UK JOBSEEKERS are facing a new challenge to their recruitment prospects, thanks to companies' growing concern with the "eco-factor".

A study by fish4jobs, the UK's leading recruitment website, has revealed that being environmentally-friendly is fast becoming an essential attribute for potential candidates as a third of employers claim they would turn down an applicant if their green credentials were not up to scratch.

The fish4jobs (www.fish4jobs.co.uk) survey highlights a growing trend whereby employers are increasingly evaluating candidates' carbon footprints as much as their previous job experience.

In fact, the statistics reveal that more than 11 per cent of employers ask potential employees about their commitment to the environment during an interview.

So what does it take to get the "green light" in an interview?

fish4jobs has compiled a checklist of things you can do to prove you've got the "eco-factor".

• Research the company's green policy - look up any initiatives implemented in order to ascertain the company's stance on green issues. Maybe at the interview you can suggest ways they can be greener, such as car pooling or using categorised recycling bins.
• Give eco-friendly examples - tell your interviewer about green workplace practices you initiated or participated in at previous jobs. This will show you already have a positive attitude towards being eco-friendly.
• Research local green charities - find out about any local environmental charities that you can suggest the company could forge a new partnership with.
• Ask eco questions - take the time in your interview to ask your interviewer intelligent questions on environmental matters and their opinions.
• Make sure you know your environmental issues - be up-to-date with any recent developments, so that you are able to talk about them, if asked.

Being eco-friendly is not just an issue for employers. The fish4jobs research highlights that job seekers are becoming increasingly concerned with their potential employer's carbon footprint, with 12 per cent checking out a firm's green credentials before they decide to apply.

Joe Slavin, CEO of fish4jobs, said: "We are hearing more from recruiters that being green and eco-friendly in the workplace is an important quality in a candidate.

"Companies are under constant pressure to exercise eco-friendly policies and therefore job seekers should be aware that having the right green credentials could mean the difference between being hired or cast aside."

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