Whether you're looking to recruit new nail staff or you're seeking a new role within the nail industry, the employment game can be a tricky business. Gemma Brandish of Scratch Magazine, the leading forum for Nail Professionals invited Jo Clarke, CEO at Jobs in Beauty to share her recruitment expertise.

ADVICE FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

Gemma: How soon after an employee has handed in their notice should I advervtise a vacancy?

Jo: The sooner the better! If you leave it to the last minute, staff shortages will impact on your team leading to stress and further pressure.

WRITING A JOB ADVERT

Don't rush a job advert. In the long run, it's worth doing well so be as specific as possible to help target the right candidates. If your advert is vague, it's less likely that the right people will be applying for the role.

An introduction about the business is important as it allows a potential candidate to envision it and assess if it's going to be right for them. It's surprising how many employers don't mention the location - if it's semi-rural and own transport is necessary, for example include this information as it saves your time as well as the candidates.

Mention the team, the salon ambience and to whom to candidate will be reporting to. Include a summary of the job and essential qualifications and experience required, as well as training, career prospects plus hours and days the candidate will be expected to work.

When it comes to salary, most employers prefer 'competitive DOE' which is understandable, but consider this from the candidate's perspective. You are asking a candidate to take the time out to travel to a destination that may not be close to home, perhaps they may have to book time off work for the interview - without a salary indicator they may choose not to apply, and you may miss out on a promising candidate!

Finally try to make your advert engaging to read - before publishing it check for typos, read it back a few times to ask yourself if you would apply for the role. When the answer is yes, you know you've written a great advert!

ADVICE FOR JOB SEEKERS

Gemma: What documents should I include in my job application, and how can I ensure that it stands out?

Jo: Many candidates do not target their CV to the job they are applying for, cutting their chances of being shortlisted for an interview. Make sure you include your full contact details, check for typing errors and refrain from being too creative in terms of layout and design. Adding a recent small headshot is useful if it's relevant to the application. Include a brief summary about yourself and always start your employment history from the most recent job role. Remember that your CV should be no more than two pages long.

Gemma: What can the candidate do to ensure that they come across well during their interview?

Jo: Always be yourself, Employers appreciate that it's a nerve-wracking experience for most people so take a deep breath, smile and don't try to rush it. When an employer asks you about yourself, avoid giving your life story - what they really want to know are your strengths and weaknesses for their role. An employer will want to see that you are genuinely excited about the prospect of working for their business, so this should come across in your interview. Don't be afraid of asking a couple of questions at the end of your interview regarding job opportunities or training, for example.

Gemma: What steps should a candidate take if they have been unsuccessful?

Jo: Learn from the experience and don't give up. Make sure the jobs you apply for are relevant to your experience and qualifications. Keep your CV up to date and create a portfolio of work because this will further impress employers and help you stand out from the competition.

Gemma: What is the most appropriate way to resign from a company?

Jo: Always approach a resignation in a professional. way. You want a great reference so ask your boss if you can have a quiet word at a convenient time. If applicable, check your contract first to be clear on the terms of notice you should give.

Good luck!