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
PIP (Performance Improvement Plan)
A formal documented plan with targets a struggling employee must hit in a fixed window.
Behavioural Interview
An interview style built on past-experience questions like "Tell me about a time you..."
Cover Letter
A short letter accompanying your CV that explains why you want this specific role.
Sick Note / Fit Note
A medical certificate from a UK GP confirming you are unfit for work — required after 7 days of illn…