Ways to Book This Workshop
There are two ways to book this workshop. You can either pay-as-you go for £39 or join for free as a Premium Member:
National Careers Week: Reflecting on the Journey & Looking to the Future
National Careers Week is the perfect time to pause and reflect on our career journeys—where we started, how we got here, and where we’re heading. Whether you’ve followed a straight path or navigated a winding road, every experience shapes who we are as professionals and business owners.
The First Job
We all remember our first job—whether it was a weekend shift in retail, an office junior role, or something entirely different. Those early experiences, while sometimes daunting, laid the foundation for our work ethic. They taught us resilience, communication, and—let’s be honest—the true value of a paycheque!
For me, my journey has been anything but linear. My first job was babysitting at the ripe old age of 12, followed by a role at the local hairdresser at 14. I was the queen of sweeping up hair and washing endless heads, but then… drumroll… I got promoted to the all-important task of pulling hair through a highlight cap!
Since then, I’ve worn many hats, from corporate roles to self-employment, and each one has added a new layer to my expertise. It’s probably the same for you.
The Journey So Far
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that careers are rarely a straight line. Pivoting, learning new skills, and even completely changing direction are all part of the process. Being self-employed and running a business wasn’t always on my radar, but as I gained experience, I realised the value of autonomy and the ability to make an impact on my own terms.
Over the years, I’ve built a business that not only supports women in business but also allows me to align my passions with my work. But it didn’t happen overnight. It took trial and error, continuous learning, and a lot of persistence. And that’s the key takeaway—careers are built over time, not in an instant.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Work and Business
The workplace is evolving faster than ever, and the skills we need today may not be the same ones we need tomorrow. AI, automation, remote work, and shifting economic landscapes mean adaptability is crucial.
For business owners, the challenge is staying ahead of trends—understanding where the market is going and how to build sustainable, future-proof businesses. For job seekers, it’s about upskilling, networking, and being open to new opportunities.
So, what’s next for you? Are you exploring new career opportunities? Growing your business? Considering a career change? National Careers Week is a great time to set new goals and embrace change with confidence.
Careers Advice: Tips for Job Seekers and Small Business Owners
For Job Seekers:
- Tailor Your CV & Cover Letter: One-size-fits-all doesn’t work. Highlight skills that match the job role and show your value.
- Network, Network, Network: Many jobs are filled through connections before they’re even advertised. Attend events, connect on LinkedIn, and build relationships.
- Embrace Continuous Learning: Upskilling in digital literacy, AI, and industry-specific tools will make you stand out.
- Prepare for Interviews: Confidence comes from preparation. Research the company, practice common interview questions, and have a few questions ready to ask them.
- Don’t Fear Rejection: Every ‘no’ is a step closer to a ‘yes’. Learn from each experience and refine your approach.
For Small Business Owners Hiring Staff:
- Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill: Skills can be taught, but attitude and cultural fit are crucial.
- Make the Role Appealing: Showcase what makes your business a great place to work, from flexibility to career growth opportunities.
- Use Multiple Hiring Platforms: Don’t just rely on job boards. Utilise LinkedIn, social media, and word of mouth.
- Have a Clear Onboarding Process: First impressions matter. Set new hires up for success with structured training and clear expectations.
- Offer Development Opportunities: Employees stay longer when they see a future in your business. Invest in their growth.
National Careers Week is a celebration of progress, learning, and new opportunities. Whether you’re reminiscing about your first job, planning your next career move, or growing your team, it’s a reminder that careers aren’t fixed—they evolve with us.
For more career tips, visit our resources page here.