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DemandSage recently released data on Freelance Statistics 2024 – Number of Freelancers & Industry Size. Stunningly, 46.7% of the global workforce, 1.57 billion people, are freelancers.

In the United States alone, freelancers contributed $1.27 trillion to GDP in 2023. Less surprising is that 44% of Millennials and 52% of Generation Z are freelancers.

By the end of 2024, the freelance industry is expected to hit $7.49 billion. Hourly earnings – on average – by freelancers hover around $47.70, well above the national average. Regarding work hours and duration, freelancers average 43 hours per week, and nearly 6 in 10 freelancers work five days a week.

With so much activity in the freelance market, it’s only natural to want to learn more about marketing and creativity tools for freelance writers – a big chunk of the market. The top freelancing countries worldwide include the US, UK, Canada, UAE, Philippines, India, France, Brazil, Australia, and South Africa.

Regarding expenditure on freelancers, the US is in pole position, followed by Ukraine, Canada, the UK, Turkey, Germany, India, Philippines, France, and Slovenia. This data is essential for freelancers because it shows where the demand is and invariably where the supply of work requests is coming from.

Source: https://www.demandsage.com/freelance-statistics/

It is a well-known fact that the freelance writing industry is a thriving marketplace. There are abundant opportunities for skilled writers to craft compelling content. Individuals, media outlets, and businesses need freelance writers.

But, as with any career, freelance writing success relies on more than talent. It requires a precise blend of creativity, organization, and marketing savvy. Next, let’s focus attention on essential strategies for success. Freelance writers rely on several foundational pillars, notably:

Adaptability – every client is different
Time management – freelance writers juggle multiple projects simultaneously
Continuous learning – audience preferences, SEO constructs, topics under consideration, etc.
Strong communication skills – freelance writers must communicate professionally, clearly, and continuously with clients.

Finding Freelance Writing Gigs

Step number one in any freelance career is finding writing gigs. Without clients, there is no freelancing. Several strategies for sourcing clients exist, notably:

Social Media Platforms – LinkedIn, X, Instagram, blogs, forums, etc.
Portfolio Websites – Freelance writers can showcase their skills on portfolio websites – it’s an excellent way for clients to check out your work.
Networking – the ultimate buzzword with plenty to back it up. Connect with clients wherever you can.
Freelance Platforms – Various freelance platforms are available, notably ProBlogger, Fiverr, Upwork, and others. Make use of them.

Marketing Tools for Freelance Writers

A big part of freelance writing is outreach. Bulk email services enable freelancers to manage their outreach more efficiently. This marketing tool is ideal for pitching potential plans, keeping existing clients updated, or sharing monthly newsletters.

These are invaluable resources in your arsenal. When managed correctly, bulk email solutions can save time and guarantee professionalism. Among others, they offer the following benefits:

Streamlined Client Pitches
Newsletters for Visibility
Analytics for Improvement

There are scores of reputable bulk email services, including Gmail extensions. Of course, it’s essential to know how to send bulk emails from Gmail to leverage this tool effectively.

Each of the leading providers of bulk email services has its merits, but it’s imperative to carefully consider the pros and cons of all options. In fact, it may be better to select a premium service over a free email service.

Freelance writing is an enjoyable vocation because it’s just as much about managing a business as it is about creating a masterpiece. To achieve long-term success, writers must develop the right mindset. It is a creative pursuit and an entrepreneurial undertaking. Here are some essential tips to achieve precisely the right balance:

Set clear goals
Streamline admin tasks
Price your work accordingly
Accept constructive criticism

The human element in freelance writing is sacrosanct. It cannot be avoided, nor should it. Building trust, showing empathy, and maintaining credibility form the bedrock of a successful freelance career. To this end, freelance writers must be approachable, prioritize business and relationships, and remain inspired.

It is a dynamic career path that relies on creativity and marketing genius. Success is a byproduct of mastering the diverse elements of freelancing. Apply a dollop of creative energy to a bonus of practical business acumen, and you have the makings of a fab freelance writing career!

Read more:
Marketing and Creativity Tools for Freelance Writers

Buying a second hand vehicle can be an excellent way to save money and still get a good car. However, when it comes to financing pre-owned cars, many buyers are left wondering what their options are.

Whether you’re looking at a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) plan, a traditional bank loan or a newer option like peer to peer lending, it’s important to know the options. In this guide, we will look at the financing options for second hand cars and how to choose the best one for your needs and budget.

Understanding Car Finance for Pre-Owned Vehicles

Borrowing money to pay for a second hand car over a set period is financing. New cars are usually financed on a variety of flexible plans but pre-owned ones have their own considerations. The lenders will set terms and your credit rating and the age of the vehicle will determine what financing options are available.

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) for Second-Hand Cars

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) is a popular way for people to finance a second hand vehicle. The advantage of this method is that it offers lower monthly payments and flexibility at the end of the term. You usually make a deposit and then monthly payments for a set period of time (generally 2-4 years). You can choose to either pay a final balloon payment at the end of the agreement to own the car outright, return the car, or trade in the car for a new model.

Benefits

Financing a pre-owned car with personal contract purchase has its benefits. Firstly, the monthly payments are typically lower than loans, making it cheaper to drive a newer model. Also, the end of the agreement is flexible, which means you don’t have to keep a car you don’t want or need.

Disadvantages

The flexibility of PCP is a plus, but the balloon payment can be quite large, and you could end up using more miles than agreed, incurring further charges. Also, the final payment is required to own your vehicle unless you intend to return your vehicle.

Bank Loans for Second-Hand Cars

A bank loan is a traditional way of financing a car. In this arrangement you borrow the full price of the car from a bank or financial institution and pay it back in monthly installments. Second hand car bank loans usually have a fixed interest rate and a fixed repayment term of 1 to 5 years.

Benefits of Bank Loans

The biggest advantage of a bank loan is that once you pay off the loan, the car is yours in full, there are no further obligations. If you are planning to keep the vehicle for many years, this can be a great option. Often competitive interest rates, especially if you have a good credit score, there are no mileage restrictions, and it’s a flexible option, bank loans are a good option.

Things to Consider

Borrowing against a second hand car can sometimes prove harder than borrowing against a new one; banks may be a bit more wary of financing older vehicles. The interest rates on bank loans also vary widely depending on your credit history, and should you choose to borrow on a bank loan, you should try and shop around for the best rate.

Dealer Financing for Second-Hand Vehicles

Second hand vehicles are financed by many car dealerships with their own financing options. The benefit of dealer financing is that you can work out the loan with the dealer yourself, making the purchase simpler. Sometimes dealers will provide special deals or low interest rates on pre-owned cars.

Advantages of Dealer Financing

The main advantage of dealer financing is its convenience. The financing is arranged in house, so you don’t have to deal with external banks or lenders. In addition, a number of dealerships also provide flexible terms, with the option of some offering additional benefits of free servicing or a warranty package for second hand vehicles.

Disadvantages to Watch Out For

While convenient, dealer financing can sometimes have higher interest rates than bank loans. However, to make sure you get the best deal, it’s important to compare the terms offered by the dealer with that of other lenders.

Peer-to-Peer Lending for Used Cars

More and more people are turning to peer to peer (P2P) lending to get car finance. This method bypasses the middleman and connects borrowers directly with individual investors through online platforms. The process is relatively simple: If you apply for a loan, investors decide whether to fund your application.

Benefits of P2P Lending

For borrowers with good credit, P2P lending can be a competitive interest rate option. This is a flexible, transparent way to borrow, able to negotiate loan terms and repayment schedule.

Potential Drawbacks

But the downside to P2P lending is that it may not be as widely available as traditional loan options, especially for those with bad credit. The interest rates can also vary a great deal, depending on the platform and your finances.

Which Financing Option is Best for You?

Several factors determine which financing option is the right option for you: the credit rating, the age of the vehicle and your personal preferences. If you’re after lower monthly payments and the chance to trade your car in a few years’ time, then PCP might be for you. If, on the other hand, you wish to own your car without mileage restrictions out right and without mileage restrictions, a bank loan could make more sense. On the other hand, dealer financing is convenient, and P2P lending may offer competitive rates for those with good credit.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one size fits all when it comes to financing a second hand car. With a bit of thought on your finances, the age of the vehicle and your long term plans, you can select the financing option that works best for you. Whether it’s a flexible PCP deal, a straightforward bank loan or a convenient dealer financing option, understanding your options will help you make an informed choice when buying your next vehicle.

Read more:
Car Finance for Second-Hand Vehicles: What Are Your Options?

Millions of people across the UK are at risk of penalties after HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) revealed that 5.4 million taxpayers have yet to submit their self-assessment tax return.

With the 31 January deadline fast approaching, HMRC has urged anyone who has not yet filed to do so immediately to avoid hefty fines.

Tax insurance firm Qdos reacted to the announcement, warning that failing to file and pay on time incurs an automatic £100 penalty. Additional charges mount rapidly the longer the delay persists, with daily penalties and further levies imposed after three months, six months and 12 months. Seb Maley, chief executive of Qdos, said: “Fail to file your tax return and pay it by midnight on 31 January and you’ll be hit with a £100 fine immediately. These fines start to rack up, with interest added to the amount you owe. Needless to say, acting sooner rather than later will make a big difference.

“What’s more, unfiled, late or incorrect tax returns can increase the likelihood of being investigated by HMRC. Doing everything you can to meet this month’s deadline and submit an accurate tax return is vital.”

For taxpayers concerned about meeting their liabilities, HMRC’s Time to Pay facility can spread the cost of any outstanding bill into manageable monthly instalments. In its press release, HMRC reminded those who have not filed that even if there is no tax due or if the tax is paid on time, a £100 fixed penalty still applies if the return is late.

Read more:
5.4 million yet to file self-assessment tax returns, warns HMRC

Nearly every small business in the UK is bracing for staff cutbacks in the wake of proposed employment law changes, according to a survey by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

The survey of 1,270 companies found that 92 per cent fear the new legislation will undermine hiring and expansion plans, with nearly a third planning to reduce their workforce in the next year.

The bill, currently under committee scrutiny in the House of Commons, aims to address what ministers describe as an imbalance of power between employers and workers. Among its measures are ending zero-hours contracts, expanding statutory sick pay, strengthening union rights, and granting workers protection from unfair dismissal from day one of their employment.

Critics, particularly from the small business community, argue these changes could raise operating costs and depress already fragile confidence. The cost impact may be exacerbated by recent fiscal moves, including Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s £40 billion in tax hikes and a 6.7 per cent increase in the minimum wage, both of which take effect this year.

Tina McKenzie, policy chair at the FSB, warned that “small firms have made it crystal clear” the bill will diminish their appetite to hire. She said they worry that increased legal risks around unfair dismissal claims may hamper recruitment and investment.

The Department for Business and Trade maintains that the legislation is part of a wider effort to boost living standards and drive economic growth, noting that “this government is pro-business and pro-worker”. It points to its recent steps to tackle late payments and bolster funding for small firms as evidence of its commitment.

KPMG and the Bank of England have each suggested that higher government spending may offer a short-term boost to the economy, although the central bank cautioned inflation is likely to remain above target, potentially weighing on growth and business sentiment into 2024 and beyond.

Read more:
Small businesses warn of layoffs as new employment rights bill prompts worry

Britain’s presence at CES, the world’s largest technology trade fair, has dwindled in recent years, according to the event’s organiser.

Gary Shapiro, chief executive of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), said it was “a shame” and “doesn’t make sense” that UK engagement has dropped off, even though the country still has strong potential in innovation.

He noted that other European nations, including France and the Netherlands, were visibly better represented in Eureka Park, the convention’s dedicated area for start-ups. “Even Ukraine might be bigger than the UK,” Shapiro said, adding that the government no longer offers the same support it once did.

CES, held each year in Las Vegas, typically attracts thousands of exhibitors and some 400,000 visitors. It showcases cutting-edge products from technology giants like Microsoft, while also providing a global platform for smaller ventures. This year, just 41 UK companies will attend, including Etc (BT Group’s incubation arm), the female-focused healthtech firm Elvie, and the precise location business what3words.

Back in 2019, more than 100 British firms formed a UK delegation led by then international trade secretary Liam Fox. Eight of those companies won innovation awards, and the government spoke of “millions of pounds worth of deals” being signed at the show. Shapiro called it “crazy” that the UK no longer puts as much energy into CES, given the longstanding ties between the two countries.

“We are the largest technology event in the world by far,” he said. “We are definitely the biggest business event in the United States and attract over 50,000 people from outside the US.”

Read more:
UK support at global tech show less than Ukraine in puzzling move

Business confidence in Britain has dropped to its lowest level since the immediate fallout from Liz Truss’s mini-budget, according to new data from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Researchers found that 49 per cent of the 4,808 firms surveyed expect income to rise over the next 12 months, matching sentiment levels from the final quarter of 2022.

The slump coincides with Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s decision to raise £40 billion in taxes, mostly targeting businesses. Increases to national insurance contributions (NICs), including a rise in employers’ NICs to 15 per cent from 13.8 per cent and a lower threshold for contributions, have unsettled UK companies, with more than six in ten citing taxation as a major concern.

However, a separate report by KPMG suggests that despite the dip in confidence, the UK economy is likely to grow faster than expected this year, buoyed by the chancellor’s additional public spending and the anticipated fall in interest rates to around 4 per cent. KPMG forecasts growth of 1.7 per cent in 2025, up from an estimated 0.8 per cent last year, though it warns that inflation will remain above the Bank of England’s 2 per cent target until 2027.

Liz Truss’s short-lived premiership saw a £45 billion package of unfunded tax cuts spark turmoil in the financial markets, forcing an emergency Bank of England intervention. Reeves’s October budget took a different approach, opting for a combination of tax hikes and £30 billion in extra borrowing to fund the largest public investment programme in a generation.

Shevaun Haviland, director-general of the BCC, criticised the chancellor’s measures, warning that companies “are already cutting back on investment and say they will have to put up prices in the coming months.” KPMG’s economists echoed that inflationary concern, noting that businesses facing higher taxes might pass on increased costs just as fiscal stimulus fuels short-term demand.

A Treasury spokesperson defended the budget, describing it as a “once-in-a-parliament” measure designed to restore stability and offer businesses some certainty in a challenging environment.

Read more:
Tax hikes blamed for slide in business confidence as KPMG forecasts growth boost

In the competitive world of e-commerce, email marketing is not just an additional strategy.

According to research conducted by the Data & Marketing Association in 2018, 73% of consumers stated that email is their preferred marketing channel.

Businesses today require platforms that integrate seamlessly with their operations, leverage data for personalization, and offer automation to optimize every stage of the customer journey. Two standout platforms in this space are Omnisend and Klaviyo, each with their strengths and unique capabilities.

The question isn’t which platform is better, but which one aligns best with your ecommerce strategy. In this article, we take a deep dive into the Omnisend vs. Klaviyo debate to explore their features, benefits, and ideal use cases, giving you actionable insights to make an informed decision.

Omnisend: A Comprehensive Omnichannel Approach

Omnisend is built for ecommerce marketers who want to unify their customer communication channels under one roof. Its focus on omnichannel marketing gives businesses the ability to connect with customers through email, SMS, push notifications, and more, all while maintaining a consistent brand message.

Key Features of Omnisend

Omnichannel Campaigns
Omnisend’s standout feature is its omnichannel capabilities. Businesses can create campaigns that seamlessly blend email, SMS, push notifications, and even social media retargeting. This multi-touchpoint approach ensures that customers receive your message no matter where they are.
Pre-Built Ecommerce Workflows
From abandoned cart reminders to post-purchase thank-yous, Omnisend offers a range of pre-built automation workflows tailored to ecommerce. These workflows are designed to increase engagement and drive sales while saving businesses time.
Advanced Segmentation
Omnisend allows businesses to segment their audience based on factors like shopping behavior, engagement levels, and purchase history. Dynamic segments update in real time, ensuring that your messaging remains relevant and targeted.
Comprehensive Reporting
Omnisend’s analytics provide detailed insights into campaign performance, including revenue attribution. By understanding what drives sales, businesses can refine their strategies to improve ROI.

Who Benefits Most from Omnisend?

Omnisend is particularly well-suited for businesses that rely on multiple communication channels to connect with their audience. If you’re looking for a platform that brings together email, SMS, and other channels into one cohesive strategy, Omnisend delivers.

Klaviyo: The Master of Personalization

Klaviyo excels in leveraging customer data to deliver highly personalized marketing campaigns. With its robust integration capabilities and advanced analytics, Klaviyo empowers businesses to understand their audience on a deeper level and tailor messages that resonate.

Key Features of Klaviyo

Data-Driven Segmentation
Klaviyo’s segmentation capabilities are among the most advanced in the industry. By analyzing real-time data like browsing behavior, purchase history, and engagement trends, businesses can create precise customer segments for targeted campaigns.
Personalized Content at Scale
Klaviyo’s dynamic content feature allows businesses to customize email content based on individual customer preferences. From personalized product recommendations to location-based offers, Klaviyo ensures that every message feels relevant.
Customizable Automation
With Klaviyo, businesses can design complex, multi-step automation workflows tailored to their customer journey. From nurturing new leads to re-engaging lapsed customers, the platform provides flexibility to create workflows that drive results.
Actionable Insights
Klaviyo’s detailed reporting goes beyond open and click rates, offering insights into metrics like revenue per email and customer lifetime value. These analytics allow businesses to optimize campaigns for maximum ROI.

Who Benefits Most from Klaviyo?

Klaviyo is ideal for businesses that prioritize data-driven marketing and need a platform that can scale with complex customer journeys. If your strategy relies on deep personalization and advanced analytics, Klaviyo is the perfect match.

Omnisend vs. Klaviyo: Comparing the Key Capabilities

Both Omnisend and Klaviyo are powerful platforms, but they cater to slightly different needs. Here’s a closer look at how they compare in key areas:

Multichannel Marketing

Omnisend’s strength lies in its ability to unify email, SMS, push notifications, and more, creating an integrated approach to customer engagement. While Klaviyo supports SMS and email, it doesn’t offer the same level of omnichannel connectivity as Omnisend.

Personalization and Segmentation

Klaviyo leads in advanced segmentation and personalization. Its data-driven approach allows for hyper-targeted messaging that adapts to customer behavior in real time. Omnisend offers robust segmentation as well, but Klaviyo’s granularity gives it an edge for businesses that require deeper insights.

Automation

Both platforms excel in automation, but their approaches differ. Omnisend focuses on ecommerce-specific workflows that are ready to use, while Klaviyo offers greater customization for businesses that want to design complex workflows tailored to unique sales funnels.

Analytics and Reporting

Klaviyo provides more in-depth analytics, offering businesses a clearer picture of how campaigns contribute to overall revenue and customer lifetime value. Omnisend’s analytics are comprehensive but focus more on channel performance and immediate results.

Choosing the Right Platform for Your Ecommerce Strategy

When deciding between Omnisend and Klaviyo, consider your business goals, customer communication needs, and marketing strategy.

If you prioritize multichannel engagement: Omnisend is the ideal choice, offering an all-in-one solution to manage email, SMS, and other channels seamlessly.
If you focus on personalization and insights: Klaviyo’s advanced segmentation and analytics make it the better fit for businesses looking to maximize ROI through hyper-targeted campaigns.

Final Thoughts

Both platforms empower businesses to elevate their email strategies, drive customer engagement, and achieve measurable results. By understanding the strengths of each tool and how they fit into your overall ecommerce strategy, you can make an informed choice that powers your growth and delivers exceptional ROI.

Read more:
A Deep Dive into Omnisend vs. Klaviyo: Which Powers Your Ecommerce Strategy?

Las Vegas is the Unites States gambling capital and the success of the industry has been a great teaching tool for other countries.

Legalized gambling began in 1931, at the same time that the Hoover Dam was constructed. As a result, thousands of workers from the dam to Vegas to enjoy gambling with the money they earned. At this time, the downtown hub of the city was Fremont Street.

The Vegas Strip was born in 1941 when the first hotel casino opened. The El Rancho Vegas resort helped popularize gambling and attracted tourists to the area. The success of the resort led to others being built. Until the 1970s, Nevada was the only state in the country with any form of legal gambling. This was the start of a massive industry that continues to be one of the largest in the world.

The UK does have an active gambling industry, but when it comes to land casino options, there is no comparison. Las Vegas casinos far outperform those in the UK, but some things could be changed. The UK can learn some key things that could help improve the industry and help generate additional revenue for the country.

Possible Changes in the UK

The UK does have a growing industry, though there are some things it can learn from the gambling capital of the US. One thing that could improve the number of patrons at land casinos would be to relax the current dress code. In Las Vegas, just about anything can be worn on the gaming floors. In the UK, there are strict codes in place. Many casinos will turn away those who are not wearing collared shirts. By easing up on the dress code, a more relaxing atmosphere is created, which will appeal to more people.

They say size matters, and when it comes to casino settings, this is true. Much of the success experienced by Vegas casinos has been due to the sheer size of the establishments. Operators can offer a huge array of games that entice more players. In the UK, traditional games are easy to find, but there are limited variations, especially when it comes to poker and blackjack. Since these two games rake in revenue for the casino, the UK industry could be more successful by expanding game options.

This also holds true for slots. One of the largest casinos in the UK, Aspers Casino, only offers 150 slot games. Meanwhile, venues in Vegas have thousands of machines readily available for players. Unfortunately, this is not something that operators can control. The UK has strict regulations in place that limit the number of gaming machines that are allowed in a venue. The maximum number is 150.

Casinos attract all types of players, from casual slot fans to those looking to enter high-stakes tournaments. Unfortunately, casinos in the UK have limited poker events. In most cases, there is a small tournament during the week and one larger one on Sunday. In Vegas, tournaments are always available and they are the highlight for many players. Professionals travel the world to go to Vegas casinos just to take part in prestigious tournaments.

British Government Needs a New Model to Compete

Casinos in the UK will never be able to rival what is offered in Vegas unless there are regulatory changes. The strict limitation on slot machines means that most games in UK casinos are low-margin table games. If the government were to allow an increase in the number of slot machines, there would be larger casinos, increased revenues, more entertainment, and added amenities for guests. This would allow the UK to benefit from a robust sector, similar to that of Vegas.

While the UK has many restrictions for land-based operators to ensure player protection, the country has had great success with online casinos. Many players turn to licensed websites like Vegas Now to enjoy access to thousands of slot games that can be played at home. These sites provide players with a chance to play games they would not have access to at a local venue. The industry relies heavily on online slot games and operators provide a wide variety of options while promoting responsible gambling.

UK gamblers want variety, which is what they will get when accessing an online website. Since these games cannot be found at land-based casinos in the UK this time, online gambling has become the preference for thousands of players in the country. In addition to the vast number of games offered, the sites also offer rewarding bonuses and promotions that appeal to players. Online casino games play a key role in the success of the industry, but until regulatory changes are made, the UK will always trail behind Vegas in terms of live gambling experiences.

Read more:
Can the UK Learn from the Success of USA’s Gambling Capital

Your CV is more than a piece of paper; it’s your ticket to landing a job that could change your life. When pursuing international opportunities, this ticket needs to do even more.

It has to show not just your qualifications but also your ability to adapt to new cultures, languages, and work environments. Here’s how to tailor your CV for the global stage and make a lasting impression.

Start with Research

Every country has its own norms and preferences when it comes to CVs. For example, in the US, résumés are typically short, one-page documents focusing on key achievements. Meanwhile, European countries like Germany might expect more detailed CVs, sometimes including a professional photo and personal information.

Before you start crafting your CV, research the job market you’re targeting. Understand the local requirements, industry preferences, and cultural nuances. You can find helpful examples and inspiration by exploring a CV template.

Emphasise International Experience

One of the most appealing qualities for international employers is your ability to adapt to different cultures and environments. Highlight any experiences that demonstrate your global mindset:

Work abroad: Mention internships or jobs in foreign countries.
Education: Include international degrees, exchange programmes, or certifications.
Languages: Showcase your fluency in other languages, even at a basic level.
Cultural adaptability: If you’ve worked in multicultural teams, make it known.

Global experience is more than a nice-to-have; it’s often what sets you apart from other candidates.

Tailor to the Job Description

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for international applications. Every role has its own unique requirements, and your CV should reflect them. Carefully read the job description and tailor your CV to highlight the skills, experiences, and qualifications most relevant to the position.

For example, if the job requires cross-cultural collaboration, provide examples of how you’ve successfully navigated such environments. If fluency in a specific language is listed, place it prominently in your CV.

Keep It Professional and Concise

Hiring managers worldwide value clarity and brevity. Your CV should be concise, ideally one or two pages, depending on local norms. Highlight your key achievements with measurable results, such as:

“Increased regional sales by 35% in six months.”
“Managed a cross-border team of 10 to deliver a £5 million project.”

Avoid cluttering your CV with excessive details or irrelevant roles. Focus on the most recent and impactful experiences.

Pay Attention to Cultural Norms

The information you include in your CV varies widely across countries:

In some countries (e.g., Germany, Japan), including personal details like age, marital status, or a photo is expected.
In others (e.g., the US, Canada), such details are discouraged to prevent discrimination.

Always align your CV with the cultural norms of the country you’re targeting.

Optimise for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)

Many international employers use ATS software to screen applications. To increase your chances of getting noticed:

Use keywords from the job description.
Keep formatting simple (no graphics, columns, or fancy fonts).
Use common headings like “Education” or “Experience.”

While your CV should be ATS-friendly, don’t forget the human reader who will ultimately evaluate your application.

Showcase Your Online Presence

In the digital age, your online profile often accompanies your CV. Include links to your professional LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or personal website. Ensure they’re updated and reflect your global aspirations.

Be Mindful of Personalisation

While templates and AI tools are useful for structuring your CV, avoid relying on them too heavily. Employers value authenticity. Use these tools as a starting point, then infuse your CV with your unique experiences and voice.

Proofread and Test for Clarity

Grammar mistakes or typos can cost you an opportunity. Before submitting your CV, proofread it thoroughly. Better yet, ask a native speaker or a professional in the target country to review it.

Add a Cover Letter That Complements Your CV

A cover letter is often required for international applications. Use it to provide context for your CV, such as explaining your motivation for relocating or elaborating on specific experiences.

Stay Updated on Trends

Job markets evolve, and so do CV trends. Whether it’s a new format or an emerging skill, staying informed about global hiring trends ensures your CV remains competitive.

Conclusion

Tailoring your CV for international opportunities isn’t just about tweaking a few details. It’s about presenting yourself as the perfect candidate for a global stage. With research, cultural sensitivity, and attention to detail, your CV can become your passport to an exciting international career. So, start now. The world is waiting, and your dream job might just be a click away!

Read more:
Tailoring Your CV for International Opportunities

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has rolled out a new disclosure service for companies that have inadvertently overclaimed research and development (R&D) tax relief and failed to amend their returns.

The move underscores the government’s intensified crackdown on misuse of the scheme, which reportedly cost the exchequer over £1 billion in missing revenues.

The initiative targets firms that may have overstated their R&D expenditure in good faith, rather than those deliberately committing fraud. It follows a surge in HMRC investigations into questionable R&D claims, with the tax under review reaching £641 million this year, according to the department’s annual report.

Generous by design, R&D tax credits encourage companies to invest in innovative projects. However, this same generosity has also attracted fraudulent activity and organised criminal efforts to exploit it, costing the Treasury an estimated £1 in every £4 of the relief in 2020-21.

Dawn Register, a tax dispute resolution partner at BDO, said: “There are also other disclosure routes available to companies looking to bring their tax affairs up to date. We’ve seen many unscrupulous ‘claims’ agents in the R&D market in recent years. If a company now realises its past claims were ‘speculative’, a voluntary disclosure is definitely the best course of action.”

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HMRC calls on businesses to come clean about accidental R&D tax overclaims