Guides for employers and tradespeople
Hiring and CV guides
Practical articles on hiring tradespeople and presenting trade experience clearly. Written to match how the platform works — no hype.
How employers can hire tradespeople faster in the UK
When you need a trade-ready candidate, speed comes from clarity. The quickest hires usually happen when the role is defined properly and CV handling is organised from the start.
Start with a clear brief
- Trade and level (for example: electrician, plumber, multi-skilled).
- Location and travel expectations (site address, nearest town, parking).
- Start date, contract length, hours, and any call-out requirements.
- Key tickets or requirements you already use in your business (for example CSCS where relevant).
Keep CV access controlled
CVs contain personal data. A controlled process helps you move quickly without spreading documents across inboxes and WhatsApp groups. UK Trade Hires is built around secure CV handling, redacted introductions, and a clear contact-first process.
Related: our GDPR approach.
Why tradespeople should upload a CV before job searching
A CV is still the fastest way for an employer to confirm the basics: what you do, where you work, and what you’ve done recently. Uploading early means you’re ready when a suitable role comes up.
What to include
- Your core trade and the type of jobs you take on.
- Recent sites or projects (keep it simple: contractor, role, dates).
- Tools, tickets, and practical skills that matter day-to-day.
- Location, travel range, and availability.
On UK Trade Hires, CVs are uploaded through the Tradespeople page and stored privately so employers can request an introduction through the platform.
Upload your CV
Trade recruitment service vs agency: what’s the difference?
Both routes can work — the right choice depends on how you prefer to hire and how much control you want over shortlisting and CV access.
Trade recruitment service
- Clear rates explained up-front, agreed after requirements are confirmed.
- You control shortlisting and decide who to speak to.
- CV access is managed in one place.
Traditional agency
- An agent handles sourcing and screening.
- Often works well for urgent or niche requirements.
- Processes and fees vary by provider.
If you want a simple, transparent route to trade-ready candidates with secure CV handling, a platform approach is a good fit.
What employers look for in trade CVs
Most employers aren’t looking for fancy wording — they want proof you can do the job safely and reliably. A strong trade CV is short, practical, and easy to scan.
A simple structure that works
- Headline: your trade, location, and availability.
- Key skills: 6–10 bullet points of what you actually do.
- Experience: your most recent roles and projects first.
- Tickets and training: list what you hold and what’s in date.
- References: available on request is fine.
Keep it honest and up to date. If you can, add a short line on the type of sites you’re used to (domestic, commercial, new build, maintenance).
Want to suggest a topic? Send an enquiry and we’ll add more practical guides.
