Sarah .

Communications business partner

Communications

Keen to receive questions about

Everyday LifeOur CultureRoleWhy usWork & Life with Us

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.

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

Louise

Benefit lead

Top Insider Advice

I think we can all feel a sense of imposter syndrome, and that inner voice saying you are not capable. You are ! I think we all need to recognise that work can be challenging and not always as straightforward as you want it to be, which is where the doubt can set it. Its all about building that resilience for me, don't give up. If you want something just keep working towards it, even if that means taking it slowly.

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Sandra

Tax Investigator

Top Insider Advice

I've been a Civil Servant for 34 years, starting as an AO in what was DHSS, processing benefit claims. This was a real baptism of fire, dealing with desperate people and desperate situations and exposed me to parts of the population that were a long way from my life. I learned good people skills from this and a real focus on how important good customer service is-doing what you say you will and still having to deliver even when things are difficult or unpopular. This gave me a good grounding for moving onto National Insurance in a compliance role for business and individuals. HMRC merged in 1999 with NI and that was the start of my accidental career. I'm proud to have worked my way up from the bottom as I believe it made me who I am. Whilst no against direct entrance programmes, gaining experience within different grades and roles creates a rounded person.

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