Star Personnel Recruitment Articles

What is the Fastest Way to Find a Job in South Africa?

Posted on 14 February 202514 February 2025 by Lloyd

So what is the fastest way to find a job in South Africa? Looking for a job can be a daunting task, especially in a competitive market like South Africa. But don’t worry! With the right approach, you can speed up the process and land your dream job in no time. Here are some tips to help you find a job quickly and efficiently.

Leverage Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies are a goldmine for job seekers! They have access to a wide range of job opportunities that you might not find elsewhere and are certainly the fastest way to find a job in South Africa. However, it’s important to note that South African laws prohibit recruitment agencies from charging candidates a fee. If an agency asks you for money, it’s likely a scam. Always be cautious and verify the legitimacy of the agency before proceeding.

Since recruitment agencies are primarily paid by companies to find candidates, it’s crucial to apply for jobs that they are advertising and for which you are well-suited. This increases your chances of getting noticed and shortlisted. Don’t think that you can just register with a recruiter and sit back and the jobs will flow it. Sadly it doesn’t work that way.

Craft an Engaging CV

There’s a lot of buzz on social media about Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and AI filtering out CVs, but many recruiters still manually scan CVs. Make sure your CV is interesting and enjoyable to read. Keep it professional, but don’t forget to include a photograph. This personal touch can make a big difference.

Proofread your CV multiple times to ensure there are no mistakes. A single typo can be the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked.

Write a Compelling Cover Note

Always include a cover note in the body of your email when applying for a job. A simple “please see my CV attached” is likely to be deleted. Instead, explain why you are suitable for the role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that make you a perfect fit for the job.

Include Essential Contact Information

Don’t forget to include your contact numbers, email addresses, and the city or area in which you live. If you are willing to relocate, mention that too, but always include your current location. This information is crucial for recruiters to reach out to you.

Additional Tips

Networking: Attend industry events, join professional groups on social media, and connect with people in your field. Networking can open doors to job opportunities that you might not find through traditional methods.
Online Job Portals: Regularly check job portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Careers24 for new job listings. Set up job alerts to get notified about relevant opportunities.
Tailor Your Applications: Customize your CV and cover letter for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific job you are applying for.
Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and research the company beforehand. Being well-prepared can boost your confidence and increase your chances of success.

By following these tips, you can streamline your job search process and increase your chances of finding a job quickly in South Africa. Good luck!

Hiring Longevity: Look Beyond the Checkboxes

Posted on 20 November 2024 by Lloyd

At Star Personnel Recruitment, we understand that hiring isn’t just about filling a vacancy; it’s about finding the right fit for your team and ensuring that they stick around for the long haul. One common pitfall many employers encounter is the tendency to focus too heavily on a candidate’s ability to check every box on the job description. While it’s essential to find someone with the requisite skills and experience, expecting a candidate to fulfill every single requirement can be a recipe for disappointment. Here’s why looking beyond the checklist can lead to a more robust and lasting workforce. It’s all about hiring for longevity by looking beyond the “Perfect Candidate”.

The Myth of the Perfect Candidate

Let’s face it: the “perfect candidate” is a myth akin to unicorns or finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag. Sure, they might exist in theory, but in practice, they often overlook the most important qualities that contribute to a thriving workplace. Candidates who check every box may seem ideal on paper, but they often lack growth potential. When someone has mastered every skill required for a role, they may feel stagnant, leading to job dissatisfaction and an eventual exit.

Example: Consider a software developer who ticks all the boxes: proficient in R, Python, Java, and C++. While they may initially seem like the perfect hire, if they have no interest in learning new technologies or expanding their skill set, they may soon become disengaged as your company evolves.

Attitude Over Aptitude

Instead of fixating on a laundry list of qualifications, employers should prioritize attitude and the ability to learn. A candidate’s mindset often determines their long-term success within your organization. Look for individuals who demonstrate a passion for their field, a willingness to adapt, and a drive to grow.

Example: Imagine hiring a junior marketing professional who only has some experience with social media but has a genuine enthusiasm for creative marketing campaigns and a thirst for knowledge. With mentorship and support, this individual can quickly develop their skills and contribute innovative ideas, all while feeling engaged and valued.

Aligning Aspirations

Another vital aspect of hiring for longevity is ensuring that the role aligns with the candidate’s career aspirations. During the interview process, take the time to explore where candidates see themselves in the next five years. When their personal goals align with your company’s vision, they are more likely to stay motivated and committed.

Example: If a candidate aspires to lead their own team in the future and your company values leadership development, this shared vision can foster a strong commitment. You might find that investing in their growth not only benefits them but also enriches your organization with new ideas and perspectives.

Creating a Culture of Growth

Your company culture plays a crucial role in employee retention. By fostering an environment where continuous learning is encouraged, you’ll attract candidates who are eager to grow alongside your business. Provide opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and regular feedback. This way, even if a candidate doesn’t check every box at the outset, they will feel supported in acquiring the skills they need to succeed.

Example: A company that offers ongoing training programs, workshops, and team-building activities creates an atmosphere of collaboration and growth. Employees are more likely to stay when they feel that their development is a priority.

The Bottom Line

Hiring for longevity means looking beyond the perfect candidate or initial checklist and focusing on the qualities that truly matter: attitude, adaptability, and alignment with aspirations. By embracing this mindset, you’ll not only fill positions more effectively but also cultivate a workforce that is engaged, motivated, and ready to contribute to your company’s success for years to come.

So next time you’re in the hiring seat, remember: it’s not about finding the perfect candidate; it’s about discovering the right fit for your team — a candidate who can grow, evolve, and thrive within your organization. After all, a happy employee is a loyal employee!

Also read Is Positive Recruitment a Useful Hack or a Toxic Trap?

At Star Personnel Recruitment, we’re here to help you find not just the right skills, but the right people for your team. Let’s work together to build a workforce that lasts!
If we can assist with any of your staffing needs, please just drop us a note below or call us on 021 5511337

Don’t Delay! Why Holding Off on Recruitment Until January Could Be a Costly Mistake

Posted on 8 November 2024 by Lloyd

As the year winds down, many companies are tempted to put their recruitment efforts on hold until January. However, this strategy could backfire in more ways than one. Here’s why you should reconsider and start hiring now:

High Competition in January: Many employers think alike, leading to a flood of job openings in the new year. This surge in competition makes it harder to attract top talent. By hiring now, you can beat the rush and secure the best candidates before they’re snapped up.
Candidates Are Already Looking Ahead: Right now, candidates are planning their next career moves. They’re updating their resumes and starting to interview. Don’t be left behind – begin your recruitment process now to stay ahead of the game.
December Is Ideal for Onboarding: Contrary to popular belief, December can be a great time to onboard new staff. With potential lulls in business, it’s an excellent opportunity to train and integrate new hires without the usual workload pressures.
Flexible Start Dates: Concerned about an annual shutdown? No problem. You can negotiate start dates to accommodate your company’s schedule. Allow candidates to take leave in advance or arrange for unpaid leave during the shutdown period.
Interviewing Is Easier Now: Both candidates and line managers often have more flexibility in November and December. Take advantage of this to conduct interviews and make decisions promptly.
Budget Considerations: The new financial year (February for most companies) is just around the corner. If you don’t use your headcount/budget now, you might lose it. Don’t let valuable resources go to waste.
Staff Strain During the Festive Season: Expecting your existing staff to cover vacancies over the festive season can lead to burnout. Hiring now ensures your team ends the year on a positive note, reducing the likelihood of staff movements in January.

At Star Personnel Recruitment, we understand the unique challenges of end-of-year hiring. As one of South Africa’s leading owner-managed recruitment firms, we offer a free consultation and tailored strategies for talent attraction and retention. Don’t let the holiday season hold you back – reach out to us today and secure your talent for the new year.

Contact Us:

Phone: 021 551 1337
Email: spr@starjobs.co.za

#Recruitment #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #EndOfYearHiring #StarPersonnelRecruitment

Where’s Wally? Standing Out in the Job Market Puzzle

Posted on 24 October 2024 by Lloyd

Hey Job Seekers,

The job market’s a bit like a Where’s Wally puzzle right now. Employers and recruiters are squinting, trying to spot the perfect candidates among the sea of applicants. But fear not! Here are 10 practical ways to make sure you’re not just another face in the crowd:

1. Polish Your Online Presence: Your LinkedIn profile is your digital first impression. Make it shine! Use a professional photo, write a compelling headline, and showcase your skills and experiences.

2. Tailor Your Resume: One size does not fit all. Customize your resume for each job, highlighting the experiences and skills that make you the perfect fit.

3. Master the Art of the Cover Letter: A well-crafted cover letter can be a game-changer. Show your passion, explain why you’re a great match, and tell a story that makes you memorable.

4. Network Like a Pro: It’s not just about who you know, but how you engage with them. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with influencers on social media.

5. Showcase Your Work: Create a portfolio or a personal website to showcase your projects, achievements, and skills. It’s a tangible way to prove your worth.

6. Be Active on Social Media: Share industry-related content, engage with thought leaders, and contribute to discussions. It shows you’re not just a passive observer but an active participant in your field.

7. Learn New Skills: The job market is always evolving. Stay ahead by learning new skills or improving existing ones. Online courses and certifications can make you stand out.

8. Get Endorsements and Recommendations: Positive reviews from colleagues, managers, or clients can add credibility to your profile. Don’t be shy to ask for them!

9. Prepare for Interviews: Practice makes perfect. Research common interview questions, prepare your answers, and practice with a friend or in front of a mirror.

10. Follow Up: After an interview, a simple thank-you note can make a big difference. It shows your interest and keeps you top of mind.

Remember, the job market might be a puzzle, but with these tips, you’ll be the Wally everyone’s looking for. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

#JobSearch #StandOut #CareerAdvice

The Big Lie: I Don’t Need a Recruitment Agency.

Posted on 7 October 2024 by Lloyd

Some companies convince themselves they don’t need a recruitment agency because they can put their own ads. This is a Big Lie, and we will explain why.

In today’s competitive job market, finding the right talent can be a daunting task for any organization. While many companies post their vacancies on job boards and LinkedIn, this approach often yields limited results. A recruitment agency offers a more strategic and efficient solution.

7 Reasons You Need a Recruitment Agency

There are several compelling reasons why companies should consider partnering with a recruitment agency instead of going the DIY route with ads. Let’s go through the main points:

1) Access to a Broader Talent Pool

Recruitment agencies have extensive networks and databases filled with qualified candidates who may not actively be seeking new roles but would be open to opportunities. By leveraging these connections, companies can tap into passive candidates who are often the best fit for specialized positions that typical job postings may not attract.

2) Expertise in the Hiring Process

Recruitment agencies specialize in talent acquisition, meaning they have honed their skills in identifying, screening, and interviewing candidates effectively. Their expertise allows them to quickly assess candidate suitability and cultural fit, streamlining the hiring process and ensuring that only the best candidates make it to the interview stage.

3) Time and Cost Efficiency

The hiring process can be incredibly time-consuming. Posting jobs, sifting through resumes, conducting initial interviews, and coordinating schedules can overwhelm your HR team. By outsourcing this function to a recruitment agency, you can free up valuable time and resources, allowing your team to focus on core business activities. Moreover, the cost of a bad hire far exceeds the fees associated with using an agency.

4) Market Insights and Salary Benchmarks

Recruitment agencies are often at the forefront of industry trends and salary benchmarks. They can provide valuable insights into market conditions, helping companies adjust their offerings to remain competitive. This information is crucial when trying to attract top talent, especially in niche markets.

5) Tailored Recruitment Strategies

Every company has unique needs and requirements. A recruitment agency can tailor its approach to suit your specific hiring criteria, culture, and values. This customized strategy ensures a better match between candidates and the organization, leading to improved retention rates. It’s all about effective communication. Indeed points out that sharing your company’s expectations clearly leads to faster results.

6) Confidentiality in Recruitment

For sensitive or high-level positions, confidentiality can be paramount. Recruitment agencies can conduct searches discreetly, ensuring that business interests remain protected throughout the hiring process. This level of privacy can be challenging to achieve through public postings on job boards.

7) Post-Hire Support

Many recruitment agencies offer support even after a candidate is placed. They often follow up with both the client and the candidate to ensure a smooth transition. This ongoing support can help address any concerns early on, fostering a positive relationship between all parties involved.

Conclusion

While job boards and LinkedIn serve as useful tools for job postings, they often fall short in delivering the quality and speed that today’s fast-paced business environment demands. By engaging a recruitment agency, companies can benefit from their expertise, access to a wider talent pool, and tailored strategies that lead to better hiring outcomes.

If you’re serious about finding the right talent for your organization, consider making the smart choice—partner with a recruitment agency and elevate your hiring process. You will save time and resources and position your company for long-term success by building a strong, capable workforce.

Star Personnel has nearly 40 years of experience in finding the best candidates for all your staffing needs, in South Africa and globally. Contact us today for the best collaboration in your company’s future.

#Recruitment #Spring #New #BusinessGrowth #StarPersonnel #TopTalent #October

Weathering the Seasons: Epic Ways to Adapt to Change

Posted on 18 September 2024 by Lloyd

Spring in South Africa is a season of transition. The days can start off warm and inviting, but by evening, a chill often sets in as the weather fluctuates between the remnants of winter and the promise of summer. These unpredictable shifts remind us that, like the seasons, the world of recruitment is always changing. Businesses must also adapt to change, especially during transitional periods when unpredictability can affect hiring decisions.

Expect the Unexpected

In recruitment, companies may face similar ups and downs. Market demands, economic shifts, and new technologies often force businesses to adjust their strategies. Spring, with its varying temperatures, is a perfect metaphor for these challenges. Just as you prepare for a warm day that suddenly turns cold, companies must be ready for the unexpected in the hiring process.

How to Adapt to Change

This is where an agile recruitment partner comes in. We at Star Personnel understand that your hiring needs may change just like the weather—from a need for seasonal staff to full-time roles that require specific skill sets. Our team is equipped to help you navigate these changes with flexibility and expertise, ensuring that your workforce is as adaptable as the South African spring.

As the season progresses and summer eventually settles in, so too will your recruitment needs find stability. Whether you need temporary staffing solutions or long-term recruitment strategies, we’re here to assist you through the ups and downs, helping you secure the best talent no matter the season.

Let’s work together to refresh your team and grab the opportunities that Spring brings. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business in building a stronger, more capable workforce.

#Recruitment #Spring #New #BusinessGrowth #StarPersonnel #TopTalent

Win Big: Build Your Victory Team Like the Springboks!

Posted on 11 September 202411 September 2024 by Lloyd

Here is your chance to win big and build your victory team like the Springboks! South Africans everywhere are still celebrating the Springboks’ thrilling victory over New Zealand this past Saturday. This iconic win, with a final score of 18-12, was a testament to the power of teamwork, strategy, and selecting the right players for the right positions.

Building a winning rugby team is like building a successful business team in many ways – it requires careful recruitment, training, and a shared vision for success.

Win Big and Recruit for Victory

At Star Personnel, we believe that just as the Springboks select the best talent to dominate on the field, you can build your victory team in the workplace. The Springboks didn’t become world-class champions overnight; they honed their team with top talent and a clear game plan. The same goes for businesses – whether you’re growing your team or filling crucial roles, success starts with making the right recruitment decisions.

1. Strategic Recruitment

Like a coach who carefully studies potential players, businesses must approach recruitment strategically. It’s not just about filling roles; it’s about ensuring you have the right talent in the right positions to succeed.

2. Team Chemistry Matters

The Springboks’ victory was not just because of individual brilliance, but because of how well the team worked together. Successful recruitment is about finding candidates with the skills you need who also align with your company culture and values.

3. A Long-term Vision

The Springboks’ win represents years of hard work and dedication, not just short-term decisions. Similarly, recruiting with a long-term vision is vital for business success. You want a recruitment service that will grow with your company, contribute to its goals, and help you stay ahead in your industry.

At Star Personnel, we help you build your winning team by connecting you with top talent who can drive your business forward. As the Springboks showed us, success is all about having the right people on your team and a clear strategy for achieving your goals.

Contact us today to help you kick-start your journey to building a world-class team. Build your victory team with us, and watch your business soar to victory!

New! How to Refresh Your Workforce this Spring

Posted on 3 September 2024 by Lloyd

As spring blossoms across South Africa, many businesses are looking to refresh and revitalize their workforce. This season of renewal offers the perfect opportunity for companies to re-evaluate their operation needs and ensure they have the right talent in place to achieve their goals. Whether you’re looking to fill key positions, expand your team, or simply want to ensure that your current staff aligns with your business objectives, now is the ideal time to take action.

Spring Clean Your Workforce Strategy

Spring is the perfect time for businesses to assess their current workforce. Are your teams equipped to handle the challenges of the coming months? Do you have the right mix of skills and experience to stay competitive in your industry? Taking a closer look at your workforce strategy can reveal gaps that need to be filled or areas where additional training and development are necessary.

A strategic workforce audit can help you identify these gaps. By partnering with a recruitment agency, you can ensure that your business is prepared for the future with the right talent in place. Our expertise in talent acquisition and workforce planning means we can help you find the professionals who will drive your business forward.

Top In-Demand Skills for Spring 2024

The business landscape in South Africa is evolving rapidly, and certain skills are in higher demand than ever before. As companies increasingly rely on digital solutions, professionals with strong technical skills, such as data analysis, software development, and cybersecurity, are highly sought after. Additionally, soft skills like leadership, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial for managing remote and hybrid teams.

By understanding these trends, your business can align its recruitment efforts with the most valuable skills in today’s market. Partnering with a recruitment agency that stays on top of industry trends ensures you’re not just filling positions, but strategically building a team that can meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Stand Out in the Job Market with the Right Talent

In a competitive market, attracting top talent is more critical than ever. However, the best candidates are often in high demand, and they have choices. This is where a targeted recruitment strategy comes into play. Star Personnel specializes in connecting businesses with high-caliber professionals who are not only qualified but also a perfect cultural fit.

By working with us, you gain access to an extensive network of candidates that keep you ahead of the competition. Our personalized approach ensures that every hire is a step towards strengthening your business.

Success Stories: How We’ve Helped Businesses Grow

Our success is defined by the success of our clients. One of our recent partnerships involved a fast-growing tech company that needed to scale quickly to meet market demand. By understanding their unique needs and company culture, we identified and placed several key professionals who have since become integral to their success. This collaboration not only helped them grow, it also enhanced their market reputation as a leading employer.

Conclusion

Spring is more than just a change of season; it’s an opportunity for growth and renewal. As you plan for the future, consider how a strategic recruitment partnership can help your business thrive. By ensuring you have the right talent in place, you set the stage for success in the months ahead.

Let’s work together to refresh your team and grab the opportunities that Spring brings. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business in building a stronger, more capable workforce.

#Recruitment #Spring #New #BusinessGrowth #StarPersonnel #TopTalent #Starjobs

Is Positive Recruitment a Useful Hack Or Toxic Trap?

Posted on 29 August 2024 by Lloyd

Positive recruitment is gaining traction in South Africa, especially during Women’s Month, as companies seek to build diverse and inclusive workplaces. But is positive recruitment a useful hack for attracting top talent, or could it be a toxic trap that hinders true diversity and inclusion?

Let’s explore how positive recruitment can be a powerful tool when applied correctly and how to avoid pitfalls.

What is Positive Recruitment?

Positive recruitment is about more than just filling vacancies. It’s a proactive approach to hiring that emphasizes creating a fair, transparent, and empowering experience for all candidates. In South Africa, where gender equality remains a critical issue, positive recruitment can be an effective strategy to ensure women are recruited and feel valued and supported throughout the process.

The Benefits of Positive Recruitment

Enhances Employer Brand: Companies that embrace positive recruitment practices are often seen as more attractive to job seekers, especially women. A reputation for fairness and inclusivity can set your company apart in South Africa’s competitive job market.
Encourages Diversity: By focusing on inclusivity from the start, positive recruitment helps to build a more diverse talent pool. This diversity leads to better decision-making, creativity, and innovation, all of which are crucial in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.
Reduces Turnover: When candidates have a positive recruitment experience, they are more likely to accept offers and stay with the company long-term. This is particularly important in South Africa, where high employee turnover can be costly for businesses.

The Risks of Misapplying Positive Recruitment

Superficial Inclusivity: If not done thoughtfully, positive recruitment can become a box-ticking exercise that prioritizes optics over substance. This can lead to tokenism, where women are hired to meet diversity quotas rather than based on their skills and potential.
Bias in Disguise: Positive recruitment should never compromise on selecting the best candidate for the job. Overemphasizing certain traits to appear inclusive can unintentionally introduce new biases, creating a toxic environment where meritocracy is undermined.
Employee Disillusionment: If candidates, drawn in by the promise of positive recruitment, find a different reality once hired, it can lead to disillusionment and high attrition rates. Companies must ensure that their internal culture aligns with their recruitment promises.

How to Implement Positive Recruitment Effectively

Be Genuine

Ensure that your commitment to positive recruitment is genuine and reflects your company’s values. Avoid tokenism by focusing on creating a culture where all employees, especially women, can thrive.

Continuous Feedback

Collect feedback from candidates about their recruitment experience. Use this information to continually improve your process and ensure it remains fair and inclusive.

Conclusion

Positive recruitment, when applied thoughtfully, is a powerful tool for creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce in South Africa. However, it’s essential to avoid the pitfalls that can turn this useful hack into a toxic trap. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let’s commit to making recruitment a truly positive experience for all.

Let’s make positive recruitment more than just a trend. By implementing it effectively, we can create workplaces in South Africa where women and all employees feel valued and empowered.

Grab Your Special Offer Now!

In the spirit of celebrating the wonderful women in our workplaces, Star Personnel is happy to bring you our Women’s Month Special Offer. This is for all our clients—new and existing—who start a new job assignment with us during this special month! To find out more, contact one of our friendly Star Personnel recruiters. They’ll give you all the details on how to take advantage of our promotion. Grab this chance to partner with us and boost your business. Terms and conditions apply, so be sure to ask for full details.

#WomensMonth #SAWomen #SATalent #StarJobs #StarPersonnel #HerStory #WomenWhoLead #InspirationalWomen #Opportunities

The Best Secrets: Building Strong Client Relationships in Recruitment

Posted on 19 August 2024 by Lloyd

Building strong client relationships in recruitment is the only way to long-term success in a highly competitive industry. This Women’s Month, we celebrate the remarkable women in recruitment who excel at fostering these relationships, using their unique skills and perspectives to create lasting partnerships.

Understanding the Importance of Client Relationships in Recruitment

Strong client relationships are the backbone of any successful recruitment agency. They lead to repeat business, referrals, and a deeper understanding of clients’ needs. For women in recruitment, these relationships are often built on trust, communication, and a genuine commitment to delivering results. Harvard Business Review reports that building trust is key to better economic outcomes and decision-making.

Key Strategies for Building Strong Client Relationships

Effective Communication: Clear, consistent, and transparent communication is essential. Women in recruitment often excel in this area, using empathy and active listening to understand clients’ needs and provide tailored solutions.
Delivering Results: Consistently meeting or exceeding client expectations is key to building trust. Recruiters demonstrate their expertise and reliability by focusing on delivering high-quality candidates that match the client’s expectations.
Personalized Service: Every client is unique, and understanding their specific needs is crucial. Women in recruitment often bring a personal touch to their client interactions. Forbes calls this the ‘’relationship economy’’, where the customer’s experience and feeling valued and understood is the best way to build a strong working relationship.
Building Trust: Trust is the cornerstone of any strong relationship. By being transparent, honest, and reliable, women in recruitment can build a strong foundation of trust with their clients.

The Role of Women in Strengthening Client Relationships

Women bring a unique set of skills to the table in recruitment. The Balance mentions that these ‘’soft skills’’ are changing the face of the modern workplace. Their ability to connect on a personal level plus a strategic approach to client management, make them invaluable in building and maintaining strong client relationships. Celebrating their contributions during Women’s Month is recognizing their vital role in the industry.

Conclusion:

Building strong client relationships is not just about business; it’s about creating partnerships that last. As Star Personnel celebrates Women’s Month, we recognize the incredible women in recruitment who are leading the way in this area. Their dedication, expertise, and unique approach make them successful in building these vital connections.

#WomensMonth #SAWomen #SATalent #StarJobs #StarPersonnel #HerStory #WomenWhoLead #InspirationalWomen #Opportunities