When picking and packing in any warehouse environment it’s important to try and get it right as much as possible. Yes, mistakes can happen, but there are a few ways you can make sure you are your team are as effective as possible, therefore saving you time and energy in the future. Here’s how.

Are you getting a lot of returns? Chances are if that’s the case, mistakes are being made. It’s worth checking your data to see the scale of the issue, if any.

What does everyone else think? It’s worth hearing the opinions of other picker and packers on processes, to see if they have any ideas of how things can be improved.

When did you last review your process? It’s healthy to review how things are done in the warehouse often, to see if there’s another way of improving your efficiency.

Don’t underestimate your small items! Smaller items are more easily lost, forgotten or dropped when picking and packing – Perhaps everyone would benefit from extra training on handing small items?

Take breaks! Regular breaks will ensure you are more effective when picking and packing.

For more information about our latest warehouse opportunities, contact Flexistaff on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

Forklifts are an essential part of any warehouse, but mistakes are easily made and can cause a lot of disruption. Here’s our list of the most common forklift mistakes – and how you can avoid making them!

Over Capacity? If you overload your forklift, or if your load is insecure, the vehicle can become unstable which can lead to damage and/or injury. Check your forklift capacity before you start loading – every time!

Is your power low? Running out of power halfway through a job can cause a serious hazard – you should regularly check the power of your forklift, to make sure you can complete your task efficiently.

Communication is key. Forklift drivers must pay attention to their surroundings, including speed limits, and listen to key instructions from colleagues – if not, forklifts can pose a serious risk.

Misuse can be dangerous. Proper workwear must be worn at all times, and vehicles should only be used for their intended purpose. It might be tempting to try and use the power of a forklift for other odd jobs, but it’s not worth the risk.

For more information about our latest forklift opportunities, or to find out How Flexistaff can support your business, contact us on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

In today’s ever-changing market, temporary jobs are at times more readily available. Whilst traditionally a permanent role might seem more attractive, there are plenty of benefits to taking on a temp job.

You’re in the driving seat. Temporary work means you have total freedom in your career and the ultimate in flexibility.

Let’s get networking! Temporary assignments give you the chance to meet professionals in your sector, which could lead to exciting career opportunities you might have otherwise missed.

Kick start your career. Temporary jobs are a great way to show what you’re made of when it comes to a new employer and can lead to something more long term.

Grow your knowledge. Working in different environments will give you ample opportunities to further your own knowledge and skills, which will bring more prospects to you as your career grows.

You’re still secure. You still have the same rights as a permanent employee and you’re also entitled to the same benefits.

For more information about our latest temporary vacancies, or to find out how Flexistaff can support your business, contact us on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

Warehouses are busy places. It’s fast paced, busy work, and team morale can go up and down. And whilst demand is on the way up, it’s vital businesses put plans in place to keep morale high in the warehouse. Here’s how.

It’s time to boost the benefits. On site benefits can be simple, cost-effective and go a long way to making the team feel valued. Offering training opportunities, flexible working patterns where possible and even the odd giveaway will keep people motivated and happy.

Recognition goes a long way. Warehousing teams often go above and beyond to meet demand so it’s really important that employers offer praise and recognition where they see teams going the extra mile. A thank you goes a long way!

Support your team with Temp workers. In busy periods, a helping hand will really take the pressure off your permanent staff. Temp workers can boost team moral, help business meet their logistics targets and offer new ideas and attitudes.

For more information about our latest warehouse vacancies, or to find out how Flexistaff can support your business, contact us on 0844 556 2916.

After weeks or months of job searching, starting a new job can be both exciting and daunting. First impressions count, so it’s important to make the most of your first day in a job – Take a look at our top tips for making your first day count.

Make sure you prepare accordingly. Plan exactly what you’d like to wear on the day and make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Make friends. They’ll be a lot to take in on the first day, but make sure you introduce yourself to everyone you meet, be polite and friendly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure.

Make notes. Take a notepad with you wherever you go – and make notes. You can’t be expected to remember everything, but taking notes of what you learn shows initiative and interest.

Learn the house rules. Find out where you can get a good coffee, the house keeping rules and where all of the facilities are. You don’t want to be caught short!

Do your best. That’s all anyone can ask for – Try to learn as much as you can on your first day, make a good impression, and enjoy your brand new career!

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how Flexistaff can support your organisation, contact Flexistaff on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

It’s that time of year again! Welcome to the financial year of 2021 – 22, which began official as of 1^st April this year – and with a new financial year comes a change to the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage rates.

The National Living Wage and the National Minimum wage rates are paid according to your age. Apprentices are paid the “apprentice” wage if they are 19 or under and in the first year of their apprenticeship.

Here are the new rates for this financial year:

	Rate from April 2020	Rate from April 2021
National Living Wage	£8.72	£8.91
21-22 Year Old Rate	£8.20	£8.36
18-20 Year Old Rate	£6.45	£6.56
16-17 Year Old Rate	£4.55	£4.62
Apprentice Rate	£4.15	£4.30

If you require any further information, please visit GOV.UK to find out what you’re entitled to.

For more information about our current vacancies, contact Flexistaff on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

Shift working can be tough sometimes, with regular changes in routines and long working hours. So how can you make sure you look after yourself when you’re working the long shift? Take a look at our top tips below.

Are you driving? Given the time and length of the shift, it’s important to consider if you should drive to work, or if it’s actually safer to take public transport. It may be more of a hassle, but if you’ll be finishing a long shift in the middle of the night it may be risky to drive home, if you’re not used to it.

Make your sleep pattern work! If your shifts seem to follow a similar pattern, try taking short naps before and after your shift and find a sleep pattern that suits your needs. Make sure your sleeping environment is comfortable and blocks out any light, if you’re having to sleep during the day.

What are you eating? It’s important to consider your diet. Regular light meals or snacks will ensure you stay nourished throughout your shift. Avoid fatty or sugary foods where possible and keep hydrated.

Want a pick me up? If you like a coffee, keep your coffee breaks to a minimum. Caffeine can be used effectively, but too much can have opposite of the desired effect.

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how Flexistaff can support your business, contact us on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

You might think your CV in enough when job searching, but it’s important to include a cover letter too when applying for a job. But why do you need a cover letter and how can you make your cover letter stand out?

Cover letters are important for telling your story. Hiring managers will receive a number of applications per role, and your cover letter is a great place to summarise your skill sets and addressing your potential new employer direct about how your skills and experience are the perfect fit for the job.

So what makes a great cover letter?

Address the letter direct. Do your research and try to find out who the hiring manager might be – you could research the company online or carefully scan the job listing to see if there’s any indication.

Be direct and personable. Short sentences full of enthusiasm as well as your own personality are key. Make your letter authentic to you to stand out from the crowd.

Tailor your letter to the role. Consider the job listing carefully and pick out key examples of your skills and experiences to show how you’ve got what it takes to take on the role.

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how Flexistaff can support your business, contact us on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com

Forklifts are a vital part of any busy warehouse – but badly loaded they can be a huge hazard. No one wants to risk the accidents that can be caused by a tipped forklift – here’s our top tips for keeping your forklift balance in check.

Consider the environment. Check the surfaces you’ll be driving on are in good shape and take a note of any steps or slopes that could have an impact.

It’s all in the planning. Never overload the forklift and plan the load as you go, making sure everything is spread evenly. Think about whether or not what you’re carrying is stable and how you might have to adjust your driving.

Keep it smooth. Lowering your forks whilst moving can increase stability and ensure you drive smoothly. By driving slowly you’ll have more time to react and therefore avoid mistakes.

Be safe. Wear your seatbelt and adhere to safety procedures at all times – if you don’t know what they are, ask!

 For more information about our latest forklift vacancies, or to find out how Flexistaff can support your warehouse, contact us on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.

Interviews – love them or loathe them, they are a vital part of finding a new job. Whilst interviews can include a variety of questions, there are some questions you might expect to get – and some you hope you won’t be asked! Be prepared for your next interview – here’s some of the interview questions you might expect, and how you could think about answering them to have the best impact.

“Why do you want this job?”

Research the organisation beforehand and think about what it is about the company that really appeals to you as a potential employer. Think about the role in question, the skills and experiences required, and where the role gives you opportunities to grow.

“Can you tell us more about you?”

Maybe don’t go into all your habits and hobbies – stick to two to three minutes describing your education, interest in your work field and most recent work experience.

“Why should we offer you the job?”

Demonstrate you’ve understood the role and requirements of the company and give examples of how your skills and experiences meet the needs of the organisation.

“What are your weaknesses?”

This is a tricky one! Think about a skill you’ve tried to improve and name both the weakness and your tactics for managing it and improving.

For more information about our latest vacancies, of to find out how Flexistaff can support your business, contact us on 0844 556 2916 or office@flexistaffuk.com.