Category: Blogs

With video interviews becoming increasingly common, mastering body language is essential to making a positive impression. Unlike in-person meetings, video interviews have unique challenges, such as limited physical presence and camera framing. However, using effective body language can help convey confidence, professionalism, and enthusiasm. Here’s how to get it right.

Why Body Language Matters in Video Interviews

Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in how others perceive us. In video interviews, body language can:

• Enhance your verbal responses.
• Show confidence and engagement.
• Build rapport with the interviewer.

By paying attention to your body language, you can ensure that your message is communicated effectively.

Dos: Mastering Body Language for Video Interviews

1. Sit Upright and Maintain Good Posture

• Sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
• Lean slightly forward to convey attentiveness.
• Avoid slouching, which can make you appear disinterested.

2. Make Eye Contact

• Look directly at the camera rather than the screen to simulate eye contact with the interviewer.
• Avoid staring intensely; maintain a natural and friendly gaze.

3. Use Natural Hand Gestures

• Let your hands move naturally as you speak, but keep gestures within the camera frame.
• Avoid excessive or distracting movements.

4. Smile Genuinely

• A warm, genuine smile conveys enthusiasm and positivity.
• Smile at appropriate moments, such as introductions or when expressing excitement about the role.

5. Nod to Show Engagement

• Nodding slightly when the interviewer speaks shows you’re actively listening.
• Avoid overdoing it, as excessive nodding can seem unnatural.

6. Keep Your Hands Visible

• Rest your hands on the table or in your lap when not gesturing.
• Avoid crossing your arms, which can appear defensive.

Don’ts: Body Language Mistakes to Avoid

1. Avoid Fidgeting

• Refrain from touching your face, hair, or clothing, as it can be distracting.
• Keep any nervous habits, like tapping your pen or shaking your leg, under control.

2. Don’t Let Your Eyes Wander

• Looking around the room can make you seem disengaged or unprepared.
• Stay focused on the camera and screen.

3. Avoid Overly Stiff Movements

• Sitting too rigidly can make you appear uncomfortable or tense.
• Aim for relaxed, confident movements.

4. Don’t Forget Facial Expressions

• A blank or overly serious expression can make you seem unapproachable.
• Balance professionalism with approachable, friendly facial expressions.

5. Avoid Poor Lighting and Angles

• While not strictly body language, poor lighting or an unflattering camera angle can affect how your body language is perceived. Ensure you’re well-lit and positioned at eye level.

Preparing for a Video Interview

1. Check Your Setup
   • Ensure the camera is at eye level and you’re framed from the chest up.
   • Test your lighting and eliminate any harsh shadows or backlighting.
2. Practice on Camera
   • Record yourself answering questions to observe your body language.
   • Adjust any habits or postures that might distract from your message.
3. Choose the Right Background
   • A clean, neutral background minimises distractions and keeps the focus on you.

Final Thoughts

In video interviews, effective body language can make a lasting impression and set you apart from other candidates. By maintaining good posture, making eye contact, and using natural gestures, you’ll convey confidence and professionalism. Remember, your body language should complement your words and reflect your enthusiasm for the role.

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My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

 

As 2025 winds down, professionals across the board are contemplating their next career moves. For those in insolvency or accountancy eyeing a fresh start in 2026, the question is: when is the ideal time to start the job search process? In this post, we will delve into why starting now, rather than later, could set you on a smoother path to your dream job.

 

Understanding Your Career Aspirations: The first step in any job search is introspection. What are your career goals? What kind of work environment do you thrive in? These are crucial questions to ask yourself. When you initiate the process early, you give yourself ample time to align your aspirations with potentially suitable opportunities. Engaging with a recruitment specialist quickly translates to a quicker understanding of your career goals and aspirations, which is a significant first step in the journey.

Identifying the right opportunities: The job market is ever-evolving, and opportunities come and go. By starting your search now, you place yourself in an advantageous position to tap into the current market’s offerings. Our role as recruiters is to identify potential opportunities that align with your career aspirations, and doing this early ensures you don’t miss out on any gems in the market.

The Interview Process: Securing interviews is a crucial part of the job search. The sooner you begin, the quicker you can find yourself in the interview chair, discussing your potential future with a prospective employer. This step is not just about impressing the interviewer; it’s a chance for you to assess whether the role and company align with your career goals.

Securing and Negotiating Offers: Negotiating an offer is an art. When you have ample time on your side, you’re in a better position to evaluate and negotiate offers. This ensures that when you do accept an offer, it’s the right one for you.

Considering Notice Periods: Notice periods are integral to the job change process. Depending on your current role’s requirements, this could range from a few weeks to several months. By starting early, you give yourself, and your future employer, the flexibility to work with these timelines, ensuring a smooth transition.

The Early Bird Catches the Worm: There’s a saying, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” This rings especially true in job searching. The early bird catches the best opportunities. Starting now means you’re proactive, engaged, and ready for what the future holds.

Navigating the New Year Rush: January is traditionally a busy time for both candidates and clients. Candidates are looking for new opportunities, and clients are returning to the office, ready to kickstart the year. However, this can also mean that the market is saturated, and the competition is fierce. By starting your search now, you navigate around this rush, placing yourself ahead of the curve.

 

The Pros of Starting Now:

• Access to Current Opportunities: The job market is ripe with opportunities right now. By starting your search, you ensure that you have access to these roles, many of which might be filled come the New Year.
• Extra Time for Job Searching: The end of the year can be slower for some industries, providing you with extra time to dedicate to your job search.
• Potential for an Early Start: Depending on notice periods and how quickly you secure a role, you could potentially start your new position before the year ends, giving you a head start on 2026.

The Cons:

• Potential for Rush Decisions: Starting early is beneficial, but it’s also important not to rush. Ensure that any decision made is well thought out and right for your career.
• Navigating Holiday Schedules: The end of the year is filled with holidays, which can mean that key decision-makers are out of the office. This could potentially slow down the process.

 

In the competitive world of insolvency and accountancy, timing is everything. Starting your job search now positions you ahead of the curve, providing access to opportunities that might not be available in the New Year rush. It gives you the time to navigate the process, from understanding your career aspirations to negotiating offers, ensuring that when you do make a move, it’s the right one for you. Are you ready to take the leap and start afresh in 2026? The time is now.

 

If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market (now or further into 2026), I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

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My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

As the holiday season approaches, the natural inclination for many professionals is to put off job searching until January. However, this can mean starting behind the curve when new opportunities arise. December offers a unique window to prepare, plan, and position yourself to hit the ground running in the new year.

December: The Hidden Gem for Job Seekers: While many candidates pause their job search during the holidays, employers and recruiters are actively preparing for the new year. Hiring managers often use December to pre-arrange interviews and shortlist candidates, so those who begin their search early have a strategic advantage.

Advantages of a December Job Search:

• Getting a Head Start on Your Competition: The job market can become saturated in January as everyone begins their search at once. By starting in December, you position yourself ahead of this rush, making it easier for recruiters to notice you and for your application to stand out.
• Proactive Interview Scheduling: Companies are already planning interviews for early January. By connecting with a recruiter in December, you can be one of the first candidates considered and scheduled for these interviews.
• Time to Prepare: Preparing your CV, updating your LinkedIn profile, and outlining your career objectives can take time. By starting now, you’ll be ready to seize opportunities in January without the stress of last-minute preparations.

Why Working with a Recruiter in December Matters: Connecting with a specialised recruiter before the holidays helps ensure that when January begins, you have a clear strategy and are ready to move quickly. Recruiters can offer insight into upcoming roles that may not be publicly advertised yet and provide personalized advice to make your profile shine.

How to Approach Your Job Search in December:

• Schedule a Planning Session: Use December to talk with a recruiter about your career goals, preferred roles, and key achievements. This allows the recruiter to match you with the right opportunities as they come up.
• Revise and Refine Your CV: Focus on updating your CV with any new projects or skills you’ve gained over the past year. Tailor it to the types of roles you’re interested in so that it’s ready to go when opportunities arise.
• Stay Connected: Even though December may seem quieter, recruiters are actively working to identify candidates for January openings. Stay engaged and responsive to messages so you’re ready when an opportunity comes your way.

December is often overlooked as a prime time for job searching, but by starting early, you position yourself ahead of the competition. Don’t wait for January to flick the switch. Begin the process now so you can be prepared and ready to secure the best opportunities when the new year starts.

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If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

 

As the festive season kicks off, most professionals shift their focus from work to holiday celebrations, delaying job search plans until January. However, what many don’t realise is that the end of the year is the perfect time to get ahead of the competition and secure early interview slots for the upcoming year.

Why December is a Prime Time for Job Seekers: While it’s true that December is quieter in terms of immediate interviews due to holiday events and year-end breaks, many employers are planning their hiring strategies and scheduling interviews for January. By waiting until January to start your search, you risk falling behind the candidates who began preparing in December.

Key Benefits of Starting Now:

• Early Access to Opportunities: Companies often use December to assess their staffing needs and set up interviews for the new year. Candidates who are proactive and start conversations now can tap into these early opportunities.
• CV and Profile Preparedness: Updating your CV takes time. By completing this now, you ensure that when hiring picks up, you’re ready to apply without delays.
• Increased Visibility with Recruiters: Recruiters like myself are actively looking for motivated candidates to introduce to clients planning for January. By connecting now, you increase your chances of being the first person considered for these new roles.

How to Make December Count:

• Reach Out to a Specialised Recruiter (Levitate Recruitment): Partnering with a recruiter who specialises in your field can help you streamline the job search process. We can identify potential roles, provide insights, and put you in front of decision-makers before other candidates even start looking.
• Revamp Your CV and Online Profiles: Take advantage of the downtime in December to fine-tune your CV, LinkedIn profile, and any other professional platforms. Highlight your recent achievements and skills that align with the roles you’re targeting.
• Define Your Career Goals: Use this time to reflect on what you want in your next role. Are you looking for more flexibility, a higher salary, or opportunities for advancement? Knowing this ahead of time will make your job search more focused and effective.

Don’t wait for January to start your job search and risk missing out on the best opportunities. Starting in December means you’re first in line when the market becomes active again. Reach out today, and let’s make sure you’re ready to kick off 2026 on a strong note.

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If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

 

In the competitive world of insolvency and accountancy, building a strong personal brand is essential for long-term career success. For young professionals, taking deliberate steps to develop relationships and establish a reputation early on can pave the way for future business opportunities. Here’s how you can build your personal brand and cultivate valuable connections both internally and externally.

Introduction to Personal Branding

Personal branding is about defining and promoting what you stand for as a professional. In the insolvency and accountancy sectors, a robust personal brand can distinguish you from your peers and position you as a go-to expert. Building your brand is not just about showcasing technical skills; it’s about forming meaningful relationships that can lead to referrals and business development opportunities in the future.

Building Relationships Internally

Your journey to a strong personal brand begins within your own firm. Developing connections with colleagues and mentors can provide a solid foundation for your career.

• Engage with Colleagues: Participate in team projects, attend social events, and seek out mentorship programmes within your firm. Building rapport with your peers and superiors can lead to lasting professional relationships.
• Think Long-Term: Understand that colleagues may move on to other firms where they can become valuable contacts for referrals. Maintaining good relationships with current colleagues can pay dividends in the future.

Building Relationships Externally

Networking outside your firm is equally important. Here’s how you can expand your professional network:

• Attend Industry Events: Participate in seminars, conferences, and industry-specific events. These gatherings are excellent opportunities to meet other professionals, share ideas, and make connections.
• Join Professional Societies: Become a member of industry-related societies and professional organisations. Active involvement in these groups can increase your visibility and credibility in the field.
• Volunteer for Speaking Engagements: Offer to speak at events or write articles for industry publications. Sharing your expertise publicly can enhance your reputation and attract potential clients or partners.

Networking Strategies

Effective networking is about quality, not quantity. Here are some tips to build genuine relationships:

• Prepare an Elevator Pitch: Have a concise and compelling summary of who you are and what you do, ready to share when you meet new people.
• Be Approachable: Show genuine interest in others and be open to conversations. Networking is a two-way street, and building relationships requires mutual respect and trust.
• Follow Up: After meeting someone new, follow up with a personalised message to reinforce the connection and express your interest in staying in touch.

The Role of Social Media

Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, play a crucial role in building your personal brand.

• Connect with Industry Professionals: Use LinkedIn to connect with colleagues, mentors, and other professionals in the insolvency and accountancy sectors.
• Share Insights and Achievements: Regularly post articles, insights, and updates about your professional journey. This keeps you on the radar of your connections and showcases your expertise.
• Engage with Content: Comment on and share posts from others in the industry. This not only broadens your network but also demonstrates your active participation in industry discussions.

Long-Term Relationship Building

Building and maintaining relationships is an ongoing process. Here’s how to keep your network strong:

• Regular Updates: Keep your contacts informed about your career progress and achievements. This helps maintain the relationship and keeps you top-of-mind for future opportunities.
• Offer Value: Share useful information, make introductions, and provide support to your network. Offering value strengthens your connections and fosters goodwill.

Balancing Technical Expertise and Personal Relationships

While technical skills are fundamental, personal relationships often determine business success.

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure you continuously develop your skills and knowledge to remain a trusted expert in your field.
• Relationship Building: Invest time in building relationships based on trust and mutual respect. People are more likely to refer work to those they know and like.

Final Thoughts

For young professionals in insolvency and accountancy, building a personal brand is a strategic investment in your future. Start early, and focus on developing relationships both within and outside your firm. Remember, business development often hinges on personal connections as much as technical expertise. By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling career.

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If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

 

The Summer holidays are often seen as a time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re planning a local staycation or an overseas getaway, the summer break offers a perfect opportunity to take a step back from your daily grind and assess your current career situation. It’s essential to use this time wisely, allowing yourself to reflect on what makes you unhappy in your current role and to formulate a plan for your next steps.

The Importance of Reflection

In the hustle and bustle of everyday work life, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and make decisions based on emotions like frustration, anger, or annoyance. These emotional decisions can lead to hasty job changes that might not necessarily be the best move for your career. Taking a break during the summer provides the mental space needed to make more rational and thoughtful decisions about your future.

Steps to Assess Your Current Situation

1. Identify What Makes You Unhappy
   • Take time to pinpoint the specific aspects of your current job that are causing dissatisfaction. Is it the workload, the company culture, lack of growth opportunities, or something else?
   • Write down these factors to have a clear understanding of what you want to change.
2. Evaluate Your Career Goals
   • Reflect on your long-term career goals. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
   • Consider how your current role aligns with these goals. Are you on the right path, or do you need a change to achieve your objectives?
3. Research Alternative Options
   • Look into different roles or companies that might offer what you’re missing in your current position.
   • Make a list of the qualifications, skills, and experiences required for these roles and assess how you measure up.
4. Formulate a Plan
   • If you decide that a change is necessary, develop a clear plan for your job search. This should include updating your CV, networking, and identifying potential employers.
   • Consider seeking advice from a career coach, trusted mentor or a specialist recruiter in your industry to help guide your decision-making process.

The Benefits of a Well-Considered Decision

Making a well-thought-out decision about your career can have several benefits:

• Reduced Stress: Knowing that you’ve taken the time to thoroughly assess your situation and plan your next steps can reduce anxiety and stress.
• Better Opportunities: By carefully considering your options, you’re more likely to find a role that truly fits your skills, interests, and long-term career goals.
• Increased Satisfaction: Moving to a job that aligns with your goals and values can lead to greater job satisfaction and overall happiness.

Conclusion: Take Your Time

The Summer is a great time to pause, reflect, and plan your career moves. Instead of making decisions based on temporary emotions, use this period to consider your options thoughtfully. If you’re still unhappy after this reflection, you’ll be in a better position to find the right opportunity that aligns with your career aspirations.

By taking the time to assess your situation and formulate a plan, you can ensure that your next career move is a positive and fulfilling one.

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If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

 

The insolvency market is experiencing an unprecedented demand for insolvency administrators and senior insolvency administrators. Over the past 18 months, salaries in this sector have seen dramatic increases, with some candidates receiving offers that vary by as much as £3,000 to £8,000. In some cases, candidates are even securing pay rises up to £10,000, whether by accepting new positions or negotiating with their current employers. While this is undoubtedly a positive development, it’s essential to understand the potential risks associated with these rapid salary increases.

The Positive Impact of Salary Increases

Salary increases are a welcome change for insolvency professionals, providing better financial stability and acknowledging their expertise and hard work. It’s common for job seekers to see multiple offers on the table, each company trying to outbid the other. This competitive environment is beneficial for candidates, offering them a range of choices and the ability to negotiate better terms.

Understanding Job Offer Variances

However, candidates should critically evaluate why some firms are offering significantly higher salaries than others. It’s crucial to ask questions such as:

• Why is this firm offering more than its competitors?
• Is the higher salary a sign of the company’s desperation to fill the role quickly?
• What are the implications for job security and long-term career prospects?

Risks Associated with Higher Salaries

While a significant pay rise is attractive, it comes with its own set of challenges:

• Increased Expectations: Employers offering higher salaries often expect more from their employees. This can translate into increased workloads, tighter deadlines, and higher performance standards.
• Job Security: In an ever changing industry like insolvency, companies paying above the market rate might be more vulnerable to economic downturns. This could result in redundancies if the market takes a downward turn.
• Future Salary Progression: Be aware that being paid more than the typical market rate now can impact your salary progression at higher levels. For instance, when you move up to positions like Assistant Manager or Manager, your salary might not increase as much compared to your peers who started at a lower rate.

Making an Informed Decision

When evaluating job offers, it’s important to look beyond the salary. Consider factors such as:

• Career Progression: What opportunities for advancement does the company offer?
• Company Culture: Does the company’s culture align with your values and work style?
• Work Environment: What is the work-life balance like? Is the company supportive of professional development?
• Long-Term Goals: Where do you see yourself in five years, and does this role align with that vision?

Conclusion: Balanced Decision-Making

In conclusion, while the rising salaries in the insolvency market are an exciting development, it’s crucial to make informed decisions based on a combination of factors. Salary is just one aspect of a job offer. Consider the overall opportunity, chances for progression, the company’s culture, and long-term stability. By taking a balanced approach, you can ensure that your career decisions lead to sustainable growth and satisfaction.

 

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If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

Over the last few months, a recurring theme among candidates has been the frustration of not being promoted or progressing in their careers. While there can be various reasons for this, one factor that often goes unnoticed is the impact of physical presence in the office. With many firms adopting flexible work-from-home policies, it’s important to strike the right balance between remote work and being present in the office.

The Visibility Factor

Working from home offers numerous benefits – flexibility, comfort, and a better work-life balance. However, one of the unintended consequences of remote work can be reduced visibility. When you’re not physically present in the office, it can be harder for decision-makers to notice your contributions. This doesn’t mean that your work is any less valuable, but out of sight can sometimes mean out of mind.

Why Presence Matters

• Spontaneous Interactions: Being in the office allows for spontaneous interactions with colleagues and superiors. These interactions can lead to mentorship opportunities, insights into upcoming projects, and chances to showcase your abilities in real-time.
• Building Relationships: Physical presence helps in building stronger relationships with your team. It’s easier to establish rapport and trust when you regularly interact face-to-face, making it more likely that your efforts will be recognized and rewarded.
• Demonstrating Commitment: While working from home can demonstrate flexibility and self-motivation, being in the office shows a level of commitment and eagerness to engage with the team and company culture directly.

Reflect and Adjust

If you’re feeling stuck in your career progression, take a moment to reflect on your current work habits. Ask yourself:

• Am I making the most of my office days? Ensure that when you are in the office, you’re fully engaged and taking advantage of the opportunities to interact and contribute.
• Can I increase my office presence? While it might not be necessary to be in the office every day, consider if there are strategic times or days when being present could make a difference.
• How visible is my work? Even when working remotely, find ways to ensure your contributions are visible. Regular updates, participation in meetings, and proactive communication can help keep you on the radar.

Taking Action

If you acknowledge that increasing your office presence could benefit your career, make a conscious effort to adjust your schedule. Communicate with your manager about your intentions and seek their input on the best times to be present. It’s not about abandoning remote work, but about finding the right balance that allows you to maintain visibility and take advantage of in-person opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Career progression is a multifaceted journey, and while remote work offers great benefits, it’s important to stay mindful of how physical presence can impact your career development. By finding a balance that works for you, you can ensure that you remain visible, engaged, and on the path to achieving your professional goals.

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If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.

My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.

For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.

 

If you are considering a career as an insolvency practitioner, you may be wondering which path to take to achieve this goal.

Many insolvency practitioners come from a legal or accountancy background, however, this is not a requirement. If you know insolvency is the industry you want to be in, you can start your career without any prior qualifications or experience to your name and receive all the training you will need in-house at a reputable insolvency firm.

The road to becoming an insolvency practitioner can be a long one, as it will take time to obtain the knowledge, qualifications, and experience you need to gain your insolvency license. However, if you are willing to work hard and start from the bottom, it is possible to progress through the ranks relatively quickly.

Starting out…

While it is technically possible to pass the necessary exams to qualify as an insolvency practitioner without ever working in the industry, this is not a recommended course of action. Without the day-to-day hands on experience of managing active insolvency cases, not only are you likely to find the already tough exams even more challenging but you will then need to be able to source relevant work experience in order to apply for your insolvency license.

For most individuals joining the industry, they will be required to start in a junior role such as Trainee Insolvency Administrator. This will give you great experience of the fundamentals of what is involved across the whole spectrum of formal insolvency processes.

Working alongside more experienced colleagues, your day-to-day duties are likely to include being involved in preparing the required documentation to fulfil the statutory obligations as set out in the Insolvency Act 1986. You will become familiar with liaising with HMRC and other creditors, and gain vital knowledge of how an insolvency case is administered from start to finish.

Depending on the firm you are working for, you may be given the opportunity to sit in on the initial consultations between the insolvency practitioner and the director of the insolvent company. If you are invited to take part in such meetings, you should seize the opportunity. These meetings can be invaluable in understanding the typical types of problems directors face, as well as how the insolvency practitioner approaches giving advice and the considerations taken to decide upon the most appropriate solution going forward.

Examinations: Considering the CPI

When you have mastered the basics of the industry and feel ready to take the next step, you may wish to consider formalising your experience by obtaining an industry-recognised qualification.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Insolvency (CPI) is an introductory qualification which, while it does not give you the license you need to become an insolvency practitioner, is a great way to start your formal qualification journey as it will give you the chance to solidify the foundational knowledge which can be a huge advantage for when the times comes to sit your JIEB exams.

Sitting the CPI is not a necessary pre-requisite of becoming a licensed insolvency practitioner, however, this intermediate step is one many chose to take at this stage in their career.

The CPI consists of a three-hour examination which is set by the Insolvency Practitioners Association (IPA) with the syllabus covering the whole range of formal insolvency procedures, from liquidation and administration to IVAs and bankruptcy, as well as requiring an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks which underpin these processes.

Holding CPI status is recognised across the industry as a significant achievement, and can be a great stepping stone in taking your career to the next level.

Gaining your insolvency license: the JIEB exams

Once you have gained ample and varied experience within the insolvency industry, the time will come when you feel ready to sit the JIEB exams in order to achieve your insolvency license and become a licensed insolvency practitioner.

The JIEB exams consist of two papers; one focussed on corporate insolvency, the other personal insolvency. In order to be apply to apply for a full insolvency license, both exams must be passed. If only one exam is taken (or passed) you can apply for a partial license which will allow you to take appointments related to companies or individuals only (depending on which exam has been passed) rather than both.

In order to receive your insolvency license, you also need to be able to demonstrate a minimum of 600 hours of relevant work experience over the prior 3 years. If you have followed the path above, you will have accumulated this naturally during your employment. If, however, you have sat the JIEB without any prior work experience in the industry, you will need to complete these hours before you can apply for a license to practice.

In addition to passing the JIEB and having the requisite hours of relevant work experience, all prospective insolvency practitioners must also be approved as a fit and proper person by the Insolvency Licensing Commission as part of the application process.

Once all qualifying criteria has been met, an individual will be granted their insolvency license making them a licensed insolvency practitioner.

While the road to becoming an insolvency practitioner can be challenging, insolvency does offer a fulfilling career in a stable counter-cyclical industry which is often extremely rewarding.

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About the author – Chelsea Williams is an experienced debt help adviser at Scotland Liquidators who specialises in the range of insolvency options available to companies and individuals in Scotland.