Insider profil
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Top Insider Advice
Don’t feel trapped within a certain career route. Think about the skills you have and see if you can use them in a different role. Find a company to work for that has an open, fair and equitable pay structure. If you need to take a step back and focus on your family that’s okay too. I’ve been able to return to a career at a later stage. Look for a company that invests in everyone regardless of their age/personal circumstances and will support your career post kids. Get as much work experience as possible, (and encourage your kids to get some too), and try different projects/experiences within your role so you have something for your CV.
Career path
Reward Analyst
First Central
From 02/2021 to 05/2024HR Officer
First Central
From 06/2016 to 01/2021HR & Office Coordinator
First Central
From 01/2013 to 05/2016Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
Being able to use my skills to make sure our colleagues are getting the fairest pay and the best benefits we can afford is so gratifying. It beats analysing nappy data! My role also allows me to work from home without any distractions. Having the self-motivation to focus means I can be confident that my work is accurate and delivered on time.
Greatest achievements
Reporting on the scale of online gambling across the world was particularly eye opening and ultimately resulted in better regulation and the promotion of gambling addiction helplines. I am lucky enough to have an ability to take the fear out of data, and presenting my research to teams that are uneasy with numbers is immensely satisfying. Seeing their understanding when presented with a chart rather than a table of numbers for example, and being able to provide accuracy around vague feelings is gratifying. I am also immensely proud to have been a part of First Central’s pay grading project which has seen us bring in a pay structure that’s much more open and fair for all.
Joe M
Leadership Development Business Partner
Top Insider Advice
My advice would be to grow and develop with the business and don’t box yourself in with one particular career route in mind as other career paths can open up.
Jemma R
Talent Manager
Top Insider Advice
I have rarely asked for or applied for promotions during my career, generally feeling I was happy where I was and not wanting loads more responsibility, especially since I lost my 21-month-old daughter in 2015. I wanted to come to work, enjoy it and then go home without any added pressures (plus I hate being interviewed!) I think I have naturally progressed and become involved in other things, specifically over the past 10 years. I’ve done it by working hard, being loyal and putting effort into everything I do. I’ve been lucky that my managers have always recognised my potential and pushed me to progress myself and my career. It’s definitely helped when working for the same company for a number of years! I could probably have progressed a bit quicker if I had pushed for it, but that’s not me and that’s ok. You don’t have to be pushy to get where you want to be; it might just take a little longer.
Luke P
Test Engineer
Top Insider Advice
Going above and beyond in your career can be a game changer. It’s not just about meeting expectations, it’s about exceeding them consistently. When moving to the Test Engineering team I had a lot to learn instantly and a few things that I could pick up once I got more confident in the role. To be more efficient I wanted to make sure I could do the more complex parts of the role so I taught myself how to do database searches and automation testing using Selenium in my own time. Going the extra mile not only showcases your dedication but also your commitment to the department and company. Going above and beyond can set you apart and open doors to new and exciting possibilities.
