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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.

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Always be yourself, it you make a mistake then admit it, we are only human. Listen to the views of others around you. Treat staff how you would like to be treated but bear that everyone is individual and treat them accordingly.

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Top Insider Advice

No matter what job I've done over the years there has always been people impacted by it. Whether I was sorting out a customers Tax, National Insurance record, developing new IT systems, or delivering new policies or even opening new buildings its people that have been affected at the end of it. Its easy to forget when wrapped up in the day to day activities of your job, that I have made life better for a huge amount of people over the years but in tiny bite size chunks

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Top Insider Advice

Find a mentor you are comfortable with. Be prepared to take honest constructive feedback. Create a support network...it's easier than you think.

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
43 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
24 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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