FAQs

Christmas close down. What should I do if a new starter has not accrued sufficient holiday entitlement to cover the business shutdown period?

Options include:

Allow the new starter to take unpaid leave.
Offer them the option to take holiday in advance.
Allow them to make up the hours later, if feasible.
OR : Let them have the additional days paid and communicate this is a special circumstance for year 1.

Ensure the approach is clearly communicated and agreed upon in writing

For free managers guides and templates – Holiday requests and calculator template (Support section) 👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

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Other questions we get asked about Attract

Do I need to make notes during an interview of a potential new starter?

Yes, it’s a good practice to take notes during an interview for the following reasons: Record Key Points: Capture important details about the candidate’s qualifications and responses. Evaluate Objectively: Help compare candidates and make informed decisions. Legal Compliance: Notes can protect against potential discrimination claims by showing decisions were based on job-related criteria. Provide Feedback: […]

Can I send a contract of employment to a new starter without a start date?

Yes, you can send a contract without a start date, but it should include a placeholder such as “start date to be agreed.” Ensure the contract specifies the employment is conditional on finalising the start date. For free managers guides and templates – Offer letter template (Attract section) 👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

What is the law on Zero Hour contracts?

Employee Rights: Workers on zero-hours contracts are entitled to the same employment rights as other employees, including holiday pay, rest breaks, and protection against unfair dismissal, if they are classified as “workers” (not self-employed). No Obligation to Work: Workers are not required to accept work offered, but they must be paid for any work they […]

Why do I need a job description?

A job description clearly defines the role, responsibilities, and expectations, helping attract the right candidates, set performance standards, and avoid misunderstandings. For free managers guides and templates – Job Description Design Guide and template (Attract section) 👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

I’m struggling to find skilled candidates

To attract top talent: Expand Your Search: Use multiple job boards, social media, and networking. Strengthen Employer Branding: Showcase company culture and career growth opportunities. Offer Competitive Pay & Benefits: Stay ahead of market trends. Speed Up Hiring: Streamline the recruitment process to secure top candidates quickly. Invest in Upskilling: Train and develop internal talent. For free managers guides and templates – Recruitment Line Manager Guide (Attract section) […]

We’re struggling to recruit. What can we do now?

Tighten role definitions Sharpen your employer brand Simplify the interview process, and keep candidates warm with fast, clear updates. Use targeted job boards and employee referrals.

Not found what you’re looking for? See our other categories

Attract

From CV screening and interviews  to right-to-work compliance

Engage

From goal setting to  long-term employee retention

Develop

From recognition and communication to creating a positive workplace culture.

Support

From holiday calculations and maternity leave to redundancy and grievance management

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