Unit 1 Recruitment and Selection Practises for Employment

Learning Outcomes:
Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
The need to pursue lifelong learning to meet changing needs
The competencies and personal qualities valued by employers
Interview techniques
Learning Intentions:
Students will be able to:
Define lifelong learning
Evaluate the reason lifelong learning is so important today, and also the
downside to lifelong learning
Define and give examples of on the job and off the job training, and discuss the
benefits and drawbacks of each
List the various sources available for gaining further learning (Further Education
colleges, Learn Direct, job centres, Careers Service NI, Educational Guidance
Service for Adults)
Know the competencies and personal qualities valued by employers and why
they are important
Know how employers might look for or test such competencies
Understand the ways careers teachers can help them to make decisions
regarding their careers
Complete a CV
Define the credit crunch
Assess the effects of the credit crunch in Northern Ireland

Lifelong Learning
Lifelong learning is the idea that our education and our learning of new skills do not end when we leave
school or university. Therefore, we should continue our career during staff training and development.

Lifelong skills include:
Customer care
Communication
Numeracy
IT
Teamwork
Problem solving
Managing own learning
Showing initiative and being self-starting
Time management
Flexibility
Planning and organising
Motivation and enthusiasm

Definition of Lifelong Learning:
The need to continue to develop existing skills and acquire new skills along with qualifications, as the
world of work continues to change.

Why is it important in todays society to continue learning throughout your life?
There is no longer the notion of a job for life. Jobs are constantly changing, as well as what employers
are looking for. There has been a shift in types of jobs available from manufacturing to service sector
and people need to keep up to date with what employers are looking for, to ensure they are
employable. As a result, it is crucial that people develop existing skills and acquire new skills. There is
more emphasis on qualifications in order to fill the new jobs available.

Advantages to Lifelong Learning:
You can gain more qualifications
You can gain more job satisfaction
You can continue to develop existing skills
You can acquire new skills
You can raise your self-esteem/self-worth
You could receive a promotion
You could command a better salary
You could have a wider range of job opportunities
You can provide better service for your customer/business
You could have a greater sense of loyalty to your job
You can meet the needs of an ever-changing employment market

Disadvantages to Lifelong Learning:
It may not lead to career enhancement
Gaining extra qualifications may be expensive
You may have to sacrifice family and social commitments
You may suffer low self-esteem if you are unable to finish the course
You may suffer stress/fatigue with increasing demands of attending courses while still at work
You could be seen as overqualified for some jobs

Sources Available for Lifelong Learning

Institutes of Further and Higher education:
They offer full-time courses during the day and a range of courses for people who want to study part-
time.
Some can be attended one day per week, whilst at work and being sponsored by employer. Some are
night courses for a qualification that can be gained over a few years.

Learn Direct:
These are centres that offer training in a wide range of job areas. They are for people who want to
continue to update their skills.
They have an internet-based service for Learning and Employment, which provides information, advice,
and guidance.

Job centres:
These advertise jobs available in your area. There are careers office advisers there to give guidance
and advice to update your skills and portfolio. They also have knowledge on training available.

Educational Guidance Service for Adults:
This is a local, independent organisation that aims to connect adults with learning services. It is free to
individuals, and there are offices all across Northern Ireland. They provide information on adult learning
provision across the British Isles. They can advise funding for courses and provide information on
events taking place (such as seminars).

Explain two benefits of someone continuing with education during his working life. (4 marks)
It may lead to promotion within work and enhance his job prospects.
His salary may increase, which would improve his standard of living.
It may present opportunities for a career change.
He will keep up to date with technology.
He may become more specialised in his field of work.

Write down four items of information you would need to find out about a Further Education
course before choosing it.
Form of assessment
Jobs that may be available after completion of course
How long the course takes
How many hours it lasts per week
Course fees/bursary/scholarship
Where it is located, and how long it takes to get there
If there is a gap year
The entry requirements
Opportunities for work placement

Many adults have taken the decision to gain qualifications to meet the demands of the changing
workplace. Evaluate their decision. (10 marks)
Advantages:
They may stand a better chance of being employed
They may stand a better chance of being promoted
They may gain financial rewards/benefits
They could raise their own self-esteem
They could become more motivated and enjoy greater job satisfaction
Disadvantages:
Gaining further qualifications may be expensive
May have to sacrifice family and social commitments
They may become stressed/fatigued with the increasing demands of attending courses while
still at school
It may not lead to any further career enhancement
They may suffer from low self-esteem if unable to complete the course

Training

Definition
Training is a learning procedure that involves the possession of knowledge, sharpening of skills,
theories and rules, or changing of attitudes to enhance the performance of an individual.
An employee may be given training:
As part of their induction
Because of a change in procedures
In order to make the business more competitive (more highly skilled and able to provide
efficient and quality service)

Why is training important?
Constant changes in technology need updated skills
Introduction of new methods needs new information
A highly trained workforce is more efficient
It helps the business to keep ahead of its competitors
It provides motivation for employees
It decreases the possibility of accidents in the workplace
It decreases the supervision required for employees

Advantages of training for the business or employer:
Helps the business to cope with changes in technology
Employees will have to gain up to date knowledge, which will ultimately benefit the organisation
Creates a more efficient workforce as workers may be more motivated
Employees can gain different skills, which means that their work can be become more effective
and ultimately they can undertake different tasks
Fewer accidents as employees know how to operate machinery correctly (which reduces staff
absenteeism)
Employees should produce a better quality of products/services
Less supervision of workers needed if workers know how to do tasks, are motivated, and can
operate machinery and equipment correctly

Advantages of training for the employees:
Training updates employees skills and helps them to cope with changes in technology
Employees who have kept their skills up to date have better opportunities for promotion
Training motivates employees as it helps them to be good at their jobs and may help them
learn more
Develops confidence in their own ability and ultimately their self-esteem

Methods of Training

Induction
The name given to training of new employees. It is designed to make new employees feel comfortable
in the workplace and to settle in to their new surroundings. An induction programme is likely to include:
A guided tour of the building
Introduction to colleagues and manager
Talk or video on the rules of the business
Explanations of Health and Safety procedures

On the Job Training
People gain relevant knowledge and skills whilst working alongside experienced workers at their place
of work. This is the most common type of training and takes place during his/her normal hours of work.
This type of training includes:
Internal courses
Work shadowing
Role play

Advantages
Cheaper to carry out than off the job training
Employees who are new to a job role become productive more quickly
Training is very relevant and practical, dealing with day to day requirements of the job
Employees are not taken away from jobs so they can still be productive
Employees continue to earn money while they learn new skills
Disadvantages
The trainer may find it difficult to deliver effective training to colleagues
There may be distractions in the workplace, which might lessen the effectiveness of the training
The training may not be certified and it may not be deemed a qualification (no evidence on
paper)
Employees may pick up bad habits from the person who is training them, as they are not a
professional trainer
If employees are only trained in one area, this may mean that they will require further training at
a later date if they move into a different area

Off the Job Training
Workers are taken away from their place of work to be trained by a specialist (at a local college/training
agency/university). The training period is paid for by the business and may be on a day release basis or
for a longer period of time for example, a full-time course. It may be varied out in a number of ways:
Lectures
Demonstrations
Role play

Advantages
Employees learn from a specialist in that area of work who can provide more in-depth
understanding
Employees respond better when they are taken away from the pressures of the working
environment
Employees may be able to gain qualifications or certificates
Trainers can deal more easily with groups of employees at the same time
The training can be more focused on the needs and levels of expertise of the employees
Disadvantages
Can be expensive
May be time-consuming and employees are not getting hands-on experience in the workplace
Time away from the workplace means work is not getting done and this could cost the business
in profit
It can be ineffective and unconnected to the employees actual roles in work
The trainers may not be fully aware of the conditions under which the employees work

What are the benefits of employees attending training courses?
Employees get up to date knowledge which ultimately benefits the organisation
Employees may become more motivated, which may lead to more efficiency
Employees gain different skills, which means workers can become more effective and can
undertake different jobs
Highly trained employees may improve their promotional prospects within the company so this
can result in more efficient workers
Training in Health and Safety procedures can decrease the possibility of accidents in the
workplace and thus less staff absenteeism for the firm

Explain the benefits to an employee of being trained while employed. (6 marks)
Gain up to date knowledge which will ultimately benefit the organisation
They will be more motivated and therefore more productive
They can gain different skills so they can become more flexible within the company, and can do
several jobs
Improve promotional prospects within the company
Are continuing to be paid whilst training

Explain two reasons why it is essential for an employer to maintain high standards of health and
safety in the workplace. (4 marks)
Employees may work in an environment which is safe and secure so that their health and well-
being is not adversely affected
The law states that employers must abide by all Health and Safety legislation: otherwise they
will have penalties imposed upon them
A healthy and safely working environment will mean that employees will carry out their tasks
more efficiently and therefore result in a more profitable organisation
A safe environment means the workers will be more motivated

Explain how a well-motivated workforce can benefit a business. (6 marks)
Improvements in the quality of output: workers take in more pride at work and produce better
quality products
Productivity rises (more is produced per worker), so the cost of making each product decreases
Few disputes, few strikes, more output
Fewer staff leave, which reduces the cost of recruitment and training of new staff
Provides a stable and happy environment, which encourages staff to stay

Competencies and Personal Qualities

Honesty and integrity
Managing information
Planning and organising ability
Enterprising skills
Dedication
Reliability
ICT skills
Numeracy skills
Willingness to learn
Motivation and passion
Interpersonal abilities
Initiative / Self-motivation
Problem-solving and decision-making skills
Leadership and management skills
Flexibility and adaptability
Communication skills
Positive attitude to work
Teamwork skills
Creative approach

Explain two good reasons why it would be important for a receptionist to have good
communication skills. (4 marks)
First form of contact from the suppliers and the public and thus it is important to create the right
impression
Information given over the phone, or face-to-face, needs to be accurate in order to minimise
any mistakes made
As well as oral communication, the receptionist needs to be able to key information correctly
into the computer in order to produce correct information

Recruitment

Definition
The employment of new workers.

Perfect Person
Presentable, Efficient, Reliable, Full of energy, Educated, Careful, Tactful
Perceptive, Enthusiastic, Resourceful, Stable, Organised, Negotiator

The Recruitment Process
Job vacancy
Job advertised
Application form/CV assessed
Sort applications and draw up shortlist
Interview applicants who meet the criteria stated in the advertisement
Employee appointed
Complete the contract

Why might employers need to employ new workers?
Because the business has grown
To bring in people who have the skills they need but do not have in the business
To replace employees that have retired, resigned, been promoted, or been dismissed
Also busy at certain times of the year (Christmas) and would need more staff for a short period

Methods of Recruitment
There are various methods of recruitment for employers and the choice of recruitment method will
depend on:
The size of the business
The amount of money available for advertising
The type of work being offered
Where the business is situated
How many employees are required
How quickly the employee is needed

Internal Recruitment (within a business: on notice boards, internal news sheets, by sending
emails or memos)
Advantages
Applicants are familiar with the business
Existing employees are given the opportunity to gain promotion within the business
It improves the staff morale and motivation
It is a cheaper method than advertising generally
The process should take a shorter time to complete
Disadvantages
The range of applicants is limited
It does not bring new ideas/skills to the business
It could lead to staff discontent if one colleague is promoted over another

External Recruitment
Local newspapers
Advantage: suitable for jobs that are not highly paid, where people would not have to travel
long distances. Less expensive than national newspapers
Disadvantage: would not reach as wide an audience
National newspapers
Advantage: reaches wide audiences. May have a special job-finder supplement. Suitable for
jobs that are higher paid, and for people willing to travel.
Disadvantage: more expensive than local newspapers
Specialist magazines
Advantage: used to recruit highly skilled and specialist workers. People interested in the field of
work will buy these magazines
Disadvantage: only certain people buy the magazines
Internet
Advantage: not expensive. Has a wide audience. Attracts candidates that are up to date with
the latest technology
Disadvantage: may eliminate candidates who do not have access to the internet
Department for Employment and Learning
Advantage: free service run by the government, which displays notices about available work.
Have career advisors to help find suitable work for suitable people
Disadvantage: often used to find skilled or semi-skilled workers such as factory workers, shop
assistants, and cleaners
Private recruitment agencies
Advantage: agency matches candidates with most suitable work available and contacts the
employer. Saves the business time in terms of recruitment selection, especially of a temporary
worker
Disadvantage: the service is expensive

Methods of Selection

Application Form
It helps an employer form an objective view of an applicants suitability as part of its selection process.
When completing an application form, it is important to:
Work neatly and accurately
Complete all sections
Sign and date the form
Check that all details are correct
The benefit to the employer is that they receive exactly the information that they need, making it easy to
compare applicants.

Letter of Application
Sometimes the advertisement states that the applicant should apply by writing a letter of application,
which should include:
Personal details
Educational background
Qualifications and work experience
Names of previous employers
Names and addresses of two referees
The benefit to the employer is that it shows the applicants level of communication skills.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A list of all the applicants qualifications, work, and achievements to date, including:
Personal details (name, telephone number)
Educational background
Qualifications
Work experience
Positions of responsibility
Previous employers
Two referees
Hobbies and interests
Other achievements
The benefit to the employer is that it shows how well the applicant can organise and display
information.

Interview
The applicants who have been shortlisted are invited to an interview where they meet the
representatives of the organisation to answer questions and discuss the post. It is important to:
Prepare thoroughly beforehand
Research the company
Dress appropriately
Act naturally
Show genuine interest in the company
Arrive in good time
The benefit to the employer is that it gives them a chance to meet the applicants in person and judge
how suitable they are for the job.

Presentation
It is now common for applicants for management positions to be asked to give a presentation. The
applicant would be given a title in advance and told the length the time the presentation should last.
The benefit to the employer is that they are shown the personality of the applicant, as well as their
communication skills, level of preparation, and their ideas for the job.

Aptitude test
Aptitude and ability tests are designed to assess logical reasoning or thinking performance. They
consist of multiple choice questions and are administered under exam conditions. They are strictly
timed (a typical test might allow thirty minutes for thirty questions). The result will be compared to that of
a control group so that judgements can be made on the applicants abilities.
Benefit: an aptitude test measures strengths and personality facets, and matches the applicant with
possible career choices or placements in a corporation.

Write down four points that an applicant should take into consideration in order to successfully
complete an application form.
Use block capitals where stated
Best handwriting
Sign the form
Dont leave blank spaces
Use black ink if specified
Make it sure it is posted on time to meet deadline
Read instructions/notes carefully
Personal details / qualifications / hobbies / interests / references / previous experience /
personal qualities

Interviews

What information would you want to find out about a job before applying for it?
Prospects for promotion
Required qualifications
Reputation of the business
Location of the job
Salary/pay
Duties involved
Working conditions/hours of work
Holidays
Uniform/dress code
Fringe benefits
Possible training

Why might a person who filled in and submitted an application form for a job not be selected
(called) for an interview?
They have not met the specified requirements (qualifications/experience)
The application form may have arrived after the closing date
Poor application form (incorrectly completed)
Criminal record
The job may not require an interview
Large number of applicants, which makes it difficult to be shortlisted

Why would an employer conduct an interview?
To assess suitability of candidates and select the best person for the job
To find out what sort of person the applicant is (for example, well-presented)
To supply the candidate with more information about what the job entails and assess if they
really want it
To check the information the candidate has supplied and clarify any misunderstandings

What are the advantages of a mock interview?
Gives individuals a chance to practise so they wont make a mistake in the real interview
Will help build an individuals confidence
Help make individual aware of which questions were difficult and then highlight the need to
research some answers
Help individual to focus on areas where they are weak (body language, oral communication,
eye contact)
Provide feedback on their performance gives an idea about how to dress for the real thing
Feedback on oral performance and suggestions to improve
Provide relevant information on how to enter room, sit down and so on

Why would you read over your application form before an interview?
Recap and refresh yourself on what the job entails and what you had written
Refresh yourself on what you have stated in terms of experience
Refresh yourself on what you have said in terms of hobbies/interests things you may be
asked about in the interview

Why should you take care with your appearance for an interview?
To make a good impression
Gives an insight to the type of person you are
Looking good will help you feel more confident and therefore relax
Gives the impression that you really want the job

What are the problems of arriving late for an interview?
First impressions are important and being late creates a bad impression
May miss the interview (busy schedule)
Gives the impression that you are not serious about the job
If you arrive late, you are more likely to be flustered and stressed, and not perform as well as
you could

Explain why a CV is important to many employers. (6 marks)
Can see the academic qualifications
Can see experience/past employment history
Details of interests/hobbies
Outlines of areas of responsibility undertaken
Also assess presentation of CV/spelling/grammar
Can gauge potential of employees
Good tool to help you shortlist for interview

Explain why it is important to change your CV when applying for different jobs. (2 marks)
CV should match the skills and qualifications required which will be different for each job
CV will constantly need updated, as with each new job you will gain additional skills
You may have attended various training courses since the last position you applied for

Explain two benefits of visiting sites on the internet to find career information. (4 marks)
Information gathered about various careers from one source quicker than searching through
different magazines
Information is up to date skills and qualifications change on a regular basis and therefore the
internet is more reliable than other sources as it can be updated easily

As well as academic performance, explain what else an employer might be looking for in a job
application. (8 marks)
Personal qualities, skills, and experience, as qualifications may only give a limited view of what
you are like as a person
Personal qualities, skills, and experience may be more relevant to the job in question
Is trustworthy, responsible, and able to see things through to completion
Adaptability can adapt to requirements of the job and fit in with others
Shows the job seeker has jobs and interests outside of school/college
Criminal record information
References

Explain two advantages of going straight into work after finishing Year 12. (4 marks)
Wages become more independent
Training on the job training, resulting in qualifications relating to career
Freedom gained by being financially independent
Career prospects may be easier to work your way up in the firm rather than trying to join at a
higher level when older

How can careers teachers help you make decisions regarding the best career for you?
Give advice about your chosen career path
Advice about possible courses at Institutes of Further and High Education
Mock interviews
Help with Work Experience Placements
Help with CV
Careers fairs

Explain two ways the careers teacher can help a student to make a decision regarding his/her
career. (4 marks)
Students can discuss what he/she is good at and what he/she likes and dislikes so the careers
teacher can give them advice on suitable jobs/courses
Careers teacher will be knowledgeable in all aspects of Post 16/Post 18 courses and may be
able to suggest a course/option that the student is unaware of
The careers teacher can give impartial advice so the student can make their own decisions and
not what their family wants them to do

How can parents or family members help you make decisions regarding career choices?
Parents and family members have their own ideas about what they want you to do
They try to push you down a career path that you dont want to do
They can give good advice and knowledge if your chosen career is the same as the one they
already have
They know your skills and qualities and what type of person you are
They can also be very protective

Explain two advantages of taking part in an apprenticeship scheme rather than staying on in
full-time education. (4 marks)
A person can undertake vocational training and therefore they will end up with not just
academic qualifications but a lifelong trade
A person will earn money during an apprenticeship, so therefore they will enjoy more
independence and freedom
Undertaking an apprenticeship will mean that you leave school and therefore it may help you to
become more mature and feel more adult
An apprenticeship may be more suitable for your skills and qualities than undertaking academic
study would be

The Global Credit Crunch

Definition
A credit crunch (also known as a credit squeeze or credit crisis) is a reduction in the general availability
of loans (or credit) or a sudden tightening of the conditions required to obtain a loan from the banks.

Disadvantages in Northern Ireland
Redundancies
Reduced pay
Pay freeze
Sabbaticals
Businesses not hiring/recruiting
House prices have plummeted
A lot of small businesses have had to close
Public spending has been cut
People from Northern Ireland have been affected by the closure of companies such as Fair
Pak, and travel companies

Advantages in Northern Ireland
Increase in pay day loans / cash for gold, and so on
Pawn brokers
Second hand shops / charities have benefited
Increase in home rentals
Reduction in mortgage rates
Good for shops like Lidl, Home Bargains, and so on
Fast food outlets (cheaper than eating out at a restaurant)

Jobs Affected by the Credit Crunch

Construction (developers, builders, contractors, suppliers, estate agents)
The demand for new housing fell dramatically as people wanting new homes could no longer get
mortgages. This meant a drop in the number of new homes being built.

Retail
People no longer had access to as much credit as they did previously. Some people ended up in
negative equity and were therefore more wary about spending money on luxury goods. Many retail
giants suffered as a result of this (Woolworths).

Hospitality
People have less disposable income and so go out to bars, restaurants, and clubs less often

Public sector
The government announced a decrease in public spending, which meant decreasing the wage bill in
the public sector, so there were fewer jobs in this sector

Other
The elderly, people who had saved money in banks, people on benefits

Unit 2 Rights and Responsibilities of Employers and
Employees

Learning Outcomes
Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:
Areas in which an employer owes a duty of care to an employee, including salary,
healthy and safety, career development, compassionate leave, and holidays
The responsibilities that an employee has to an employer (to be loyal and honest,
to keep good time and meet deadlines, and so on)
Ways in which businesses can become more socially aware (issues of
sustainability and climate change)

Learning Intentions
Students will be able to:
Recall various pieces of legislation in place to protect employees
Know what a contract of employment is and be able to explain why it is important
Know what a trade union is and be able to discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of belonging to a trade union
Be familiar with environmental issues and be able to discuss why businesses
need to make decisions that are more environmentally friendly

Responsibilities of an Employer

Salary
Salary agreed in advance of accepting job
Must be paid as per contract (e.g. weekly, monthly)
Salary is divided over twelve months
Wage is hourly rate: paid weekly
The employer is responsible for ensuring that each employee is paying Income Tax, National
Insurance, and Pension Scheme (if relevant)

Career Development
Ensure all employees are fully trained in the use of equipment
Must ensure that all opportunities/courses are open to all employees regardless of gender,
race, age, and so on

Compassionate Leave
In terms and conditions of employment, employers should include entitlements with regard to
compassionate leave
This usually refers to unpaid leave because a situation/emergency has arisen with regard to a
dependant (children, spouse, partner, elderly relative)
Some employers do offer paid compassionate leave
Includes the right to attend a funeral

Holidays
All employees are entitled to annual leave
Again, this will be laid out in the contract of employment
It refers to holidays above and beyond annual bank holidays
Entitlement increases with every year spent working for the company

Health and Safety
The employer must ensure the health and safety of all their employees, customers, and clients
Health and Safety training must be taken by each member of staff
Health and Safety signs and instructions must be clearly visible throughout the workplace
Safe practises must be insisted on

Rights of an Employee
A fair interview
Evenly distributed working hours
Holidays
A break/lunch
Good working conditions
The minimum wage
Data protection/confidentiality
To be treated as an equal
Maternity/paternity leave
Maternity/sick pay
Regular Health and Safety checks
To be a member of a Trade Union

How can employers make the workplace healthy and safe for employees?
Provide safety equipment and protective clothing
Make sure emergency exits are identified so employees know the quickest way to evacuate
Provide adequate heating, light, and toilet/washing facilities
Train employees on use of specialist equipment

Why is it essential for an employer to maintain high standards of health and safety in the
workplace?
To ensure employees health is not adversely affected
The law states that employers must abide by all health and safety regulations: otherwise, they
will penalties imposed on them
A healthy and safe working environment will mean that employees will carry out their tasks
more efficiently and therefore result in a more profitable organisation
Safe environment means workers will become more motivated

Contract of Employment
During the induction period, a new employee should receive a contract of employment. The contract
must be drawn up and signed within eight weeks of starting a new job. It is an agreement between the
employer and employee which sets out their rights, responsibilities, and duties, and it clearly illustrates
what the employer and employee can expect of each other.
It contains:
The name of the employer and the employee
Start date
Job title and job description
Hours of work
Rate of pay
Holiday entitlement
Sick pay
Disciplinary procedure
Period of notice required
Maternity/paternity leave
Information about overtime

Explain why it is important to receive a contract of employment. (6 marks)
It is a legal document which says exactly what is expected of you, states your starting date,
duties, and responsibilities, and must be given within eight weeks of starting work
It states pension rights, redundancy pay, length of notice, and so on
It can be used at an industrial trial (cases of unfair dismissal)
It can be used by both employer and employee to defend their actions, as it highlights
grievance/disciplinary procedures
It outlines arrangements for the payment of any commission, bonuses, or overtime

Right and Responsibilities

Salary
Employee has the right to be paid fairly and on time for the work they do
Employer has the responsibility to ensure employees are paid a fair wage on time, and to
ensure each employee is paying income tax and National Insurance

Career development
Employee has the right to have opportunity for promotion
Employer has the responsibility to ensure there are opportunities for career progression or
promotion

Health and Safety
Employee has the right to be safe at work
Employer has the responsibility to ensure employees are fully trained in the use of all
equipment in the workplace; to ensure all employees receive health and safety training; to
follow health and safety legislation

Compassionate leave
Employee has the right to be shown consideration for personal matters
Employer has the responsibility to allow unpaid time for family emergencies including funerals
as agreed in the terms and conditions of employment

Holidays
Employee has the right to have holidays
Employer has the responsibility to ensure that all employees are allocated annual leave for
holidays

Legislation

Equality: Northern Ireland Act 2000
This piece of legislation is different to the others as it goes beyond trying to eliminate discrimination by
trying to promote equality of opportunity. It states that public authorities must do all they can to promote
equality of opportunity when they are carrying out their jobs and writing policies in Northern Ireland.
They must promote equality of opportunity between:
Different religious beliefs, political opinions, racial groups, ages, marital statuses, or sexual
orientations
Men and women generally
Persons with a disability
Persons with dependants and persons without
They must also promote good relations between persons of a different belief, political opinion, or racial
group.

Gender: Sex Discrimination Act 1975 / Equal Pay Act
This legislation protects individuals from discrimination on the grounds of his/her sex or gender in the
areas of employment, training, education, provision of goods, facilities, and services, and the sale and
management of premises.
Employers cannot discriminate against people because of their sex if they are:
Applying for a job
Applying for promotion, transfer, or training
Employers have the responsibility to ensure men and women carrying out the same or similar work are
paid the same.

Race: Race Relations Act 1997
This legislation protects individuals from discrimination on the grounds of colour, race, nationality,
ethnic, or national origin. It states that people involved in the provision of goods, facilities, services, or in
further and higher education cannot discriminate against anyone on the basis of race/ethnicity.
Irish travelling community is specifically included as a racial group which cannot be discriminated
against.
Employers cannot discriminate on racial grounds when someone applies for a job, and segregation on
racial grounds is not allowed on account of the fact that weve already been there and done that before
slavery was abolished.

Disability: Disability Discrimination Act 1995
This act gives rights to people in the areas of employment and access to goods, services, and
premises. It recognises that some disabled people need practical help in getting a job or accessing
services/
Employers have to make reasonable adjustments to their employment practises or the workplace itself
to make sure people with a disability are not at a disadvantage.

Trade Union

Describe the functions/roles of a Trade Union. (8 marks)
Protect and improve the real living standards of their members (for example, pay)
Protect workers against unfair dismissal (employment rights)
Promote improvements in working conditions and health and safety issues
Promote improvements in workplace training and education
Campaign for protection of pension rights for union members

Advantages for Employee
Can provide the employee with information on his/her rights, and keep the employee updated
with laws affecting his/her work
Can negotiate for good working conditions relating to safety, working facilities, and working
environment
Can represent the employee in times of grievances and disputes (over wages/holidays)
Trade union will act as a mediator between employers and employees and ensure staff are
treated fairly
Trade unions can organise action to put pressure on an employee to make changes (strike, go-
slow, work to rule, picket line)
An employee can get advice and support from their trade union representative
If an employee has a question regarding their contract of employment, they can ask the trade
union to clarify it
A trade union will ensure there is career progression for employees
Disadvantages for Employee
Trade union may call workers out on strike: the employees dont get paid, which results in loss
of earnings
The expense of being a member of a trade union: there is a membership fee, so if the
employee does not avail of the service it could be seen as a waste of money
The employee will have to abide by the decisions of the trade union, whether they agree or not
If staff takes industrial action, this will disrupt production (loss of productivity), which the
employee will need to catch up when they return after strike action
Strike action can cause serious stress, depression, and financial worries for employees

Advantages for Employer
Unions and their members stand to gain from higher productivity
The workforce is more flexible
Improve working conditions and employment right so less likely to have any disputes
Employers can deal with the shop steward (the representative of the union) instead of a
number of different employees
Employers only need to distribute information to the trade unions, which then pass it on to its
members
Disadvantages to Employer
They drive wages higher and employment lower than if the labour market was fully competitive
They may prevent the introduction of new, flexible work practises
They may delay the introduction of new technology
Trade unions can encourage members to go against the companys wishes
Industrial action can give the company a negative reputation, which could affect orders and
money coming into the business
Industrial action from the whole staff can result in profit losses for the company

Responsibilities of an Employee

Loyalty
Employees should be loyal to their employer or the company they work for. Employees who work to the
best of their abilities have high productivity levels, which can influence profit levels. They promote the
good reputation of the company, which can attract new customers.

Honesty
Employees should be honest in all their dealings with colleagues and customers. Their employer should
be able to trust them to handle valuable items and money. This gives employees confidence and
encouragement to be a better employee. Being honest also ensures no theft of goods, which could
result in a loss of profit for a company, and a feeling of low morale among staff.

Health and Safety
Employees must ensure their own safety and the safety of others. This will result in fewer accidents,
which can cause damage to a companys reputation. If employees are off sick due to injury, there are
lower levels of production.

Time Keeping
Employees should be on time for work. It is essential for employees to be at work on time to carry out
their duties. This ensures high productivity levels and customer satisfaction. If an employee is late for
work, a colleague may have to cover for them and this creates negative feelings in the workplace,
which can lead to reduced levels of production.

Meeting Deadlines
If deadlines are met, work will be produced on time, which leads to customer satisfaction and a good
reputation for the company and ultimately good profit levels.

Professionalism
Employees must act professionally in the workplace. This ensures that there is a level of respect and a
good atmosphere in which to work. A good reputation will encourage staff to apply to work in the
company. It will also attract customers if they know they will receive a professional service.

Failure to meet these responsibilities may result in the employer beginning the dismissal
process:
Verbal warning
Written warning
Formal written warning
Dismissal (fired)
If an employee has been dismissed, it is very difficult to get a positive reference for future employment.
Also, they may not be considered for promotion opportunities.

What rewards are there if an employee meets their responsibilities?
Financial:
Bonus: extra payment, usually for reaching a target
Commission: percentage of sales made a sales person (Belfast Telegraph)
Profit-Sharing: employee receives a share of the profit
Non-Financial:
Job rotation: moving around different jobs to prevent boredom
Recognition/Status: employees may be recognised for their efforts (Employee of the Month)
Consultation: employers may take the time to find out their employees views and be willing to
discuss their suggestions
Fringe benefits: perks of the job (company car, pension scheme, mobile phone)
Job enrichment: employees may be given more interesting, challenging, and more complex
tasks

What are the benefits of a highly motivated workforce?
Improvements in quality of output workers take more pride in their work and produce better
quality products
Productivity rises more is produced per worker, so the cost of making each product
decreases
Fewer disputes fewer strikes
Fewer staff leave this reduces the cost for the company as it is expensive to recruit and train
new staff
Provides a stable and happy environment, which encourages staff to stay

Corporate Social Responsibility

Government Definition
How businesses take account of their economic, social, and environmental impacts in the way they
operate maximising the benefits and minimising the downsides.

To be socially aware is to have knowledge of the world and the people around us.
If a business is socially aware, they employ ethical strategies within the workplace. (Fair Trade)
They may also be involved in local projects and charity work.
They may be involved in raising money for local schools. (Tesco vouchers)

How can environmental issues be dealt with in the workplace?
Investigate the issues
Train staff in practises geared towards protecting the environment
Offer incentives to staff who are following procedures
Ensure machinery/vehicles/equipment are serviced
Insulate the premises
Encourage bags for life as opposed to giving plastic bags
Reducing/reusing/recycling waste materials
Proper disposal of litter

How does being environmentally aware create jobs?
Jobs in recycling
Jobs in collecting recyclable materials
Jobs in manufacturing goods from waste
Sales jobs

How does being environmentally aware attract customers?
Some customers will only use companies that are environmentally aware
It will attract customers because they are making the extra effort to protect the environment
It can attract other businesses to share practises
It enhances the corporate image and therefore attracts more customers

Good Practise Cards

Economic Responsibility
Turn the office heating system down a few degrees and have it check regularly (also
environmental)
Replace all lighting with low energy bulbs (also environmental)
Only print when necessary (also environmental)
Buy and use fairly traded good, products, and services where available
Donate to charitable causes (also social)
Social Responsibility
Implement a customer care policy
Support local businesses and industries
Allow staff to use their expertise to guest-speak at local schools
Set up and promote flexible working hours
Deal with suppliers and customers responsibly
Provide measure to reduce stress in the workplace
Offer work placements to schools
Treat employees fairly
Provide a safe working environment for staff and customers
Environmental Responsibility
Recycle printer and toner cartridges
Encourage staff to car share, walk, or use public transport (also economic)
Make sure lights, computers, and other devices are switched off at the mains when not in use
(also economic)
Buy, use, and sell environmentally friendly goods (also economic)
Use recycled products
Conduct a green audit

How climate change can affect a business
Extreme weather conditions (floods, hurricanes, and other extreme weather conditions can
damage property and disrupt the business)
Drought (lack of water has impact on health and safety)
Poorer air quality (leads to air pollution impacts on employees and animals)
Colder winters/hotter summers (leads to higher energy costs because of heating and air
conditioning requirements)

Inner City Renewal: This is the development of our city centres.

What effects does redevelopment have on employment?
Generates employment in the construction industry (new apartments/office blocks/roads)
More tourism, therefore more service jobs (Belfast Tour Bus/Tour Operator)
Odyssey Arena and so on
Leisure facilities
Restaurants, cafes, and so on
Negative effects
Large supermarkets are able to offer low-cost pricing, a bigger range, and unlimited free
parking. This competition means that corner shops wont sell as many goods and may close
down
Corner shops also create a sense of community, which can be wiped out by supermarkets
Some people feel that the demise of the local shop affects the health of the populations lowest
earners, as it can lead to a lack of food shops and services in rural and poor areas

Unit 3 Issues of Self-Employment and Sources of Support

Learning Outcomes:
Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
The characteristics of an entrepreneur
The advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed
The support provided by the following agencies: the Department of Employment
and Training (DEL), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Invest NI,
Enterprise NI, and the Princes Trust

Learning Intentions:
Students will be able to:
Identify the opportunities and risks involved in self-employment
List the sources of finance available to an entrepreneur

Enterprise and Entrepreneurship

What is enterprise?
When the term is mentioned, the immediate connection is with business. Entrepreneurship is
connected to the running of a successful business. Enterprise, on the other hand, is an ability we all
bring to our daily lives in many ways. We are all enterprising, but we are not all entrepreneurs. Many
young people show enterprise by taking part in/organising community activities and events, developing
new interests, charity work, and fundraising.

Definition of Enterprise:
The ability of an individual or group, using essential skills and attributes, to develop an original idea and
bring it to a rewarding, successful conclusion.

Famous Entrepreneurs
Bill Gates Founder of Microsoft
Steve Wozniak Founder of Apple Computers
Coco Chanel Founder of Chanel
Oprah Winfrey Founder of Harpo Productions

An idea
We are all enterprising at different times and in different ways, but all new projects have to start with an
idea something new or novel.

Enterprising Qualities
Having an idea is at the heart of enterprise, but other qualities are also required. These include:
Creativity
Persuasion
Networking
Focussed
Leader
Listening
Flexible
Good communicator
Able to take risks
Enthusiastic
Determined to succeed
Innovative

Where can entrepreneurs find money for a business?
Personal savings
Sale of an asset (like their house)
Overdraft (short-term loan from a bank)
Bank loan
Credit cards
Investors (people who put money into the business for a share of the profits)
Government assistance

Advantages of Self-Employment
Financial:
o You get the profits
o You get the money to reinvest in what you want, such as other businesses
o You can make lots of money from owning your own business and so can have a high
quality lifestyle
Non-Financial
o You are in control, and you are your own boss. You dont have to answer to a superior,
and you make the decisions
o You can work when you want to and so make your hours fits around your family and
lifestyle
o You will have the satisfaction of working on something you feel passionately about
o Running a successful business will boost your confidence and self-esteem

Disadvantages of Self-Employment
Financial
o You may lose the money that you have invested in the business
o You may have difficulty with cash flow (money coming in and out of the business),
which affects your own personal finances
o You have to deal with the ebbs and flows of the economy your business may be
affected by a poor economic climate
Non-Financial
o You may not be an expert in all areas of the business
o You are the only person responsible for the business and the staff
o You may need a lot of motivation
o You are responsible for carrying out the market research, so if it goes wrong, this is
your problem
o The amount of time and effort needed can have an impact on other areas of your life.
You may come to dislike the business you loved
o You could end up with high levels of stress and worry
o If there are high levels of competition or not enough customer demand for your
business, you may fail

Explain the characteristics that can make someone a successful entrepreneur.
A hard worker: to ensure you can put the hours and effort into turning the ideas into a business
Focussed: to have the vision to work towards achieving a goal
Motivated: to keep going despite setbacks and continue to drive forward
Responsible: to act in such a way that people know they can trust you, and maybe take a
gamble and invest your business

The Importance of Market Research
An entrepreneur setting up a business will need to know:
If their product will sell well so they will know if there is a demand/need for their product that
could lead to a business with a strong customer base
What the customer needs so they know what service, quality, or experience customers
expect, and can cater appropriately for their customers
What the competition is so they will be aware of the other products they are competing with
on the market, which will then enable them to price competitively in order to gain a market
share

Enterprise at Work
Many employers encourage employees to be enterprising by rewarding good and successful
suggestions and ideas. Employees often display enterprise skills through problem-solving and
innovative ideas.
Many employees tire of passing their ideas onto employers and often opt to start their own business to
have personal satisfaction and reward for their own skills.
The government encourages people to start their own business, as this will strengthen the economy as
there is less dependence on the Public Sector for employment. For this reason, the government has set
up support agencies to help people wishing to set up their own business.

Department for Employment and Learning (DEL)
Role: help people to get new skills, and provides guidance to those who want to be self-
employed.
Support Provided: Steps to Work programme, for those who are over eighteen (or over sixteen
and a single parent) and are unemployed
How it Helps: opportunities to retrain, get qualifications, and get work experience under the
guidance of an advisor
Examples of Assistance: work placements, qualifications, personal advisor

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI)
Role: helps to decide and deliver government policy on areas such as Tourism, Social
Economy, and Enterprise
Support Provided: mostly through Invest NI, but can offer guidance for self-employed people in
various areas
How it Helps: guidance on areas around tourism, innovation, energy, global markets, and
health and safety
Examples of Assistance: a place to go for information. It has policies and statistics that
entrepreneurs may find useful when researching or conducting business

Invest Northern Ireland (NI)
Role: part of DETI and gives assistance to new and existing businesses on starting up or
growing their business domestically or internationally. Also attracts new business to NI
Support Provided: Go for it programme and Growth programme offer advice on exporting and
global trading and encourage foreign investment to set up in NI
How it Helps: meetings, workshops, and training seminars (on finance planning, IT, marketing,
design, and so on), mentoring support from experts, business clinics where problems can be
discussed and hopefully solved
Examples of Assistance: personal business advisors, training and workshops, one to one
mentoring, networking opportunities, online support, support to develop business plans, offer
grants, organises international trade fairs

Enterprise Northern Ireland (NI)
Role: represents the Local Enterprise Agency in NI. These are independent, local, not-for-profit
companies that try to help support small business development and encourage economic
development activity in NI
Support Provided: representation of the interests of Local Enterprise Agencies with government
agencies, private companies, and NGOs working in enterprising and economic development.
Also provides services for small businesses such as funding and information
How it Helps: guidance on grants and initiatives available to small businesses, professional
advice from experienced business people, advice on programmes available to help businesses
and entrepreneurs grow and develop
Examples of Assistance: help with financial assistance, help with finding business
accommodation, help with new technologies, help with using programmes such as Go for it

Princes Trust
Role: helps young people aged eighteen to thirty who are unemployed to start up their own
business
Support Provided: advice on employment options that are available, business training,
business planning, funding, and guidance from a mentor
How it Helps: downloadable guides with help in areas such as business planning, finding
premises, sales and marketing, managing finances, legalities, taxation, and business behaviour
Examples of Assistance: 24-hour helpline, virtual office space, online accounting system, web-
designing, town and country market opportunities to sell goods and services, money grants

Explain two ways a business support agency may help an entrepreneur set up a new business.
Provide with advice, support, guidance so that they will be informed of all help available
Assist them with raising capital in order to help finance their business
Provide specialist advice on skills needed to set up business so they can sort out any problems
that they may encounter
Low cost loans
Grants

Unit 4 The Impact of Globalisation on Employment

Learning Outcomes:
Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
The impact of global economic changes on Northern Ireland: for example,
changing employment patterns, migration and immigration, and the growth of new
technologies

Learning Intentions:
Students will be able to:
Define the terms globalisation, import, and export.
Explain why globalisation has taken place
Examine the implications of the global market on Northern Ireland
Evaluate the impact of the global market on Northern Ireland
Identify the jobs that may become available in Northern Ireland as a result of
globalisation
Identify the changing employment patterns in Northern Ireland and explain why
they are changing
Define migration, emigration, and immigration.
Identify the key reasons why people leave their home country to come to
Northern Ireland
Evaluate the impact of migrant workers in Northern Ireland
Identify how technology is changing and the impact this will have on the jobs
available in Northern Ireland

Globalisation: The integration of economic, cultural, social, political, and technological systems across
the world. It results in a greater movement of people, capital, goods, and ideas across boundaries.

Import: To bring or carry in from an outside source, especially from a foreign country, for trade or sale

Export: To send or transport abroad, especially for trade or sale

Why would a business go global? This can be summed up by the three Cs: Cost, Climate, and
Competition.

Cost: It is cheaper to produce some goods in other countries rather than in Northern Ireland, due to
factors such as cheaper workforce, cheaper raw materials, or cheaper utilities. The benefit to the
consumer is that products sold in shops may be cheaper. The benefit to the business is possibly more
profit if the cost of producing goods is lowered.

Climate: Some countries can produce goods that cannot be produced in Northern Ireland coffee, for
example so the goods are imported here for sale. We import fruit and vegetables from other countries
where they can be grown all year. The benefit to the consumer is a greater choice of goods. The benefit
to the business is that a greater choice of goods means more customers.

Competition: There may be an opportunity to sell products in other countries in competition with other
global or local businesses. The goods or services a business could sell may not be on offer in another
country, or they may be able to provide highly quality or cheaper goods or services. The benefit to the
consumer is more choice and products and services of higher quality. The benefit to the business is
that selling products in other countries could result in increased profit and more job opportunities.

Why do you think globalisation has taken place?
Improvements in technology, particularly the internet. Other components of modern technology
that have also played a part are email, video-conferencing, mobile communications, networked
computers, and digital television.
Better transport systems
International trade

The Benefits of Globalisation:
To the Business
o Gives the business a larger market and so this could lead to increased sales
o Export opportunities in a global market, which can lead to increased profit
o The opportunity to learn more efficient business methods through the sharing of ideas
with other countries in the global market
To the Employee
o Opportunity for employees to gain new skills or promotion as the business expands
and new jobs become available
To the Consumer
o Variety of products and services and a larger range of goods or service providers
o Increased competition can lead to better value
To Northern Ireland
o Opportunity to trade on an equal basis with countries all over the world
o Attracting investments in jobs/communities in Northern Ireland
o Tourism into Northern Ireland
o Civic pride as the country is able to compete in a global market
o Education, community, and business links (town-twinning)
o Building relationships with countries around the world
The Drawbacks of Globalisation:
To the Business
o More competition for local businesses
o Closure of businesses due to the increased competition of being in a global market
o Fluctuation in money markets if a business is importing into the UK the price of the
good will depend on the strength of the pound against the currency of the other country
o Money will be needed for retraining of staff to work in a global market
o Language barriers it can be difficult to communicate in a market where a different
language is spoken
o Transport arrangements can be expensive and take time to organise, which may mean
that the business will not make money in the short term
To the Employee
o Redundancies due to under-pricing from foreign businesses
o Pressure may be placed on employees to travel to other countries and to remain there
to establish the business

Town-Twinning
Town-twinning started after the Second World War as a way of building strong links and friendships
with communities in other countries. Its central ideas are to build international cooperation and
understanding within a diverse cultural framework.
Special emphasis is placed on the involvement of young people, who serve as the foundation of the
future. Another important goal is the exchange of ideas and innovation among the partner cities for the
benefit of all sections of the twinned communities.

The Impact of Globalisation
Advantages
Worldwide communications have improved
Increased communication means we can learn more about each other
Population is more diverse and cosmopolitan
More people are recognising the importance of protecting the environment
There are more jobs in poor countries (call centres)
Countries with a shortage of skilled workers are actively promoting employment opportunities
It is possible to buy more exotic foods and goods at affordable prices
A wider market means an increase in sales and therefore more money
Get ahead of competitors because your business is more well known
Disadvantages
Companies who find it too expensive to do business in Northern Ireland will relocate to
countries where costs are lower
Language barriers
Strive for increased profit may result in slave labour
Increased movement of people and trading links can lead to the spread of disease in humans,
plants, and animals
Logistics: how do you physically transport the good around the world and deal with delays?
Many companies in Great Britain and Northern Ireland cannot compete against countries like
India and China
Globalisation can have a negative effect on the environment
Many highly skilled people leave poorer countries to come to (for example) Northern Ireland to
earn money, which means fewer jobs for natives
Some companies relocate overseas where wages are much lower

Employment Patterns

Employment patterns refer to the types of jobs we do, who employs us, and how many of us are
employed at a given time.

Primary Sector: Farming, fishing, mining, oil drilling, forestry
Secondary sector: Manufacturing, construction
Tertiary sector: Services business and public

Different Types of Employment:
Permanent (full- and part-time): An employee with paid leave entitlements and a work contract of
unlimited duration.
Temporary (full- and part-time): An employee with a fixed term contract.
Seasonal: A worker who finds work in certain seasons, such as Christmas.
Freelance: A person who sells services to employers without a long term commitment to any of them.
Tele-working: Working from home.

Different Types of Employer:
Self-employed: this is when you work for yourself.
Public sector: working for the government.
Private sector: working for a private business.

Changes in Employment Patterns

Shift from manufacturing to services. There has been a long decline in manufacturing
industries such as shipbuilding, and a growth in service industries such as banking, IT, and
tourism.
Rising female employment. Noticeably in service industries.
Rise of flexible employment patterns. Including greater part-time employment and a switch
towards short-term contracts.
Expansion of self-employment. Now over three million people register as self-employed.
Long term rise in part-time employment.
Higher long-term employment.
Growing scale of economic inactivity. Particularly for males over the age of fifty, lone
parents, and people with disabilities.

Why are such changes occurring?
Advances in technology. These changes bring about a change in the jobs offered and skills
required by employers. The introduction of machinery and computerisation in many industries
has resulted in a reduction in staff and trends are now based on computerisation.
Availability of appropriately skilled workers. Because of developments in technology and in a
global market, employees need to learn new skills for the growing tertiary sector.
Cost of labour force. As a result of globalisation, many companies based in Northern Ireland
have decided to have their goods produced abroad because of the cheaper workforce. People
employed in factories in Northern Ireland therefore face losing their jobs and having to retrain to
have the employability and technological skills that are most sought after.

Migration: The process of moving between countries.
Emigration: The movement of people out of a country. Emigrate from Ireland.
Immigration: The movement of people into a country. Immigrate to Australia.

Reasons why People Migrate:
Employment other countries may have more job opportunities than Northern Ireland
Moving to a place where your skills are required some countries have a skills shortage, and if
you have the skill that is sought after, you may be offered an incentive to go and work there
Better pay and conditions this can be the case if the country is more developed and more
modern
Better standard of living if there are more activities to participate in or more amenities in the
country due to climate
To avoid war many people do not want to remain in a country that is being ravaged by war
To avoid persecution in countries where human rights are abused
For medical treatment if the country has superior medical services
To avoid racism in some countries, certain people face violence or live in fear of their lives
because of their race
Retirement to go and live in a place with a better climate and standard of living
Reuniting families if they have been separated for many years and decide to come back
together
To return to their country of birth to see family again or just experience their place of birth

Reasons why People leave their Homes to come to Northern Ireland:
Northern Ireland offers higher salaries than some other countries
UK-based employment agencies may have travelled to an immigrants country and offered
work
Northern Ireland has a better standard of living in terms of housing, education, and healthcare
than some other countries

Advantages to Migrant Workers (of migrating):
Better pay
Better life
Better education system and health service
Most people are welcoming
Disadvantages to Migrant Workers (of migrating):
Racism
Poorly paid work
Prejudice
Poor housing conditions
Language barrier
Exclusion from society

Reasons why People leave Northern Ireland and Migrate Elsewhere:
Unhappy with the post-conflict situation
A warmer, dryer climate
Attracted to a different culture
Opportunities for children education, sport
Better career opportunities promotion, need for skills
Change of lifestyle and type of living outdoor activities, beach lifestyles, large city
environment

Advantages of Emigration from Northern Ireland:
The people leaving may gain a better standard of living
Better job opportunities and chances of promotion
Emigration is not permanent, and people who have emigrated may return, bringing back their
experience and expertise to be put to good use and shared
Disadvantages of Emigration from Northern Ireland:
Brain Drain loss of highly skilled professionals
Loss of highly skilled professionals can lead to jobs not being filled
The movement of one individual can cause a chain reaction in a family and filter out into a
community

The Impact of the Growth of New Technologies on Northern Ireland

How has new technology affected our lives?
The ability to use computers at home and access the World Wide Web has influenced our lifestyles. We
can now shop online, compare prices and communicate with each other without leaving the house.
These facilities have been enhanced further by smartphones, which means we can now use the World
Wide Web on the move.

Advantages of New Technology
Ease of access to information
Ease of access to price comparisons
Ease of communication
Home entertainment
Ability to work from home
Disadvantages of New Technology
Information overload
Price comparison can be time-consuming and often does not include transport/delivery costs
Dangerous, as people can be subject to abuse and fraud

Impact of New Technology on Businesses
Positive:
Improved motivation of workers as most employees enjoy being part of a business that invests
in modern technology and which is achieving success due to this. People enjoy learning about
new technologies and learning new skills in it.
New technologies can result in high levels of production and more efficient production which
can lead to increased sales and improved profits
The development of new products would be easier with modern technology and a business
would benefit from a larger range of products. This in turn would attract customers, gaining
more sales and improve profit.
New technologies may increase administrative efficiencies of a business and thus improve
communication (internet, email, Skype, iPad)
The growth in online shopping can save the business money in the long run as there is less
need for fancy premises and showrooms. Also, it cuts out the middleman.
The uses of a very wide range of products/services are available and easily accessible so this
has changed peoples lifestyles in a variety of ways.
Negative:
People must be adaptable and willing to learn new skills. This could mean undertaking training
programmes, which they could find stressful employees need to have skills based around
computerisation.
The workforce could become less skilled as the technology does most of the work for them.
Through time, new technology may mean fewer workers (redundancies), and this will affect
employment levels in the locality individuals need to learn new skills in order to obtain future
employment.
More competition for local businesses through the use of the World Wide Web.
The use of the internet has lessened the amount of physical exercise and social interaction of
many people.

Jobs for the Future
A 2012 article predicted that these jobs would be in demand in 2020, due to the impact that new
technology will have on societys needs, wants, and desires.

Environmental: Jobs to reduce human environmental impact. Jobs to measure the environment impact
on business.
Advanced Manufacturing: Product design using mechanical engineering, electronics, controls
engineering, and computers to make materials for use in technologies such as self-healing composite
materials for use on aircraft, ships, and spacecraft.
Robots and Artificial Intelligence: Jobs where robots can perform tasks more efficiently than humans,
such as types of surgery. Jobs where artificial intelligence can predict or give answers faster than
humans can (search engines).
Education: Jobs for teachers and lecturers to retrain and re-skill the population, especially through
online courses.
Renewable Energy: Jobs to generate and sustain renewable fuels such as solar, wind, tidal, and
hydrogen.
Augmented Reality: Jobs that will allow the world of the internet, 3D, and reality to collide in the form
of 3D visors connected to Bluetooth devices and digital architecture.
Social Services: Jobs that will cater for an aging population (nurses, home carers).
Food: Jobs for people involved in organic and locally produced food.

Mass Production
Means producing large volumes of an identical, standardised product, continuously on a production
line.
You can only mass produce something if there is a mass market for it.

Advantages:
Each employee is practiced at one particular task, so can work faster.
Lengthy training is avoided, so saves money.
Time saved because not moving from one job to another.
More items produced in a given period of time, and therefore more profit.
Tools and machinery are used economically as each employee only requires tools needed to
carry out one particular task.
Disadvantages:
Work can be very repetitive for the employee, resulting in boredom.
Motivation is low there is no incentive to take pride in work.
If machinery breaks down or strikes take place in one section, production is halted throughout
the whole workplace.
Redundant employees find it difficult to find out other work because they are so narrowly
trained.
High cost of purchase and installation of equipment.

J and B Games Ltd has decided to target the global market. Evaluate the impact of their
decision on their business.
Positive:
A wider market will provide the business with the opportunity to be ahead of its competitors.
Having access to a global market should make the business better known.
Advertising costs should prove quite minimal.
Sales through the global market should increase overall sales and hence lead to greater profits.
The business could save money as a result of not having to pay for expensive showrooms and
premises.
The business will remain open twenty-four hours a day, so this means that the business
provide opportunities for round the clock sales.
Negative:
The business needs to be able to meet the demands of increased sales (more staff, bigger
premises, and so on).
Needs to take account of the logistics of physically transporting goods all around the world.
Product needs to be differentiated to suit a worldwide market.

Explain two benefits to a company of using ICT in its Head Office.
It can store vast amounts of information relating to the business on its computer (stock
records).
It enables its office workers to communicate throughout the world using email, video
conferencing, and the internet.
Word processors produce greater quantity of material in a shorter period of time.
It may enhance the public image of the business.
It may be used to store customer details on a database so they may be contacted with details
of special offers and so on.
They can access stock levels in other stores in order to satisfy customer needs.

Evaluate the effects of using mass production techniques in the workplace.
Positive:
Each employee is practiced at one particular task, so can work faster.
Lengthy training is avoided, so saves money.
Time saved, because they are not moving from one job to another.
More items produced in a given period of time, and therefore more profits.
Tools and machinery are used economically, as each employee only requires tools needed to
carry out one particular task.
Negative:
Work can be very repetitive for the employee, resulting in boredom.
Motivation is low, as there is no incentive to take pride in work.
If machinery breaks down or strikes take place in one section, production is halted throughout
the whole workplace.
Redundant employees find it difficult to find other work because they are so narrowly trained.
High cost of purchase and installation of equipment.

International Trade is very important to the economy of a country. Evaluate the effects upon a
business of trading with other countries.
Positive:
By trading with other countries, a business can sell its goods in greater quantities, which will
lead to increased profits for a business.
Increased sales will inevitably lead to high levels of production in the business, which will
provide employment for more people.
Trading with other countries increases the variety of goods available to purchase, which will
create a better standard of living for the consumer.
Trading with other countries may result in the business being able to buy raw materials/goods
cheaper than buying at home.
Fair trade issues.
Negative:
It will be faced with competition, because there are so many more manufacturers trying to sell
their own products.
Increased production in order to market abroad may require extra capital investment and
recruitment of additional staff, and a business may not be able to cope with this.
Distribution/receipt of goods may cause problems for a business in that it will need to employ
agents in a foreign country.
A business will have to familiarise itself with the various types of documentation required for
trading with other countries.
Language barriers are also a drawback. Businesses have to ensure that some members of
staff are capable of speaking, writing, and translating the language of the country in which the
trading will be taking place.
Businesses need to be familiar with the currency of the foreign country and be able to trade
their products in that currency (made easier with the introduction of Euro).
Cultural differences may prove to be a problem. Exporters need to be aware of the values and
traditions of the country to which they are selling. It is vital that those values and traditions are
respected.

Many customers decide to use the internet to shop. Evaluate the impact this has on the local
economy.
Positive:
The business will be open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, so this may result in an
increase in the sales for the business.
An increase in sales may ultimately lead to an increase in profits.
As a result of trading on the internet, businesses could save money as they may not have to
pay out as much on showrooms and premises.
Selling abroad across the global market should make the business better known across the
world.
Advertising costs could be kept to a minimum.
Negative:
Having a worldwide market will mean that the business will face a lot of competition.
Designing and updating a website may be expensive as specialists may need to be employed
by the business.
Market research may need to be carried out by the business in a comprehensive manner in
order to assess the requirements of customers in such a wide market.
The business will have to be careful as regards packing products for distribution and this may
work out to be expensive.
Businesses will need to train employees in the use of ICT.