
<p>Until 2020, the idea of working from home was a distant dream for most employees. But because of the pandemic, millions of people have been thrust into remote working. And suddenly, everyone realises it’s not all comfy clothes and lie-ins. <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/are-remote-jobs-the-future/?id=446"><strong>Work from home jobs</strong></a> come with their own challenges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>So if you’re feeling the strain of remote working, don’t worry! Today we’re sharing our top tips to transform your work from home experience.</p>



<h2>6 ways to transform your remote working experience</h2>



<h3>Create a dedicated workspace</h3>



<p>Nobody feels motivated looking at a dark, cluttered room. Working from home is a great excuse to create an uplifting work space; one that you look forward to going to. And it’s important you don’t just work from the sofa, but have a dedicated space that separates work and home life. Here are some simple ways you can revamp your office space:</p>



<ul><li>Invest in a filing cabinet</li><li>Put up family pictures</li><li>Buy some flowers</li><li>Hang a whiteboard</li><li>Use good lighting</li><li>Keep it tidy</li><li>Use a partition (if you don’t have a separate office)</li></ul>



<h3>Get dressed</h3>



<p>Getting dressed is one of the simplest ways to transform your working day. We know it can be tempting to lounge about in your pyjamas all day. But how much is this really helping your motivation levels? We’re not saying you need to put on your finest office wear&#8230; but dressing as though you&#8217;re going to leave the house is a great way to shift your mindset.</p>



<h3>Develop a routine</h3>



<p>When you’re working from home, it’s so important to develop a routine to help you stay on track. Normally you’d have your manager keeping you accountable, but it’s not the same when you’re a remote worker. If you don’t develop a routine, distractions will step in (the fridge being one of those distractions). </p>



<h3>Interact with your team</h3>



<p>Home based jobs can get a little lonely from time to time. It’s easy to roll out of bed, switch your computer on and get to work. But before you know it, a whole day has passed and you haven’t interacted with anyone. To avoid feeling isolated, be sure to check in on your colleagues. Make sure you attend team meetings, and also talk to your manager if you feel you need more interaction.</p>



<h3>Take breaks</h3>



<p>When you’re working from home, it can be easy to work through your breaks, especially if you <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-is-it-like-working-in-a-startup-sonicjobs/?id=807"><strong>work for a startup</strong></a><strong>.</strong> But avoid getting into the habit of eating your lunch at your desk. Force yourself to get away from the computer and take your full breaks. If you don’t do this, it won’t be long before you experience burnout and your motivation levels drop to an all time low.</p>



<h3>Set boundaries</h3>



<p>If you don’t live alone, it’s important to cut out as many distractions as possible. You may need to tell your children not to disturb you between certain times. Or you may need to shut the office door to make sure your pets don’t come and disturb you. Setting boundaries is particularly important if you have deadlines to meet.</p>



<h2>Flourish from home</h2>



<p>Working from home can be a fantastic addition to your life, but only when managed in the right way. It certainly has its drawbacks. But it’s all about learning how to manage these downsides rather than letting them pile up on you. As long as you make a conscious effort to use these steps, you can continue to <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/should-you-enjoy-your-job-sonicjobs/?id=817"><strong>enjoy your job</strong></a>!</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Want to work from home? Browse the </em><strong><em>‘work from home’</em></strong><em> section on the </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> app to find a remote job near you!</em></p>


Tips for working from home


<p>When it comes to looking for a new job, many people decide to <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-is-job-hopping-and-is-it-bad-sonicjobs/?id=666"><strong>hop from one job</strong></a> straight into the next, without any gap. And generally speaking, employers tend to disapprove of long gaps on CVs. But are there circumstances where a short break between jobs might be beneficial?</p>



<p>In some cases, it’s totally beneficial to take a break between jobs. If you have the finances to support yourself during the break, go for it. This will give you time to recharge your batteries before launching into your next role. And it will also give you space to reflect on your next move.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-center"><p>&#8220;<em>Sometimes taking a step back is actually taking a step forward.</em>&#8220;</p></blockquote>



<h2>How long should your break be?</h2>



<p>Taking 1 to 4 weeks between jobs is a good amount of time to take. But, you may be in a position to take a little longer. Just ensure your break doesn’t exceed 3 months to prevent it from negatively impacting your CV. If it’s any longer, you may need to explain this when you <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-update-your-cv/?id=482"><strong>update your CV.</strong></a> Employers may jump to conclusions about your work ethic if the break is longer than 3 months.</p>



<h2>Benefits of taking a break between jobs</h2>



<h3>Time for career reflection</h3>



<p>If your job is stressful, it can be extremely difficult to think straight. This makes it difficult to plan your next move. You may just take the first opportunity that comes your way to get away from the stresses of your current role. But you need to evaluate what you want for yourself. By taking time off, you have the opportunity to think clearly. And you no longer have the pressures of work weighing you down. Taking a break gives you more opportunity to <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-job-is-right-for-me-sonicjobs/?id=560"><strong>find the right job for you</strong></a>.</p>



<h3>Reboot your system</h3>



<p>Going from one job straight into the next doesn’t give you much space to unwind. We all need a break to restore our energy and motivation levels. Once you return to work, you’ll find you have bags more energy and are able to perform much better. Sometimes taking a step back is actually taking a step forward.</p>



<h3>Pursue your passions</h3>



<p>Let’s be honest, sometimes the stresses of work get in the way of you pursuing your personal interests. At the end of a long day in the office, you don’t always have heaps of energy to do the things you enjoy. By taking time off, you get to spend some quality time on your hobbies, projects or interests. How about that room you’ve been meaning to decorate? Or that yoga class you’ve been meaning to start? Or that hike you’ve been meaning to go on? Your career break can be the perfect opportunity to indulge in your passions!</p>



<h2>Disadvantages of taking a break between jobs</h2>



<h3>Employer judgement</h3>



<p>So one of the downsides to taking a break between jobs is that some employers may disapprove of your break. They may assume you’re not motivated because you didn’t jump straight into a job. The good news is that more and more employers now understand the need to take a break. And in some cases, they see this as an advantage.</p>



<h3>Financial risk</h3>



<p>There can be some financial risk if you take a break without having another job in place. It may take longer to find a job than you thought. So you need to have some money in the bank so you don’t run into money problems. Always ensure you know your expenses. Have some money set aside to support you in case the job search takes a little longer than planned.</p>



<h3>Danger of becoming demotivated</h3>



<p>You may end up enjoying your break so much that you find it hard to return to the working world. After working hard for so long in one job, it can be refreshing to enjoy some time to yourself. This isn’t a bad thing. But just be mindful that you may experience the blues when you resume your job search.</p>



<h2>Break away</h2>



<p>Taking a break in between jobs is totally acceptable. And in many cases, extremely beneficial. It can give you more energy and clarity about your career. But we should point out that it’s okay if you don’t feel called to take a break in between jobs. You may be ready and raring to go straight into a new job.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Looking for your next career move? </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> can help. Browse over half a million jobs on our app today!</em></p>


Should you have a break between jobs?


<p>When <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-long-to-stay-in-a-job/?id=442"><strong>leaving a company</strong></a>, you’ll usually have to give a formal notice period. This is standard practice in most jobs. It gives the employer time to find a replacement or reallocate your workload. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing everything about notice periods. By the end of this post, you&#8217;ll be confident to hand yours in!</p>



<p>Most notice periods for full-time permanent employees tend to be <strong>1 month.</strong> But this can be shorter or longer depending on a few things. Seniority and length of employment can influence your notice period. Lower level roles tend to be less time. But the notice period for senior level roles can last several months.</p>



<p>Here’s what we’ll cover in today’s blog:</p>



<ul><li>What is a notice period?</li><li>When to hand in your notice</li><li>What happens if you don’t work your notice period?</li><li>The 3 parts to a resignation letter</li></ul>



<h2>What is a notice period?</h2>



<p>A notice period is the length of time you need to continue working once you’ve told your employer you’ll be leaving. The length of this period will be written in your contract. It can be influenced by the amount of time you’ve worked for that company. Generally speaking, the longer you’ve worked at a company, the longer your notice period can be.</p>



<h2>When to hand in your notice</h2>



<p>It&#8217;s best to give notice once you’ve received a formal employment offer in writing and agreed a start date. Ideally, you’ll have signed your contract first but this isn’t always possible. Avoid handing in your notice when you&#8217;re still in the interview process. And wait until you&#8217;ve finished <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-ask-about-salary-expectations/?id=460"><strong>negotiating your salary.</strong></a> Otherwise you could end up jobless if your new job falls through.</p>



<p>You may want a little <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/should-you-have-a-break-between-jobs/?id=946"><strong>break between jobs</strong></a>. If that’s the case, you can hand in your notice whenever it suits you. But just make sure you have the finances to cushion you in case your job search takes a longer time.</p>



<h2>What happens if you don’t work your notice period?</h2>



<p>If you don’t work your notice period, you’re breaching your employment contract. As a result, your employer doesn’t have to pay you for the part of your notice period that you didn’t work. This may also hinder your chance of receiving a reference from your employer. So it’s best to work your notice period where possible and leave on good terms.</p>



<h2>The 3 parts to a resignation letter</h2>



<p>Your notice of resignation can be short and sweet. You should hand this over in-person as a hard copy, as well as over email. It’s a good idea to keep it factual, professional and polite. You can divide your notice into 3 parts:</p>



<h3>Part 1: The facts</h3>



<p>Let your employer know you’re writing to give formal notice, the position you’ve held, the length of your notice period and your end date.</p>



<p><em>Please accept this letter as formal notice that I, [John Smith], will be resigning from my position of [salesman]. In line with my contract, I am providing [1 month’s] notice and will therefore remain in my position until [25th January 2022].</em></p>



<h3>Part 2: The plan</h3>



<p>Include a couple of sentences to state your intent for your notice period.</p>



<p><em><em>During my notice period, I will be happy to continue performing my role to the best of my ability and will assist with any training requirements.</em></em></p>



<h3>Part 3: The thanks</h3>



<p>Finally, you want to end the letter on a positive note. So round the letter off with some sincere words of thanks.</p>



<p><em>I have enjoyed my role over the past [8 years] and the team will be sorely missed. Thank you for understanding my reasons for leaving to pursue a new challenge. I wish you all the best of luck for the future success of the company.</em></p>



<h2>Leave on good terms</h2>



<p>The most important thing to remember when giving your notice is to leave on the best possible terms. No matter what your <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/top-reasons-for-leaving-a-job-sonicjobs/?id=526"><strong>reasons for leaving</strong></a> are, it’s never good to burn bridges. So keep it professional and give the required amount of notice. </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Looking for a fresh start? </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> have over half a million live jobs across the UK. Browse our app to get searching!</em></p>


How long is a notice period?


<p>Most people have come across the term P45&#8230; but not everyone knows what it means. You get the gist that it’s something important, but you’re not exactly sure what purpose it serves.</p>



<p>Fear not, today we’re telling you everything you need to know about your P45.</p>



<p>A P45 is a document issued to you by your employer when you leave your job, whether you were<strong> </strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-many-hours-is-a-full-time-job-sonicjobs/?id=923"><strong>full-time</strong></a> or <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/whats-the-difference-between-part-time-and-contract-work-sonicjobs/?id=568"><strong>part-time</strong></a>. It includes information relating to your salary, and how much you’ve paid in taxes over the past financial year.</p>



<p>In this blog, we’ll also cover:</p>



<ul><li>When do you get a P45?</li><li>Why is it important?</li><li>What’s in a P45?</li><li>How long is it valid for?</li><li>Can you start a job without it?</li><li>How do you get off emergency tax?</li><li>What other paperwork will you need for a new job?</li></ul>



<h2>When do you get a P45?</h2>



<p>Your P45 will be sent to you by email or by post when you leave a job. Your employer has to issue your P45 immediately once your final pay and tax deductions have been calculated. You shouldn’t need to request your P45. Instead, your employer should send it to you immediately.</p>



<h2>Why is it important?</h2>



<p>A P45 is important because it contains your tax code, and tells your employer how much you should be getting taxed.. Without the P45, you may end up being put on emergency tax and paying more tax than you should be.</p>



<h2>What’s in a P45?</h2>



<p>A P45 is made up of 4 sections: Part 1, Part 1A, Part 2 and Part 3. Your employer will send Part 1 to HMRC. You keep Part 1A for your own records. And you give Parts 2 and 3 to your new employer.</p>



<h2>How long is it valid for?</h2>



<p>Your P45 is only valid for the tax year it was created in. But don’t be so quick to throw it out. It’s best to keep it in your records for at least 22 months after the tax year has ended as HMRC are still able to refer back to it.</p>



<h2>Can you start a job without it?</h2>



<p>Yes, you can absolutely start a job without your P45. However, without a P45, your employer may ask you to fill out a ‘starter checklist’ and you could end up on an emergency tax code if your new employer doesn’t have the required information. Unfortunately, if you’ve lost your P45, you aren’t able to get a replacement.</p>



<p>If you’re on emergency tax, you’ll notice one of these codes on your payslip:</p>



<ul><li>1257 W1</li><li>1257 M1</li><li>1257 X</li></ul>



<h2>How do you get off emergency tax?</h2>



<p>If you’re put onto an emergency tax code, you’ll stay on it until the end of the tax year. At that point, you may be owed a tax rebate. If you think you’ve overpaid on tax, be sure to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/claim-tax-refund" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>claim it back!</strong></a></p>



<h2>What other paperwork will you need for a new job?</h2>



<p>Your P45 isn’t the only bit of paperwork you’ll need. Your employer will need to carry out identity checks and your right to work in the UK. Depending on your status, you may need to present your ID (usually either a driving license or passport), proof of address (utility bill, bank statement etc), your bank details, your national insurance number or other <a href="https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>proof of your right to work</strong></a>. </p>



<h2>New job on the horizon?</h2>



<p>Are you feeling called to take the next step in your career? Well, <a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>SonicJobs</strong></a> is here to help. With over half a million live vacancies across the UK, we’re helping job seekers across hospitality, logistics, warehousing, IT, retail and more find their calling. </p>



<p>And the best part?&nbsp;</p>



<p>You can find your next role from your phone.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Browse our <a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">app</a> to find a job near you today!</strong></p>


What is a P45?


<p>If the 9-5 lifestyle is starting to wear thin on you, you might be getting curious about other ways of working, like being self-employed. If you’ve been in a 9-5 your whole working life, becoming self-employed can seem pretty foreign. And it’s not a decision you should make lightly. After all, becoming self-employed would mean taking on a whole new way of living &#8211; and it’s not for everyone! But <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-be-happy-in-a-job-you-hate-sonicjobs/?id=813"><strong>happiness at work</strong></a> should be your first priority!</p>



<p>Let’s take a look at all the advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed, so you can see if it’s a good fit for you!</p>



<h2>5 positives of being self-employed</h2>



<h3>Full autonomy</h3>



<p>One of the biggest benefits of being self-employed is undoubtedly being your own boss. You call the shots. There’s no need to ask your manager for time off, and you’ve got nobody breathing down your neck cracking the whip.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>Higher earning potential</h3>



<p>Generally speaking, self-employed people earn more money than traditional PAYE employees. A <a href="https://realbusiness.co.uk/better-self-employed-employed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>study</strong></a> found that self-employed people were earning roughly £5000 more than the <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-is-the-average-salary-in-the-uk-sonicjobs/?id=874"><strong>average salary in the UK</strong></a>. Of course, this all depends on the success of your business, which doesn’t necessarily come easy.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>Variety of work</h3>



<p>A great advantage to being self-employed is that you’re usually working with different clients. This gives you a nice variety of work. You won’t get stuck doing the same thing day in, day out. And if you do, it’s in your power to change that!</p>



<h3>Choose your clients</h3>



<p>Instead of working for a boss you don’t like, as a self-employed person you get to choose who you work with. If you don’t gel with a particular client, you can politely decline the work and move onto a client that’s a better fit.</p>



<h3>No office politics</h3>



<p>It’s not fun when you work in a place that has office politics. Whether it’s a hierarchy or just a dog eat dog culture, that’s no place to be. Being self-employed, you completely cut out the stress of any toxic office politics.</p>



<h2>5 negatives of being self-employed</h2>



<h3>Uncertain income</h3>



<p>Being self-employed comes with its uncertainties. Unlike being an employee, you’re not guaranteed a set income each month. If a client drops out, your income can significantly drop from one month to the next. You’ll need to develop a strong client base. You also really need to have your finances in check to prepare for worst case scenarios.</p>



<h3>Time management</h3>



<p>Some people struggle with being self-employed because they’re not used to managing their own time. In a regular job, you have more structure and a manager to keep you in check. But as a freelancer, you need to manage your own time and be disciplined!</p>



<h3>No ‘benefits’</h3>



<p>As a self-employed person, you miss out on the benefits that regular employees get. For example, paid sick leave, annual leave and pension contributions. But so long as you factor these things into your pricing by charging more, you should be able to cover the costs.</p>



<h3>Everything is on your own shoulders</h3>



<p>Being self-employed comes with its own pressures that you wouldn’t have in a 9-5. For example, if a client is late paying an invoice, it’s down to you to chase it. If you’ve had a full day of appointments but have a stack of admin work that needs doing, it’s down to you to complete it. You need to be prepared to step up to the challenge, and sometimes that means working late!&nbsp;</p>



<h3>Lack of team</h3>



<p>Self-employed people are often lone wolves. If you’re a people-person who enjoys working as part of a team, you may struggle with the solo life. It’s not for everyone!</p>



<h2>10 self-employed job ideas</h2>



<p>Here’s a list of some of the best self-employed jobs to get your ideas flowing:</p>



<ul><li>Cleaner</li><li>Beautician</li><li>Graphic designer</li><li>Plumber</li><li>Electrician</li><li>Hairdresser</li><li>Photographer</li><li>Personal trainer</li><li>Gardener</li><li>Masseuse</li></ul>



<h2>Is it right for you?</h2>



<p>The self-employed life isn’t right for everyone. To thrive as a self-employed person, you need to be highly self-motivated. There&#8217;s a lot of solo work involved. But if you think you can handle those things, you’ll find yourself thriving in the freelance world. You’ll probably never look back!</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><br><em>At a crossroads in your career? Browse the </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> app to see what career opportunities are available. We have the UK’s largest database of jobs, so we know you’ll find something you’ll love!</em></p>


Is being self-employed a good idea?


<p>If your hours at work are starting to stack up, you’re probably wondering if what you’re working is normal. And maybe questioning how far to push yourself. Everyone’s circumstances are different. So you shouldn’t use other people as a benchmark to set the standard for yourself. Otherwise you can end up <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/should-you-enjoy-your-job-sonicjobs/?id=817"><strong>feeling miserable at work</strong></a>. If you’re experiencing burnout, chances are you’re working too hard! </p>



<p>50 hours of work a week is a lot by UK standards. UK regulations prohibit workings from exceeding an average of 48 hours per week (averaged over 17 weeks). This means that some weeks you may work 50 hours, but this is okay so long as your average over the 17 weeks is below 48 hours.</p>



<h2>What are the average working hours per week in the UK?</h2>



<p>Most full-time employees in the UK work between 35 to 40 hours per week. But, some companies may have longer working hours, increasing the working hours per week. UK working time regulations prevent workers from exceeding an average of 48 hours per week. But you can <a href="https://www.gov.uk/maximum-weekly-working-hours" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>opt out</strong></a> of this if you want to work more hours per week.</p>



<h2>5 tell-tale signs of burnout</h2>



<p>If you’re working a lot of hours during the week, it’s important to make sure you’re not compromising your health. Here are 5 signs that could indicate you’re working too hard:</p>



<h3>1. Exhaustion</h3>



<p>If your energy levels are low and you just pass out once you get in from work, you’re probably overdoing it! You should still have enough energy to enjoy your free time instead of gasping for your bed.</p>



<h3>2. Stress and anxiety</h3>



<p>Anxiety and stress are key indicators that your work may be taking a toll on you. If you’re working as many hours as possible, reducing your hours may help reduce some of your stress.</p>



<h3>3. Skipping lunch</h3>



<p>Skipping your lunches is a sign of overworking. Your breaks are there for a reason. Working without a break will be detrimental to your health.</p>



<h3>4. Staying late</h3>



<p>If you’re staying past your finish time to complete, chances are you’re bordering on burnout. Staying late once in a while is fine. But if this is a regular part of your working routine, you may need to reassess your hours to find a better work-life balance.</p>



<h3>5. Sleep deprivation</h3>



<p>Sleep deprivation is a tell-tale sign of burnout. Sometimes we take on so much during the day, that it’s not possible to sleep properly throughout the night. This isn’t healthy, and should serve as a sign that you need to rejig your workload or hours.</p>



<h2>How to create more work-life balance</h2>



<p>It may reach a point where you need to take some serious action to rebalance your work and personal life. Here are a few tips to implement:</p>



<ul><li><strong><strong>Exercise </strong>&#8211;</strong> doing exercise regularly is a great way to release endorphins and release stress. It also gives you something else to focus on other than work. Often, due to the intensity of exercising, you’ll completely forget about your work life during your workout. Exercise gives your mind a break.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Take your breaks </strong>&#8211; we’re all guilty of skipping a break here and there, but this can’t be a regular habit. Your body needs a break so it can recalibrate and perform even better when you get back to work.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Ask for help</strong> &#8211; there’s no shame in asking for help. If you’re drowning in work or struggling to cope with your hours, speak to your manager to see what can be done to help.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Reduce your hours </strong>&#8211; you always have the option of reducing your hours if necessary. You can learn more about <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-many-hours-is-a-full-time-job-sonicjobs/?id=923"><strong>the rights of part-time employees</strong></a> to see if it would suit you.</li></ul>



<h2>Prioritise health</h2>



<p>Keeping a healthy work-life balance should be a priority for any employee. It’s okay to take on some extra hours here and there. But too much work can result in burnout, leaving your energy levels depleted. If you’re feeling burnt out, it may be time to speak with your manager or find a job with a better work-life balance.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><br><em>Looking for a change? </em><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> is home to over half a million job opportunities. Browse our app to find a job that fits your lifestyle.</em></p>


Is 50 hours of work a week a lot?


<p>Finding a job can be a draining process, there’s no doubt about that. Between the stress of managing your finances, balancing your current role and applying for jobs, it’s no wonder people dread the job hunt process. So to make things easier, you want to use the right job hunting tools that will serve as a helping hand, not a hindrance.</p>



<p>With SonicJobs, you can find it all. Full-time, <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-you-find-part-time-work-sonicjobs/?id=693"><strong>part-time</strong></a>, remote working and <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-jobs-dont-need-experience-sonicjobs/?id=840"><strong>zero experience jobs.</strong></a> All within our mobile app. Our app allows you to build a CV, search for jobs near you, and apply with one tap, all from your phone. </p>



<h2>Can I trust SonicJobs?</h2>



<p>Yes, you can trust SonicJobs. Not heard of us before? We’re actually partnered with some of the <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-are-the-best-job-platforms-sonicjobs/?id=736"><strong>UK’s biggest job platforms</strong></a> like Indeed, Totaljobs and CV Library. Within our app, you’ll find all the same jobs as these sites, plus maaany more.</p>



<h2>How to search for a job</h2>



<p>We don’t do complicated, so navigating our app is easy peasy. Here are the steps you can take once you’ve downloaded our app:&nbsp;</p>



<h3>Step 1: Build your profile</h3>



<p>Before you jump into applying for roles, you’ll want to beautify your profile. Head over to the ‘Profile’ section of our app and answer the questions about your professional experience. This is what employers will see when they view your profile, so be sure to take care when filling out this section.</p>



<h3>Step 2: Search and apply</h3>



<p>Okay, so now you get to search for jobs and apply with one tap by clicking on the ‘Find jobs’ tab! You can filter your job search by the following filters:</p>



<ul><li>Location</li><li>Commute</li><li>Job title</li><li>Full-time / part-time</li><li>No experience</li><li>Job category (retail / admin / Amazon / work from home jobs etc)</li></ul>



<h3>Step 3: Turn on notifications and Smart Apply</h3>



<p>Once you’ve got the ball rolling, head over to Setting to<strong> turn on job alerts. </strong>This way, you’ll be the first to hear about any new opportunities.</p>



<p>You can also <strong>turn on our Smart Apply feature</strong>. This feature applies for matching jobs on your behalf, so you can carry out your job hunt whilst running a busy schedule!</p>



<h3>Step 4: Monitor your applications</h3>



<p>Finally, sit back and monitor your applications and messages. If employers like the look of your profile, they can reach out to you with any questions directly in the app!</p>



<h2>Is SonicJobs the best job site?</h2>



<p><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>SonicJobs</strong></a> is the best job hunting app on the market. We recently won the award for being the fastest growing business app in the UK. We have the UK’s largest database of jobs, with over half a million live vacancies across the nation.</p>



<p>Here are just a few of the reasons why our users love SonicJobs:</p>



<ul><li><strong>One tap apply </strong>&#8211; you’ll never have to fill out a lengthy application form on our app. You’ll only ever need to tap once to apply for a job.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Mobile </strong>&#8211; having our job search app on your phone means you can apply for jobs on the go whether on your lunch break or on your commute to work.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>CV building tool </strong>&#8211; we make CV building quick and painless with our CV building tool. Just answer a few questions to <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-write-a-cv-uk/?id=438"><strong>create your CV</strong></a>.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>No third party sites</strong> &#8211; you’ll never get redirected to another site. What happens in SonicJobs stays in SonicJobs!</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Job alerts</strong> &#8211; be the first to know whenever a matching job gets posted with alerts straight to your phone.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Smart Apply </strong>&#8211; if you’re running a busy schedule, Smart Apply will automatically apply for matching jobs on your behalf, saving you time!</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Manage all your vacancies in one place</strong> &#8211; gone are the days of having to manage applications on multiple sites. With SonicJobs, you can keep it all in one place.</li></ul>



<h2>Ready to get hired?</h2>



<p>If you’re ready to find a job, we’re ready to help you land one as quickly as possible. Instead of managing vacancies on different sites, you can keep your entire job search neatly tucked into your phone with the SonicJobs app. Let’s get you the job you deserve!</p>


Can you find a job on SonicJobs?


<p>So you’re in your teens and you’ve decided you want to enter the working world but aren’t sure what jobs you can get. Firstly, go you! Deciding to <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-age-should-you-get-a-job-sonicjobs/?id=851"><strong>start working at a young age</strong></a> is a great thing! Not only will it look great on your CV later down the line, but it will also develop valuable life skills. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to have that extra cash in your back pocket!</p>



<p>Legally, you’re allowed to work in a restaurant under the age of 18 on a part-time basis. There’s no law prohibiting teenagers from serving alcoholic drinks in a restaurant. You just need to make sure those drinks are served with a meal. This is great news, particularly if you’re wanting to <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-you-find-a-job-in-hospitality-sonicjobs/?id=865"><strong>pursue a career in hospitality</strong></a>.</p>



<p>So if you’re hoping to land your first job in a restaurant, let’s go over some of the <em>do’s and don&#8217;ts</em>!</p>



<h2>What hours can you work under 18?</h2>



<ul><li><strong>Age 14-16 &#8211; </strong>between the ages of 14 and 16, you’re still classed as a <strong>child.</strong> You can work in a restaurant but you will experience restrictions around the hours you can work. This is often affected by whether or not it’s term time.</li><li><strong>Age 16-17</strong> &#8211; between these ages you’re now classed as a <strong>young worker.</strong> That means you have to stay in some form of education alongside your part-time work.</li></ul>



<h2>Key CV skills for restaurant work</h2>



<p>As you think about <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-write-a-cv-uk/?id=438"><strong>getting your CV into shape</strong></a>, you need to think about the main skills employers look for when hiring.</p>



<ul><li><strong>Teamwork</strong> &#8211; working in a restaurant is a team effort. Chefs, kitchen porters, bartenders and waitresses all have a role to play. You job is to create an unforgettable dining experience.</li><li><strong>Communication</strong> &#8211; since you’ll be dealing with the public, you need to show employers you can communicate with people from all different walks of life.</li><li><strong>Customer service</strong> &#8211; customer service is a top priority for restaurants. So this is an absolute must for your CV.</li><li><strong>Working under pressure </strong>&#8211; restaurants can be busy places, especially during lunch and dinner. So employers need to see that you’re able to remain calm when things get hectic!</li></ul>



<h2>CV tips for under 18s with no experience</h2>



<p>Creating your CV to find a part-time job can be tricky when you don’t have any work experience. Use these tips to help you create your CV.</p>



<h3>Use a template</h3>



<p>There are plenty of online CV builders and templates you can use to create your first one. In fact, the <a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>SonicJobs</strong></a> app will create a professional CV for you in minutes. You’ll just need to answer a few questions &#8211; but we’ll do the hard work!</p>



<h3>Include keywords</h3>



<p>Keywords are key in getting your CV noticed. This means looking at the job description and finding the most important skills the employer is looking for. Then, include these keywords in your CV to get the hiring manager’s attention.</p>



<h3>Include school work / projects</h3>



<p>Chances are, you don’t have much (or any) work experience. But you have plenty of school experience which is great to talk about. Think of times when you’ve worked well as part of a team, or when you’ve excelled in a project or met a deadline. These are all transferable skills.</p>



<h3>Include your hobbies</h3>



<p>Hiring managers will want to know more about you and your personality. So include a small section dedicated to your hobbies so you can really paint a picture of yourself. Whether you enjoy sport or music, list a few hobbies to bring your CV to life.</p>



<h2>Land your first job</h2>



<p>If you’re itching to take your first step into the working world, we’d love to support you. Applying for jobs has never been easier than with the SonicJobs app. And we have thousands of <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-you-find-part-time-work-sonicjobs/?id=693"><strong>part-time jobs</strong></a> and weekend restaurant jobs available. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get to work!</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Browse our app today to find a part-time job near you!</em></p>


Can you work in a restaurant under 18?


<p>As you launch your job search, it’s best to know how many hours you’re available to work. This will depend on your lifestyle, commitments and finances. But working hours will vary across different employers. So you’ll need to know what you can offer before <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-i-apply-for-a-job-sonicjobs/?id=756"><strong>applying to jobs</strong></a>. Either way, your work will either be classed as full-time or <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-you-find-part-time-work-sonicjobs/?id=693"><strong>part-time.</strong></a> And today we’re explaining the differences between the two!</p>



<p>Most people are surprised to know that there’s no set way of defining full-time or part-time employees in the UK. The term ‘full-time’ will vary from company to company. And it depends on their workplace policies. But in most cases, people working full-time tend to work upwards of <strong>35 hours per week</strong>. However, some companies could class you as full-time if you work just 25 hours per week. It all depends on the company!</p>



<h2>Is there a limit on how many hours you can work?</h2>



<p>Yes, there are limits to how many hours you can work. The government has created what’s known as ‘working time regulations’. This tops employees from working more than <strong>48 hours per week on average</strong>. But you can opt out of this if you want to work more. If you’re <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-age-should-you-get-a-job-sonicjobs/?id=851"><strong>under 18</strong></a>, you’re not allowed to work more than 40 hours per week on average.</p>



<h2>Your working rights: full-time vs part-time</h2>



<p>Did you know <strong>part-time workers are entitled to the same benefits and rights as full-time workers? </strong>The law protects part-time workers from being treated differently because of their working hours.</p>



<p>This means that all workers should have access to the same rights and employee benefits. This includes <strong>holidays, bonuses, maternity/paternity leave, training, annual leave</strong> and more. It shouldn&#8217;t matter if you&#8217;re full-time or part-time.</p>



<p>But part-time workers will receive benefits equal to the number of hours worked. This is known as pro rata.</p>



<h2>What does pro rata mean?</h2>



<p>Pro rata is a way of calculating employee pay and benefits, based on the number of hours/days they work. For example, let&#8217;s say all full-time employees working 5 days per week are entitled to 28 days annual leave. A part-time employee working 3 days per week wouldn’t receive the full 28 days. They’d only be entitled to 17 days annual leave.</p>



<p>Pro rata can be used to calculate all benefits in proportion to the number of hours worked.</p>



<h2>What to do if you’re being treated unfairly</h2>



<p>Think you&#8217;re being treated unfairly as a part-timer? There are some steps you can take to protect your rights.</p>



<h3>Internal escalation</h3>



<p>If you can’t resolve the issue with your manager, you may need to contact your company’s HR department directly. HR has the must ensure your employer is complying with all laws. Their job is to check that employment contracts are being upheld. If it&#8217;s clear you’re being treated unfairly because you&#8217;re part-time, HR should be able to resolve this.</p>



<h3>External help</h3>



<p>If your HR department disagrees with your argument, you may have to seek external help. But don’t worry, there are plenty of free sources that can offer valuable advice and expertise:</p>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.tuc.org.uk/join-a-union" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Trade unions</strong></a> &#8211; this should be your first port of call when looking for external help. There might be a trade union representative at your workplace, or contact your local office.</li><li><strong>Advisory, Conciliation, and Arbitration Service </strong><a href="https://www.acas.org.uk/advice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>(ACAS)</strong></a> &#8211; ACAS offer free advice and information on employee workplace rights.</li><li><a href="https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Local citizen’s advice</strong></a><strong> &#8211; </strong>Local citizen’s advice is another source that can provide free information (and sometimes legal representation) relating to your workplace issue.</li><li><strong>Free representation unit </strong><a href="http://www.thefru.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>(FRU)</strong></a> &#8211; FRU can be a great resource if you’ve escalated your case to the point of having a tribunal hearing. They can help with your case preparation.</li></ul>



<h2>What’s your choice?</h2>



<p>Deciding whether to take on a full-time or part-time job is one of the first decisions you should make in finding a job. With the <a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>SonicJobs</strong></a> app, we have an entire section dedicated to part-time jobs near you. So if part-time suits your needs, <strong>hop onto our app</strong> to find a job to suit your schedule!</p>


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Where are you looking for a job?

Our community love us

Browse by category

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Tips for working from home

Tips for working from home

Should you have a break between jobs?

How long is a notice period?

What is a P45?

Is being self-employed a good idea?

Is 50 hours of work a week a lot?

Can you find a job on SonicJobs?

Can you work in a restaurant under 18?

How many hours is a full time job?

SonicJobs

Your next career move. Sorted.

Our
community
love us