Insider profil
Keen to receive questions about
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.
Career path
Secretariat
HMRC
Started 08/2022 to PresentTelephony Advisor PAYE
HMRC
From 11/2021 to 08/2022School Health Support Worker
Northwest Boroughs NHS
From 04/2020 to 11/2021Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
I have always been motivated by working towards something, I like change and progression, the opportunity to try something new. My current position consists of a good variety of tasks with ample development opportunities both integral to the role and the chance to become involved in supporting corporate activities. I really enjoy learning and take an interest in what is going on around the organisation, trying to understand the bigger picture.
Greatest achievements
As a mum I chose to take a drop in pace in terms of my career, dropped to part time hours and tried various different jobs to fit around family, de-prioritising my own ambitions. I found that I quickly became unsatisfied in some of these less challenging roles and needed to get myself back on track. I applied for HMRC and secured a customer services role at AO level which I always intended to be my "foot in the door". As soon as I completed my probation I began taking on every development opportunity and looking at jobs on promotion. I was successful in gaining my first promotion within 8 months, and have gone from AO to SO in just over 2 years, which has felt like such an achievement after spending years making sideways moves and worrying that I couldn't juggle career and family. During this time, and with the support of the HMRC staff networks, I have also been through a substantial personal journey, battling to gain an autism diagnosis for my oldest child before he goes up to high school. My manager, team and everyone I have encountered in the various staff networks have been absolutely amazing, and I don't know if I'd have had the strength to get through that process had I been in a different situation!
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.
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.
Bal .
Social Media Support Officer
Top Insider Advice
Look for opportunities to build your skills, develop your talents and reach your potential. Sounds very wordy but learning is a lifelong journey and we never know everything I have found that trying something different has kept me happier at work and given me a sense of self satisfaction. It doesn't have to be work related it can include learning any new skill from sewing to pottery. At the moment I am currently spending 30 minutes a week completing learning around marketing and social media which is providing me with skills to better understand my role and that roles around me.
