Written by Carl Freelove, Marketing Manager, Big fish Recruitment
In today’s current climate where sustainable, green and environmentally friendly have become more than just buzzwords, jobseekers in the marketing, advertising, PR and creative industries are facing a new challenge to their recruitment prospects thanks to companies’ growing concern with the workplace ‘eco-factor’.
A recent study of UK businesses and the green agenda has revealed that being environmentally friendly is fast becoming an essential attribute for potential candidates as a third of employers claim they would turn down an applicant if their green credentials were not up to scratch! The survey highlights a growing trend whereby employers are increasingly evaluating candidates’ carbon footprints as much as their previous job experience.
In fact, the stats reveal over one in ten (11%) employers ask potential employees about their commitment to the environment during an interview.
So what does it take to get the ‘green light’ in an interview? We’ve compiled a handy checklist of things you can do to prove you’ve got the ‘Eco-Factor’:
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Research the company’s green policy – research any initiatives implemented in order to ascertain the company’s stance on green issues. Maybe at the interview you can suggest ways they can be greener, such as car pooling or using categorised recycling bins
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Give eco-friendly examples – tell your interviewer about green workplace practices you initiated or participated in at previous jobs. This will show you already have a positive attitude towards being eco-friendly
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Research local green charities – research any local environmental charities that you can suggest the company could forge a partnership with to help improve their green credentials
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Ask eco questions – take the time in your interview to ask your interviewer intelligent questions on environmental matters and their opinions
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Make sure you know your environmental issues – be up to date with any recent developments so that you are able to talk about them if asked
Being eco-friendly isn’t just an issue for employers either. It seems that many green savvy job seekers are also weighing up which businesses to apply to and which job offer to accept based on factors such as public transport links, options for car sharing and recycling processes.
So as more candidates become increasingly aware of their impact on the environment, it’s no wonder that companies are under constant pressure to exercise eco-friendly policies.
Whatever you’re perspective on the ‘green issue’, it’s easy to see why these factors are beginning to play an important part in the recruitment process and could ultimately mean that having the right green credentials is the difference between being hired or cast aside.
Until next month, best wishes
Carl Freelove
Marketing Manager
