Insider profil
Keen to receive questions about
Top Insider Advice
It can be a very daunting experience starting work for a new employer, no matter what your age or experience. On my first day in the office (having never worked in an office before) I dressed in full suit and tie, only to find my colleagues were in smart casual dress. This was 33 years ago and now a simple question could be asked on a platform such as this. Then there are the ways things can sometimes be explained incorrectly, it's not anyone's fault. Generally no one is specifically trained in dealing with the diverse nature that working/office life can bring. Rest assured HMRC is a great place to work and One of HMRC's Values is that we are innovative, We are committed to continuous improvement and to developing ourselves. Another is that we are professional, We partner with others and collaborate within and across teams to achieve great results.
Career path
Business Support Team Manager
HM Revenue and Customs
Started 04/1990 to PresentCompany
What do you like about your job and the company?
Throughout my career I have proactively participated in the vast array of development opportunities on offer. I have been a National Vocational Qualification Assessor. I have completed qualifications in Operational Delivery Profession. I have been a Prince's Trust Team Development Coach. These have all developed my confidence and allowed me to demonstrate strong evidence of Civil Service Behaviours in applications and at interview. I am passionate about showcasing HMRC as a great place to work. The mention of working for HMRC is usually a conversation killer but asking people to stop and think about what tax is used to pay for such as health, welfare, education and defence turns it into an interesting topic. The opportunities available to keep stretching and reaching for the next goal and the support given in an extremely diverse and inclusive environment are fantastic.
Greatest achievements
HMRC offers many development opportunities, it's not just about the day job (although this is vitally important). I have been proactive throughout my career in developing myself. Each time building on my previous achievement. For instance, I took the National Vocational Qualification Level 3 in Customer Service and then Administration. I then became an NVQ Assessor myself. Having demonstrated my ability and desire to help others, I recognised that I wanted to build my leadership skills. Becoming a Prince's Trust Team Development Coach enabled me to work with young, unemployed adults to build their confidence. They worked towards their own NVQ in employability skills, and I was in a good position to help them achieve this as well as helping them budget for their food whilst on a residential week, raise money to enhance a sensory garden for young disabled adults and visit them at work experience placements. Raising money for the sensory garden was done through activities such as supermarket bag packing at the tills, car washes. Also a sponsored abseil off a viaduct. The transferrable skills I have acquired by constantly thinking about what I do next to prepare me for the next step in my career, have been put to good use.
Abbey
Debt Management Complaints manager
Top Insider Advice
My one piece of advice is “Be-Honest” If you require any reasonable adjustments or assistance, “be honest” in your job application. “Be honest” in your training. If you don’t understand something, then speak up. If you need something to be explained again, “be honest” and say you didn’t understand. “Be Honest” with your aspirations, aims, goals for your career, there are many opportunities which may be applicable for you. “Be Honest” with yourself and keep your work/life balance right for you. My experience - I have been honest about my dyslexia. I have received additional help and support throughout my entire HMRC experience. I learnt an enormous amount about myself during "Coping strategy sessions" which allowed me to be more honest with myself and my manager. Finally, don’t be scared to question things.
Pete
Situational Awareness Officer
Top Insider Advice
Once established the keep your options open. The department and Civil Service are vast, work is varied and options are unlimited. Look for opportunities to expand your knowledge, experience and contacts.
Zoe
Secretariat
Top Insider Advice
One thing I've found since being in HMRC is that there is a real motivation for the workforce to reflect the diverse society that we serve. The success profiles often used in recruitment can seem daunting, but actually they allow everyone no matter what kind of previous experience we have, to demonstrate those transferable skills, or behaviours, which can be drawn upon, with the right training, to be successful in a brand new role. So don't let anything make you think you don't have what HMRC need or want, whether that be challenging personal circumstances, health difficulties, or lack of prior experience, the Civil Service is here to support everyone in our society, and so it should be made up of a diverse workforce that can accurately represent everyone.