UK Recruitment Glossary
Phased Return
In recruiter context
Common UK employer practice for return from sick leave (especially mental health), maternity/paternity leave, or other extended absences. Typical structure: weeks 1-2 at 50% hours, weeks 3-4 at 70%, weeks 5-6 at 100%. Most UK employers pay full salary during phased return; some pay pro-rata. Required by reasonable adjustments under Equality Act 2010 if linked to disability. Phased return is negotiable — most employers will accommodate longer or more gradual phases for serious illness recovery. Often overlooked by employees who return too quickly and relapse.
Related terms
Worker vs Employee Status
UK employment status hierarchy: employee (full rights), worker (some rights including holiday and mi…
Variable Pay
Compensation tied to performance — bonuses, commission, profit share, equity vesting — that varies b…
Panel Interview
3-5 interviewers questioning a single candidate simultaneously — common at senior or competitive UK …
Performance Review
An annual or semi-annual structured assessment of your performance against goals, used to set rating…