Author Archives: OsborneTeam

Navigating the Digital Revolution – The Role of AI in Shaping Future Business Strategy

In an era marked by economic volatility, geopolitical uncertainty, and exponential technological advancement, the need for agile and informed business leadership has never been greater. In Osborne’s recent webinar, “The Digital Revolution: AI and Business Strategy,” leading experts explored how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the business landscape, the evolving skills required by leaders, and the practical implications for organisations and individuals alike.
This blog summarizes the key themes, insights, and actionable guidance from the webinar, hosted by Osborne CEO Shóna McManus, with guest speakers Professor Alan Smeaton (Emeritus Professor of Computing, DCU) and business strategist Miriam Simon.

1. The Current Landscape: Operating in a World of Chaos
Miriam Simon introduced a stark yet honest overview of the macro-environmental forces affecting business:
• Post-pandemic shifts: The anticipated post-COVID boom has been tempered by global conflict, interest rate hikes, and inflationary pressures.
• Climate instability: Unpredictable weather and energy costs are driving uncertainty.
• Digital noise and anxiety: The pervasive presence of AI, synthetic media, and algorithmic influence has led to increased consumer and organisational anxiety.
Miriam argues that we’ve transitioned from a VUCA world (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) to a state of full-blown CHAOS – where Complexity, Hubris, Anxiety, Orwellian influence, and Surprise dominate.

2. Key Macro Trends: Sustainability and Digitalisation
Two dominant macro trends are transforming business:
• Sustainability: Becoming a core lens through which operational and strategic decisions are viewed.
• Digitalisation: Rapid adoption of AI, wearable tech, mixed reality, and automation is redefining how organisations deliver value.
Miriam Simon stresses that we are already living through the Fourth Industrial Revolution, with AI and automation accelerating faster than any previous technological shift.

3. Leading Through the Noise: Strategy for Resilience
Miriam Simon shared actionable insights for business leaders to thrive in the chaos:
• Seek opportunity, not noise: What we focus on shapes what we see. Leaders must train themselves to identify opportunity in crisis.
• Act fast: Fast action is now replacing slow strategy. Flexibility and speed are competitive advantages.
• Be a moment of calm: In a noisy digital world, customers value clarity, authenticity, and reassurance more than ever.

4. The Workplace Impact: Hope or Threat?
A recent Osborne survey (based on 530 companies and 3,000+ candidates) reveals a mixed but largely optimistic view of AI:
• 51% of businesses see AI as a positive force; 45% remain unsure.
• 30% of candidates already use AI in their roles.
• 17% are concerned about potential job displacement.
Professor Smeaton addressed this candidly, noting that AI will change jobs more than replace them, especially in roles involving repetitive tasks like office administration. Automation should free humans for more creative, strategic, and interpersonal work—but only if upskilling efforts keep pace.

5. Practical Implications of AI for Business Leaders
Professor Alan Smeaton demystified the technical underpinnings of AI, particularly Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs). Key takeaways include:
• Generative AI creates new content by learning patterns from massive datasets (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini).
• Training a model involves mapping vast amounts of data into a structured representation, enabling prediction and generation of relevant responses.
• Fine-tuning allows businesses to train AI models on proprietary data, enabling company-specific virtual assistants, FAQs, or customer service tools.
• Real-time updates are limited due to the computational architecture of LLMs, but retrieval augmented generation (RAG) can bridge this by incorporating current data during queries.

6. What’s Next? The Future of AI and Human Potential
As the capabilities of AI grow—now including reasoning, contextual memory, and even limited forms of deduction—the imperative for ethical and responsible deployment becomes urgent. Regulatory frameworks are emerging, but it will fall to business leaders to ensure AI augments rather than displaces human potential.
Looking ahead:
• Expect a transition from screen-based devices to wearables and mixed reality interfaces.
• Human-machine collaboration will deepen. Businesses that embrace AI ethically and strategically will outpace those that resist.

Business Leadership in the Age of Intelligence
AI is no longer an emerging trend—it is a core element of modern business strategy. To remain competitive, leaders must:
• Understand AI’s capabilities and limitations.
• Embed AI into business models in ways that enhance productivity and customer experience.
• Invest in people and training to ensure technology serves human potential, not the reverse.
As Miriam Simon aptly concluded, “Your customers are looking for calm. If your business can be the calm in the chaos, you’ll not only survive—you’ll thrive.”

Next Steps for Organisations
1. Audit your digital maturity – How ready is your organisation to adopt and integrate AI?
2. Educate and upskill – Invest in AI literacy at all levels, not just technical teams.
3. Explore ethical deployment – Review frameworks such as the EU AI Act and consider how to align with best practices.
4. Engage with partners – Work with experts to co-develop use cases and fine-tuned models

Osborne Annual Company Conference & Awards Ceremony

We had an absolutely amazing day for our annual company conference last month when our entire team came together from across Ireland and Canada to celebrate a great year and plan for the year ahead.

This year, the Osborne Oscars took a unique twist as we “set sail” aboard the stunning MV Cill Airne, Dublin’s iconic boat restaurant. The event is truly a highlight in our social calendar, as we celebrated our Annual Osborne Oscars Awards — an event that recognizes outstanding team members, nominated by their peers, for their dedication and commitment to #RecruitmentExcellence throughout the year.

It was the perfect way to kick off the year ahead — coming together as one team, celebrating our achievements, and gearing up to continue making a difference and #ChangingLives in 2025.

Here’s to another exciting year ahead!

#RecruitmentExcellence #Osborne  #SailingIntoSuccess 

New Year, New Career: How to Prepare for Your Next Step In January 2025

As the new year begins, January is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and plan for the next step in your career journey. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, switching industries, or searching for a completely new role, the start of 2025 presents a fresh opportunity to position yourself for success. The job market is dynamic and competitive, so preparation is key to standing out. Here are practical steps to help you navigate your career ambitions in January and make your professional goals a reality.

Reflect on Your Career So Far

Before setting your sights on the future, take stock of where you are now. Reflect on the successes, challenges, and lessons learned in your current role. Ask yourself:

• What achievements am I most proud of?
• What skills have I developed?
• Where do I feel stuck, and what can I change?

Creating a timeline of your career highlights and identifying areas for growth will give you clarity about the next logical step. Journaling or talking to a mentor can help you frame these reflections positively and constructively.

Set SMART Career Goals

The next step is to set clear, actionable goals. A vague resolution like “find a better job” isn’t enough. Instead, apply the SMART criteria:

• Specific: Define exactly what you want to achieve (e.g., a project manager role in the tech sector).
• Measurable: How will you track progress? (e.g., send five job applications per week).
• Achievable: Set goals you can realistically accomplish within the timeframe.
• Relevant: Ensure your goals align with your long-term career vision.
• Time-bound: Create a timeline for achieving milestones (e.g., secure interviews by March).

Writing down your goals makes them tangible and easier to follow.

Update Your CV and LinkedIn Profile

Your CV and LinkedIn profile act as your professional shopfront, so they need to shine. In January, spend time polishing these crucial tools:

• Tailor your CV to reflect recent achievements and quantifiable results (e.g., “increased sales by 20% in 2024”).
• Use strong action verbs, like “led”, “achieved”, and “implemented”.
• Ensure your LinkedIn profile is current, with a professional photo, an updated summary, and keywords relevant to your target role.
• Seek endorsements and recommendations to bolster credibility.

Identify and Bridge Your Skills Gaps

The job market continues to evolve, and employers are increasingly looking for specific skill sets. Research the requirements for your desired roles and identify any gaps in your skillset. January is an excellent time to commit to professional development:

• Enrol in relevant courses or workshops, either online (e.g., LinkedIn Learning, Coursera) or in person.
• Brush up on technical skills, software, or certifications essential for your industry.
• Consider soft skills such as leadership, communication, and time management, which are equally valuable.

By proactively improving your skills, you’ll demonstrate initiative and readiness for the next step.

Build and Leverage Your Network

Networking is one of the most powerful tools for career advancement. Begin January by reconnecting with old contacts and making new ones:

• Attend industry events, webinars, or local career fairs.
• Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or acquaintances for coffee chats or virtual meetings.
• Join professional associations or online communities related to your target field.

Remember, networking isn’t just about asking for opportunities—it’s about building relationships and offering value in return.

Prepare to Stand Out in Interviews

If changing jobs is on your agenda, strong interview performance will be critical. Practice is key, so spend January honing your interview technique:

• Prepare answers to common interview questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Research your target companies to understand their values, culture, and challenges.
• Record yourself answering questions or practice with a trusted friend.
• Be ready to articulate your unique value proposition—what makes you the ideal candidate.

Confidence comes from preparation, so take the time now to perfect your approach.

Stay Informed and Inspired

Staying ahead in your career requires keeping up with industry trends and learning from others. Throughout January:

• Subscribe to industry publications, blogs, or podcasts.
• Follow leaders and influencers in your target sector on LinkedIn.
• Read success stories to stay motivated and gain fresh perspectives.

Knowledge will not only help you impress potential employers but will also empower you to make strategic career moves.

January is more than just the start of a new year—it’s a fresh chapter filled with possibilities. By reflecting, setting goals, improving your skills, and expanding your network, you can position yourself for a fulfilling and successful career move in 2025. Remember, progress happens one step at a time, and preparation is the key to unlocking your potential.
Start today. The career you want is waiting for you.

Ready to make 2025 the year of your career transformation? Share your career goals for the year in the comments or connect with us for more personalised tips and advice!

Osborne Final Talent Series Webinar of 2024

This week marked the final of Osborne’s Talent Series webinars for 2024, featuring an insightful and action-packed session centred on our Recruitment, Skills, and Market Trends report. Hosted by Osborne CEO and Owner, Shóna McManus, alongside Joanne Murray, Recruitment and Business Director, and Marsha O’Sullivan, Director of Client Services, the webinar delivered invaluable insights into the dynamic shifts shaping today’s talent and recruitment landscape.

The past year has been a whirlwind of change, with recruitment trends influenced by rising costs, economic uncertainty, and global geopolitical events. These factors are reshaping how businesses operate, fostering caution as organisations navigate the challenges of full employment, fluctuating rates, and pivotal elections in Ireland and the United States.

Key Challenges in Focus:

  • Rising Costs & Skills Shortages: Organisations are grappling with immediate financial pressures while aiming to sustain long-term growth.
  • Strategic Hiring: Despite economic challenges, many businesses are expanding teams in Q4 2024, albeit with a more measured approach.

Drawing insights from over 200 organisations across industries, our Recruitment, Skills, and Market Trends report offered a comprehensive regional breakdown of the latest trends where attendees gained valuable insights to help them tackle today’s recruitment and business complexities and position their businesses for success in 2025 and beyond.

Stay tuned for more info on our first Talent Series Webinar of 2025 – Coming Soon!

Osborne Win at the ERF Awards Best in Practice : Office & Secretarial

Celebrating Excellence: Winning Best in Practice at the ERF Awards for the 6th Time!

We’re over the moon to announce that we’ve been named Best in Practice: Office & Secretarial at the Employment & Recruitment Federation (ERF) Awards held at the Shelbourne Hotel last Friday night! 🎉 This incredible achievement marks the 6th time we’ve proudly brought home this prestigious award, and we couldn’t be prouder of our team and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

Winning this award is especially meaningful as it celebrates our passion and dedication to the Office & Secretarial sector—a field we’ve been specialising in since 1996. Over the years, we’ve cultivated a deep understanding of this sector, working tirelessly to innovate, attract top talent, and ensure that we consistently deliver Recruitment Excellence.

For us, recruitment goes far beyond simply filling roles. It’s about empowering candidates to achieve their career goals, strengthening partnerships with both clients and candidates and connecting top talent with leading employers across Ireland.

This award is a testament to our dedicated team, who go above and beyond every single day.

We were also thrilled to be shortlisted in the Accountancy and Finance category this year, further highlighting the breadth of our expertise and the high standards we set across multiple sectors.

A massive thank you to Geraldine King, her outstanding team, the judges, and the event sponsors for organising such a fantastic evening of celebration and recognition.

Here’s to many more years of fostering growth, innovation, and excellence in recruitment! 🥂

#RecruitmentExcellence #ERFAwards2023 #OfficeAndSecretarial #WinningTeam

Why Temporary Staffing Could Be the Perfect Solution for Your Business

In today’s dynamic business environment, finding the right staffing solution can make or break your company’s efficiency and productivity. Whether you need to bridge seasonal gaps, respond to worker shortages, or tackle a one-off project, temporary or fixed-term professionals might be the key to unlocking greater flexibility and efficiency in your organisation.

Below, we explore when and why hiring temporary employees could be the right move for your business.

The Right Talent at the Right Time

Temporary staffing offers unparalleled flexibility, enabling businesses to quickly fill critical roles. Unlike the sometimes lengthy process of hiring permanent employees, temporary hires can be brought on board swiftly, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations. Whether it’s meeting seasonal peaks, covering unexpected absences, or scaling up for a high-demand project, temp employees provide a timely and efficient solution.

Crucially, hiring temporary workers allows companies to avoid the risks of overstaffing once the work is complete. This adaptability is especially valuable in industries where demand fluctuates unpredictably.

Flexibility in Workforce Management

Temporary-to-permanent (temp-to-perm) hiring offers businesses a scalable approach to workforce management. This model is ideal for organisations experiencing fluctuating demand, such as those with seasonal sales peaks or project-based workloads.

Temp-to-perm hiring enables businesses to “test the waters” with candidates. If a temporary worker excels in their role and proves to be a good cultural fit, the company can transition them into a permanent position. This strategy ensures that permanent hires are well-aligned with business needs, reducing turnover and maximising productivity.

 

Faster Hiring, Quicker Results

In the fast-paced world of recruitment, time is often of the essence. Temporary hiring is an efficient way to meet urgent staffing needs. At Osborne we maintain a large pool of skills tested, pre-vetted candidates, meaning organisations can quickly access skilled professionals when they need it most.

Temp employees are often ready to start immediately, streamlining onboarding and ensuring minimal downtime. Additionally, since many of these professionals are pre-screened, businesses can skip initial vetting stages like background checks and interviews.

Matching Skills to Specific Needs

Temporary staffing also allows companies to tap into specialized skill sets for short-term projects. Whether it’s IT expertise for a tech upgrade, a creative professional for a marketing campaign, or operational support during peak periods, temporary hires can fill these gaps with precision.

For businesses, this means greater efficiency in matching the right talent to the right job. When these specialists prove indispensable, transitioning them into permanent roles ensures the company retains their expertise for future needs.

Navigating Uncertainty with Flexibility

With rising costs a key issue for organisations in 2024, the decision to commit to long-term staffing can be tough. Temporary hires offer a middle ground, allowing companies to scale up their workforce without permanent obligations.

If circumstances improve, these workers can be offered full-time roles. If not, the temporary arrangement allows for easy scaling back without the legal and financial complexities of permanent staff redundancies.

Need Temporary Staff?

Temporary or fixed-term professionals provide businesses with the agility they need to stay competitive. From filling immediate gaps to evaluating talent for permanent roles, temporary staffing is a cost-effective and flexible solution that supports both short-term gains and long-term workforce strategies.

If your business is ready to discuss the advantages of temporary staffing, contact Osborne today using the link below.

Osborne Seasonal Staffing

Webinar: Recruitment Skills & Market Trends Report

Osborne Talent Series Webinar:

Recruitment Strategy Planning – 2024 Recruitment, Skills and Market Trends Report

Complimentary Webinar

Date: Wednesday, 4th December 2024
Time: 09:30am – 10:30am
Location: Zoom Webinar – Link HERE
Presented by: Shóna McManus, CEO & Owner, Osborne, Joanne Murray, Recruitment & Business Director, Osborne, Marsha O’ Sullivan, Director of Client Services, Osborne.

We are excited to invite you to the latest instalment of our 2024 Osborne Talent Series Webinar. Following the in-person launch of our highly anticipated Recruitment, Skills & Market Trends report across all our Irish operations, we are delighted to present a webinar for clients who were unable to attend in person.

This webinar is COMPLIMENTARY but registration is essential. Register here *

Recruitment & Market Trends Revealed: Stay Ahead in 2025

Over the past year, recruitment trends have shifted significantly, shaped by global and local factors such as rising costs, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical events. This shift highlights the growing caution among businesses as they navigate rising costs and uncertain economic conditions, driven by full and fluctuating employment rates, geopolitical tensions, and elections in Ireland and the United States. Rising costs and skills shortages are among the most pressing issues causing challenges for organisations right now as businesses strive to balance immediate financial pressures with long-term growth ambitions. Despite this, many organisations continue to hire across multiple sectors in 2024, with plans for team expansion in Q4, albeit with a more strategic and measured approach.

Join us as we present our Recruitment, Skills and Market Trends report featuring insights gathered from over 200 organisations across multiple industries and sectors.
In this webinar, we’ll provide a regional breakdown of the latest trends and statistics, offering insights to help you navigate the complexities of today’s recruitment and business landscape.

Topics to be discussed:

• Current hiring practices
• Salary and benefits trends
• Key drivers of employee turnover
• Skills shortages
• Organisational challenges

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain invaluable data and practical takeaways to support your recruitment and business strategies.

Who should attend?
Business Leaders, Senior Managers, Business Owners, HR Professionals and those tasked with the responsibility for business planning and recruitment & retention.

Presenters:

Shona McManus, CEO & Owner of Osborne

Qualified to MBA, Shóna McManus is a highly accomplished, respected and recognised global recruitment business leader. Since taking the reins of Osborne in April 2013, Shóna’s innovative, authentic and purposeful leadership has resulted in the growth and transformation of Osborne into the multi-award-winning international recruitment firm we know today. Under her guidance, Osborne has increased its footprint, turnover, profits and headcount tenfold over the past ten years, adding numerous awards to its repertoire including ERF Best Large Agency of the Year 2023, whilst leading the organisation to successfully help thousands of job seekers and employers in the recruitment process to ‘find the right person, for the right job, no compromise’. Shóna has recently qualified with a Diploma in Company Direction from the Institute of Directors, is currently Co-Chair of The Mill Enterprise Centre Board and is a Director on Drogheda Port Company Board. She was previously Vice-President of the ERF, President of Drogheda & District Chamber and is also involved in Regional, National and Government committees and strategic work groups and projects. Shóna has also been recognised on the SIA Global Power 150 Women in Staffing list for eight consecutive years and has been named in the SIA Staffing 100 Europe list for the past 5 years.

Joanne Murray, Recruitment & Business Director, Osborne

With 20+ years’ experience recruiting talent in Ireland and Internationally, Joanne Murray is one of the most accomplished recruiters in Ireland specialising in Office and Secretarial recruitment . Joanne was crowned the National Recruitment Federation Recruiter of the year in 2014/2015 and has led her team to win Best in Practice Office and Secretarial at the ERF awards 7 times. Her personal yet professional approach to recruitment has seen her partner with clients of all sizes and sectors from start-ups, SME’s, Irish indigenous firms, Government bodies and MNC’s in Ireland and Internationally.

Marsha O’ Sullivan, Director of Client Services, Osborne

As Director of Client Services Marsha works closely with our clients, understanding any additional supports they may need, deepening our partnerships and championing our service delivery. Marsha is a highly experienced and accomplished customer-focused professional with over 20 years’ experience working in the recruitment industry with clients such as Deloitte, Dell, Enterprise Rent A Car, and more. Having worked in delivering innovative candidate attraction solutions for clients of all sizes throughout her career both locally and internationally, she builds strong relationships with key stakeholders. Marsha has a keen focus on customer feedback and continual improvement and ensures our SLAs are adhered to and that we are continually delivering tailored solutions and driving excellent client service delivery

Don’t miss out – Register today*

Osborne Kildare wins ‘Excellence in Communication’ Award at Kildare Chamber Awards

 

🌟 We’re Award Winners! 🌟

We’re beyond thrilled and honoured to have won the ‘Excellence in Communication’ award at the Kildare Chamber Awards this weekend!

This award is incredibly special to us as it reflects our commitment to open, honest, and transparent communication—something we strive to deliver in every interaction with our clients, candidates, and team members.

A huge thank you to the award sponsor EirGrid Group and to County Kildare Chamber for organising such a fantastic event. And of course, to the incredible Keith Barry for being an unforgettable host!

Finally, a massive shoutout to our amazing Kildare team. Your dedication changes lives every single day, and this win is all because of you.

To speak to a member of our Kildare team please contact (045) 579 066

ExcellenceInCommunication RecruitmentExcellence

Osborne Blanchardstown Celebrate 10th Birthday at Business @ Breakfast event

 

It was a huge milestone for Osborne Blanchardstown this month as they celebrated their 10th birthday in style.

The office was filled with clients, business owners and leaders from the Blanchardstown community to join us in the celebrations but also to hear the latest insights from our regional Recruitment, Skills and Market trends report.

The team were honoured to welcome Minister for Finance, Jack Chambers, who addressed the attendees, alongside esteemed guests like Pat O’Connor, President of Fingal Chamber; Anthony Cooney, CEO of Fingal Chamber; Senator Emer Currie; and Cllr Eimear Carbone Mangan.

The Blanchardstown team was also thrilled to speak at the event, with Cloe Stapleton, Recruitment and Business Director, and John Brady, Commercial Development Executive, kicking things off and welcoming the large crowd.

Osborne CEO and owner, Shona McManus, presented Osborne’s Q3 Recruitment, Skills, and Market Trends insights to a captivated audience.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us—it was fantastic to celebrate this milestone together and share our findings for the region with you.

To speak to a member of our Blanchardstown team please contact (01) 598 4334

Osborne Sandyford Wins Best Professional Service

 

Celebrating Excellence: Osborne Sandyford Wins the Best Professional Services Award at the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Chamber Business Awards!

We are delighted to share some exciting news—Osborne Sandyford has been named the Best Professional Services Company at the prestigious Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Chamber Business Awards!
This recognition is a testament to the incredible journey we’ve been on as a team, serving the local community with passion, dedication, and our commitment to Recruitment Excellence.
This award belongs to every member of our Sandyford team who work tirelessly to provide recruitment excellence to both our candidates and clients and who live, sleep, eat and breath our purpose of #changinglives every single day.

A massive thank you to the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Chamber for hosting yet another incredible event. It was a night to remember!
Here’s to more milestones, more partnerships, and more lives changed in the future!

To speak to a member of our Sandyford team please contact +353 1 525 2457.
#RecruitmentExcellence #ChangingLives