Author: Molly Rush

Marketing Executive
  • Importance of Gut Health: Deeply Foods

    Importance of Gut Health: Deeply Foods

    In a world where the importance of gut health has captured the attention of many, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Clara Latham, Co-Founder and Joint MD, Deeply Foods. Clara shares insights into the inspiration behind Deeply, the challenges she has encountered, and her career journey up until this point.

    About Clara:

    Clara’s professional background has seen her build brands which have both developed and lead in their individual categories. 

     

    She began her career working for healthy snacking brand Bounce, where for 7 years she worked across various sales and marketing roles; her achievements spanned winning and growing the health & specialist retail landscape, to being the brands spokesperson across PR and all major trade events and finally developing and overseeing the export strategy for the brand, in an International Key Account Manager position. Working closely with Bounce MD, they led the smart-snacking category to become the number 1 energy ball, with a Bounce protein ball now sold every 1.9 seconds globally. 

     

    Clara was subsequently appointed as Head of Sales at Seedlip, during which time she worked closely alongside founder, Ben Branson, to establish and develop the no & low spirits category. As Sales Director, she oversaw a 15-strong commercial department, and supported the business in gaining 7000+ distribution points globally, Seedlip emerged as the undisputed category leader, before being sold in just 4.5 years to alcohol drinks giant Diageo, in a successful majority deal acquisition. 

     

    Clara was shortly after head-hunted to lead the launch of Delevingne Sisters’ wine brand, Della Vite, in the role of GM. She lead the brands growth successfully through Covid, launching in the UK and US, before parting ways to focus full time on her Founder & MD role for Deeply. 

    Clara Latham

    Co-Founder & Joint MD, Deeply Foods

    Interview with Clara

    Clara, could you please provide a brief introduction about yourself to begin?

    I’m a passionate foodie, born and bred Londoner, an extrovert – and have been working in the world of food & drink start-ups my whole career which now spans sixteen years. I live with my wonderful husband Ben and care deeply about my family & friends.

    Deeply Foods is your own start-up, which is very exciting! When did you launch the company, and could you tell us more about what it specialises in?

    Deeply has been on the market for only a couple of months (we launched in September 2023) but I’ve been working on the development of the business and brand idea for over two years with my fellow founding team members.

    After discovering just how impactful a thriving gut microbiome can be on our overall health, I was inspired to research and find out what it takes to truly build and maintain a healthy gut. The latest science now proves that consuming 30g of fibre per day is key and plays a fundamental role, yet in the UK alone, only 10% of us are managing to reach the daily goal.

    At Deeply, we’re passionate about helping people bridge their fibre gap so we developed a range of powerful prebiotic fibre blends, which can be enjoyed as part of a repeatable morning ritual, a simple morning dose.  Our recipes are proven to directly tackle many of the most common gut health issues (bloating, constipation, digestive discomfort) with a growing number of consumers now feeling the benefits and converting to the power of prebiotics.

    What inspired you to start Deeply Foods? What’s the story behind its inception?

    Having worked at several really interesting and innovative start-up businesses, I love the fast-paced & entrepreneurial environment. Work has never really felt like ‘just a job’ to me, in fact, I’d go as far as to say my career has likely moulded a part of my personality. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some fantastic founders and gained a lot of experience and insight into what it takes to build a successful business.

    The key was succeeding in developing a product & brand within a space that truly resonated with me. Given I’m always trying to optimise my health I knew I wanted to launch a brand within the health and wellness space. The positive impact I believe Deeply can have on people’s lives excites me hugely.

    Your business partner is Mark Tanous…how did you meet him and how did you know he was the right person for you to join forces with?

    I met Mark years ago when he was MD at Bounce Energy Balls which was the first company that I ever worked at. For seven years I benefited from his great leadership and mentorship and experienced first-hand many of the business attributes I deem as important for the effective running of a company. We share a lot of the same values when it comes to building brands & teams. We reconnected several years later, both keen to start building something for ourselves from scratch, and the stars aligned for us to co-found a business together. Mark is incredibly hard working, very passionate about health, but most importantly he is someone that I can trust, which is a key attribute when looking for a co-founder.

    Can you share some success stories/milestones Deeply has achieved so far?

    It is still very early days, but I am incredibly proud and happy with the brand we have launched. The recipe, its proven efficiency as well as the name Deeply. I love that it’s packaged in innovative aluminium which is a key differentiator.

    We’re already seeing lots of consumers subscribing to Deeply, which is a key part of our strategy – getting people to invest in a daily gut health routine. We’re also well on our way to better understanding who our target consumer (and shopper) is, which is a fundamentally important thing to define.

    I’m also proud to see us winning significant shelf space in retail within the gut health fixture as the leading and only prebiotic brand. Deeply challenges the status quo within the category and it’s lovely to be able to see that in front of my eyes after years of it living only on a slide or within a strategy deck!

    What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in getting the company off the ground?

    Lots of the usual start-up mayhem including supply-chain delays that pushed our launch back. We’re also faced with the everyday challenge of choosing what we must prioritise, as we’re currently only a small team. I do however believe that it’s mastering these challenges with the right level of resilience that will help us to differentiate & ultimately win over other companies. The other interesting challenge which is specifically relevant to this space is that no two people’s gut microbes are the same, which means Deeply can benefit people in entirely different ways. It’s a fun puzzle to put together, but it does add some complexity!

    What does success for Deeply look like for you long term?

    We want to be the leading household, premium prebiotic gut health brand, by 2030. We hope to be recognised for being a true leader in the gut health category, that is recognised for the genuine positive impact we have had on people’s lives and their health. I believe that prebiotics and fibre are a fundamental driver of that, and we hope to achieve enough commercial impact to make a notable difference.

    Which has been the role that’s had the most significant impact on your development or career and why?

    A tricky question to answer as every role has been hugely beneficial. Before starting Deeply, I have worked at three fantastic companies.  Seven years at Bounce, over four years at Seedlip and almost three years at Della Vite. At Seedlip I was employee 2, hired as Head of Sales and grew with the company from shortly after launch until post-acquisition to Diageo. The role gave me so much exposure to launching, growing, scaling, and selling a brand and we did it in four and a half years. It was undoubtedly a start-up success story and the experience I gained from being part of the leadership team that created a category, responsible for developing the commercial strategy and growing my team was hugely valuable. People often refer to a step in their career as being a transformational phase, so I would have to say that that was my time at Seedlip.

    Could you share a memorable success story or experience involving a candidate you have hired into one of your teams? What made them stand out or contribute to the company's success?

    There are a range of people I’ve hired along the way and a good segment are from New Chapter. Sam Gummer was a New Chapter candidate, and he was my third hire into the sales team at Seedlip. Before being at Seedlip, he worked as an estate agent selling properties in Knightsbridge. He walked up to his interview, suited and booted, and pitched that he was passionate about moving into the food and drinks industry. He had no real industry-relevant experience, but he was super hungry, incredibly polite, and very ambitious. I felt that although he was a bit of a wild card, he was showing all the right attributes that we looked for and the right kind of behaviour and culture fit, so I went for it and offered him the job.

    As Seedlip began to scale into the national retailer landscape, listing with the likes of Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose, Sam was responsible for defending the Speciality channel and through a very focused strategy managed to maintain channel growth, which was against the odds. He executed it fantastically. Now he’s the Sales Director at Longbottom! What an amazing progression story. One of the many Seedlip alumni.

    You mentioned that this time felt different when making hires for Deeply Foods. What were the unique aspects of this experience, and what challenges did you encounter?

    Fundamentally, everything is just put under a microscope when it’s your own business. I care a lot, and it’s just a unique and challenging experience. When you’re hiring at the start of the journey, the first people set the tone for the culture and performance expectations. You need doers, but also expertise which can sometimes be a challenge on start-up budgets. I have always viewed the budget as if it were my own, but in this case, it really is my own, it’s our livelihood. It’s a challenge but it’s exciting!

    What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or individuals interested in starting their own business?

    Linking to my previous point I think the biggest thing I have learnt so far, is that the highs are higher, and the lows are lower. It is more extreme, and my advice is to have the right support system around you. Whether that’s family, your partner, your friends, or mentors – people that you can bounce ideas off and trust. And also, always try to remember, you are still your own person, and your professional role however personal it can feel at times, shouldn’t define you.  

    Take a look at Deeply Foods below and explore the benefits prebiotics can have on your health.

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  • Best Beauty Advent Calendars 2023

    Best Beauty Advent Calendars 2023

    With the advent calendar season just around the corner, the clock is ticking for those who haven’t yet secured their beauty advent calendar to start the countdown to Christmas. From jewellery to makeup must-haves, these beauty calendars will allow you to discover new favourites!

    Let’s dive into our guide to the best beauty advent calendars of 2023, and hopefully, this can help you make the all-important choice.

    Soap & Glory: It's A Pinker Wonderland

    Kicking off our list is the advent calendar that promises a month of relaxation. Packed with 24 surprises, this one’s in the budget-friendly zone but still loads up on goodies for grabs. From scrubs to face masks, it’ll have you smelling and feeling great through the festive season.

    Buy now from Boots for £41.40
    Worth nearly £90

    DIOR: LE 30 MONTAIGNE

    Dior has unveiled their ultra-premium calendar, priced at nearly £600. It features a blend of Dior beauty classics and celebrates their range of fragrances, along with skincare and popular makeup products. If you’re after a premium experience, Dior is a fantastic festive choice!

    Buy now from Dior for £570
    Worth £3,400

    Cult Beauty Adent Calendar

    Arguably one of the most eargerly awaited advent calendars, Cult Beauty’s 25-day countdown is the retailer’s most extensive calendar to date. Featuring 39 products, of which 20 are full-size, it includes a selection of their most sought-after items and exciting brands!

    Buy now from Cult Beauty for £225
    Worth over £1000

    Diptyque: Scented Treasures

    Speaking of another luxury advent calendar, Diptyque offers an assortment of high-end home goods and scent experiences. Behind each door you’ll discover not only their signature scents but also three special-edition festive fragrances.

    Buy now from Diptyque for £390

    MAC: FROSTED FRENZY

    It’s back again! MAC’s advent calendars over the last five years have been very successful. Here’s their 2023 Frosted Frenzy Calendar, including 16 full-sized products and 8 minis, perfect for any makeup lover.

    Buy now from MAC for £170
    Worth over £485

    Jo Malone Advent Calendar

    Another fragrance filled callendar is from Jo Malone, complete with colognes, bath and body miniatures, a full-sized scent, and two travel candles. Whether you’re a fan of Jo Malone London classics or eager to find new festive fragrances, this invites you to discover your next favorite scent.

    Buy now from Jo Malone for £350

    Sephora: Favourites

    Following the sell-out success of its first ever advent calendar, Sephora UK has dropped an even bigger beauty selection. This calendar is filled with 36 products, 23 of which are full-sized, from their most exclusive and best selling brands.

    Buy now from Sephora for £189
    Worth over £1000

    Makeup Revolution: Glam

    The most affordable calendar on this list, Makeup Revolution’s 25 Days of Glam. Their popular countdown is back again and better than ever, with everything you need to from lip glosses to eyeliners and must-have accessories, the ultimate choice for a beauty lover.

    Buy now from Revolution Beauty for £34
    Worth £96

    Astrid & Miyu Advent Calendar

    If fragrance and makeup aren’t your thing, here is one of our top choices of Jewellery advent calendars this festive season. In fact Astrid & Miyu have a selection of three to choose from, all with best-selling pieces, exclusive jewels and amazing savings. Prices range from £395 to £995.

    Buy now from Astrid & Miyu for £325
    Worth over £600

    Charlotte Tilbury: Charlotte's Lucky Chest of Beauty Secrets

    Charlotte’s Lucky Chest of Beauty Secrets unveils 12 doors, housing 2 full-sized products and 10 makeup and skincare minis. Act quickly if you’re eager to grab this calendar, as it’s likely to sell out soon!

    Buy now from Charlotte Tilbury for £160
    Worth £225

    Thank you for reading our blog, if you’re not a beauty lover make sure to take a look at our food & drink advent guide!

    If you’re looking for a new opportunity, check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and understand what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Talking About Your Weaknesses in Interviews

    Interview Tips: Talking About Your Weaknesses

    Now that you know the most effective responses, from our previous blog, and have pinpointed your weaknesses, let’s tackle the hard part, delivering your answer to the interviewer. Here is our tips for answering the classic “What is your greatest weakness?” question.

    1. Practice

    Whilst practice doesn’t guarantee the perfect response in the interview, it certainly helps you feel more prepared and confident. Although we can’t predict whether this question will come up, it is commonly asked, so the chances are high. It’s normal to stumble or stutter over words, but it is crucial not to completely fumble your response. Doing so may come across as insincere or unprepared, especially with a question like this.

    After you’ve drafted your answer, read it in front of a mirror or to a friend. Focus on your delivery and avoid sounding overly scripted. Ensure you’re comfortable with altering your wording and improvising at times; this will make your response sound more natural and less rehearsed.

    2. Stick to the point

    We don’t want to dwell on our weaknesses; try to keep your answer short, ranging between thirty seconds and one minute. First, directly state your weakness, then use the remainder of your answer to explain what steps you’ve taken or put in place to overcome it.

    Explain in simple terms the steps you’ve taken to improve. Remember, your interviewer likely has more pressing questions about your experience, and this answer isn’t as critical as you may think.

    3. Understand the interviewer’s intent

    Their goal isn’t to intimidate or scare you based on your answer. Asking about weaknesses is simply a way to get to know you. They’re not looking for you to admit that you’re not right for the job – after all, you’re qualified; otherwise, you wouldn’t have made it to the interview stage. They simply want to gauge your self-awareness in identifying areas for growth and assess how you handle feedback.

    4. Project confidence

    Assuming you’ve practiced, this should flow naturally. Confidence is key when talking about weaknesses, it shows that you are ready to acknowledge your areas for growth. During the interview, be sure to maintain positive body language and eye contact whilst delivering your response. Boost confidence by highlighting and focusing on the progress you’ve already made.

    weakness

    5. Don’t overthink

    Here’s the good news: hiring decisions don’t rely on your answer to “What is your weakness?” to make their final decision. If you’re honest and explain your commitment to improvement, this question will likely be low in your interviewer’s notes. So, take a deep breath, and we wish you the best of luck in your interview.

    At New Chapter, we partner with companies in the FMCG & Retail industries. If you’re currently seeking a new opportunity, make sure to contact us on info@newchapter.co.uk or take a look at our current vacancies.

    Alternatively, if you just need some specialist advice from experienced recruiters in your industry, we would love to help you out.

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  • Guide to the Best Vegan Alternatives

    Guide to the Best Vegan Alternatives

    As the world comes together to celebrate World Vegan Day, we’re thrilled to have our Senior Marketing Manager, Katie Leuw, share her favourite vegan alternatives.

    Today we are delving into the world of plant-based living, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about trying these alternatives. Here are her top selections:

    Planthood is more than just a brand; it’s a destination for plant-based living. They’ve made it convenient for those who struggle to know where to start with vegan meals. Unlike recipe boxes, their chefs do the hard work, cooking from scratch. You just reheat and finish the fresh bits in under 15 minutes.

    Indulgence meets health with The Raw Chocolate Company. Their range of raw chocolate treats is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients. From bars and buttons to hot chocolate powder, they offer an alternative for every chocolate lover.

    For those seeking plant-based protein options, Cauldron Foods is a game-changer. Their range includes tofu-based products marinated with herbs and spices, as well as falafel and vegan sausages. These are fantastic additions to salads, wraps, and stir-fries.

    Known for their creamy oat milk, Oatly has taken the world by storm with their range of dairy-free alternatives. From barista-style oat milk for your morning latte to rich and indulgent oat-based ice creams, Oatly has proven that oats can be a versatile and delicious substitute for dairy.

    Beyond Meat is at the forefront of the plant-based meat revolution. Their innovative products replicate the taste, texture, and aroma of animal-based meats, making them a fantastic choice for transitioning or seasoned plant-based eaters. Including chicken nuggets, burgers, sausages, and more, they offer an alternative for every meat eater.

    Violife is a leading brand in the world of dairy-free cheeses. Their range includes an array of cheese alternatives that melt and taste remarkably similar to dairy cheese. According to Katie, their Epic Mature Cheddar tastes just like the real thing!

    Nakd offers a delicious range of wholefood snacks made from all-natural ingredients. While their most popular products are their raw fruit and nut bars, they also offer Granola and Protein bars. Nakd provides an alternative to traditional sugary snacks that are not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients.

    These brands dedication to creating high-quality alternatives is not only changing the way we eat but also reshaping the future of food. Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply curious about plant-based options, we hope you can try one of these products and let us know what you think!

    We are lucky to work with some of these amazing plant-based brands and offer great opportunities to become a part of their teams.

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Creepy Halloween Cocktail Recipes

    Creepy Halloween Cocktail Recipes

    We now find ourselves just under a week away from the spookiest night of the year, it’s time to prepare for your chilling celebration.

    Whether you’re hosting a haunted house party, or simply looking to enjoy a creepy cocktail, these Halloween recipes are sure to cast a spell on your taste buds. From a pumpkin punch to a witches brew, we have something for everyone this spooky season.

    Vampire's Kiss

    Dare to sip on the Vampire’s Kiss Martini, a concoction with bold flavors and a striking red hue. The perfect haunted drink this halloween.

    • 25ml vodka
    • 20ml raspberry liqueur
    • Ice
    • Frozen raspberries and red sugar to garnish, lemon.
    • Champagne, to top up

      Instructions:
    1. Chill a martini glass. Pour the raspberry liqueur and vodka into a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice and frozen raspberries.
    2. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold. If using coloured sugar, coat the rim of your glass with a lemon, then dip into the sugar.
    3. Fine-strain the cocktail into your prepared glass and top with champagne.

    Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

    This festive take on the Espresso Martini is the key to a perfect Halloween or any time of year. Pumpkin Spice Latte season only ends when you say it does…

    • Ice cubes
    • 30ml kahlua
    • 30l vodka
    • 30ml espresso
    • 15ml pumpkin spice syrup
    • Cinnamon for garnish

      Instructions
    1. Shake all ingredients together in an ice-filled shaker.
    2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
    3. Garnish with 3 coffee beans and cinnamon.

    Eyeball Snot-tail

    The jellied texture and edible eyeball in this slimy cocktail is dreadfully delicious. Also easily made into a mocktail by removing the vodka.

    • 14g of lime jelly
    • 25ml vodka (optional)
    • 70ml apple & pear juice
    • 30ml lemonade
    • lychees
    • glace cherries
    • raisins
    • cocktail sticks

      Ingredients
    1. Make the jelly following pack instructions and chill until set. Combine the apple & pear juice, lemonade and vodka in a large jug and chill in the fridge.
    2. To make an eyeball, grab a lychee and poke a hole in a cherry with one of the cocktail sticks. Put the cherry inside the lychee and then push the raisin into the cherry. Leave on a cocktail stick.
    3. When the jelly has set, use a whisk to break it up into small chunks. Put into the bottom of a glass and add your cocktail mixture. Place an eyeball onto each glass before serving.

    Black Cat

    Lucky or unlucky, whoever gets served one of these wicked black cat martinis will definitely be counting themselves lucky!

    • 50ml gin
    • 25ml blue curaçao
    • 15ml chambord (or similar dark purple berry liqueur)
    • Squeeze of lemon
    • Sugar
    • Black food colouring

      Ingredients
    1. Fill a cocktail shaker full of ice.
    2. Add all your ingredients and shake.
    3. Dye your sugar black with food dye.
    4. Coat rim of glass with lemon and dip into black sugar.
    5. Strain into your glass and serve.
     

    Witches Brew

    Did you think coloured Halloween cocktails had to be sickly sweet? Think again! This vivid green cocktail will bewitch your guests.

    • 45ml gin
    • 15ml Midori melon liqueur
    • 30ml lime cordial
    • 4 basil leaves

      Instructions
    1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake thoroughly.
    2. Strain into a chilled glass.
    3. Add mini ghost decorations or green gummy worms for the added spooky touch.

    We have some spookily good job opportunities for you! Start carving out your next career today!🎃

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Prioritising Mental Health: Best Workplace Benefits

    Prioritising Mental Health: Best Workplace Benefits

    Securing a job that prioritises your well-being is more crucial than ever, given the increasing awareness of mental health in the workplace and the range of benefits now available. It’s important to consider not only the salary and job responsibilities but also the perks. These can significantly enhance your overall happiness and satisfaction in both your professional and personal life.

    In this blog, we’ll explore the key mental health benefits to keep an eye out for when looking for your next opportunity.

    Flexible Work Arrangements

    Embracing flexible work arrangements, whether through adaptable work hours or the option to work from home, be it in a hybrid or fully remote capacity, can significantly improve work-life balance and alleviate stress.

    Without the need to fit your life around traditional 9-5 office hours, you have the opportunity to create your own schedule. This means your work can align with your lifestyle, allowing more time to excel professionally. No commute or a reduced commute, saves money and also means you have more time for your hobbies.

    Wellness Benefits and Resources

    Some employers provide wellness programs that include activities like yoga, meditation, or fitness classes. Incentives such as ‘gym lunches’ can be included in these programs, to establish a healthier work-life balance and promote overall mental and physical well-being.

    Allowing employees the opportunity to exercise or simply get outside during the day can leave them feeling motivated and refreshed, therefore reducing the likelihood of that afternoon slump.

    Access to EAP's and Health Insurance Benefits

    Numerous companies provide Employee Assistance Programs that extend confidential counselling and support services to both employees and their families. Additionally, many offer health insurance plans with comprehensive mental health coverage, including therapy, counselling, and psychiatric care. These programs serve as invaluable resources for managing stress, anxiety, or other mental health conditions.

    Supportive Company Culture

    The culture of a company has a significant impact on your well-being. A positive and forward-thinking business, one that values open communication and teamwork, will create an environment where you not only thrive professionally but also feel heard, supported, and valued. Ultimately a company that prioritises collaborative teamwork and cultivates a positive office environment will naturally attract likewise individuals who share the same values.

    Mental Health Days and Paid Time Off

    Employers who prioritise your mental health will ensure you have access to allocated paid time off and encourage you to make the most of it. Having dedicated mental health days enables you to focus on your well-being without the financial worry. Companies that acknowledge the importance of these benefits tend to foster a healthier work culture. Allowing employees to reset and recharge, will ultimately enhance overall productivity.

    Clear Policies on Workload and Expectations

    Establishing transparent expectations is vital for preventing burnout and maintaining good mental health. When responsibilities are communicated clearly and workloads set realistically, it paves the way for a positive and less stressful  environment.

    On the other hand, an imbalanced workload creates a huge toll on mental health, leading to decreased motivation, increased exhaustion, and a ripple effect on the rest of the team.

    As you start your job search, remember that your mental health is just as important as your professional growth and financial stability. Actively seeking positions that prioritise these mental health benefits means you are taking a significant step towards a healthier, more balanced professional journey. Always remember, your well-being matters.

    Use our 2023 Salary Survey to gain insight into what benefits other FMCG companies are offering. This ensures you can stay ahead of the market and have a clear picture of what might be on offer to you.

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  • Top Food & Drink Advent Calendars 2023

    Top Food & Drink Advent Calendars 2023

    The holiday season is fast approaching, and what better way to count down to the festivities than with an advent calendar?

    This year, brands have gone all out, now with a huge selection of advent calendars that go beyond the traditional chocolate squares. From cheese to crisps to gin we have wrapped up the top picks for 2023!

    1. Fever Tree Gin and Tonic Advent Calendar

    Is your favourite christmas beverage a cold G+T? Look no further than the Fever-Tree advent calendar. With 12 days of gin and tonic combinations, it’s the perfect way to kickstart the festive season!

    Buy now from Ocado for £65

    2. Prosecco O'Clock

    Isn’t it always Fizz O’clock somewhere? This offers a fun way to countdown to the big day or to gift to someone counting down to a special event!

    Buy now from Not on the Highstreet for £115

    3. Gourmet Marshmallow Advent Calendar

    Prefer a sweeter treat? The Naked Marshmallow Co. has released the world’s first Gourmet Marshmallow calendar, featuring 12 flavours tucked behind 25 doors. And if you enjoy them toasted, don’t forget to add their toasting kit to your basket!

    Buy now from The Naked Marshmallow Co for £20

    4. Pringles 12 Days of Advent

    Indulge in your love for Pringles! Enjoy 12 days of your favourite crisps in the lead up to ‘Crispmas’. Flavors include Original, Sour Cream & Onion, Salt & Vinegar, and Texas BBQ Sauce.

    Buy now from B&M for £10

    5. Candy Kittens 24 Days of Gourmet

    Prefer sweet over savoury? The Candy Kittens advent calendar holds a treat behind each door, and on day 24, you’ll find a full size bag to enjoy right before the big day!

    Buy now from Candy Kittens for £12

    6. Beavertown Craft Beer Calendar

    Elevate your Christmas countdown with 24 unique brews and a selection of extra festive gifts! Ideal for those who want to try something new but aren’t necessarily big foodies!

    Buy now from Beavertown Brewery for £69

    7. Gormet Popcorn Advent Calendar

    Joe & Sephs have revealed their most magical advent calendar yet! Featuring 24 treats with 19 unique flavours, it’s the perfect snack to enjoy on your festive film nights.

    Buy now from Joe&Sephs for £30

    8. Cheeseason to be Jolly

    Looking for something other than sweet treats? Consider indulging in a Cheese Advent Calendar, offering 24 days of mini creamy cheese truckles.

    Buy now from Chuckling Cheese for £45

    9. Swizzles Advent Calendar

    Looking for a simple, budget-friendly calendar, and not a fan of chocolate? This is the perfect option for you: every day you can tuck into some sweets!

    Buy now from Swizzles for £5

    10. Gin in a Tin

    Twelve unique gin tins for the lead up to Christmas – an essential for gin lovers this winter. It’s not just a calendar but could be given as a gift!

    Buy now from Sous Chef for £50

    11. Flapjackery Festive Countdown

    What better way to count down to Christmas than with a delicious flapjack flavour each day? Ranging from the classics to festive specials, there’s something for everyone!

    Buy now from Flapjackery for £65

    12. Vertuo Advent Calendar

    Are you coffee obsessed? Get your daily fix in the countdown to christmas with this Nespresso Calendar. With its extensive selection of premium capsules, it’s the perfect gift or well-deserved treat for yourself.

    Buy now from Nespresso for £45

    13. Lindt Advent Calendar

    This customisable advent calendar from Lindt allows you to select from their extensive range of flavours and you can create your very own festive treat box, complete with 24 Lindt truffles!

    Buy now from Lindt for £15

    14. Pip&Nut Advent Calendar

    Indulge in full-size dark chocolate Nut Butter Cups, a treat perfect for both nut and chocolate lovers to satisfy your cravings in the lead up to Christmas.

    Buy now from Pip&Nut for £20

    15. Walkers Shortbread

    Last but not least the dream calendar for the biscuit lover, a shortbread countdown! Each day brings a delicious shortbread treat, perfect for those winter mornings.

    Buy now from Selfridges for £23

    Thank you for taking the time to read our blog, we hope it can help you select your calendar for this festive season.

    Make sure to stay tuned for our upcoming blog on the top beauty advent calendars 2023!

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Interview Success: Identify your Weaknesses

    Interview Success: Identifying Your Weaknesses

    You’ve reached the interview stage at your dream company with your impressive CV. As you prepare for the interview, it’s crucial to research and prepare answers to common questions such as “What is your greatest weakness?” This planning will help you avoid responses that may hinder your success in the role and limit replies that may come across as insincere, such as, “I tend to work too hard.”

    In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the best answers to this crucial interview question, and with this planning, we hope you can secure that dream career.

    How to Select and Identify your Weaknesses.

    1. Select a Weakness that will not Impact your Success in the Role.

    When an interviewer asks, “What is your greatest weakness?” they are trying to gauge your self-awareness, honesty, capacity for self-improvement and ability to identify growth opportunities. Ultimately, it would help if you used this question to showcase how you’ve changed one of your weaknesses into a new skill or used it as motivation for a growth opportunity.

    2. Use a Real Weakness

    “Perfectionism” is not an answer when discussing your biggest weakness, as it doesn’t exist. While preparing your response, reflect on what you’ve learned and improved in your current role. Talk about early struggles in learning or improving skills and explain to the interviewer what you did to overcome them. Alternatively, use a personal weakness to make you seem more human, these replies don’t just have to be career related. For example, if you’re an introvert, mention how you prefer to avoid taking risks. Demonstrating not only your self-awareness but also that you understand how self-improvement and work performance are tied.

    3. Exclude any Skills or Responsibilities Listed in the Job Description.

    The job listing will typically provide a list of weaknesses you should avoid discussing, as these could potentially impact your ability to perform the role effectively. If you find it challenging to identify a specific weakness, read your past performance reviews, which will be relevant to your role. This can help you gather examples of your achievements and areas where you can improve.

    List of Example Weaknesses

    Messy desks are common, and this is a relatable and easily fixable weakness. Ensure to note that disorganisation will not affect your job ability, but to perform at 100%, acknowledge that this mess can impact your efficiency. Therefore, working on keeping your space cleaner/tidier by putting time aside to get yourself together will improve your performance.

    You can use this to demonstrate a new skill and your flexibility. If you feel that you prefer to take on and finish tasks yourself or had to activley learn how to delegate in your last role, you can use this as a weakness. Discuss a system you use to manage this; it displays initiative to the interviewer and successful implementation of a new process.

    In your last role, if you hesitated to provide constructive feedback to coworkers without fear of hurting their feelings, use this to show how you turned your weaknesses into strengths. Mention an instance in your previous role where you helped a co-worker with feedback, and from this, you realised criticism, when delivered correctly, is helpful and kind.

    Similarly, a lack of tactfulness when delivering feedback can also be a weakness. If you have a blunt and honest nature, it doesn’t always come across as intended, so you could talk about how you’ve been building better relationships in the workplace or doing a leadership course.

    If your role is not centred around public speaking, this is great to use as a weakness. You can highlight that you don’t need to use this skill much in your role but feel it is essential anyway and how you plan to work on this, whether speaking in team meetings or techniques to help you relax and see that public speaking helps others. Displaying your wishes to improve skills not necessarily needed in your role showcases maturity and your dedication to self-improvement.

    6.  Weak Data Analysis Skills
    7. Indecisiveness
    8. Too Much Self-Criticism
    9. Work-Life Balance Maintenance
    10. Lack of Patience

    Which can all be turned into positives, and added examples of how you have improved, or will work on these creates more meaning behind these posts.

    Go through these areas of consideration and prepare your answer to this all important question.

    And if you have decided you’re ready for a New Chapter, contact us on info@newchapter.co.uk or take a look at our current vacancies.

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  • FMCG B-Corp Brand Spotlight

    FMCG B-Corp Brand Spotlight

    As the calendar flips to September, we celebrate a month dedicated to organic products and sustainable living. It’s the perfect time to highlight B-Corp companies’ commitment to benefiting the environment. B-Corps, or Benefit Corporations, are businesses that meet high social and environmental performance standards, transparency, and accountability.

    In this blog, we’ll delve into what B-Corps are and how they benefit the environment and show you our top FMCG B-Corp brands. As an FMCG recruitment agency, we specialise in working with FMCG brands to find the best talent, including many sustainable companies.

    Understanding B-Corp

    B-Corps prioritise social and environmental responsibility alongside profitability. These businesses undergo an assessment to prove their commitment. The Business Impact Assessment evaluates company performance across the five key areas of:

    Governance
    Community
    Environment
    Workers
    Customers.

    Only businesses with high scores can earn B-Corp certification, demonstrating their dedication to sustainability and the environment.

    b-corp

    B-Corps and the Environment

    One of the standout areas where B-Corps excel is their environmental sustainability. Here’s how they make a positive impact on the environment: by reducing carbon footprints, practicing sustainable sourcing, minimising waste, engaging in conservation and restoration efforts, and maintaining transparency.

    Why B-Corps Matter in Organic September

    Organic September is a time to reflect on our choices as consumers and the environmental impact of our purchases. B-Corp companies align with the values of Organic September in several ways: by offering organic products, practicing ethical sourcing, and supporting local communities.

    Our Top B-Corp FMCG picks.

    B-Corp companies are at the forefront of sustainable and environmentally conscious business practices. As consumers, we can make a difference by choosing to support B-Corps and their products.

    As an FMCG recruitment agency we work with lots of companies who prioritise sustainability, so if you’re looking for a new role please get in touch; contact us on info@newchapter.co.uk to find out about our clients current opportunities.

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  • Uncover Your Strengths Before Interviews

    Interview Success: Uncovering Your Strengths

    Identifying your strengths should be a top priority when seeking your next career opportunity. By clearly understanding your strengths and weaknesses, you can effectively present yourself to prospective employers, setting yourself apart from the competition. Tailoring your skillset to align with your industry and the desired role is the key to proving that you are the perfect fit.

    The SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) is a useful tool to assist you with this. Normally used in a business context, the SWOT analysis can be adapted for personal use to highlight strengths and weaknesses, discover potential opportunities, and address any obstacles that might stop you from getting that dream role or promotion.

    So before heading on your job search, dive into these four areas of reflection and learn more about yourself…

    1. Discover Your Strengths

    Identify the qualities that set you apart from the competition; these become your selling points to secure your next role. What do you do better than anyone else? What do you think others view as your strengths? Once you’ve pinpointed your strengths, it’s crucial to understand how they compare to your competition.

    Examples of strengths include adaptability, problem-solving, communication, leadership, time management, creativity, teamwork, attention to detail, positive attitude, and dependability. Select a few strengths and establish connections between them and your previous role, showing how they enhanced your performance.

    2. Confront Your Weaknesses

    What areas can you improve upon? What should you avoid? Take a close look at your skillset to identify any obstacles hindering your personal and professional growth.  Reflect on what others may consider as your weaknesses and if you’re unsure… ask them! Invest the time to work on these areas before pursuing your next role.

    Be prepared to discuss your these and explain how you plan to overcome them. Our next few blogs will show you how to find them and the best ways to answer the all important ‘What are your weaknesses?’ questions in interviews.

    3. Spot Opportunities for Growth

    In terms of opportunities, it is important to identify external factors that you can take advantage of to find a new role or achieve a promotion. Evaluate your industry’s growth potential, if it’s on an upward trajectory, keep an eye out for new roles. Opportunities can also be found in your current workplace; does your employer offer any training opportunities? Explore the potential for this and take advantage of any further education or resources offered to enhance your qualifications and position yourself for future promotions.

    Remember identifying and utilising opportunities will be a huge benefit to your career journey. Stay proactive, stay curious, and stay open to new possibilities.

    4. Overcome Potential Threats:

    It’s important to identify any threats to your career progression. Is there competition for the jobs you’re most suited to? Are there limited roles available in your industry? Are the industry demands changing? If this is the case, it’s crucial to seek out any to help you overcome these threats.

    For example, if there is strong competition, seek opportunities to enhance your strengths and stay ahead of the competition.

    Go through these areas of consideration and make notes on what you find. Considering these four areas will put you in the best position when seeking your next role and will enable you to truly take advantage of your own strengths, but also any opportunities for progression.

    And if you have decided you’re ready for a New Chapter, contact us on info@newchapter.co.uk or take a look at our current vacancies.

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