UK Recruitment Glossary
PILON
In recruiter context
Common when relationships have soured, the role is being eliminated, or the employer doesn't want you near systems/clients during your notice. PILON is fully taxable as ordinary income (unlike statutory redundancy, which is partially tax-free up to £30,000). You don't accrue further holiday during a PILON period and you don't earn pension contributions on it. Whether the employer can pay PILON depends on your contract — most modern UK contracts include a PILON clause, but if yours doesn't, the employer paying it without your agreement could be a breach of contract you might successfully claim against.
Related terms
Cold Application
Applying to a job without any prior contact, referral, or recruiter conversation.
CV (Curriculum Vitae)
The UK and most of Europe call it a CV; the US mostly calls it a resume.
Screening Interview
The first interview, usually 20-30 minutes by phone or video, run by a recruiter.
Talent Pool
A pre-built list of candidates a recruiter has already screened for future roles.