September 2024 | Experts Institut

ISO 9001 certification: Step by step to a successful QMS

ISO 9001 certification is an internationally recognized standard in quality management. It stands for trust, efficiency and reliability – qualities that customers and business partners value. However, the certification process can seem challenging. In this guide, you will learn how to successfully implement certification and how we can support you step by step.

Why ISO 9001 certification?

ISO 9001 certification offers many advantages: more efficient processes, better risk management and greater trust from customers and partners. It can also open up new business opportunities, as many tenders and contracts require ISO certification.

1. initial consultation and analysis: the start

The first step towards ISO 9001 certification is a comprehensive analysis of your existing structures and processes. This will determine how well your quality management system (QMS) already meets the requirements of the standard and where improvements are needed.

Why is this important? Many companies already unconsciously fulfill parts of the ISO 9001 standards. A professional analysis uncovers these strengths and identifies specific weaknesses in order to make the process efficient and time-saving.

2. planning the implementation: tailored to your requirements

Following the analysis, a customized implementation plan is drawn up that defines all the steps required for full compliance with ISO 9001 standards.

What makes this step so important? Thoughtful planning ensures that the standard requirements are implemented without disrupting your day-to-day operations. This maximizes the benefits of certification and minimizes disruption.

3. implementation of the quality management system (QMS)

Now it is a matter of either implementing the QMS from scratch or optimizing existing processes. This ensures that all requirements of the ISO 9001 standard are met.

Why is this important? An optimized QMS not only improves the quality of your products and services, but also increases efficiency. Clear processes, reduced errors and motivated employees contribute to successful certification.

4. internal audits and training: Preparation is everything

Internal audits and the training of your employees are essential components before the official certification audit begins. They identify weak points and ensure that the QMS is implemented correctly. At the same time, employees are prepared for the new processes.

Why this step? Training ensures that employees understand the new processes and use the QMS efficiently. The internal audits ensure that your company is ready for official certification.

5th certification audit: The decisive step

During the certification audit, an external auditor checks whether your company meets the ISO 9001 requirements. This is the last step before receiving the certificate.

Our support: We accompany you through the entire audit process and are on hand to answer any questions or challenges you may have. Our aim is to make the audit as smooth as possible and ensure successful certification.

6. receipt of the certificate: Your seal of quality

After the successful audit, you will receive the ISO 9001 certificate, which is valid for three years and confirms that your company meets the highest quality standards.

What comes next? Regular internal audits and continuous improvements are crucial in order to maintain certification in the long term and to be successful in the recertification process.

Conclusion: Your partner for successful ISO 9001 certification

ISO 9001 certification requires careful planning and specialist knowledge. With our advice at your side, the process will be smooth and efficient. Contact us to find out more about our customized consulting services and make your certification a success. Get ahead and in touch with us – info@expertsinstitut.de

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25. September 2024/by Viola Cussmann

Personnel consulting

Optimize your CV: tips for a successful application

The CV is the centerpiece of every application and is often the deciding factor in whether or not you are invited to an interview. As recruitment consultants, we see numerous CVs every day – from convincing CVs to those that do not show potential candidates in the best light, even though the professional qualifications are certainly there.

Here are three tips to help you optimize your own CV:

1. structure and clarity

Clarity: A clear structure is crucial for a successful CV. Use clear headings and divide into sections such as professional experience, education, skills and personal details.
Brevity and conciseness: Ideally, limit your CV to a maximum of two pages. Focus on relevant information and avoid unnecessary details.

2. highlighting relevant experience and qualifications

Alignment with the position: Emphasize relevant skills and professional experience that match the requirements of the position you are applying for.
Successes and responsibilities: Show not only what you have done, but also what successes you have achieved. Use concrete examples and figures to prove your achievements.

3. professional presentation

Error-free: First impressions count. A professional layout and error-free text make a big difference. Pay attention to spelling and grammatical errors. It is best to have your CV proofread by a second person.
Layout: Use an appealing, uniform design. Pay attention to consistent fonts and font sizes to support the reading flow.

Conclusion: With a structured and professionally designed application, you will stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being invited to an interview.

Would you like to get to know more of our career advice tools and take the next step in your professional career? Then get in touch with us and make an appointment for your personal consultation. Let’s shape your professional future together!

Get ahead and in touch with us.

Your Experts Institut Team

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12. September 2024/by Viola Cussmann

Business Solutions, Sustainability

Combining sustainability and success: The new VSME standard for SMEs

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in corporate management, particularly in the wake of new regulatory requirements at European level. For large companies that are already covered by the CSR Directive Implementation Act (CSR-RUG), reporting on sustainability issues is mandatory. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are also focusing on voluntary sustainability reporting. The EU’s new voluntary standard, the VSME (Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), now offers SMEs a clearly structured opportunity to get involved in sustainability reporting.

What is the VSME standard?

The VSME is a voluntary reporting standard developed specifically for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that are not subject to the mandatory regulations of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The aim of the standard is to create a framework that enables these companies to report on their sustainability activities in a practicable manner. The VSME standard is intended to help provide sustainability information for lenders, investors and business partners and to make the company’s contribution to a sustainable economy visible.

Structure and modules of the VSME standard (sustainability)

The VSME standard has a modular structure and comprises various reporting requirements tailored to the size and structure of the company:

Basic module: Here, all reporting companies must provide basic information on areas such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption and governance. This module is the same for all companies, although certain information can be omitted if it does not apply to the company in question.
PAT module (Policies, Actions, Targets): This module is aimed at companies that have already developed and implemented strategies and targets in the area of sustainability. Reporting in this module is based on a materiality analysis that identifies the company’s key sustainability issues.
BP module (Business Partners): This module is intended for companies that want to pass on sustainability information to financial stakeholders and business partners. Here too, reporting is based on the materiality analysis.

Materiality analysis: the key to effective reporting

A central element of the VSME standard is the materiality analysis. This analysis helps companies to identify the issues that are material from both an environmental and social impact and a financial perspective. The focus here is on dual materiality – i.e. the consideration of both the company’s impact on the environment and the financial impact of sustainability aspects on the company.

The added value for SMEs

The VSME standard offers numerous advantages for small and medium-sized enterprises. Structured reporting in accordance with this standard enables SMEs to present their sustainability performance in a transparent and comprehensible manner. This creates trust among investors, lenders and business partners and can increase the company’s competitiveness. The VSME standard also provides valuable guidance for systematically integrating sustainability issues into the corporate strategy.

Sustainability: Conclusion

The VSME standard is an important step towards more comprehensive and transparent sustainability reporting, even for smaller companies. Thanks to its practical and flexible design, it offers SMEs the opportunity to actively participate in sustainable management and strengthen their position in the market. The Experts Institute recommends that companies familiarize themselves with the requirements of the VSME standard at an early stage and take advantage of the opportunities offered by voluntary sustainability reporting.

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