blogList

Hickeys, one of the largest pharmacy chains in the Republic of Ireland who opened its first outlet in the Northside Shopping Centre in Dublin in 1995 are set to be taken over by Uniphar. Uniphar already operates 229 pharmacies across the country under the Allcare and Life brands and 36 Hickey&#x27;s pharmacies will bring that number to 335.The company&#x27;s revenue rose by 8.8 per cent in the first half of 2020, bringing it to €871.3 million. Pre-tax profit was also 9 per cent higher (€16.4 million).“We have delivered a strong set of results for H1 2020 in a difficult operating environment, achieving gross profit growth across all our divisions and 5 per cent organic gross profit growth at a group level, while maintaining a strong liquidity and net cash position at the end of the period,” said chief executive Ger Rabbitte. “Our investment in digital solutions combined with diversity in our product and services lines has helped mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on our business and positions us well into the future.”Hickeys which has outlets in Dublin, Cork, Meath, Louth, Kildare and Wexford will continue to trade under the Hickeys brand if the Uniphar deal is completed. The group recorded revenues of €27.2 million for the year ending February 28th, 2019, this included a profit of €2.4 million.Hickeys are currently hiring Pharmacy Healthcare Advisors, Support Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Store Manager and Relief Workers.Dublin;Support Pharmacist – O’Connell StreetSupervising Pharmacist, Henry Street, Dublin City CentrePharmacy Healthcare Advisor - CappaghPharmacy Healthcare Advisor – PhibsboroPharmacy Technician - PhibsboroSupport Pharmacist, OngarPharmacy Technician - OngarPharmacy Healthcare Advisor - NeilstownPharmacy Healthcare Advisor - TyrrelstownRelief Pharmacist – South Dublin Kildare:Pharmacy Healthcare Advisor - Maynooth Meath:Pharmacy Technician - NavanPharmacy Store Manager - Navan Shopping CentrePharmacy Healthcare Advisor - Johnstown, Co. Meath For more information on all these roles <a href="https://www.hickeyspharmacies.ie/current-vacancies/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE </a>

Hickeys pharmacy chain set to be taken over by Uniphar.  

Info on Calculated Grades & 1,250 additional college places announced

Why is this question asked? To determine if you will be a good fit for the company - and to discover if you will add value to the team. We demonstrate this in our interview answer by making it clear to the interviewer that our values and goals are similar to the hiring companies.In addition, this research exercise will only increase your chance of landing the job. Extensive knowledge of the company and the job you’re applying for will leave a long-lasting impression on the interviewer and give you the edge over other candidates. Here’s what your answer needs to include:1. How your personal and professional values align with the company’s values2. Information on your career goals and how they align with the company3. How your personal and professional values align with the company’s values<h2>1. Discover your own values</h2>*Values: What you believe to be important in the way you live and work.*Once we have your values defined, you can then match them with the company you’re applying for, which will shape your entire answer to this question. Ask yourself these questions to help identify what your core values are:<ul><li>What type of culture do you want to be a part of?</li><li>What gives you the most fulfillment at work?</li><li>What’s important to you?Core Value Examples</li></ul><ul><li>A commitment to helping those less fortunate than us</li><li>A commitment to sustainability and always acting in an environmentally friendly manner</li><li>Always acting with honesty and integrity</li><li>Helping Society: Contributing to the betterment of the world</li><li>Creative freedom: Allowing others to contribute with their own ideas</li><li>Working Conditions: Being in an environment that you&#x27;re comfortable with</li></ul>Next - research the company to discover their goals and valuesNow that we have your own values defined it’s time to match them with the hiring company’s values. Here’s how to discover their values:• Explore the company website - the ABOUT US and CAREER web pages• Understand their products and services• Learn about the management structure, departments and competitors• Review employee reviews/testimonials on Glassdoor/Indeed/Google• Review their social media accountsAs you explore the hiring company make notes of anything that strikes you as interesting or similar to your own core values. <h2>Questions and sample answers to put it all together</h2>After completing research on the company:How does the company&#x27;s values and mission align with your own? Are there parallels? If the company has a culture built on honesty or giving back to the community<ul><li>Why does this appeal to you? </li><li>Why would you want to be a part of this type of organisation?</li></ul>Employee reviews/testimonials<ul><li>What do their employees say about working there? </li><li>Why do their responses make working there attractive to you?</li><li>Do they promote an open, transparent working environment? Why does that appeal to you?</li></ul>Reviews from customers<ul><li>How does the company react to customer or user feedback? </li><li>Do they appear to put their clients first? </li><li>What did you like about their responses to feedback? </li><li>Why is customer satisfaction important to you?</li></ul>Social Media<ul><li>What excites you most about the content posted on their company social media accounts?</li><li>What impression do you get from the content posted on social media? </li><li>Do they appear to care about their staff and customers? Why is that important to you?</li></ul>Example answer: &quot;On your company website, I was taken back by the level of commitment your organisation has put into helping the local community. Giving back to others is a huge aspect of my own personal philosophy and I was overwhelmed with excitement when I saw a company that was equally as passionate about serving people in need. My mission is to work at a company where I can contribute with both my technical skills and my personal values, and your company is a place where that’s possible.&quot;Example answer 2:&quot;I have gathered from my own research that your company’s reputation is stellar. From reading employee reviews who currently work here it’s obvious that the company gives its staff the freedom to lead and contribute to the mission of the company. I want to be a part of an organisation that values their employees input and allows initiative to be taken. These liberties will allow me to achieve my own professional goals of striving to become an industry leader.&quot;<h2>2. Information on your career goals and how they align with the company</h2>First - Discover your career goalsAsk yourself these questions to help identify what your career goals are:<ul><li>What motivates you? </li><li>What skills do you want to further develop - personally and professionally?</li><li>What do you need to achieve your future objectives?</li><li>Where do you see yourself in five years?</li><li>What interests you most about your job/industry?</li></ul>Examples of career goals<ul><li>Becoming a manager within the next 6 - 12 months</li><li>Being part of a team to create a service that enriches people&#x27;s lives</li><li>Working with the most innovative products to deliver solutions in my industry</li><li>Personal &amp; professional development: Upskilling (earn a degree, certificate in my field) while continuing to develop professionally</li><li>Becoming an expert/leader in my field</li><li>Work as head of marketing for a multinational company</li><li>Being happy at work or Working on my passion</li></ul>Next - Discover the company&#x27;s goalsNow that we have your own career goals defined it’s time to match them with the hiring company’s goals. Here’s how to discover their goals:• Search for any public announcements (Awards, expansion, general news, etc.)• Review their mission statement (Usually found on the website ABOUT section)• Review their social media channels• Review their products and services• Read back over the job descriptionQuestions and sample answers to put it all together• Has the company won any prestigious awards? Why is that important?• Do they have high standards? • What are their long term goals and vision for the future? Does it align with your own?What better place to achieve your own professional goals than with a company that is aligned with your own ambitions. Any awards or positive press can highlight the company values and goals for the future. If working at a company that is striving for excellence, explain in your own words why that appeals to you.Review their products and servicesAre their products and services the most innovative on the market? Perhaps the opportunity to work with the latest technology is one you would cherish given your passion for the industry. Read back over the job descriptionThe interviewer needs to know that you have a very strong understanding of the role you are applying for and the duties it entails. Within the job description, you can also discover why this position will help you achieve your career goals. For example, if the job description details an opportunity to lead a team, you could explain in your interview answer that collaborating and leading others to achieve a common goal is when you’re most engaged at work. <h2>Putting it all together - Example answers:</h2>Example answer 1: &quot;Although the company is ‘X’ years old, it has never wavered from its mission of putting the clients&#x27; needs first. This is quite apparent given the recent prestigious awards XYZ Company has won coupled with the overwhelming number of positive customer reviews on Trustpilot. When I began my search for a new job I made it my objective to seek out organisations that are committed to innovation, integrity, and delivering the very best for their clients, and XYZ Company ranks at the very top of the list.&quot;Example answer 2: &quot;I came across a news feature last month about your company COO Peter Johnston and the company&#x27;s renewed focus on tech innovation. I’d consider myself an innovator and would love the opportunity to work for an industry-leading company.&quot;<h2>What to avoid</h2>Being Generic: Don’t give wishy-washy answers. For example - ‘I saw you were hiring and the company looks really good so I said I’d change my arm at applying’. Make your answer memorable, believable and full of enthusiasm.Salary and perks: Avoid mentioning the company perks or salary as the reason why you want to work at the company. The interviewer wants to hire a candidate that is looking to grow with the company - not just to show up for a paycheck. -We wish you the very best of luck with your job interview!Need help putting together your CV and Cover Letter? <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank">Check out our step by step guides here</a> which include free templates to download and sample information for each and every section of your CV and cover letter.To receive daily alerts for jobs available in your area create a jobseeker account in just a couple of clicks. <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/create-account/jobseeker" target="_blank">Get started here.</a>

Answering the interview question: Why do you want to work for this company?

We are going to lay out a simple plan on how you can prepare for this question, as well as provide a script that you can use as a template to shape your answer.For the video version of this guide <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpMel6bs_CU" target="_blank">go here.</a>Why is this question asked?The recruitment process requires companies to make hard decisions when it comes to making a hire. Employers must review multiple candidates, even for a single job vacancy. To help them reach a decision on who to employ, the interviewer asks this question to discover what sets you apart from other applicants. This question gives you the perfect opportunity to stand out from the crowd and show your value, especially when the crowd appears very similar on paper. How to answer this questionTo prepare for this question you must discover why hiring you would benefit the company. Here’s how: 1. Get clear on what makes you unique2. Match your skills with the employer’s needs3. Explain how your skills will contribute to the companies success<h2>1. Get clear on what makes you unique</h2>Don’t get hung up on the word unique. All we’re trying to do with this exercise is to show the employer that we’re a great fit for the job and we can bring value to the business. So, let’s reframe this activity to ‘Discovering your biggest strengths’.First, make a list of all your strengths. Here are some questions to help you along:• What sets you apart from other candidates? What are you good at? • What do you enjoy the most about your job? Or - what do you love to do?• What comes naturally to you?• Do you have a particular passion for the industry?• What reasons do people come to you for advice or help with?Talk to family and friends: Learn how others see you as unique or valuable by asking friends and family what they think your strengths are.<h2>Review past achievements that demonstrate your skills</h2>Have a think about any success or accomplishments you’ve had during your work experience and ask yourself:“What skills or personality traits did I show that lead to these achievements?” An easy place to start is to remember a time when you solved a problem at work. To help you along, consider times in the past when you were given: • Praise or recognition • Additional responsibilities• A promotion• A salary raiseGet proof: It’s very important within your answer that you include accomplishments from your work experience that highlight your specific skill set. A very powerful answer will include achievements accompanied by data or measurable results. This will help demonstrate the value you can bring to the employer. Example answer: Suppose your unique skill is being dedicated. Instead of saying ‘I am uniquely dedicated to my job’, a better answer would include a time when you exercised this specific skill, backed up by data. MENTION SKILL: “I would describe myself as being very dedicated.”GIVE EVIDENCE: “My dedication to my previous job as a Warehouse Assistant allowed me to always be a week ahead of schedule with incoming stock orders. I then used the additional spare time to map out process improvements to our supply chain, which resulted in a 30% reduction in costs for the company in 2019.” <h2>2. Match your skills with the employer&#x27;s needs</h2>At this point, you have a very clear understanding of where your strengths lie. Now it’s time to learn about the employer&#x27;s needs so you can detail how you can fulfill them. You can do this by learning more about the requirements for the job.Review the job description and make notes of:• What skills does the company emphasise as must-haves?• Are there specific personality traits mentioned? E.g. motivated, strong communicator, leader, etc. • What level of experience is required for the job?• Are there any specific targets or objectives listed? • Do research on the company to learn about how your skills can benefit the organisation. By reviewing their social media pages, website, employee and customer reviews, you will get ideas for how you can contribute to the company’s success. For example, if you learn that the company has a vast interest in helping the community, discussing your volunteer experience connects you directly to the company&#x27;s mission.Example answer: After reviewing the job description you notice that the ability to learn quickly is high up on the employer&#x27;s requirements. It just so happens that this requirement matches with your own skills and experience. In this instance your answer may look something like: MENTION SKILL: “I would say what makes me unique is my ability to quickly adapt while learning on the job.”GIVE EVIDENCE: “Within my previous role as an administrator this skill came in handy. The company made the decision to move their recruitment process from a paper-based system to an online platform. This involved the implementation of an applicant tracking software system which I had never had experience with before.” “I quickly evaluated what I’d need to learn and spent my spare time building the skills in order to effectively use the new system. I picked the new system up quite quickly and was given the responsibility of training in our entire recruitment department, which I thoroughly enjoyed.&quot;BRING THE CONVERSATION BACK TO THE JOB: “After reviewing the requirements for this role, the ability to think on your feet is an absolute necessity, and it’s an environment where I feel very comfortable in.”<h2>3. Explain how your skills will contribute to the company&#x27;s success</h2>Once you’ve discussed your relevant unique skills and personality traits that led to past successes, it’s important that you bring the conversation back to the job you’re applying for. End your answer by referencing how your key skills and traits will allow you to achieve similar results for the company in the future. For example: Applying for a sales position and a key aspect of the job is developing new business. This could be a possible “What makes you unique” answer:MENTION SKILL: “What makes me unique is my natural ability to get along with people. I find I’m able to build strong relationships with clients almost immediately, as I empathise well with people.”GIVE EVIDENCE: “Within my previous job I consistently exceeded my quota for acquiring new clients, as I am quick to identify and understand the pain points of the customer.”BRING IT BACK TO THE JOB: “I am a thorough communicator, an excellent listener and I have a strong record for building long-term relationships, all skills which I know will fit well with this current sales position.”<h2>Final tips:</h2>Practice Write out your answer and say it out loud. The more you practice responding to this question the more natural it will become. If your changing careers - focus on your transferable skills i.e. the skills you have developed from your experience that can be used across a variety of roles and industries. Examples include:• Being a team player• Having leadership qualities• Strong communication skills - written and verbal• Problem solving• Research and analytical skillsWhat to avoid:Giving generic answers: The interviewer has already heard every cliche answer under the sun, so you need to go the extra mile in order to give a memorable answer. For example, rather than saying “I always go beyond what’s asked of me” you can say “I will always push myself to excel. Working on tasks that allow me to learn and grow is what I love most about my job.”Quirky answers: This is not the time and place to explain your unusual party tricks or odd habits. Remember, the interviewer wants to learn more about your skills and experience that qualify you for the job. Remember that when you&#x27;re asked the interview question What makes you unique?”, really the question you&#x27;re answering is &quot;Why are you the best applicant for this position?&quot;. So, go out there and make yourself stand out from the herd by showing what value you can bring to the company.We wish you the very best of luck with your job interview!Need help putting together your CV and Cover Letter? Check out our <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank">step by step guides here</a> which include free templates to download and sample information for each and every section of your CV and cover letter.To receive daily alerts for jobs available in your area create a jobseeker account in just a couple of clicks. <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/create-account/jobseeker" target="_blank">Get started here.</a>

How to answer the interview question - "What makes you unique?"

This is usually one of the first questions asked during the interview - and a fantastic opportunity to make a great first impression. Why is this question asked? The interviewer wants to know how your experience is relevant to the job you are applying for.What we need to get across in our answer: Why we are qualified for the job and why we applied in the first place.<h2>Step 1 - Preparing your answer </h2>First - review the job description and make a note on why your experience and skills qualify you for the role. Identify your relevant expertise, strengths and the unique qualities you can bring to the hiring company.Then have a think of any success stories or situations where you excelled.Ask yourself • Why are you interested in applying for the role? How does it align with your career goals?• Why are you interested in the company or industry?• What gets you excited about working at the company?<h2>Step 2 - The structure of your answer</h2>Combining WHAT you are professionally, with WHO you are, and WHY you’re a great candidate for this role. What to include in your answer: • Mention your job title, responsibilities and projects that you&#x27;ve worked on recently• Discuss any recent accomplishments• Discuss relevant past experience that led to your current position• Highlight any new hard and transferable skills acquired (Especially if you’re moving into a different industry/role)• What you’re looking to do next and why you are interested in this roleWhat to avoid in your answer:• Regurgitating what’s written on your CV and Cover Letter• Telling your life story• Winging it - Instead, prepare your answer so you’re confident about discussing each of your key points during the interview• Mentioning highly personal information - religion, details about your family or partner, political affiliation, etc.• Mentioning your strengths and skills without any supporting evidence or examples<h2>Putting it all together - Sample answers</h2><h2>Management Role</h2>(CURRENT SITUATION &amp; CAREER BACKGROUND) “I’m an innovative ecommerce manager with over 5 years experience managing all aspects of an online business - from implementation to sales - for small and medium sized businesses.”(SKILLS &amp; ACCOMPLISHMENTS) “I have spent the past two years at [company name] where I was promoted to a senior role within 9 months. I love managing teams and delivering solutions for clients.”(BRING IT BACK TO THE JOB) “Although I’m enjoying my current job, I feel I’m ready for a more challenging role and this position very much excites me. The opportunity to lead such an innovative team is what motivated me to begin working within this industry.”<h2>Construction/Labour Role</h2>(CURRENT SITUATION &amp; CAREER BACKGROUND) “I am currently the team lead for XYZ Freight. During the past 3 years, I have been promoted several times, from a General Assistant, to Package Loader and Assistant Foreman.&quot;(SKILLS &amp; ACCOMPLISHMENTS) “During my time I have completed various Construction Skills Certifications including Scaffolding - basic and Scaffolding - advanced. I have also had the opportunity to work on a number of special projects which include the reconstruction of the radar tower at Dublin Airport. I really enjoy being an Assistant Foreman - it gives me great pleasure to empower my team and motivate them to strive for their best.”(BRING IT BACK TO THE JOB) “I believe that this experience and training have prepared me for the next step in my career which is why I have applied for the management role at your company. Your organisation has received a number of excellence awards in recent times, so to be part of an industry-leading team and to grow with the very best is what excites me most about this opportunity.”<h2>No Experience - Customer Service Role</h2>(CURRENT SITUATION &amp; CAREER BACKGROUND) “I’m a motivated recent graduate from the University of College Cork. I completed a BA in Communications this year, receiving a 2:1 degree.”(SKILLS &amp; ACCOMPLISHMENTS) “During my studies, I lead a team of 5 people for our final year project management module. I was responsible for the organisation and smooth running of group meetings as well as delivering a keynote presentation. Our team received an overall grade of 80%.”(BRING IT BACK TO THE JOB) “While I’m just starting my professional career, I feel I have the necessary skills for the role of Customer Assistant at your company. I have always strived in a team environment, and given that this role requires cooperation between a large team of over 15 people, I know I can bring value to working with others to reach the company’s objectives.”<h2>Marketing Role</h2>(CURRENT SITUATION &amp; CAREER BACKGROUND) &quot;I have been working in the marketing industry for 3 years, primarily working in technical and project executive positions.&quot;(SKILLS &amp; ACCOMPLISHMENTS) &quot;Most recently I worked as a senior marketing executive for a large multinational firm that involved working closely with senior management to implement international digital marketing campaigns. With this project coming to a close, I realised that I am looking for a new challenge. I feel that my industry experience of delivering solutions for senior managers will allow me to meet and exceed the expectations for this position.&quot;(BRING IT BACK TO THE JOB) &quot;When I saw your company was hiring for this role I applied immediately. I have been a long term admirer of your organisation&#x27;s corporate social responsibility campaigns, and being part of a company that gives back to the community is a huge motivating factor for where I want to work.&quot;<h2>Customer Service Role</h2>(CURRENT SITUATION &amp; CAREER BACKGROUND) “I’m currently working at XYZ Company as a Customer Service Manager. I have been in this role for 15 months.”(SKILLS &amp; ACCOMPLISHMENTS) “Recently I successfully led a project to reduce time spent on manual processes by implementing chatbox technology solutions that automate answers for customer queries. In addition to process improvement projects, I spend the majority of my time managing key client accounts, providing them with solutions for their eCommerce platform.”(BRING IT BACK TO THE JOB) “I now feel it’s the right time in my career for a new challenge. Only recently your company announced its expansion plans for the next 5 years, and I feel to reach my own professional objectives, It’s necessary for me to join a company that matches my own ambition.”-We wish you all the best with your job interview!Good luck with your interview!Need help putting together your CV and Cover Letter? Check out our <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank">step by step guides here</a> which include free templates to download and sample information for each and every section of your CV and cover letter.To receive daily alerts for jobs available in your area create a jobseeker account in just a couple of clicks. Get started <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/create-account/jobseeker" target="_blank">here.</a>

How to answer the interview question - "Tell us about yourself?"

Why is this question asked?The interviewer wants to know:• How you perceive yourself• What skills do you possess• How will you fit into the company if you’re hiredTo answer this question we are going to take two different approaches.<h2>Option 1: Research your audience</h2>As the interviewer is trying to gauge if you’re a good match, in your answer discuss your personality traits that relate to the company. Learning about the company culture will help you describe yourself in a manner that’s attractive to the employer. How to do this: • Visit the company website - particularly focusing on their about us webpage• Check their social media channels and see what content is posted• See if they have any employee reviews online (Glassdoor, Indeed, etc.)• Search for client/customer feedback (Company website, Trustpilot, Google, etc.)How this research will help form your answer | Example: ‘Team Player’Let’s say that during your research you noticed that the company’s employees on LinkedIn regularly discuss how much they enjoy working with their colleagues.The structure of your answer: a) List a personality trait related to the companyb) Give a real example of when you demonstrated this traitc) Bring the conversation back to the jobYour answer could be:Example: ‘Team Player’a) List a personality trait related to the company: “I’d describe myself as being a team player. I believe that working together with a collaborative spirit is the backbone of any organisation&#x27;s success.”b) Give a real example of when you demonstrated this trait: “In my previous job I worked as part of a 10 person customer support team where ongoing internal communication was an absolute necessity in order to find solutions for clients. It was a very fast-paced and team-oriented environment, which I enjoyed immensely. This setting allowed me to develop my skills and become the department team leader just 6 months after starting the job.”c) Bring the conversation back to the job: “On LinkedIn I noticed many instances of your colleagues praising the great team spirit at this company, and I thought the culture here is a perfect match for me.”<h2>Option 2: Review the job description</h2>In a similar approach to Option 1, describing your personality traits that are directly related to the job is exactly what the interviewer wants to hear. To make your answer relevant to the job you’re applying for, take a look at the requirements and match them with your own personality traits.How to do this:• Run through the job description and highlight all descriptive keywords• Pick out the keywords that are most relevant to your skills and experienceKeyword examples:• Multitasker • Hardworking• Reliable• Committed• Creative• Driven• Energetic• Results-Orientated• Leader• Enthusiastic• Punctual• Ambitious• Passionate• Resourceful• Goal-Oriented• Strong Communicator• Proactive• Community-Focused• Conscientious• Responsible• Innovative• Collaborative• AttentiveHow this research will help form your answer - Example: ‘Detail-Orientated’For example, after reviewing the job description, you notice within the job specification that the successful candidate must have strong attention to detail. The structure of your answer: a) List a personality trait related to the job requirementsb) Give a real example of when you demonstrated this traitc) Bring the conversation back to the jobYour answer could be:Example: ‘Detail-Orientated’a) List a personality trait related to the company: “I would describe myself as a detail-orientated and focused individual.”b) Give a real example of when you demonstrated this trait: “Throughout my professional career, particular in my previous role as an Administrative Assistant, I have always demonstrated a strong attention to detail. I managed all travel arrangements and email requests for the Sales Manager at XYZ Company. As her role involved weekly trips across Europe on short notice, a very high level of accuracy and organisation was required on my part. Thankfully, there were never any airport mishaps!”c) Bring the conversation back to the job: “From researching this role I know just how important delivering accurate data is to the company. As I&#x27;m quite an orderly person who performs well in high-pressured environments, I feel this job suits my skill set perfectly.”-Good luck with your interview!Need help putting together your CV and Cover Letter? Check out our <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank">step by step guides here</a> which include free templates to download and sample information for each and every section of your CV and cover letter.To receive daily alerts for jobs available in your area create a jobseeker account in just a couple of clicks. Get started <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/create-account/jobseeker" target="_blank">here.</a>

How to answer the interview question - How would you describe yourself?

<h2>Why is this question asked?</h2>The employer wants to:• Ensure you understand the job you’re applying for• Learn how enthusiastic you are for the position• Know if your experience matches up with the job responsibilities• Discover if your goals and values align with the company • Be sure you can add value to the companyHere’s how to address all of the employers&#x27; concerns within your answer:<h2>1. Research the role you’re applying for</h2>Research the role and learn how your own skills match up with the job requirements. Then within your answer you can reference the specific duties of the position and detail how you have the experience and knowledge to perform them. To help prepare your answer ask yourself the following questions:• Do I have specific examples from my work experience which demonstrate I can perform the main duties of this job?• What do I like most about the job? • How does this job align with my own professional goals? Are there development opportunities?Quick tip: After applying for a job - always save the job description in a word document or on Google Drive. Most of the time a job will be removed from a website once the expiry date has passed. <h2>2. Match the company&#x27;s goals and values with your own</h2>Demonstrating to the interviewer that your career objectives and values are aligned with the hiring companies will increase your chances of landing the job. To do this you must first identify what yours, and the company&#x27;s, goals and values are.Discovering your goals and valuesAsk yourself the following questions to identify your career goals:• What are you motivated by?• Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years? • What do you love most about the industry?Here are some questions to identify your core values:• What type of company culture do you want to join?• What fulfills you most about your job?• What’s important to you?Discovering the company&#x27;s goals and valuesComplete the following research in order to identify the hiring companies goals and values:• Review the company&#x27;s website: Focusing on their about us and career web pages. Ask yourself - why would you want to be a part of this company?• Research their services and/or product line: Does the company care about their customers - and why does this matter to you?• Explore their social media channels: What impression do you get from the content they post? Why does it resonate with you?• Check out employee reviews: What do their employees say about working there, and why does that appeal to you? Ask yourself - is this a place I’d like to work in?<h2>3. Putting it all together</h2>Now that you’re clear that you have the required skill and experience to meet the demands of the job, and you feel your core values and goals align with the companies, it’s time to piece your answer together. The below answer script and template will simplify this exercise for you.How it will look - Example answer:[State why you’re interested in the job and how you’re qualified - with examples] I’m extremely interested in the Customer Service Admin position. As mentioned within the job spec, I would be responsible for managing client support tickets. I was in charge of this function within my previous job. As the Customer Support Specialist at [company name] I handled 200 queries a week, and after my second month into the job, I was responsible for training all new recruits in the customer support department, which had a total headcount of 30 people. In fact, I was recognised as the department&#x27;s top performer during the company&#x27;s end of year review. [State how you align with the company’s values, and how you will contribute to their success] Helping others is what gets me up in the morning, and the opportunity to do what I love at a company that is just as passionate about finding solutions as I am is the reason why I applied for this role. I am certain the success I achieved in my previous role will allow me to achieve similar results for [company name].Interview answer checklist:• State why you’re interested in the job• Highlight the most important duty/duties of the job• Explain how you performed the relevant duty/duties within your previous work experience, along with citing successful results or outcomes• Finish your answer by referencing how you align with the company’s values, and how you will contribute to their future success-Best of luck with your interview!Need help putting together your CV and Cover Letter? Check out our<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank"> step by step guides</a> which include free templates to download and sample information for each and every section of your CV and cover letter.To receive daily alerts for jobs available in your area create a jobseeker account in just a couple of clicks. Get started <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/create-account/jobseeker" target="_blank">here.</a>

Answering the interview question - Why are you interested in this position?

Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation  : 31 August 2020The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD, today announced that €15 million is being made available to reopen the COVID-19 Loan Fund.Speaking today the Tánaiste said:<blockquote>&quot;We’re looking at all the ways we can support enterprise during this really difficult time. This extra money will allow Microfinance Ireland reopen the COVID-19 Loan Fund. This Fund has proven to be a lifeline for micro-enterprises over the past few months, where we’ve seen nearly 700 businesses with fewer than ten employees avail of it. We’ve set out a really significant financial package in the July Stimulus and this loan scheme is another way we’re helping businesses to re-open, stay afloat or expand.&quot;</blockquote>The Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan scheme assists businesses with fewer than ten employees, which have been impacted negatively by COVID-19. It provides much-needed funding to help microenterprises meet payments for stock, working capital requirements and other overhead expenses through the provision of low-cost lending facilities, which include a six-month repayment free moratorium and the equivalent of one year interest free (subject to terms and conditions) with rates as low as 4.5% for the remaining period of the loan.The Tánaiste recently introduced the Microenterprise Loan Fund (Amendment) Bill to provide for the increased funding.The COVID-19 Loan scheme has seen a very strong uptake in recent months, with €18.6 million sanctioned to 683 businesses up to 31 July 2020. This represents three years of normal lending volumes for MFI in a period of just over four months. Importantly, with 79% of MFI’s lending to businesses outside Dublin, MFI provides an essential support for businesses who are hoping to reboot their economic activity over the coming weeks and months in every county in Ireland.Companies interested in applying or finding out more information can contact Microfinance Ireland <a href="https://microfinanceireland.ie/loan-packages-2/covid19/" target="_blank">here</a>. <a href="https://microfinanceireland.ie/loan-packages-2/covid19/" target="_blank"></a>

Tánaiste reopens low cost loan scheme for microenterprises

To parents and guardians of school children in Ireland,I am very aware that many of you are worried about the reopening of schools and the associated risk of COVID-19 for your children. This concern is natural and is to be fully expected after a period of six months during which we have all had to adapt to the challenges posed by COVID-19.The decision to reopen schools has not been taken lightly and has been based on guidance produced by international bodies including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC); scientific evidence regarding the risk of COVID-19 in school children and staff; the experience of other countries that have not closed, or have reopened, their schools; our own experience having reopened childcare settings and summer camps since June; and evidence regarding the importance of school for the overall health and wellbeing of children.International evidence shows us that child-to-child and child-to-adult transmission of COVID-19 in schools is uncommon. In addition, our own experience to date in Ireland, and indeed that reported internationally, demonstrates that for the overwhelming majority of children who are diagnosed with COVID-19, their symptoms will be mild.The importance of schools for the overall health and wellbeing of children cannot be overstated, and the risk of COVID-19 has been carefully weighed against the very real harm that can be caused by sustained school closures. Schools play a fundamental role in the social life of children; they are where children are educated, make friends, share interests, learn social skills like self-confidence and empathy, and participate in sport and cultural activities.Of course, as we continue to navigate our way through this pandemic, there are no zero risk options for reopening schools or indeed any other environment; the aim, therefore, is to reopen in as safe a way as possible by ensuring that all appropriate public health measures such as physical distancing, hand washing and respiratory hygiene are implemented where appropriate.Schools are at the heart of our communities and the best way to protect them is to keep the level of COVID-19 in the community low. As parents and guardians, you can play a key role in this, both through your own actions and through the influence that you have on your family and friends. If all of us continue to make small changes to the way we live, we can - together - starve this virus of opportunities to transmit.While it is okay to send your child to school or childcare if they only have a runny nose or a sneeze, if you have any concerns that your child has symptoms of COVID-19 - fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell – then please keep them at home until you have spoken with your GP by phone. Lots more information is available at <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/a128d-back-to-school/" target="_blank">gov.ie/backtoschool</a> and <a href="https://www.hse.ie/eng/" target="_blank">hse.ie</a>.There will be cases of COVID-19 among children over the coming days and weeks, as there have been throughout this pandemic to date. But when this happens our public health teams in the HSE will respond and liaise closely with the school involved and ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect other students and school staff.Finally, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for all you have done to keep your family and our communities safe over the past seven months. I also want to thank all teachers, principals and school staff who have worked so hard to ensure that our schools are ready to reopen – it is just one more example of the incredible solidarity that has defined the way in which people all across the country have come together to play their part in getting us through this pandemic.Dr. Ronan Glynn, Acting Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health.

Gov.ie - Letter to Parents, Guardians of School Children and School Staff

#ad Here at KOS Ergonomics we have a wide range of home workers equipment including desk and chair sets, wireless keyboards and mice, laptop stands, kneeling chairs and more. There is something to suit everybody’s budget, for JobAlert.ie followers use code home2020 for a special discount off our homeworkers desks and chair sets. <img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/118218958_585139565501517_6061570130702454605_n.png" style="max-width:calc(100% - 1.6rem);margin:1.6rem 0.8rem 2.4rem"/>Our Dublin city centre showroom is now open by appointment only if you would like to try and of the equipment or have one of our expert consultants find the right chair/desk for you email: joanne.mcdonagh@kos.ie to book a space with us. Shop our homeworkers range now at: <a href="https://www.kos.ie/" target="_blank">https://www.kos.ie/</a>

Work From Home Office Equipment

<h2>Advice from Gov.ie</h2>Multi-Lingual Versions: <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/0cf46-resources-and-materials-for-parentsguardians-and-for-students-on-returning-to-school-multi-lingual/" target="_blank">HERE</a>Most students will be looking forward to going back to school and will feel happy and excited. Some may feel a little anxious about returning. That’s a normal response at a time of change. Most will settle back in soon once they get used to the new rules and routines. Remind them of the positive aspects of returning – like re-connecting with friends and re-engaging with school activities.New rules and routines to follow to keep everyone safe: Good handwashing and hygiene practice is important for all students.  Make sure your child knows to use a tissue to cover coughs or sneezes or to cough or sneeze into their elbow. In senior primary classes and at post-primary – physical distancing procedures will need to be followed by all.  Primary school – younger children may not be required to practice physical distancing, but they may be organised into pods. There may also be new rules about drop off and pick up. Staff in all schools, and post-primary students, should wear a face covering where a physical distance of 2 metres cannot be maintained.Encourage your child to walk or cycle to school if possible and safe to do so. Teachers understand that it hasn’t been easy for young people to study at home during school closures. School transport – students will have an assigned seat and post-primary students will be required to wear a face covering when waiting for and when on-board the bus. Schools will communicate directly with families about reopening. Talk together at home about what to expect when going back to school to prepare your children. Having healthy routines in place will help with the adjustment of returning to school. Encourage your child to gradually return to a school term bedtime routine. Help your child to eat healthily, take exercise and reconnect with friends. Students who have Covid-19 symptoms, including a fever, a cough, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties, or loss or change to their sense of smell or taste should not attend school. Please follow guidance on HSE.ie on self-isolation and phone your doctor. Make sure students know that if they feel unwell in school they should tell their teacher straight away. Official Gov link <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2d3af-advice-during-covid-19-back-to-school-advice-for-parents/" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Back to School Advice during COVID-19 for Parents - (Multi-lingual)  

Notice for 3rd Level Students:A number of weeks ago, the Government provided €15 million to purchase laptops and ipads to help with remote learning and to bridge the digital divide.The Department of Higher Education has ordered almost 17,000 Dell laptops which will now be distributed across our universities, our Institutes of Technology, our ETB’s and a number of Solas funded colleges also.Anyone who needs a laptop and feels they fall into the criteria of disadvantaged student should apply to their college to the Student Services office and they will process your application.

Students to get laptops as part of €168m Covid-19 college fund

Sample Script 2Start off positively: “I’d like to discuss my compensation. I have been really enjoying my work.”Detail recent accomplishments, and your plan for the future: “The opportunity to train in our new recruits on the current process improvement project has really got me fired up for what we can achieve over the next 6 months! Just in the last 3 weeks we managed to implement the website FAQ section. I’m so excited to continue exceeding our targets.”Now pop the question: “But one thing I’d like to discuss with you is my compensation, and from my research it seems that I am underpaid. I pulled from a number of different resources that someone with my level of experience in the role I’m currently in, should actually be paid between €45,000 - €50,000 per year. Like I said I’m really enjoying working here and I’m very much looking forward to the future, but we need to make some sort of adjustment so there is a fair number for both of us here.” Sample Script 2Start off positively: Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. Detail recent accomplishments, and your plan for the future: In my current role, I’m excited to keep working towards key company goals and grow my personal responsibilities. As a result, I’d like to discuss my salary.Now pop the question: Based on the research I’ve done, which includes looking at averages for my job title in this metro area and considers my tenure here, my years of experience and skill set, a salary increase of X% is appropriate. In the time since my last salary adjustment, I’ve worked on several initiatives that have added significant value to the company. For instance, in the last few months, I [insert example your most impressive accomplishment]. These achievements have made me ready for a raise.

Asking for a salary increase - resources

Variations of this question: <ul><li>If you’re currently employed: Why are you looking for a new job now? </li><li>If you’re unemployed: Why did you leave your most recent job? </li></ul>This question is guaranteed to come up in your interview. <h2>Why is this question asked? </h2>The reasons why you left your job are very relevant to any potential employer. This question will determine the level of risk involved in taking you on as an employee. Here’s what the interviewer is looking for from asking this question: <ul><li>Did you have a valid reason for leaving? The interviewer wants to determine the nature of your departure. For example, if you left your job out of the blue the hiring manager may have concerns about loyalty, trust and responsibility. </li><li>Did you decide to leave on your own? If you were let go - the interviewer wants to discover if there were performance-related issues that caused your departure. </li><li>Did you leave on good terms with the company? The ideal scenario from the interviewer’s perspective is that you are still in touch or on good terms with your previous manager. Having them as a reference demonstrates to the interviewer that you were a solid employee with great relationship skills. </li></ul><h2>What to say: </h2>Pick your reason What is the main reason you left your job, or plan to leave your current job? Reasons could include: • Better career prospects • Change your career direction/Looking for a new challenge • Your values do not align with the company mission • You were made redundant and the company closed • Greater work-life balance • Your company was restructured Questions to ask yourself to be clear on why you’re leaving • What are your career goals? • Where do you see yourself in 5 years? • What industry do you want to work in? • What do you want from your job? • What do you like and dislike about your job? • How do you feel about the company&#x27;s values and mission? <h2>Plan what details you will share </h2>Keep your answer honest and direct, while avoiding any details that would compromise you or your employer/former employer. This shows the interviewer a high level of respect and professional courtesy that will be appreciated. A good rule of thumb is to stick to the facts and leave out any opinions. The exact details which you do share entirely depend on your own situation. <h2>Let’s keep it positive and goal orientated </h2>Within your answer, it&#x27;s important to shift the focus on the job which you’re applying for and detail why the opportunity is a great match for your experience, skillset, and career objectives. Regardless of your situation, focus on what you have accomplished in your past or current job, and always mention your goals for the position you are applying for. <h2>Keep it short and sweet </h2>The longer your answer, the more likely potential questions will pop up about any sensitive topics. A complicated version of events may create doubt in the mind of the interviewer. Aim for a simple answer in 4 sentences or less. <h2>Check with your references </h2>If your former employer is a reference it’s important that you both have similar explanations about why you were let go or why you left the company. If you are on agreeable terms with your previous employer check in with them you find out what you can expect. <h2>Practice </h2>In the scenario that you were laid off or let go, it’s completely natural to feel awkward about discussing the details. Preparing your answer and practicing out loud will reduce any emotional responses, and you will avoid coming across as defensive - even if there is nothing to hide! The solution - practice, practice, practice! <h2>What not to say </h2>Avoid any negativity about past or present employers. Never speak badly about managers, the company or your colleagues. You never know how the interviewer may be connected to current or previous colleagues. Instead, speak in a broad sense by mentioning the company objectives or vision for the future did not align with your own goals, or that you didn&#x27;t agree with the direction the business was going. <h2>Unprofessional remarks </h2>Is your job unfulfilling, boring, and you’re just sick of it? Do you/did you feel underappreciated or underpaid? The interview is not the time to speak about these details. Sharing personal feelings to justify your departure must be avoided. Keep your answer professional and focus on your career objectives instead. Stay emotion-free and stoic. <h2>Example Answers (Full Script Included) </h2><h2>We will answer this question in its 4 most common forms: </h2>1. If you&#x27;re currently employed 2. If you&#x27;re currently unemployed 3. If you&#x27;ve been laid off4. If you&#x27;ve been fired <h2>1. Currently employed </h2>How to structure your answer Give some background and context about your role and discuss any accomplishments. This shows the interviewer that you have conquered challenges in the past and are ready for a new challenge. Next, share a reason for why you want to leave/why you left. It’s important not to half-arse this - saying you’re looking for a new challenge and leaving it at that is generic and does not convince the interviewer. Instead, find some challenges about the job that gets you excited. Example answer: ‘I need a new challenge’ &quot;I have been at my current job for 2 years now and I have learned so much working with some really high-level sales executives. I found my feet right away and was given a number of additional responsibilities outside of my original job scope, which included management and process improvement. With that being said, I feel like I need a new challenge.&quot;&quot;This job appeals to me and I&#x27;m excited again, especially given the opportunity to manage a bigger team and sell a product I actually believe in!&quot;<h2>2. Currently unemployed </h2>How to structure your answer Being between jobs is completely normal so do not feel unsure of yourself. There is an opportunity in every situation, even in unemployment. If you&#x27;ve been unemployed for a few months then prepare to demonstrate during the interview that you&#x27;ve used your time off productively to learn a new skill, volunteer or network. If you left your job due to a personal matter there is no need to give every detail. Keep it simple and reiterate that the issue is now resolved. Again, the reasons for leaving will be unique to you so explain your situation while being discrete, and finish by suggesting why the job you’re applying for is the perfect opportunity for your return to the workforce. Note: If you’re currently unemployed you must be proactive. Explore working in voluntary positions or join a course to develop a new skill. The objective here is to demonstrate to a future employer that you’re making the most of your time out of work. Example Answer: &#x27;Left your job due to a family Issue&#x27; “I resigned from my previous role to take care of a family issue. Thankfully, the issue has been resolved so I am now ready to return to the workforce.” Example Answer: &#x27;Left your job to pursue a new role or change industry&#x27; &quot;I thoroughly enjoyed my time at COMPANY NAME. I received extensive training in managing high ticket clients while managing process improvements from within the company. However, I wanted to pursue a consultancy role and step out of the position of process improvement.&quot;&quot;It came to fruition that this type of opportunity was non-existent from within COMPANY NAME. I was also aware that the business was heading into the busy season. I didn&#x27;t feel it was fair for me to make myself available, then leave my position the moment I found a new job. So I made the decision to leave before that happened.&quot;<h2>3. Laid off </h2>How to structure your answer Make the reason for your layoff very clear and within your answer emphasise your achievements and contributions to the business. Example Answer: &#x27;Laid off due to company restructuring&#x27; &quot;After COMPANY NAME was acquired by COMPANY NAME, I was unfortunately affected by the restructuring that took place. The new board decided to relocate all of their sales staff to a new headquarters and those who didn&#x27;t want to make the move were laid off. I made the decision to look for a new opportunity closer to home, and one that could take advantage of my 5 years of sales experience at COMPANY NAME.&quot;Example Answer: &#x27;Laid off due to downsizing&#x27; &quot;Unfortunately COMPANY NAME’s biggest customer closed for business in July and it had a major effect on revenue. This resulted in a number of jobs being eliminated. I was among the 3 people most recently hired, so we were all let go. Although the experience was short-lived, I’m very proud of the work that I did while at the company, and my previous manager is one of my references.&quot;<h2>4. Fired </h2>How to structure your answer Remember that getting fired can happen to anyone. People get let go for a whole host of reasons. A lot of the time it can relate back to performance issues and a failure to meet the expectations of management. We don’t need to mention all the ugly details. Give some information about the circumstances without putting the blame on anyone else - it’s important that you own your part of what happened. An example of this could be that the expectations or your duties changed AFTER you were hired - this could have been due to changes in management, strategy or budget cuts. Other times, the job, team, or your manager just weren&#x27;t the right fit for you. Another approach is to explain what actions you’ve taken to improve since being let go. This will help eliminate any concerns regarding your termination. For example, if there was a breakdown working in a team dynamic, mentioning that you took a course in communications to help sharpen your people skills demonstrates to the hiring manager that you are aware of your shortcomings and are determined to self improve and become the best version of yourself. Whatever the reason, remember that you can ALWAYS bounce back from being let go - as it can be chalked off as a learning experience, and not a failure. During the interview find a way to highlight the lessons that you learned from the entire experience. Remember that the interviewer is looking out for any red flags. The objective here is to reassure the hiring manager that whatever happened is an isolated incident and that there is no risk in hiring you. Example Answer 1 if you were fired:&quot;After a major reorganisation in the company, there was a merging of contrasting ideas, along with changes in how the business was going to be run. With many changes happening within a very short period of time, the new management had different expectations for my job that did not relate to my skillset. Not long after, the company chose to hire someone with more sales experience and I was let go. The entire situation taught me that my core strength is in customer service - so I decided to double down.&quot;&quot;While I immediately began applying for jobs, I enrolled in an online customer service management course that lasted 3 months. I learned the key elements of unique experiences to increase customer satisfaction which I can discuss later. Being let go was a wonderful learning experience and I feel now I am ready to put it behind me and strive forward with my career with a new perspective. I know with my newfound knowledge I can be a major asset to your company in the role of Customer Service Supervisor.&quot;Example Answer 2 if you were fired:&quot;After a series of changes in management, it became evidently clear that the new manager had different expectations for my role that didn&#x27;t mesh with my own strengths. In the end, he chose to bring in someone with far more sales experience from his previous company. The entire experience showed me that my biggest strength lies in customer service, and I know I would be a major asset in this position at COMPANY NAME, which purely focuses on providing the ultimate customer experience.&quot;Example Answer 3 if you were fired:&quot;There was a major reorganisation in the company and the merging of different ideas and cultures caused a shift in the way things were done. With this change, there were some differences of opinions between my new manager and me.&quot;&quot;After 2 months I was let go. I take full responsibility for my role in how everything turned out. I learned so much from the experience and in retrospect, I would have handled things differently. However, I am now ready to move on, put it behind me, and strive forward with an entirely new perspective.&quot; ---------------------------------Best of luck with your interview!Need help putting together your CV and Cover Letter? Check out our<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/how-to-write-a-cv-step-by-step-guide-template" target="_blank"> step by step guides</a> which include free templates to download and sample information for each and every section of your CV and cover letter.To receive daily alerts for jobs available in your area create a jobseeker account in just a couple of clicks. Get started <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/create-account/jobseeker" target="_blank">here.</a>

Interview question: How to answer 'Why did you leave your last job?'

Galway City Council is looking for expressions of interest for the former Tourist Office. Salthill has a long and distinguished history as a leading tourism destination along the Wild Atlantic Way. This is a great opportunity for the right occupier to provide a positive impact for Salthill through the re-imagination of this site. Any proposal should benefit Salthill, the community on the West of the City and have a positive impact on the overall economic, tourism and community benefit of Galway.The property comprises of a parcel of land measuring approximately 0.13 hectares facing directly onto the Salthill Promenade and Galway Bay. It also has access off Quincenntennial Drive and is adjacent to the Seapoint Complex and Galway Atlantaquarium. The site enjoys superb views over Galway Bay and is located next to Toft public car park and is well served by public transport.This site has a building that was once a local Tourist Information Office. This modern single storied building is approximately 1915 sq. ft. and occupies a small portion of the site.Land Use Zoning:The site is zoned Recreation and Amenity in the Galway City Development Plan 2017 - 2023. The preferred applicant will be required to submit for planning permission for the project within 12 months of project approvalExpression of Interest:Expressions of Interest must include the following:<ol><li> Proposal - Written submission outlining the proposal and a 5 year business plan(Any expression of interest should indicate how the activity will generate an economic impact in the area)</li><li> Preliminary design for The refurbishment/conversion of the structure or redevelopment of the site (Site to be let in its current condition)</li><li> Previous Experience - Background / CV of the applicant &amp; proposed operator on the site.</li><li> Financial Proposal - Estimates of the cost of the proposed redevelopment and method of funding for the project</li></ol>Expressions of interest are to be received by Galway City Council. For further information on this opportunity and to arrange an appointment to view the current building contact the Economic Development section of Galway City Council.The Expressions of Interest are to be submitted by email to candc@galwaycity.ie to the Economic Development section of Galway City Council on or before 12 noon on 16th November 2020Evaluation Criteria:The following evaluation criteria will be utilised by Galway City Council in assessing expressions of interests received in relation to this site:<ul><li>Compliance with the objectives in the Galway City Development Plan - 20%</li><li>Contribution to tourism and economic development of the area - 20%</li><li>Viability of the Project - 20%</li><li>Previous Experience - 20%</li><li>Funding &amp; Price - 20%</li></ul>The disposal of all lands in the ownership of Galway City Council and the terms of conditions of any such disposal are subject to the formal approval of the elected members of Galway City Council

Expressions of interest in the former tourist office site in Salthill 

<h3>Applications have opened for the newly revamped Enterprise Support Grant, designed to assist the self-employed as they get back on their feet following Covid-19.</h3><h3></h3><h3>The scheme is aimed at sole traders who are not liable for commercial rates.</h3><h3></h3>This grant, worth up to €1,000 per person, is aimed at sole traders such as plumbers, electricians, carpenters, taxi drivers etc, who do not pay commercial rates and therefore do not qualify for the Government’s Restart Grant Plus Scheme.The Enterprise Support Grant previously supported entrepreneurs who were setting up new enterprises.But it has now been revamped to specifically provide once-off supports for self-employed people who have been severely impacted and have had to cease operations as a result of the Pandemic. Making the announcement the Minister Humphreys said;<blockquote>“The Enterprise Support Grant is designed to assist the self-employed, who are crucial to our economic recovery, to get back on their feet following the Covid-19 outbreak,” </blockquote><blockquote>“Thousands of sole traders and small business owners right across the country have in recent months been in receipt of the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP).</blockquote><blockquote>“For many, this was the first time they ever had to apply for State support.</blockquote><blockquote>“The PUP was a vital lifeline for people who, through no fault of their own, found themselves out of work.</blockquote><blockquote>“That’s why I took the decision to extend the payment until April of next year,” she added.</blockquote>The Minister continued:<blockquote>”In the past, the Enterprise Support Grant was designed to assist people in opening a business. Today, I’m opening applications to people who need assistance in getting back on their feet and their businesses back up and running.</blockquote><blockquote>“Whether it’s paying wages, fuel costs, purchasing PPE or signage – this is an important grant to assist the self-employed to reopen their business and get back doing what they do best: Providing crucial and essential services in their communities.</blockquote><blockquote>“So if you’re a plumber, carpenter, beautician, gardener or electrician who is transitioning back to work, or the taxi driver getting your car back on the road – this grant may be of interest to you.”</blockquote>The Department of Social Protection has stated that this Grant will assist those people who transitioned from the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment into self-employment since May 18th, which marked Phase One of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business.Once-off funding of up to a maximum €1,000 will be available to assist them with re-opening their business.This grant seeks to support micro self-employed enterprises, not currently eligible for similar grant funding through other Departments.The support is available to small business owners who employ fewer than 10 people, are not liable for commercial rates and have an annual turnover of less than €1 million - providing kick-start funding to those enterprises that do not have an entitlement to other business re-start grants.It will be paid on the basis of expenditure incurred by an applicant to re-open their business covering their costs up to €1,000.Anyone wishing to apply for the grant can download the application form<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/739f3-enterprise-support-grant-for-buisnesses-impacted-by-covid-19/" target="_blank"> HERE</a> on www.welfare.ie and, when completed should be sent to their local Intreo Centre.

Latest Posts