprise Ireland who organised such an impressive event. I was exposed to a roomful of the who’s who of Fintech not only in Ireland but on an international basis. There were more than 100 top people from all over the world including places like Mumbai, Sydney, Toronto, Chicago, New York etc. In attendan... read more
We’ve all been to an interview that we felt could have gone better, or maybe we weren’t on top form that day. It can be frustrating, as a face to face interview is your first chance to impress the interviewer. The individual interviewing, be it a recruiter or HR, will...... read more
2018 is quickly approaching, and I’m sure many of us have yet to keep to our promise of joining a gym, taking up Pilates, or simply keeping fit for 2017! As the days get shorter, and the nights get longer, the urge to “get up and go” diminishes a little more every day....... read more
Ireland’s unemployment rate has fallen to 6.1 per cent, according to the Central Statistics Office. The last time Ireland saw a rate of unemployment at this level was in June 2008, prerecession. The Department of Finance has estimated that unemployment rates will fall...... read more
€10K prize draw at this week’s FinTech 20 event! Top Tier Recruitment are delighted to be sponsoring this week’s FinTech 20 event, organised by Irish Tech News in UCD. Tickets are sold out and we are excited about participating in this great event. Paul Smyth will be mod... ... read more
You’ve selected your shortlist, gone through rounds of interview only to have your first pick turn your offer down! The most frustrating thing in the world for clients but how do you do your best to attract the right people and make sure that offer gets accepted? We gi...... read more
In recent years we have seen a large number of international companies expand to Poland, offering a great environment for expats to think about working there. With a wide range of things to see and do, a growing economy, and a large international community, Krakow coul...... read more
Demand for Contract/Daily Rate Roles There has been a notable increase in the amount of contract/daily rate roles on offer in the Technology industry. We catch up with Kasia Wisniewska, Senior Consultant, to find out a little but more about these types of jobs. What do y...... read more
Great video by Business and Finance highlighting the strength of the FinTech industry in Ireland featuring our very own Laura Smyth. ... read more
Sometimes, recruitment is seen as one dimensional – sourcing CVs to fill a given role. This is a transactional model that is fast becoming redundant and is most definitely outdated already. Undoubtedly, as a...... read more
We were delighted to be the recruitment partner to last night’s Fintech Ireland event in NCI in the IFSC. We really enjoyed meeting many of the country’s growing and established firms across the Fintech ecosystem and look forward to working with many of them going forw...... read more
RPA is becoming more and more in demand. We work with Financial Services and Fintech clients exclusively and while the skill set is in high demand within these industries, the candidate pool in Dublin is quite light. The IDA recently hosted a fantastic event in The Mar...... read more
The aftermath of the 2008 financial meltdown and the associated doom and gloom led to mass emigration from Ireland. In the four years following the crash 300,000 left Irish shores, 4 out of 10 were aged 18-24. In this time, half of adults aged between 25 and 34 conside...... read more
Since we started Top Tier Recruitment in January of 2106, we have been lucky to work with some great clients and candidates. We decided to look at some of the data we have to understand the blockages from when a role is released to when the successful...... read more
When trying to secure your Dream Job, think outside the box and be a little more proactive rather than re-actively waiting for a new role to be released as it might be too late at that stage!... read more
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As the market becomes more saturated with jobs, we now see more and more recruitment consultancies opening and existing ones have a robust recruitment drive, but how do you choose the best one to work for?... read more