UK Recruitment Glossary
Notice Period
In recruiter context
UK statutory minimum is one week per year worked, capped at 12 weeks, but contracts usually override that — 1-3 months for permanent roles is typical. You can negotiate down ("would the business consider releasing me earlier?"), and many employers will if there's no business need. Senior roles often carry 6-month notice. New employer offers can rarely wait that long, so check before resigning.
Related terms
Talent Acquisition
The strategic, in-house version of recruitment — focused on long-term hiring, employer brand, and pr…
Career Break
A formal pause in employment, typically 6 months to 2 years, agreed with your employer or taken betw…
Employee Referral
A current employee recommends you for a role, often putting your CV at the top of the pile.
Restrictive Covenants
Post-employment clauses limiting where you can work, who you can approach, or what you can do for a …