19Aug

Top 5 Recruitment Challenges and How to Overcome Them?

Recruitment is a basic process in any organization, with a direct relationship with the talent-driven for the organization’s success.   however, various challenges come in the way of a smooth and efficient recruiting system. Understanding these challenges and designing strategies to counter them is an essential part of successful recruitment for the organization. This article digs into the Top 5 Recruitment Challenges and How to Overcome Them.

 Recruiting the right candidates (resources)

Talent hunt is one the most crucial challenges in the recruitment process that attracts candidates well-suited for the organization.  market is full of competition where opportunities are waiting to hunt the right talent on the first chance. therefore, an efficient recruitment system requires an effective system to attract employees.

Solution:

  • Build a strong employer brand to attract qualified candidates
  • Create a positive brand image through effective campaigns on various platforms
  • Use platforms like social media, organizational website, and employee testimonials
  • SEO techniques to optimize the recruitment experience, stand out, and attract candidates
  • Use a clear job description that reflects responsibilities that are easy to match with the candidates

 Establishing an efficient recruiting system (resources)

Recruitment teams need faster communication and evaluation processes when it comes to candidates. They need to stay updated on every step of the way.

This requires an effective and fast communication strategy which is quite a challenge. This is highly influenced by the relationship between the hiring managers and the recruiters.

Moreover, various tasks take up a lot of time and resources that are fully invested in just one stage of recruitment, leaving recruiters with time constraints.

Solution:

  • Using recruitment data and metrics to enhance the recruitment process.
  • Using spreadsheets to manage time and track the hiring process
  • Tracking data and trends accurately is difficult
  • Create well-organized strategies for managing candidates’ data and other details

 Elaborate recruitment process

The recruitment process is lengthy and time-consuming. Unusually longer recruitment processes are prone to losing potential candidates in this excessively compatible market. this not only takes time but also consumes investment in terms of finance and resources, adding a burden to the workforce as well.

Solution:

  • Streamline the recruitment process
  • leverage technology like Tracking Systems to manage applicants
  • Set clear timelines for each stage to improve the recruitment process
  • Keep your candidates engaged throughout the process
  • Regular communication with the applicants keeps them interested in the organization

 Salaries and incentives

Recruitment can also be challenging if the organization does not have the right incentives and salaries to offer. There are two major aspects in the recruiting process; finding the right candidate, and keeping them interested in the offer.

Organizations often succeed in the former but fail in the latter aspect. There are two crucial points to ponder upon in this challenge; employee expectations and company budget, and secondly, benefits to attract and retain top candidates.

Solution:

Budget vs Employee Expectations

  • Clear communication over budget constraints
  • Highlight compensation expectations and other benefits or incentives
  • effectively managing employee expectations and preventing disappointments

Employee Benefits and Retention

  • Competitively offering compensation in areas like salaries, bonuses, etc.
  • Training, benefits, and allowances can also help make the employees feel secure and grow at the same time

 Employee engagement and retention

Employee turnover and optimal utilization of talent are two crucial challenges in recruitment. The hiring process is a tiring phase that requires extensive research, investment, resources, and finances, only to end up facing the challenge of talent retention in the organization.

There are two kinds of challenges that are faced in this aspect; employee retention and managing employee disengagement. The former refers in the literal sense where lack of growth, incentives, and recognition, as well as poor management and work-life balance, cause a decrease in employee turnover.

The latter is about handling the lack of interest and efforts on the employee’s end due to a disengaged attitude. Which can either be caused by the above reasons, or ineffective communication within the organization.

Solution:

  • Implementing onboarding process with comprehensive methods and regular feedback and check-ins
  • Offering benefits and incentives with competitive salaries, growth, and career development opportunities, as well as employee training
  • establishing clear paths for career progress along with fostering a healthy work environment
  • ensuring employee rewards and recognition for achievements offering a healthy work-life balance, and open, effective communication

Conclusion:

Organizations are faced with challenges every step of the way, where the challenge of talent hunt and retention are some of the most common issues every organization faces in the recruitment process. There are various kinds of challenges attached to this particular area. Keeping a systemized hiring process, maintaining records, engaging employees, and keeping them motivated will help to stay on top of the game. It is also important to ensure a competitive workforce that can effectively attract and keep candidates interested in the organization among the saturated market options.

19Aug

How to Use LinkedIn Effectively for Job Hunting?

LinkedIn is considered the most popular place for job hunting and engaging with professionals. It is a platform for virtual socialization for the sake of career and growth. However, not everyone is aware of the tricks and hacks to make the most of this platform and get noticed by top recruiters and organizations constantly searching for potentially suitable candidates for the jobs. Therefore, the platform is enriched with opportunities for everyone in various fields, job levels, and organizations waiting for the right candidates. In this article, let us discuss the optimal way to use LinkedIn to land your dream job stress-free.

Setting Up a Profile that Stands Out

Like a physical marketplace, LinkedIn is a virtual marketplace where one needs to showcase their talent and achievements to recruiters. Creating an attractive LinkedIn profile with clear information about the candidate is crucial.

Here are a few things to keep in mind

  • Professional Photo: use a high-quality photograph that looks professional. This helps build trust in the recruiter to approach your profile.
  • Compelling Headline: it is important to understand that the headline is more than just a job title; it is a statement that explains your job title
  • Detailed Summary: use this to portray your unique values and professional story with what you have achieved and what role you wish to recreate in your career
  • Experience and Achievements: tell about your work experience and what you have achieved in your career; mention your roles and responsibilities accomplished.
  • Skills and Endorsements: the market values skills and credibility even if you do not have enough experience; it shows you have the right expertise for the job and the endorsements from your colleagues and friends will testify to your potential
  • Education/Certificates: education level makes it easy for both candidate and recruiter to figure out if the job suits you well, additional certificates can also increase your chances of getting hired by the organization
  • Recommendations: recommendations testify to your abilities and professionalism, request previous employers to provide you with these to increase your credibility and value.

Start Building Your Network

Networking for LinkedIn is just as important as you would do practically. This is a virtual platform for creating contacts and meeting new people to form a network to boost your career path. Here are a few tips to do that

Engaging with colleagues and classmates: staying connected to your circle in the physical world helps you stay engaged in the virtual world, your colleagues and classmates are the closest network who can vouch for your potential.

Joining relevant groups: this keeps you actively connecting with different people and you can stay updated on job openings and other market trends.

Attending events on LinkedIn: LinkedIn provides you with the opportunity to join different events and webinars where you can connect, engage, and learn from various professionals.

Engaging with content on LinkedIn: liking and commenting on content, and sharing posts can foster new relationships and be highlighted on this platform.

Following relevant companies: following different companies keeps you posted on recent opportunities as well as market trends and competition.

Personalized Connection Requests: when sending a connection request, it is ideal to send a personalized message each time to show authenticity and genuine interest in the person.

Do Your Research

It is essential to do your homework every time you use a platform or try a new strategy for career development or personal growth. Research is the key to effectively achieve the desired goals. Here are some of the things you can research for using LinkedIn

Check Employee Insights: getting to know about the employees in a particular organization through reviewing their profiles can help understand the company culture, skills, expertise, and career paths while working for the institute.

Review Company Pages: keeping a tab on organizational pages can provide insight into important news, job openings, and other information that can be useful during interviews for the particular organization.

Explore Industry News: following news on the relevant market can keep you updated on the trends and demands of the market. This can be done by following relevant hashtags and joining discussion forums.

Understand Job Descriptions: job descriptions are mentioned with every job opening which can help in updating your resume to relevance, as well as benefit during interviews where you are already aware of company expectations and the expertise you can offer.

Find Salary Insights: salary insights can help you determine whether you are interested in the job and what compensations can be made when you begin your negotiations.

Analyze the Competitive Aspects: following professionals with similar career paths and fields can help you understand the company expectations, tell a lot about the kind of competition in the market, and help you identify your development areas.

Engage with Recruiters

The process of recruitment is a crucial phase for hiring talent and retaining employees in any organization. Therefore, it can be of great benefit if you can engage with recruiters. LinkedIn provides you with such opportunities. Here is how you can achieve this goal.

Optimize for Recruiters: just like one updates their resume in relevance to the job they are applying for, similarly, it is beneficial to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract the relevant recruiters who might be able to see you as a potential candidate.

Follow Relevant Recruiters: following recruiter profiles keeps you updated on recent opportunities and what they are looking for in form of talent, skills, and expertise. This can also help in connecting well with recruiters in the interview phase.

Pro Tip: Adding relevant keywords helps recruiters to easily find you in their search results.

Engage with Recruiters’ Posts: engaging with recruiters through their posts helps gain their attention where they might be interested in reviewing your profile for an opportunity.

Make Prompt Responses: when approached by a recruiter, it is crucial to respond promptly and with a positive professional attitude. This can help for future opportunities as well.

Attend Events for Recruitment: these events are a great opportunity to connect with market and professionals, identify market trends, and get noticed by different recruiters.

Represent your Work: in a virtual space, tangible evidence is crucial for credibility and authenticity. This platform can be effectively utilized by creating a portfolio and representing your work samples to make you stand out in a pool of potential candidates.

Conclusion

The virtual world has become a progressively useful place to express and represent yourself. LinkedIn provides the best opportunities for personal growth and career development if used optimally. With proper hacks and tips, you can become the master of this platform and tap into various potentials for your career path.

11Aug

جاپان میں ملازمتوں کی اقسام اور مطلوبہ شرائط

ابھرتے ہوئے  سورج کی سر زمین  جاپان اپنی ثقافت، ٹیکنالوجی اور ہنر مند  افراد کی بدولت دنیا بھر میں مشہور ہے۔ جب ہم  جاپان کا نام لیتے ہیں تو  جاپانی قوم  کی  وقت کی پابندی اور انکا اپنے کام میں منظم  ہونا  ہمیشہ ضرب المثل  کے طور پر استعمال ہوتا ہے۔   گذرتے ہوئے وقت کے ساتھ جہاں جاپان نے ترقی کے معراج کو  چھوا وہیں مختلف عوامل کے باعث 2008 کے بعد  جاپان میں بچوں کی  پیدائش کی شرح میں واضح کمی آئی ہے۔ ۔ جاپان کی قومی ادارہ برائے آبادی اور سماجی تحفظ کی تحقیق کے مطابق، 2023 میں جاری کیے گئے ڈیٹا کے مطابق، 2005 میں پیدا ہونے والی جاپانی خواتین میں سے 40 فیصد تک کا  بے اولاد رہنے کا امکان ہے۔ اس مشکل صورتحال کے باعث جاپانی انڈسٹری کو  ہنرمند افراد کی کمی کا سامنا ہے۔ اس مشکل صورتحال کے باعث جاپان نے غیر ملکی ہنر مند افراد  کو مختلف شعبوں میں بھرتی کرنے پر توجہ مرکوز کی ہے اور انکے لیے جاپان میں ملازمتوں کی اقسام اور مطلوبہ شرائط پر نئے ویزہ پروگرام کا آغاز کیا ہے۔  آئیے، ہم آپکو تفصیل بتاتے ہیں۔

:مخصوص ہنر مند کارکن پروگرام (SSW)

2019 میں، جاپانی حکومت نے ایک نیا  پروگرام شروع کیا جسے مخصوص ہنر مند کارکن پروگرام (Specified Skilled Worker Program) کہا جاتا ہے۔ اس پروگرام کا پہلا مرحلہ پانچ سال کا تھا اور اس میں دنیا بھر سے کل   345,000 غیر ملکی ہنر مند افراد کو جاپان میں نوکری دی گئی۔   اب جاپان اگلے پانچ سالہ منصوبے میں ہنر مند کارکنوں کی تعداد کو بڑھا کر 800,000 سے زیادہ کرنے کا ارادہ رکھتا ہے تاکہ انڈسٹری میں  ہنر مند افراد کی کمی کو پورا کیا جا سکے۔

SSW پروگرام کے تحت  آپ کس کس شعبے میں   ملازمت کر سکتے ہیں؟

SSW پروگرام کےمیں ابتدائی طور پر کل  12 صنعتیں شامل تھیں:  جن کے نام درج ذیل ہیں۔

  1. نرسنگ کیئر
  2. عمارت کی صفائی کا انتظام
  3. صنعتی مشینری
  4. الیکٹرانکس
  5. تعمیرات
  6. جہاز سازی اور مشینری
  7. گاڑیوں کی مرمت اور دیکھ بھال
  8. ہوا بازی
  9. ہوٹلنگ اور مہمان نوازی کی صنعت
  10. زراعت
  11. ماہی گیری اور آبی زراعت
  12. خوراک اور مشروبات، اور فوڈ سروس

 لیکن اب مالی سال 2024 سے جاپانی حکومت نے اس میں مزید چار مزید صنعتیں شامل کی ہیں

1۔ روڈ ٹرانسپورٹ

2- ریلوے

-3جنگلات

4-لکڑی

جاپان میں ملازمتوں کی اقسام اور مطلوبہ شرائط

SSW پروگرام کی اقسام:

یہ پروگرام دو اہم اقسام پر مشتمل ہے:

مخصوص ہنر مند کارکن (i):

    • یہ ویزا ان ہنر مند افراد  کے لیے ہے جن کے پاس بنیادی مہارتیں موجود  ہوں۔
    • امیدوار کی عمر 18 سال سے زیادہ ہونی چاہیے اور اسے متعلقہ ہنر اور جاپانی زبان کی قابلیت کے  ٹیسٹ پاس کرنے ہوں گے.  جن افراد  نے  پہلی ہی جاپان میں  ٹیکنیکل انٹرن ٹریننگ مکمل کر لی ہے ، انکو اس سے استثنی ہے۔
    • اس ویزے کی معیاد 5 سال ہے۔
    •  اس ویزا کے تحت آپ اپنے خاندان کے افراد  کو اپنے ساتھ جاپان نہیں  نہیں لا سکتے۔

مخصوص ہنر مند کارکن (ii):

    • یہ ویزا ان لوگوں کے لیے ہے جن کے پاس  علمی اور ہنر سے متعلقہ مہارت  کا معیار زیادہ ہے۔
    •  اس میں بھی آپکو  ہنر اور جاپانی زبان کی قابلیت کے  ٹیسٹ پاس کرنے ہوں گے ۔
    • یہ ویزا 3 سال کے لیے دیا جا سکتا ہے۔
    • کل قیام کی مدت پر کوئی پابندی نہیں ہے۔
    • اس ویزا کے تحت خاندان کے افراد آپکے  ساتھ آسکتے ہیں۔

پاکستان کے لیے اہم مواقع:

جاپانی منڈیوں میں پاکستانیوں کے لیے بڑھتے ہوئے مواقعوں کا اندازہ اس بات سے لگایا جا سکتا ہے کہ جاپان میں ملازمت اور کاروبار کے لیے پہنچنے والے پاکستانیوں کی تعداد دسمبر 2023 تک اپنی بلند ترین سطح پر پہنچ چکی ہے، پچھلے 10 مہینوں میں 5000 سے زائد پاکستانیوں نے  نئی رجسٹریشنز ہوئی ہیں۔ جاپان میں پاکستانی کمیونٹی انڈونیشیا اور بنگلہ دیشی کمیونٹیز کے بعد تیسرا سب سے بڑا مسلم اکثریتی گروپ ہے۔ دسمبر 2023 تک، جاپان میں 25,334 رجسٹرڈ پاکستانی مقیم تھے۔ حال ہی میں ایک جاپانی کمپنی، بارڈر لنک، نے ٹوکیو میں  پاکستانی سفارت خانے کے تعاون سے پاکستان سے 32 اسسٹنٹ لینگویج ٹیچرز کی خدمات حاصل کی ہیں۔

جاپان میں ملازمتوں کی اقسام اور مطلوبہ شرائط
جاپان میں ملازمتوں کی اقسام اور مطلوبہ شرائط

اکتوبر 2023 تک، جاپان میں موجود غیر ملکی  ہنر افراد کی تعداد تقریباً 20 لاکھ ہو چکی ہے اور جاپان میں لیبر  کی بڑھتی ہوئی  ڈیمانڈ کے باعث یہ تعداد مستقبل میں مزید بڑھنے کی توقع ہے ۔یہان  یہ بات قابل ذکر ہے کہ سپیسیفائیڈ سکلڈ ورکرکیٹیگری میں جاپان صرف ٹرانسپوٹ کے شعبے میں  25,000 ڈرائیورز (ٹیکسی، بس اور ٹرک) کی خدمات حاصل کرنے کا منصوبہ بنا رہا ہے۔

ان دونوں پروگرامز کے تحت ملازمت کے  لیے آپ کو  متعلقہ مہارت اور جاپانی زبان  کا متعلقہ ٹیسٹ پاس کرنا ہوگا۔ اسکے بعد جاپانی کمپنی سے جاب آفر اور اہل ہونے کے سرٹیفیکیٹ کی ضرورت ہوگی ، جس میں اقبال مین پاور آپ کی مکمل رہنمائی کرے گی۔ یاد رہے کہ  اقبال مین پاور کنسلٹنٹس اب پاکستان میں جاپان میں بھرتی  کےلیے  حکومت پاکستان اور جاپان سے منظور شدہ ایجنسی بن چکے ہیں۔ مزید معلومات کے لیے، آپ ذیل میں دی گئی ویڈیو میں ہمارے سی ای او، جناب ندیم اقبال کو سن سکتے ہیں جوجاپان میں ملازمت کی اقسام اور مطلوبہ اشیاکے بارے میں بتا رہے ہیں۔

24Jul

Specified Skilled Worker Program Japan

Japan is known for its cultural, and technological advancement and highly skilled workforce. It is also known to have achieved a reputation for efficient and disciplined work environment. For decades, Japan has trained its population to be excellent skilled workers. However, the decrease in the birth rate since 2008, has caused a shortage of young labor in the country. According to data released in 2023 by Japan’s National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, over 40% of Japanese women born in 2005 could potentially remain childless. With such a dilemma, Japan has shifted its focus on recruiting an international workforce to appoint in various fields.

Consequently, in 2019, Japan has created a new “Status of Residence” through a program known as Specified Skilled Worker Program where it aimed to facilitate foreign workforce in different fields. The first phase of this program was consist of five years and was capped at 345,000 workers and resources. The program further strives to increase the number of skilled workers in the following 5 year-plan. As per resources, Japan plans to more than double the number of skilled worker visas for foreigners to over 800,000 within five years starting fiscal 2024, aiming to address labor shortages.

Types of Industries Cover Under the SSW Program

The SSW program initially covered 12 industries: Nursing care, Building cleaning management, Industrial machinery, Electronics and information industries, Construction, Shipbuilding and machinery, Automobile repair and maintenance, Aviation, Accommodation, Agriculture, Fishery and aquaculture, Food and beverages, and Foodservice. However, starting from fiscal year 2024, four additional industries—Road transportation, Railways, Forestry, and Timber are also included to facilitate more sectors.

The Types of SSW Program

The SSW Program has two main categories defined by the nature of work, skills, and language expertise of individuals. The visa is based on these factors and is categorized as.

  1. Specified Skilled Workers (i)
  2. Specified Skilled Workers (ii)

Specified Skilled Worker Program Japan

Let us delve into the details of these categories.

The Specified Skilled Worker (i) visa is intended for workers with basic skills. To qualify, applicants must be over 18 years old and pass both a skills test and a Japanese language test, unless they have completed Technical Intern Training. The visa can be granted for up to 5 years in total. However, family members cannot accompany the visa holder under this category.

The Specified Skilled Worker (ii) visa is for those with more advanced skills, typically requiring completion of Specified Skilled Worker (i) and passing advanced skill tests. It can be granted for 3 years, with no limit on total stay duration. Unlike the (i) visa, this category allows family members to accompany the visa holder.

Important Prospect for Pakistan

The growing opportunities in Japanese markets for Pakistanis are projected by the number of Pakistanis arriving in Japan for employment, and business has reached an all-time high as of December 2023, with over 5,000 new registrations in the past 10 months. The Pakistani community in Japan is the third-largest Muslim-majority immigrant group, following the Indonesian and Bangladeshi communities. As of December 2023, there are 25,334 registered Pakistanis living in Japan. Recently a Japanese company, BorderLink, has hired 32 Assistant Language Teachers from Pakistan in collaboration with the Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo. This reflects the increasing demand for Pakistani workers in various sectors and highlights the job opportunities for Pakistanis in Japan.

Specified Skilled Worker Program Japan 

Conclusion:

As of October 2023, Japan had around 2 million foreign workers, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. This figure is anticipated to grow further as the country faces increasing labor shortages. It is pertinent to mention that the addition of transportation in the SSW category suggests that Japan is planning to hire 25,000 drivers for taxis, buses, and trucks as part of this expansion. So opportunities never knock twice at the door. Both types of SSW programs will require a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and a job offer from a Japanese company (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) for which Iqbal Manpower will be assisting you to get. It is pertinent to mention that Iqbal Manpower Consultants is now also an authorized recruiting agency for Japan in Pakistan. For more information, you can listen to the CEO of Iqbal Manpower, Mr. Nadeem Iqbal explaining the job types and requirements.

23Jul

The Benefits of Using a Recruitment Agency for Your Hiring Needs

How do I find the finest candidate?” Strange question, no? Well not to us! We are well familiar with it. Why, you ask? The answer is we are the ones who get you those candidates. Combining our knowledge, expertise, and experience in the matter, we help you to smoothly hire your dream candidate. Why working with a recruiting agency is beneficial for a hiring manager of a company,well the Benefits of Using a Recruitment Agency for Your Hiring Needs let us explained in the following. 

Faster Hiring 

You know very well that as soon as the “vacancy available” is posted, a company’s mail is flooded with resumes. On average, a hiring manager will have to spend 6-8 seconds reviewing a single CV. Now imagine doing that for hundreds of them, sifting through them can be time-consuming, and time is very valuable for every company. This is where Iqbal Manpower steps in, saving your and your company’s time and energy, which can be utilized for other productive activities. 

At times, conducting background checks on the candidates can slow down the process of hiring, therefore, we conduct preliminary interviews to see if the candidate is fulfilling the criteria or not. After a survey, it was found that 52% of recruiters believe that as a part of the recruiting process, screening the candidates is often the challenging part. This is mostly due to the large pool of applicants. Fret not, we put the efforts to efficiently sort out the most suitable candidates for the company.  The shorter the list, the quicker the company can pick its candidate. 

Quality of Candidates 

While recruitment agency, speeds up your recruitment process, we also provide you with the best of candidates. We take the responsibility of generating the pool of candidates that are the most eligible for the position. All you have to do is pick the one you like, rest let us do the work. 

Over the years, the dynamics of the recruiting world have been such that there is a great gap between, the jobs available and the candidates.  In such a case, where the job opportunities are low and more candidates, a load of non-qualified candidates also apply, this creates a huge burden on the company. However, with our recruiting expertise, we meticulously filter applicants through interviews, screening and analyzing their capabilities according to your hiring needs.

ISO-Certified Company 

Now, we understand why investing in a recruitment agency might seem like a risk, especially when hiring from foreign countries. To put you at ease, Iqbal Manpower is an ISO-certified recruiting agency.  As we greatly deal with foreign companies looking for talent, we have accreditation from local and international governing bodies. This allows us to operate freely and with full transparency within international borders.

We take great consideration of completing all documentation, to avoid any hassle. A smooth transition and positioning of the talent at the company is our aim. 

Instant Deployment

One of the benefits of acquiring accreditation from governing bodies is that we get to swiftly deploy the talents to their companies both locally and internationally. Once the candidate is hired, all the legal necessities are completed by the recruiting agency. 

This benefits the companies as well as they continue to operate without any delay or hindrance. The vacancy is smoothly filled with the most eligible candidate and the operation flow doesn’t break.  

It’s what we do! 

To be honest, we excel at recruiting talents because it’s what we do. Our expertise in dealing with a larger pool of applicants allows us to present you with the top candidates. As part of our recruiting process, we stay updated about the latest hiring trends, qualifications, and standards of the various companies. 

Our extensive knowledge of the market lets us reach out to the finest talents. We understand the expectations of both parties, guiding them better about the wage rates and skill sets according to the nature of the job. Our vast experience benefits the company in finding alternate talents, in case any specific skill set is hard to find among the group of applicants. 

In a nutshell

To put it in a nutshell, hiring a recruiting agency will not only save time, and energy but also bring out the best of the candidates as a productive outcome. Their experience and expertise pave a smooth way in hiring talents which can prove to be resourceful for the company. So, if you need a recruiting agency, what are you waiting for reach out to us now!

19Jul

How to Choose the Right Recruiting Agency

Looking for a perfect candidate can be as daunting as a job hunt. Sometimes what may appear to be a golden candidate on the resume is a waste of time during the interview. 

Sounds terrifying? Spending all those hours and mounds of energy on nothing! Well, this is why recruiting agencies were created. We are here to get our hands dirty for you! However, one question remains “How do you choose the right recruiting agency?” Do not worry we have the answer to that as well… psst! Keep scrolling!

Track Record

You know how you order a product online and check the review before confirming it… The same goes for recruitment agencies. No matter how fancy the website looks or the big words that are mentioned, here is a pro tip; always check the agency’s record of accomplishment and client testimonials.

A positive review instills confidence in the hiring manager that their choice of recruiting agency is right. A reputable agency should have a history of successful placements and satisfied clients. We are proud to share that Iqbal Manpower is an ISO Certified company approved by the Government of Pakistan. Iqbal Manpower is also an approved sending organization for Japan and sending manpower to Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain and our partners have boosted our morale with their positive and affirming reviews. Iqbal Manpower’s client list includes the names of renowned industrial groups such as Siemens, Saudi Electric Company, Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi ArabiaIsam Khairi Kabbani Group – IKK Group, AlfanarNadec, etc.

 Industry Expertise

With new agencies emerging every day, it can be overwhelming to pick the right one. The best strategy is to look for agencies that specialize in your industry or have experience in recruiting for similar roles. This ensures they understand the specific skills and requirements needed for your positions.

Iqbal Manpower Consultants, collaborating with over 500 global companies, have vast experience in finding talents in multiple industries. Our expertise, ranges from the health sector to construction, including manufacturing, IT, and communication as well. 

Recruitment Methods 

Why should we be concerned about the recruiting methods of the agency? You really should be, after all it is the methods and approach that makes a difference. Agencies, having a wider network and intense screening process often produce custom-made talents for your hiring needs. Understand the agency’s approach to sourcing candidates. Do they use a variety of methods such as direct sourcing, networking, or job boards? Their methods must align with your preferences and needs because, in the end, the talent provided will affect your company’s growth

Candidate Quality

Picking up candidates from the resume is not enough. Candidates often seem perfect on paper, however, through screening at times they are not up to the standard. Let us give you another free tip, look for agencies, that filter through candidates using numerous methods and not just relying on CVs. This guarantees the top-notch talents coming forward. At, Iqbal Manpower Consultants, we screen and interview the candidates along with extensive background checks to provide unmatched quality candidates.

Cost and Terms

Here is a scenario for you, you hire a recruitment agency, and they provide you with an average candidate and a bill of hefty amount with hidden charges added. Now this is something you want to avoid. Hence, when it comes to closing the deal, ensure to clarify the agency’s fee structure and terms of service upfront. Understand any costs involved and how they charge for their services (e.g., contingency fees, retained search).

We, Iqbal Manpower Consultants, our terms and conditions and fee structure are discussed before sealing the deal. 

Communication and Transparency

The most important aspect of any business is strong and clear communication.  Maintaining transparency throughout the process boosts the client’s confidence in the agency. Therefore, choose an agency that maintains clear communication throughout the hiring process. They should update you regularly on progress and be transparent about candidate feedback. Moreover, a complete background check should be shared with the company to avoid any future hassles. 

Accessibility and Responsiveness

Let us be honest we all love to be responded to in an instant. Therefore, ensure the agency is accessible when you need it and responsive to your queries. A responsive agency can expedite the hiring process and address any concerns promptly. Since they are responsible for setting up candidates for the company, their availability post-hiring is equally important as it is during the process. Iqbal Manpower Consultants excels on this note. We keep in touch and take in regular feedback from the companies and the candidates. We are there during the settling period as well, to ensure our clients are well-adjusted to the new hiring.

So What Have You Decided?

It is time to make a sound choice and look for a recruiting agency that has the above qualities. You have one right in front of you. As we check all the boxes, we can confidently say, you will not regret working with us. Iqbal Manpower Consultants is built upon the foundation of complete transparency and strong communication with the clients. We understand your needs and strive to find the best for you. Our value-added services and modern hiring methods are instrumental to your company’s growth. We look forward to working with you.

11Jul

How to negotiate your salary?

Ten Useful Tips and Tricks

We all remember our first-ever job interview. The mix of nervousness and excitement topping our emotions! Ensuring we’re well prepared with crisp suits and newly printed resumes. Anyway, one thing we all flustered at was; “what is your expected salary?” 

See, when the topic of compensation comes up, we hesitate. The salary offered initially sounds reasonable, but once we step out of the interview room we do wonder: Could we have asked for more? Did we underestimate our own value?

 We must understand the importance of negotiating the salary effectively. Here are some key strategies and insights we’ve picked up along the way: 

Conduct Thorough Research

Research is always the key before any interview. Thoroughly research the typical salary range for similar positions in your industry and location.  A huge assistance are websites like Glassdoor Salary Calculator, PayScale, and LinkedIn which can provide valuable insights. This research will give you a solid foundation to start your negotiation. 

Know Your Value

Understand your worth. The moment you step in that interview room, consider your education, skills, relevant experience, and any certifications or specialized training you have. Do not hold back in clearly explaining how these qualifications make you a valuable asset to the company. 

 Timing Is Crucial

“The best time to negotiate your salary is after you’ve received a job offer.”

 This shows that the employer is interested in you and sees you as a potential future employee. Avoid bringing up salary too early in the interview process, as it may give the impression that money is your primary motivation. Well, let’s be honest, even if it’s a big temptation, we need not to show them.

 Refine Your Pitch

Develop a confident and polite script for negotiating your salary. Practice it until you feel comfortable and natural. Don’t come on too strong it might come off as being arrogant. Neither, do you want to be extremely polite, that the hiring manager undermine you. Maintain a neutral attitude and tone, and include specific reasons why you believe you deserve a higher salary, such as unique skills, relevant experience, or advanced qualifications. 

 Be Flexible

Negotiation should be a two-way conversation. Consider other benefits besides salary such as flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, or additional vacation time that can contribute to your overall compensation package. It’s okay, to earn a few thousand less, if it doesn’t cost you your mental peace.

 Maintain Professionalism

Throughout the negotiation process, maintain a professional demeanor. Be polite and respectful, even if the discussion becomes challenging. Remember, the goal is to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. After all, you don’t want to set off on the wrong foot with your potential employer. 

 Don’t Settle Too Quickly

If the initial offer doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t be afraid to negotiate. You will be surprised, that a healthy discussion regarding your salary with the hiring manager can do wonders. Express gratitude for the offer and explain why you were hoping for a higher salary. Many employers expect candidates to negotiate, so don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself.

 Practice Patience

Negotiations can take time, so be patient and avoid rushing the process. A thoughtful counteroffer demonstrates that you value yourself and the position. Your patience translates that you can handle unforeseen challenges, calmly and professionally.

 Consider the Big Picture

When negotiating, think about your long-term career goals. A higher starting salary can impact your future earnings and career trajectory. However, also consider factors like job satisfaction, growth opportunities, and company culture.

 Get It in Writing

Once you’ve reached an agreement, ask for the offer in writing. This helps ensure clarity and prevents misunderstandings down the road. Review the details carefully before signing anything. Ensure, all terms and pay grades that are finalized in the final interview are mentioned in the legal document as well.

Let’s close it! 

Now that you know all the tips and tricks to get on the higher pay scale, consider yourself fully armed for your next job interview. By mastering the art of negotiation, you set the stage for a successful career journey. Your future self will thank you for it. Good Luck! 

21Jun

پاکستانیوں کے لیے جاپان میں ملازمت کے مواقع

پاکستانیوں کے لیے جاپان میں ملازمت کے مواقع

ابھرتے سورج کی سر زمین جاپان  نے جنگ عظیم دوم کی تباہ کن بربادی  کے باوجود  اپنی بے مثال  ٹیکنولوجیکل مہارت ، ثقافتی ورثے، اور منظم قومی اتحاد کے باعث اقوام عالم میں جو اپنا مقام بنایا ہے وہ اپنی مثال آپ ہے۔ تاہم، کیا آپ لوگ جانتے ہیں کہ جاپان اپنی بڑھتی ہوئی عمر رسیدہ آبادی کے باعث محنت کشوں کی کمی کا سامنا کر رہا ہے؟   ہنر مند افراد کی ضروریات کو پورا کرنے کے لیے، جاپان نے اقوام عالم سے ہنر مند افراد  کو  جاپان میں ملازمت کرنے کے لئےآمادہ کرنے کے لئے ایک نئی پالیسی بنائی گئی جو یکم اپریل 2019 کو نافذ ہوئی۔

 اس پالیسی کا ابتدائی مقصد پہلے مرحلے میں 340,000 ہنر مند افراد کو جاپان میں مختلف ملازمتوں کے لئے متوجہ کرنا تھا۔ جاپان میں پاکستان کے سفیر، مسٹر کنینوری ماتسودا نےایک کانفرنس میں خطاب کرتے ہوئے بتایا  کہ جاپانی حکومت نے 2025 تک دنیا بھر سے 500,000  ہنر مند افراد کو  جاپان میں ملازمت دینے کا ہدف مقرر کیا ہے اور 2030 تک اس تعداد کو مزید بڑھانے کا منصوبہ بنایا ہے۔ اس  صورت حال میں  جہاں   حکومت جاپان کی محنت کشوں کی کمی کو پورا کرنے کی عزم کی عکاسی ہوتی ہے  وہیں غیر ملکی  افراد ، بشمول پاکستانیوں کے لیے بھی روزگار کے مواقع  کھل گئے ہیں۔

پاک جاپان  حکومتوں  کے مابین مفاہمت کی یادداشت

2019  جاپان-پاکستان تعاون کی تاریخ میں ایک اہم  سنگ میل کی حیثیت رکھتا ہے جب دونوں ممالک نے پاکستانی ہنر مند  افراد  کی جاپان میں ملازمت کے لیے مفاہمت کی یادداشت پر دستخط کیے۔ یہ معاہدہ “مخصوص ہنر مند  افراد” پروگرام کے گرد مرکوز ہے، جس کا مقصد ہنر مند افراد  کو جاپان میں ملازمت کے مواقع فراہم کرنا ہے۔ اس معاہدہ کے تحت، پاکستانی افراد  جاپان میں ملازمت حاصل کر سکتے ہیں بشرطیکہ وہ مطلوبہ اہلیت کے امتحانات پاس کریں  تاہم، کووڈ-19 وبا کے باعث یہ عمل ملتوی ہو گیا۔حالات کے معمول  میں آنے کے  بعد  جاپان میں  ہنر مند افراد کی ضرورت میں اضافہ ہوا اور اب سرکاری ادارے کے ساتھ ساتھ نجی پروموٹرز کو بھی پاکستانی  افراد کو جاپان بھیجنے کی اجازت دی گئی ہے اور اقبال مین پاور کنسلٹنٹس اب پاکستان میں  جاپان کے لیے ایک منظور شدہ ریکروٹمنٹ ایجنسی بن  گئی ہے۔

جاپان میں ملازمت کے لیے مخصوص شعبے

جاپان کے غیر ملکی افراد کے لئے  متعارف کروائے گئے اس پروگرام میں مندرجہ ذیل بارہ (12)  شعبے شامل ہیں.

  1. نرسنگ کیئر
  2. عمارت کی صفائی کا انتظام
  3. الیکٹرک، الیکٹرانکس، اور انفارمیشن انڈسٹریز
  4. تعمیراتی صنعت
  5. جہاز سازی/جہاز مشینری صنعت
  6. آٹو موبائل کی دیکھ بھال
  7. ہوابازی کی صنعت
  8. رہائش کی صنعت
  9. زراعت
  10. ماہی گیری اور آبی زراعت
  11. کھانے اور مشروبات کی صنعت
  12. فوڈ سروسز کی صنعت

پاک جاپان تعلقات اور جاپان میں موجود  پاکستانی کمیونٹی

28 اپریل 1952 کو سفارتی تعلقات کے قیام کے بعد سے، پاکستان اور جاپان کے درمیان  برادرانہ تعلقات مسلسل مضبوط  ہو رہے ہیں۔ پاکستان سان فرانسسکو امن کانفرنس کے فوراً بعد جاپان میں تجارتی دفتر کھولنے والے پہلے ممالک میں شامل تھا، اور اسی دوران  جاپان نے کراچی میں اپنا ابتدائی تجارتی دفتر کھولا۔ جاپان میں  موجود پاکستانی کمیونٹی ، انڈونیشیا اور بنگلہ دیشی کمیونٹی کے بعد ، تیسری سب سے بڑی مسلمان اکثریتی  گروپ ہے۔ دسمبر 2023 تک کے اعداد و شمار کے مطابق، جاپان میں 25,334 رجسٹرڈ پاکستانی مقیم ہیں۔

ایک تقریب میں خطاب کرتے ہوئے جاپان کے سفیر کنینوری ماتسودا نے جاپان میں پاکستانی ہنر مند افراد  کی تعریف کرتے ہوئے ان کی لگن، ایمانداری اور مہارت کو سراہا کہ یہ افراد  جاپان کی ترقی میں نمایاں کردار ادا کر رہے ہیں۔

جاپانی مارکیٹوں میں پاکستانیوں کے لیے بڑھتے ہوئے مواقع کا اندازہ دسمبر 2023 تک جاپان میں ملازمت اور کاروبار کے لیے آنے والے پاکستانیوں کی تعداد سے لگایا جا سکتا ہے، گزشتہ 10 ماہ میں 5,000 سے زائد پاکستانی  افراد نے جاپان کا رخ کیا۔   اس حوالے سے جاپان میں پاکستان کے سفارت خانے کا کردار بہت قابل تعریف ہے۔ حال ہی میں ایک جاپانی کمپنی، بارڈر لنک نے ٹوکیو میں پاکستانی سفارت خانے کے تعاون سے پاکستان سے 32 استاذہ  کو بھرتی کیا ہے۔ یہ مختلف شعبوں میں پاکستانیوں کی بڑھتی ہوئی طلب اور جاپان میں پاکستانیوں کے لیے ملازمت کے مواقع کو ظاہر کرتا ہے۔

خلاصہ

جاپان کی جامع پالیسیوں اور ہنر مند افراد  کی بڑھتی ہوئی طلب کے  باعث پاکستانی ہنر مند افراد  کے پاس جاپان کی متحرک معیشت میں اپنا کردار ادا کرنے اور اس سے فائدہ اٹھانے کا شاندار موقع ہے۔ اس  معاہدہ سے نہ صرف دو طرفہ تعلقات مضبوط ہوں گے  بلکہ ہنر مند پاکستانیوں کے لیے خلیجی ریاستوں کے بعد ایک  نئی  منظم اور  پرکشش مارکیٹ  میں اپنے لئے نت نئے مواقعوں کو تلاش کرنے کا ایک نیا دروازہ بھی کھلا ہے۔ جاپان میں ملازمت کے حوالے سے رہنمائی اور معلومات کے لئے  آپ ہم سے رابطہ کرسکتے ہیں۔

13Jun

JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR PAKISTANIS IN JAPAN

JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR PAKISTANIS IN JAPAN: A NEW HORIZON

Japan has long been recognized for its technological advancements, rich culture, and disciplined workforce. But very few know that Japan is facing a significant labor shortage due to its aging population In response to its labor needs, Japan had turned to the international community for skilled labor and created a new “Status of Residence” for specific skilled workers, which became effective on April 1, 2019. This policy initially aimed to attract 340,000 skilled workers in the first phase. The Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Kuninori Matsuda said that the Japanese government has set an ambitious target to attract up to 500,000 blue-collar workers from around the world by 2025 with further plans to increase this number by 2030. This initiative underscores Japan’s commitment to addressing its labor shortage while providing substantial employment opportunities for foreign workers, including Pakistanis. There are many job opportunities for Pakistanis in Japan.

Memorandum of Cooperation: A Gateway For Pakistani to Employment In Japan

2019 marked a milestone in the history of Japan- Pakistan collaboration when both countries signed a memorandum of cooperation, aimed at facilitating the employment of Pakistani skilled workers in Japan. This agreement centers around the “Specified Skilled Workers” program, designed to provide skilled workers with employment opportunities in Japan. Under this framework, Pakistani workers can secure jobs in Japan after passing the required examinations, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations and international labor cooperation. However, due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the process was delayed. Later on, the requirement for skilled labor surged and now the government institutions as well as private overseas promoters are also authorized to send Pakistani workers to Japan and Iqbal Manpower Consultants is now also an authorized recruiting agency for Japan in Pakistan.  

Specified Fields for Employment

Japan’s specified skilled workers program covers 12 fields:

  1. Nursing care
  2. Building cleaning management
  3. Electric, electronics, and information industries
  4. Construction industry
  5. Shipbuilding/ship machinery industry
  6. Automobile maintenance
  7. Aviation industry
  8. Accommodation industry
  9. Agriculture
  10. Fishery & Aquaculture
  11. Manufacture of food and beverages
  12. Foodservice industry

Pakistani Community in Japan

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on April 28, 1952, the ties between Pakistan and Japan have steadily grown stronger. Pakistan was among the first countries to open a commercial office in Japan, soon after the San Francisco Peace Conference, and Japan reciprocated by opening an early trade office in Karachi. The Pakistani community in Japan is the third-largest Muslim-majority immigrant group, following the Indonesian and Bangladeshi communities. As of December 2023, there are 25,334 registered Pakistanis living in Japan.

“In his address to a ceremony, Japanese Ambassador Kuninori Matsuda praised the Pakistani workforce in Japan, highlighting their dedication, honesty, and skills, which contribute significantly to Japan’s development. “

The growing opportunities in Japanese markets for Pakistanis are projected by the number of Pakistanis arriving in Japan for employment, and business has reached an all-time high as of December 2023, with over 5,000 new registrations in the past 10 months. In this regard, the role of the Pakistan Embassy in Japan is very appreciable. Recently a Japanese company, BorderLink, has hired 32 Assistant Language Teachers from Pakistan in collaboration with the Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo. This reflects the increasing demand for Pakistani workers in various sectors and highlights the job opportunities for Pakistanis in Japan.

Conclusion

The cooperation between Japan and Pakistan under the “Specified Skilled Workers” program marks a significant step forward in international labor relations. With Japan’s inclusive policies and the growing demand for skilled labor, Pakistani workers have a tremendous opportunity to contribute to and benefit from Japan’s dynamic economy. This initiative not only strengthens bilateral ties but also opens a promising future for skilled Pakistanis seeking to explore new horizons.

12Jun

Establishment of SIFC and Role of POEPA

Initiative of SIFC and the Role of POEPA

Pakistan’s economic condition has reached a critical juncture where reconciliation and strategic initiatives are paramount for achieving stability. It has been characterized by slow growth, rising inflation, and increasing debt. As of 2024, the country continues to grapple with a significant debt crisis and severe fiscal deficits. The Pakistani rupee has faced substantial devaluation, reaching alarming levels against the US dollar before stabilizing slightly due to stringent measures and international support. This precarious economic environment underscores the urgent need for political reconciliation and robust economic policies to steer Pakistan toward stability. So, there is the establishment of SIFC and POEPA roles.

Establishment of SIFC

In response to the economic turmoil, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was established on June 20, 2023, by Prime Minister of Pakistan Mr. Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif along with Chief of the Army Staff, General Asim Munir.  The primary objective of SIFC was to attract direct foreign investment into Pakistan, thereby fostering economic growth and development. SIFC focuses on creating a conducive environment for investors by streamlining regulations, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and providing incentives for foreign businesses to invest in Pakistan. This initiative is seen as a cornerstone in Pakistan’s strategy to stabilize its economy and enhance its development prospects. SIFC initially focused on key sectors including Agriculture & Livestock, IT & Telecom, Mines & Minerals, Energy (Petroleum & Power), and Industry, Tourism & Privatization to drive Pakistan’s economic growth and development.

The Vital Role of POEPA

(Pakistan Overseas Employment Promoters Association)

While SIFC focuses on attracting direct foreign investment, the role of POEPA cannot be overstated.

“POEPA has long advocated for sending skilled manpower abroad as a short-term solution to bring immediate foreign investment through remittances.”

This approach requires minimal initial investment in development but hinges on the crucial need for proper training of the workforce. According to the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis & Human Resource Development, approximately 9 million overseas Pakistanis are contributing significantly to the national economy through remittances.

Pakistan’s Economic Condition and the Need for Reconciliation

To propel Pakistan’s economic development, there is a pressing need for centralized schemes and cohesive policies. Effective implementation of these policies can drive sustainable growth and ensure economic stability. Pakistan must prioritize economic stability over internal differences. The future of the nation hinges on collective efforts to strengthen the economy. As I believe that

“If Pakistan thrives, we all thrive; if it falters, we all face the consequences.”

By uniting in our efforts and focusing on economic initiatives, we can ensure a prosperous future for Pakistan.

Conclusion

The establishment of SIFC and the strategic role of POEPA is the multifaceted approach needed to stabilize and grow Pakistan’s economy. By fostering direct foreign investment and leveraging the potential of Manpower exports to GCC and other parts of the world, Pakistan can navigate through its economic challenges toward a brighter future. It is a call for unity, collaboration, and unwavering focus on economic development to ensure that Pakistan not only survives but thrives in the global arena.

https://youtu.be/g0nLQ2ysdWw