Insider profil

Picture of Sarah

Sarah .

Communications business partner

Ask me a question
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.
Read more advice

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.

Alan

Customer Compliance Manager

Top Insider Advice

It is important to keep trying. Not everybody will make it first time, I did not when applying for Tax Professional Training, but I was put on a reserve list and called up later. Many do not make it first time but they do make it second time round. The process for recruitment can be long, but do not get disheartened, this is to give everybody the best chance of being accepted. If you can, get feedback and consider it for future applications. Feedback will often point our your weak area that can easily be improved with a bit of practice. If you do get on a training programme, be aware that though tough, they want you to succeed and will do everything they can to support you in achieving the end goal. Do say if you need extra support, they cannot provide it unless you tell them you need it. I am dyslexic and they took this into account for exams providing computer rather than writing and also extra time for reading.

Pat .

Recruitment Marketing Advisor

Top Insider Advice

Your job is a way of making money to do things that you want to do with your life. But there are plenty of jobs out there that can also make you happy.
Discussions with Sarah
What support for personal development / training is provided?
in Career progression·Wednesday, June 15, 2022
Picture of Abbey
Picture of Robina
6 responses
2068 views
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
26 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
Best discussions & stories
Picture of Edward
Picture of Bal
10 responses
2417 views