Things we'd like to talk about

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  DON’T DO IT… CV BLUNDERS

  If you’re on the hunt for a new job and plan to send your CV out far and wide, we’ve collated ...

  24/05/2013 3 comments

  24/05/2013 3 comments

  If you’re on the hunt for a new job and plan to send your CV out far and wide, we’ve collated some words and phrases you may want to steer clear of to avoid wasting valuable time and space…

  24/05/2013 3 comments

                           
  
  “Curriculum Vitae” – Let’s start right at the beginning. If you need to label your creation as a Curriculum Vitae, maybe it’s not fit for purpose in the first place? It may fill some space at the top of the page, but it really is unnecessary.
  
  “Guru” - Do you have people bowing at your feet and fainting when you walk by? Exactly! You’re not actually a guru, so maybe best not to claim that you are. Shameless excuse to share the classic 'The Social Media Guru'....
  
  
  
  “Motivated”, “flexible”, “innovative”, “accomplished”, etc – Some of the most over-used words on CV’s. Employers come across hundreds of CV’s, so be original when describing your qualities and expand on them where possible.
  
  “You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it” - Margaret Thatcher. Or any other random ‘inspirational’ quotes you may feel the urge to sprinkle across your CV. Just no!
  
  “Think outside the box” – As opposed to those dull people inside the box? If you’re going to use this cliché, make sure you back it up with some good examples.
  
  “I have a passion for fashion” – Cheesy phrases such as this are not original. They’ve been used a million times before and employers will wince when they come across them.
  
  “Mr Smith is currently working in the digital sector” – The third person pronoun… *jumps out of window* Writing in this tense only makes you sound pompous and pretentious, and who would seriously want to hire an employee with these attributes?
  
  “Socialising with friends” – Really? How unique… Try to be a little more specific by expanding on what you do with your friends – that way potential employers get a more detailed impression of you.
  
  “IT Literacy: The Internet” – As in you’ve used it once, or you use it daily? Most people use it every hour, but there’s no point mentioning this as a general term.
  
  “Here are all referees from every single job I've had” – Obviously no-one writes that specifically, but the point is you don’t need to list all your referees and their contact details. At the most state they are available on request, but even this isn’t necessary.
  
  
  Are there any things that have you screaming 'Noooooo!' when you see a CV? Let us know if there are any we've missed.
  
  
  We forgot to include the CV photo, a topic all on it's own: Blog: What do you think when you receive a CV with a profile photo (thanks for the reminder Charlene)
  
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  Google I/O Conference 2013

  For those of you who haven’t had chance to digest all the news following Google’s I/O Conference ...

  22/05/2013

  22/05/2013

  For those of you who haven’t had chance to digest all the news following Google’s I/O Conference in San Francisco last week, we’ve rounded-up some of the key highlights…

  22/05/2013

  
  
  Google unveiled the ‘new look’ Google+, which has been updated considerably, introducing 41 – yes, 41 - new features! The re-designed platform now has a look of Pinterest and Facebook, and has introduced automated filters and ‘related hashtags’ (Google now adds relevant hashtags for you!)
  
  A new version of Google Maps was also revealed at the conference, which has been re-built from the ground up. It now features user generated street views and you can even see clouds floating in real-time. The excitement doesn’t stop there either - you can even look at Earth from the Milky Way too!
  
  Whilst we were all expecting a new phone from Google, they shocked everyone by revealing their own version of Samsung’s Galaxy S4, which is very similar to the existing phone, but with an additional version of Android 4.2 Jelly Bean.
  
  Google Play Game Services was also launched at the I/O conference. This new product aims to encourage more interaction amongst gamers, by offering multi-player games between users playing on different platforms.
  
  The fun didn’t end there either, as Google also introduced its new “radio without rules” - Google Play Music All Access. Users can store up to 20,000 songs for free in the cloud and listen to them alongside Google's All Access catalog. Being able to listen to your ‘favourites’ on pretty much any device is definitely an advantage. We wonder what Spotify think about this…
  
  
  
  
  For a full update following the conference, check out this article courtesy of Mashable > http://on.mash.to/12cc1By
  
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  eCommerce Expo and TFMA Event Manchester 2013

  We had a fascinating time at this year’s eCommerce Expo and Technology for Marketing & Advertising ...

  16/05/2013

  16/05/2013

  We had a fascinating time at this year’s eCommerce Expo and Technology for Marketing & Advertising (TFMA) Event at Manchester Central yesterday.

  16/05/2013

  As one of the UK’s largest industry events, we were amongst a real mix of businesses and individuals from across the digital, direct, data, CRM and social media sectors. We managed to catch up with a few familiar faces and met some new acquaintances too...
  
                                         
  
  After a wander around and a quick coffee, first up was the Manchester Digital’s Cartologie panel debate. Led by Richard Hudson, Chair of Cartologie Network; panellists included Steven Whitehead, Group Commercial Director at The Hut Group; Alan Williamson, Head of eCommerce at Thomas Cook Scheduled Businesses; and last but not least, Rob Smith, Director of Strategy at Blueleaf.
  
  During the debate, the three industry professionals shared their thoughts on the North West’s reputation as a leading location to build an eCommerce business, and went on to explain ways in which we can continue to keep this status as a region. Although there were a few technical issues at the beginning of the session which involved a bit of shouting and re-shuffling around the room, it was a positive debate and very interesting to hear their predictions of what’s to come.
  
  Following this session we had another meander around the conference hall, checking out the stands and meeting with people we’d been tweeting throughout the morning. In a big venue like Manchester Central, social media like Twitter and Foursquare prove a big help in meeting up with other attendees you know, as well as helping know who to look out for.
  
  After some new introductions and catch-ups, Joe from the Orchard team ventured over to the ‘Forget Social Media’ session, which was chaired by Mike Cornwell, CEO of The Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM). This seminar focused on the importance of traditional marketing, highlighting how similar it actually is to the new digital age. Matt Camps, Digital Strategist at The IDM; Katrina Gallagher, Managing Director at Digitangle; and Suzanne Kay, Regional Manager at the Direct Marketing Association (DMA), discussed how it’s important for us to keep aspects of our basic digital strategy, however we must work smarter by keeping up-to-date with any key changes. Although it was ironic that a session about ‘forgetting social media’ involved Q&As entirely on this topic, overall, Joe found this seminar very insightful and stimulating.
  
  Other than the typical Manchester rain and our Managing Director, Mike Carter causing a minor rebuild of our friends at Manchester Digital’s stand, we had a great day and are already looking forward to next year!
  
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  Top tips for that all-important job interview!

  So, you’ve managed to impress your dream company with that fabulous CV and now they’ve offered ...

  14/05/2013

  14/05/2013

  So, you’ve managed to impress your dream company with that fabulous CV and now they’ve offered you an interview… Fear not, we’ve put together some top tips to help you nail it on the day!

  14/05/2013

  
                                         
  
  
  Do your homework
  
  Make sure you research the company thoroughly – check out their website and any other online platforms where they have presence. Get yourself some extra brownie points by mentioning a recent news story or post which has caught your eye – it shows you’re enthusiastic and interested in what they do.
  
  Plan your outfit
  
  We all know how good we can feel in the right outfit – it boosts confidence and gives off a great impression the minute you walk through the door. So with that in mind, iron that shirt and shine those shoes and you’ll automatically feel more poised and relaxed.
  
  Practice makes perfect
  
  Ask a friend or family member to sit with you whilst you explain what you know about the company. Get them to ask you challenging questions to prepare you for the worst. If you’ve been asked to present during your interview, make sure you practice in front of one or two people – rehearsing in front of someone you know is often harder than in front of a stranger, and is a great way to challenge your self-confidence. This will also enable you to get feedback in areas that you could potentially improve.
  
  Get your beauty sleep
  
  The better sleep you have the night before your interview, the more ‘on the ball’ you’ll be when the interviewee starts asking you questions. Also, the tired look isn’t really ‘in’ (ever), and neither is yawning throughout – this will only make you appear bored and disinterested. To help you sleep the night before, do something relaxing such as taking a bath, avoid caffeine, drink plenty of water and maybe even treat yourself to a cup of cocoa…
  
  Fuel your brain
  
  They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so even if you’re feeling extremely nervous, make sure you eat something to get that brain going - porridge, bananas, yoghurts and fruit/nuts are all good options. Also, if you rely on that morning cuppa to get you going everyday, allow time to sit and drink your usual. The same goes for eating and drinking before an afternoon interview – your brain needs powering at all times of the day!
  
  Keep calm
  
  Plan your outfit and route at least a day before, to ensure that nothing can go wrong before you arrive. When you’re actually in the interview, keep eye contact as much as possible, be aware of your body language and smile. Also, don’t be afraid to laugh and be yourself when appropriate – it reveals your true personality and shows that you’re human.
  
  Ask questions
  
  Interviewees always ask if you have any questions, so to save yourself from stumbling or blanking on the day, prepare between three to five questions in advance. It demonstrates that you’re not afraid to query.
  
  And finally… GOOD LUCK – you’ll be just fine!
  
  
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  It's Fergie's Time...

  Almost 27 years and 38 trophies later, Manchester United’s indomitable leader, Sir Alex Ferguson ...

  10/05/2013

  10/05/2013

  Almost 27 years and 38 trophies later, Manchester United’s indomitable leader, Sir Alex Ferguson this week announced that he’s stepping down from his role as manager at the world famous football club.

  10/05/2013

           
  
  Having accomplished one of the greatest managerial careers in football, the Scotsman will take his place as director for Manchester United knowing that he leaves behind a remarkable chapter in the club's, and football's history, as well as some unforgettable quotes, such as “squeaky-bum time”.
  
  Ferguson will stand in the Old Trafford dugout for his final time as manager this Sunday afternoon when his team face Swansea City, on a day which will no doubt be extremely emotional for him, his team and Manchester United’s entire fan-base too.
  
  As the ‘king’ of Manchester United leaves his long-term role as manager behind, we now know that the club will be welcoming current Everton manager, David Moyes to follow in his immense footsteps. Moyes has already established a strong relationship with Ferguson, and as well as building his own empire and legacy at Everton. He has shown himself to be a highly driven, passionate football man, with a very similar work ethic to Ferguson.
  
  Whether it’s in football or any business, when recruiting for such a hugely important role, succession planning is crucial. With a first-class football club such as Manchester United already running so successfully, if a major figure leaves, it makes sense to look to replace them with a similar individual to ensure continuity – basically, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.
  
  However, if you’re in a situation where an establishment is struggling and the structure of the company may not necessarily be right, it is likely that the business will decide to have a complete shake-up, maybe bringing in a different type of individual, or even numerous roles to change the configuration of the company completely. In most cases in football, managerial change comes about following perceived failure, so major change is the norm.
  
  Obviously each situation is different when recruiting; therefore it is vital for any business to plan as well as they can for future occurrences. Everton Football Club will now be going through the exact same process as Manchester United, and with the awareness that Moyes' contract was coming to an end and hadn't be renewed, hopefully they will have laid some groundwork already.
  
  As an established, well run club themselves with a manager who has served them extremely well over a long period of time, do they too bring in another experienced English Premier League manager at an equivalent level, with a similar outlook, or do they go for change to bring a fresh approach? It is clear that succession planning has been fundamental for Manchester United, and will be for Everton too…
  
  For all those avid Manchester United fans out there, you can view a picture gallery of Sir Alex Ferguson’s highlights, courtesy of the Manchester Evening News.
  
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  A Decade of Linkedin

  As LinkedIn celebrates its milestone birthday, we take a look at how the social network for ...

  09/05/2013

  09/05/2013

  As LinkedIn celebrates its milestone birthday, we take a look at how the social network for professionals has evolved over the past ten years....

  09/05/2013

  
  
  Founded back in May 2003 by Reid Hoffman, Allen Blue, Konstantin Guericke, Eric Ly, and Jean-Luc Vaillant, LinkedIn started out simply as a social platform enabling professionals to upload their CV’s and connect with likeminded individuals and businesses.
  
  Having increasingly developed over the past decade, LinkedIn has certainly changed the way individuals search for jobs online and build business contacts. Gone are the days of just emailing across your CV to the Managing Director of your dream company – prospective employers are now interested in a much more personal approach to recruiting staff, and look to individuals’ colleagues and previous employers for their recommendations.
  
  As an employer though, things can get a little unnerving if a potential candidate turns up to an interview and starts discussing the high school you attended. Which is exactly what happened to one Manchester based Marketing Director we know. He chose to deactivate his LinkedIn account soon after.
  
  Not only has the social network adapted operationally over the years, it is also evident that LinkedIn has developed progressively on a visual basis too. Back in 2003, this was how LinkedIn looked to users…
  
  
  
  Starting out with a very basic homepage, LinkedIn’s initial challenge was to hit 1million users, and after one month of the network being live, it reached a total of 4,500 users. Ten years on, they now have over 225,000,000 registered members using the latest version – with more than 11,000,000 users in the UK alone!
  
  To celebrate its first decade as a company, LinkedIn uploaded a brief history gallery to show how it’s evolved into a dynamic social network for businesses and individuals around the world. Take yourself along LinkedIn’s journey so far at ourstory.linkedin.com.
  
  All our team are active on LinkedIn, as you'd expect, and they're always happy to connect to people involved in the digital, creative and marketing sectors. You can follow our Orchard Linkedin Company Page too.
  
  

  Related Blog Posts:

  • Follow us on Twitter, find us on Facebook and say hello on Linkedin
  • Your CV & Social Media profiles: Honesty really is the only policy, as the search engines never forget
  • Facebook: Friend or Foe?
  • Can Companies Afford To Neglect Social Media Customer Service?
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  Most Complained About Ads of 2012

  Which companies conducted the least tasteful advertising campaigns of 2012?

  03/05/2013

  03/05/2013

  Which companies conducted the least tasteful advertising campaigns of 2012?

  03/05/2013

  Orchard_Dan takes a look at the adverts which raised the most complains in 2012, kicking off with Go Compare taking the top two spots.
  
  31,298 complaints were made about 18,990 ads last year, with Go Compare's TV ads featuring irritating opera singer, ‘Gio Compario’, resulting in almost 2,000.
  
  1. Go Compare - Stuart Pearce: 1,008 complaints - not upheld
  
  
  
  
  2. Go Compare - Sue Barker: 797 complaints, not upheld
  
  
  
  
  3. Channel 4 - Big Fat Gypsy Weddings: 373 complaints, upheld in part
  
  
  
  
  4. Kerry Foods - Richmond Ham: 371 complaints, upheld in part
  
  
  
  
  5. Paddy Power - Transgendered Ladies: 311 complaints, out of remit as on Youtube in Ireland
  
  
  
  
  6. Kellogg's Crunchy Nut Cereal: 243 complaints, not upheld
  
  
  
  
  7. Morrisons - Dog Fed Christmas Pudding: 234 complaints, not upheld
  
  
  
  
  8. ASDA - Mum Preparing for Christmas: 220 complains, not upheld
  
  
  
  
  9. Kayak Software - Brain Surgery: 189 complains, not upheld
  
  
  
  
  10. St John Ambulance - Man Choking: 144 complaints, not upheld
  
  
  
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  I want to be famous! How to promote your music online

  Music marketing is a rapidly evolving challenge in a saturated industry; so how can you successfully ...

  25/04/2013 23 comments

  25/04/2013 23 comments

  Music marketing is a rapidly evolving challenge in a saturated industry; so how can you successfully promote your music online?

  25/04/2013 23 comments

  The current musical landscape is very different to how it looked fifteen years ago. Think back to the late 90s; to make it as a band, you had to rely on traditional methods of mass media. You had to get the attention of music journalists, radio play and critically, a performance on Top of The Pops. But nowadays, in what ways is it possible for anybody to quickly and easily promote your music and reach a global audience?
  
  Whilst being in a start-up band myself, this is something I’ve researched and will pursue over the next few weeks. Hopefully, this blog will provide a humble guide for other new aspiring Bands or Artists to showcase and promote their music and go global… potentially.
  
  

  Web

  A Band/Artist website can be a great way of communicating the image, identity and sound of the band. But it’s not necessary to hire a team of developers and fill it with bells, whistles and widgets; you can easily create something fun and unique using ready-made templates or a free framework such as Wordpress.
  
  The key here is to update the site regularly. You can increase the loyalty of your fans by informing them of upcoming gigs and recent news, including an interesting bio and offering access to downloads. Keeping an up-to-date website is also a great way of providing a patrolling promoter or industry representative with important contact details and music samples.
  
  There are also sophisticated ways of increasing the visibility of your website on search engines by thinking carefully about SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). By including frequently used keywords, updating your site regularly with audiovisual content and cross-linking your pages with other sites, you can attract more traffic to your page and potentially new fans!
  
  

  Social Networks

  Social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook provide an essential one-stop band advert. You can use these simple digital tools to present photos, songs, videos, info and calendars.
  
  The relevance of this social networking cannot be underestimated; a whole plethora of world-famous bands once had their start on these sites. In 2004, the supporters of a small Sheffield band, called the Arctic Monkeys, launched a page on Myspace which quickly generated a major underground following. The efforts of their Myspace fans quickly brought the Arctic Monkeys to the attention of record labels and propelled them into global stardom with the fastest selling album in UK history.
  
  
  
  Think outside the box: You could host a competition to increase your Facebook likes or Twitter followers by offering exclusive prizes. It’s often simple ideas that win. Humour is always a winner and people love freebies, so be clever and use your resources.
  
  

  Youtube

  Youtube is used by millions of people every day and has become the best and easiest way of distributing amateur, as well as commercial, content online. Videos are easily searchable, inter-linked with other relevant content and supplemented by user comments.
  
  The significance of Youtube is clear from the huge amount of overnight phenomena and trends that began on the site. In the space of a week, the unknown South Korean singer, PSY, went from total obscurity to a chart-topping pop sensation thanks to ‘Gangnam Style,’ the dance craze he first broadcast on Youtube.
  
  To get the best results from Youtube, create and customise your own unique channel, get uploading all of your videos (thinking carefully about your titles and tagging) and finally, start networking with fellow users to gain views and subscribers.
  
  
  

  Conclusion

  This guide may not provide you with all the answers to becoming a global success or video sensation, but hopefully it has highlighted some of the huge numbers of ways to expose your music on the web. The Internet and its enormous potential for self-promotion has broken down the traditional patterns of music marketing. All that’s left is for the music industry to adjust to these dramatic changes….But we’ll save that debate for another time!
  
  Written by Tom Giles
  

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