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Sarah .

Communications business partner

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Communications

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Top Insider Advice

I've had a huge variety of roles in HMRC, and I've enjoyed all of them. I've found it's not always necessary to chase promotion. A sideways move to another area can expand your horizons and build your skills and this is recognised when you're ready to take the next step. I've always tried to maintain job satisfaction above all else. I've done a couple of jobs I've really hated, so I moved on and found something else. I've found if I'm happy in my job, I perform better and this is noticed. Also, don't be afraid to ask for opportunities or for what you want. I've always believed 'if you don't ask, you don't get' – the worst that could happen is someone says no and you're no worse off.

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Career path

Communications business partner

HMRC

Started 07/1999 to Present

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

HMRC is a huge diverse department. One day I could be working on a letter to encourage a customer to pay their tax on time and the next I might be working on a letter all about changes to duty rates. It's interesting dealing with the different teams and the stories behind the letters I'm working on. In my role you need to build a good relationship with the teams because often we're approaching the letter from a different perspective. Getting that balance can be challenging. I'm approaching the letter from a communications perspective -– and I always try to put myself in our customers' shoes – but others could be coming from a legal approach. When we get it right between us, it's really satisfying.

Other insiders

Mary .

Top Insider Advice

Based on my experience spanning multiple departments and roles - from DWP to HMRC, and from operational to leadership positions -here's my top advice for those joining the Civil Service: 1. Look sideways, not just upwards for growth opportunities Embrace additional responsibilities alongside your core role like continuous improvement advocacy, outreach work, and advisory positions. These develop versatile skills and increase your visibility across departments. 2. Step outside your comfort zone to build confidence My transition from behind-the-scenes roles to face-to-face work demonstrates how stretching yourself builds transferable skills and personal resilience that benefit your entire career. 3. Cultural change starts with everyday leadership Challenge negative workplace culture, you don't need formal authority to create positive environments. Building trust and psychological safety pays dividends in team performance. 4. Bring your authentic self to work Diversity of thought and experience strengthens the Civil Service. Authenticity helps create an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute fully. 5. Connect across boundaries Establish or join existing networks that spans different business areas and/or departments. Breaking down silos creates more effective public service delivery and enriches your professional experience. 6. Focus on continuous learning and improvement Commit to evaluation and learning, this demonstrates how reflective practice drives both personal development and better service outcomes. 7. Remember the purpose behind the work Throughout your roles maintain focus on how your work impacts UK citizens and communities - the ultimate measure of success in public service.

Rasila

project manager

Top Insider Advice

I really believe that if you work hard and give your very best in your career path then you will succeed in the role you want to get to. I took every opportunity in my career to develop my skills and learn new skills which helped me to progress in my career.

Prudencia O

Top Insider Advice

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for support. No one succeeds alone. Join support networks, find a coach, mentor or sponsor. Get as much help as you can! 2. Step outside your comfort zone and take on new challenges, even if they are a bit scary! Growth doesn’t happen in familiar spaces. Take on challenges that stretch you, that make you uncomfortable and ultimately lead to new skills and greater confidence. 3. Make things happen – look for sideways moves to develop your skills, not just promotions. Think about development programmes. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you, seek them out, take the initiative and be ready to step up when the moment comes. If you don’t make it happen, nobody will! 4. Resilience is essential. There’ll be lots of disappointments on your journey and times when you wonder whether it’s worth it. I can tell you without a doubt, it is. Keep trying, keep pushing. Remember, every obstacle is an opportunity to rise. Each setback is a chance to grow stronger and to learn something new, and every step you take brings you closer to the top of the ladder. 5. When you succeed in life or in your career, celebrate but also acknowledge that you didn’t do it alone. Nobody does! Above all, don’t pull the ladder up after you! Reach out and help others climb.

Discussions with Sarah
What support for personal development / training is provided?
in Career progression·Wednesday, June 15, 2022
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6 responses
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What support for personal development / training is provided?
in Career progression·Tuesday, December 20, 2022
1 response
42 views
What greats did you discover since working at HMRC that surprised you and still exists today?
in Career Tips·Wednesday, September 20, 2023
1 response
23 views
What is the work-life balance like in your role? Does it include hybrid and flexible working?
in Career Tips·Monday, November 7, 2022
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