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Hiring advice, in plain English.

Straight answers for care homes, hospitality venues and growing businesses on finding good people and keeping them.

Employer National Insurance in 2026: what it means for small business hiring

Employer National Insurance is now 15% on earnings above £5,000. Here's what that means for the real cost of hiring, and how the Employment Allowance can help small businesses.

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Hiring your first employee: a checklist for small business owners

Everything you need to do before your first employee starts, from right to work checks and insurance to PAYE, contracts and pensions, plus what it really costs.

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Temporary or permanent staff: which is right for your small business?

Should you hire someone permanently, or bring in temporary help? A plain-English guide for small businesses on costs, risks and when each option makes sense.

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12 interview questions to ask an office administrator (and what good answers sound like)

The best interview questions for hiring an office administrator or receptionist in a small business, grouped by organisation, communication, accuracy and reliability, with what to listen for.

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Recruitment agency fees explained: what you should really pay in 2026

How UK recruitment agency fees work, why most charge 15 to 25% of salary, what a rebate is, and the questions to ask before you sign any terms.

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How to hire a graduate for your small business in 2026

A practical guide for SMEs hiring a graduate in 2026: what to pay, where to find them, how to screen 100+ applications and how to keep them once they start.

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