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  • We talk all things fear, chemical engineering, moving abroad, women in cyber, career transitions and how any career including a career in cybersecurity is possible with Robyn Sutherland, Cybersecurity Manager at PwC

    In this episode, we explore why cybersecurity presents incredible opportunities for women looking to transition careers or enter a booming industry. This chat is NOT just for women in tech, it's for everyone. A career in cyber is possible no matter what degree you do or you current occupation.

    Robin Sutherland, shares how she pivoted from chemical engineering into the diverse world of information security. Robin discusses the variety of roles available, from technical to people-focused positions, and how cyber impacts every organization. She also offers advice on overcoming imposter syndrome and using your unique skills and perspectives to succeed in this future-proof career path. Learn why cybersecurity could be the field to set your sights on for long-term career growth and impact.

    Key Learnings:

    - It's possible to transition into cybersecurity from non-technical backgrounds with passion and willingness to learn new skills

    - Having supportive mentors who connect you to opportunities is invaluable for career growth

    - Pursuing personal interests outside of work provides balance and builds confidence both personally and professionally

    - Taking risks such as moving abroad or changing jobs can lead you down unexpected career paths

    Connect with Robyn on Linkedin.

  • Guest: Kate Waterfall Hill, Leadership Coach and Founder of Waterfall Hill

    Summary: Zoe and Kate discuss the benefits of leadership coaching, navigating gender biases in the workplace, and tips for advancing your career. They cover topics like self-reflection, setting boundaries, communication strategies, and embracing your authentic leadership style.

    Show Notes:

    - Learn more about Kate's coaching programmess at waterfallhill.co.uk

    - Follow Kate on TikTok @katewaterfallhill for daily leadership tips

    - Read our recap of key discussion points on the Jobs for Women membership site

    - Take notes on the action items suggested like having career conversations with your manager

    - Consider group coaching to connect with other professional women

    - Check out Kate's Instagram @katewaterfallhill for additional resources

    - Subscribe and rate the Women Work Wellbeing podcast

    - Share this episode with other women looking to progress their careers

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    Are you a HR leader, Talent Acquisition Specialist or DEI champion? We are a jobs board and employer branding platform ready to help position your organisation as a leading inclusive employer. Contact us today.

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  • Are you feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list and constantly thinking about the future or past? In this episode, Zoe Haydn Jones shares simple practices to help you stay present.

    You will discover what mindfulness is and how just a few minutes a day focusing on your senses can reduce stress and boost well-being. Learn how incorporating brief mindfulness routines into daily activities like walking and eating can make a big impact.

    Discover Zoe's favourite morning ritual for setting an intentional tone for the day. Hear specific tips for taking "mindful moments of pause" to hit the reset button when life feels hectic.

    You'll also get ideas for keeping a gratitude journal that flips negative perspectives. Zoe shares how reflection changed her relationship with food and her ability to truly enjoy meals.

    Find calm and presence, even on your busiest days, with these mindfulness hacks you can start using today. Tune in to feel more relaxed and reconnect with what really matters - living fully in the present moment.

    GET IN TOUCH

    If you want to share your story, please email us; [email protected].

    COME ON, THE PODCAST

    I'm on the lookout for guests. If you work in HR, diversity, and inclusion, or perhaps you're leading the way at your male-dominated place of work, I'd love to hear from you; [email protected].

    LET'S CONNECT

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  • Using a Brag File to Improve Visibility and Opportunities with Aimee Bateman

    In this interview, entrepreneur and career coach Amiee Bateman shares invaluable lessons from her journey of founding an online learning platform from her kitchen to acquisition. Amy discusses the challenges women face in the workplace and provides strategic advice for taking control of your career.

    There are so many things you can learn from this interview and start implementing immediately.

    Key Takeaways:

    - Document your successes in a "brag file" to improve visibility and opportunities when advocating for promotions or new roles. Amy recommends focusing on 3-5 key strengths.

    - Intentionally network by surrounding yourself with high-achieving mentors, peers on your level, and those you can mentor. Amy calls this building your "tribe triangle" for support.

    - Asking for a promotion? Do a skills gap analysis and advocate for yourself by explaining how you and the organisation will benefit from the new role. Boost confidence by focusing on feelings over just tasks.

    - Entrepreneurship is difficult but rewarding. Consider your financial situation and desired lifestyle before starting a business to find the right path for you.

    - Create peer support networks at work through messaging groups to share wins, get advice, and feel less isolated in your career journey.

    Take the next step in owning your career by connecting with Aimee Bateman on LinkedIn and YouTube to learn from her experience and mentorship. Applying Amy's strategic advice can help you advance your career on your own terms.

    JOIN THE FREE MEMBERS CLUB

    Did you know we have a free members club for women? Free masterclass, free training and free yoga and mindfulness. There is no reason not to join - add your name to the list now. 

    WORK WITH JOBS FOR WOMEN

    Are you a HR leader, Talent Aquisition Specialist or DEI champion? We are a jobs board and employer branding platform ready to help position your organisation as a leading inclusive employer. Contact us today.

  • In this episode, Zoe discusses the importance of investing in yourself through self-development and how it can lead to greater success both personally and professionally.

    Topics covered include:

    - Why self-investment is crucial for personal growth and achieving your goals

    - Overcoming fears and self-doubt that hold you back from committing to self-development

    - The power of goal-setting and how to craft SMART goals

    - Examples of ways to invest in yourself like courses, training, coaching etc.

    - Reframing your mindset around "failure" and viewing it as a learning experience

    - Creating a plan of action to invest in yourself through goal tracking and budgeting

    - Identifying your "why" as motivation to prioritize self-care and development

    Key takeaways:

    - Investing in yourself is not selfish - it's an act of self-love and empowerment

    - Small, consistent steps towards your goals can lead to big results over time

    - View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than failure

    - Make self-development a non-negotiable

    JOIN THE FREE MEMBERS CLUB

    Did you know we have a free members club for women? Free masterclass, free training and free yoga and mindfulness. There is no reason not to join - add your name to the list now. 

    WORK WITH JOBS FOR WOMEN

    Are you a HR leader, Talent Aquisition Specialist or DEI champion? We are a jobs board and employer branding platform ready to help position your organisation as a leading inclusive employer. Contact us today.

  • This week we speak to Menstrual Cycle Coach Lissa Higgins

    Lisa introduces the concept of inner seasons that correspond to the four phases of the menstrual cycle - She discusses how each week can be likened to a different season in nature and the emotions/energy associated - Lisa explains how to embrace the "hibernation" of menstruation through rest, self-care and nourishing activities - She shares tips for maximizing creativity and productivity during the "spring" and "summer" phases - Lisa discusses reframing the premenstrual phase as an opportunity for reflection like the autumn season - She emphasizes the importance of slowing down and listening to your needs during this inner autumn time

    Action Items: - Listeners are encouraged to start tracking their cycle to gain self-awareness of patterns - Tips provided on flexible work arrangements and self-care strategies for different cycle phases.

    JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

    Did you know we have a free resource centre with free training, free yoga and mindfulness. There is no reason not to join - add your name to the list now. 

    WORK WITH JOBS FOR WOMEN

    Are you a HR leader, Talent Aquisition Specialist or DEI champion? We are a jobs board and employer branding platform ready to help position your organisation as a leading inclusive employer. Contact us today.

  • Do you spend time on things out of your control? Worrying about the future, focusing on what might have gone wrong in the past? I have been there - don't worry, we will make some changes!

    What you will learn from listening:

    Acknowledging the Uncontrollable:

    Reflect on the myriad aspects of life that are beyond our influence:

    The past: It's immutable, yet its impact often lingers.The result: Despite our best efforts, outcomes aren't always in our hands.The future: Uncertainty looms, reminding us of the fragility of control.Other people's opinions: External perceptions can sway, but they're not definitive.What others think of me: A construct shaped by myriad factors, often beyond our reach.

    What you are in control of

    My words: A reflection of my intentions and values, within my command.My thoughts: The lens through which I perceive reality, is subject to my influence - start to notice your thought patterns.My response: Start to pay awareness on how you respond in situations.Self-awareness: A journey inward, it takes time but become aware of what you are saying to yourself.How I treat others: A testament to empathy and kindness, within your sphere of influence.
  • Does networking make you cringe?

    The thought of putting yourself out there, not knowing anyone and looking stupid...

    So many people I know have shared these thougts about networking with me. But you know what? Networking needs to become your new best friend for your career and life.

    Here's why

    When you need people in your circle of interest, industry or at work it could take you to places you hadn't thought about before. It might not have an immediate impact but keep those contacts close and you don't know what doors they might open.

    Here are some key actions you will learn from the episode:

    Set Clear Goals: Define your career objectives and what you hope to achieve through networking. Whether it's finding a new job, seeking mentorship, or expanding your industry knowledge, having clear goals will guide your networking efforts.

    Attend Networking ALL Events: Actively participate in industry-related networking events, conferences, workshops, and seminars. These gatherings provide valuable opportunities to meet professionals in your field, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections.

    Utilise Online Platforms: Take advantage of the recent 1 billion users on LinkedIn to expand your professional network. Join industry groups, engage with relevant content, and connect with professionals who share your interests or work in your desired field. Do you use the Events function to search for events that might be of interest?

    Follow-Up: My best piece of advice - after making initial connections, be sure to follow up promptly. Send a personalised email or message expressing gratitude for the conversation and expressing your interest in staying in touch. Following up reinforces your connection and keeps the dialogue open for future opportunities. And say something memorable - find something in common or a common ground you can remind them off - something you discussed at the events so they instantly remember your chat.

    Offer Value: Look for ways to add value to your network. Share valuable insights, offer assistance or support when needed, and be proactive in helping others achieve their goals. By providing value to your network, you'll strengthen relationships and increase the likelihood of reciprocity in the future.

  • This week I help you find balance in your life to be the brilliant woman you are.

    Here's what you will learn

    Redefining Rest

    Let's start by challenging the age-old myth that rest equates to laziness. In our pursuit of success, we often overlook the power of leisure, forgetting that it's the silent partner to productivity. Integrating quality rest into our schedules isn't just beneficial; it's essential for sustaining creativity and avoiding the pitfalls of burnout.

    Habitual Health

    Routine is the backbone of productivity, but it's also the framework for well-being. Establishing a consistent schedule that includes time for focused work, exercise, and rest can significantly enhance our efficiency and spark our creative flames.

    Mindful Pausing:

    I have been there when you are so busy you can barely give yourself a loo break or you sit at your desk for twelve hours straight. I explore taking mindful deliberate rest—taking strategic breaks when we still have fuel in the tank. This approach allows us to recharge effectively, preventing the onset of procrastination and maintaining our momentum throughout the day.

    The Power of Small Breaks

    Make your breaks part of your day. Block them in. Ever wondered why some of your best ideas come to you during a leisurely walk? That's your brain leveraging the power of subconscious problem-solving. We'll delve into how short, regular breaks, including walks and naps, can significantly enhance our cognitive abilities and creative output.

    The Foundation of Sleep

    Sleep is not a luxury; it's a cornerstone of health and productivity. We'll uncover the science behind sleep's role in memory, emotional regulation, and creativity, emphasizing the importance of a regular sleep schedule for long-term success.

    Physical Wellness Equals Professional Success

    Finally, we cannot ignore the symbiotic relationship between physical health and professional achievement. Regular exercise not only keeps our bodies in peak condition but also sharpens our minds, making us more effective and resilient in our careers.

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  • Cheryl Thompson talks about being diagnosed with Autism and ADHD in her mid-career and making a load of money due to her Neurodiverse traits.

    Here's what you will learn by listening

    🔍What it's like to receive a Neurodiverse diagnosis mid-career.

    🔍 How Neurodiversity can shape careers and leadership - celebrate the superpowers within!

    🔍Understanding human behaviour and prioritising employee wellbeing.

    🔍The skills you need to be a good leader - so simple but so effective!

    🔍 How Neurodiversity brings with it incredible traits such as curiosity, attention to detail, and systemisation - these can all be celebrated and become career advantages, if they are supported in the right environment.

    🔍How to make your workplace inclusive by respecting individual differences and create psychological safety.

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  • This week we discuss reclaiming your power with time planning

    You will learn

    Sleep schedule management - make a plan that works fo you, don't get caught up with the books telling you what to do, find a schedule that works for you. Planning your week ahead on a Friday evening, Saturday or Sunday - remove the anxiety from the week ahead. This was a game changer for me. Adding some adventure/fun to your week - I talk a lot about the treadmill of life, make sure you add some sort of adventure/fun into your week.Three pillars to planning your week - we are not living to work, so separate your week into: work/movement /self-care

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  • This week we discuss the critical need for slowing down in both our professional and personal lives, highlighting the risks associated with a constant state of busyness.

    Self-Care and Self-Perception:

    I will encourage you to explore the connection between self-care and how we view ourselves, prompting you to evaluate if you allocate enough time for personal well-being.

    The Paradox of Slowing Down in a Fast-Paced World:

    We will discuss

    The challenge of slowing down in a society that values constant connectivity and accessibility, creating a paradox in personal and professional life.The importance of prioritising health as a foundation for professional success and overall well-being.The misconception that slowing down equals a lack of commitment, arguing that it can lead to increased productivity and success.Burnout and the realisation of its impact, along with advocating for more attention and research into women's health issues.Actionable advice on integrating practices like restorative yoga, meditation, and mindfulness into daily routines.The need to learn to say 'no' and set healthy boundaries for improved self-care and mental well-being.

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  • Jobs for Women is rebranding and relaunching.

    Our diversity, equality, and inclusion content will move over to our brand new Inclusive Career Conversations podcast, and Jobs for Women will rebrand to all things: Women - Work - Wellbeing.

    You can expect a weekly podcast with actionable tips on everything related to being a woman (mat leave, gender bias), work (confidence, career tips, career transitions), and looking after your wellbeing (weekly meditation, women's health). Each month we will welcome an expert to tackle an important subject.

    If you are passionate about diversity, equality, and inclusion, being a woman in a male-dominated industry and enjoyed our interview please make sure you subscribe to the new podcast Inclusive Career Conversations when it launches.

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    Work with us, we can help.

    Contact us today.

  • Radio superstar, broadcaster and public speaker Stephanie Hirst talks radio, overcoming life challenges and channeling self-belief.

    Read the episode round-up here.

    Here are some highlights

    Stephanie started her career in radio at a young age through work experience opportunities - yes age 9!Someimes biology gets drunk - Stephanie knew from a young age that her gender was wrong and struggled to verbalise it.Stephanie was aware of the societal perception that transitioning would result in losing everything. The message in the newspapers would people who transitioned would lose everything. Stephanie’s mother taught her the importance of treating others with respect and not being egotistical.Stephanie achieved great success in her radio career, becoming one of the biggest commercial radio DJs in the country.Stephanie’s gender identity struggle persisted as she got older, and she couldn’t ignore it anymore

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  • This week we chat to Hannah Holt about the importance of self-acceptance in the workplace. She mentions that many women struggle with self-doubt and a lack of belief in themselves, often trying to meet someone else's expectations. Self-acceptance involves coming back to oneself, understanding who they are, and standing up for their values. It is about realising that one's uniqueness and differences make them exceptional.

    Hannah emphasises the need for women to cultivate self-compassion, kindness, and confidence in order to thrive in the workplace and bring their own strengths and contributions. She also highlights the power of community and connection in supporting individuals in overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome.

    Connect with Hannah

    Website

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  • This week we interviewed Becky Ray from Culture Kicks to talk all things stereotypes, being looked up and down my male colleagues, called a girl and backing yourself at work.

    Here are some key takeaways

    On Psychological Safety in the Workplace:Becky Ray emphasised the importance of psychological safety, stating, "It's safe to speak up... to share your ideas and your concerns and to say when it's not okay." This environment allows women to voice their concerns without fear of not being supported.Challenging Discriminatory Comments:She highlighted the need for a culture where "everybody in the team... can challenge [discriminatory comments] and it's not okay." Creating an inclusive environment where such comments are not tolerated is crucial for a supportive workplace.Turning Frustrations into Focus:Becky discussed how leaders should "listen to what [employees] have got to say. And do something about it." Addressing frustrations and turning them into actionable focus points can lead to a more productive and satisfied workforce.Empowering Women through Active Listening:Active listening is a key aspect of empowering women in the workplace. By being attentive to the needs and concerns of employees, leaders can create a more inclusive and supportive environment.Encouraging Women to Pursue Diverse Careers:Women should be encouraged to pursue careers in various fields, challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes.Promoting Strength and Intelligence in Women:Becky Ray's journey as the first female engineer is a testament to women's strength and intelligence, showcasing that women can excel in any field they choose.

    Connect with Becky on LinkedIn

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  • Welcome to our latest blog post on the Jobs for Women website! Today, we're excited to share insights from a recent episode of the Jobs for Women Podcast: How They Did It, featuring Olivia Preston-Lee, the dynamic Events and Partnerships Manager at Talk Twenties.

    Breaking Into the World of Events and Partnerships

    Olivia's journey is a testament to the power of networking, strategic volunteering, and boldness in career progression. With a background in business studies, philosophy, and theater studies, Olivia's diverse interests led her to pursue a degree in events management. Her proactive approach to career development, including starting a mobile bar during her university years, laid the foundation for her current role.

    🌐 Networking is Crucial: Olivia's story underscores the importance of building connections and reaching out proactively. Networking can open unexpected doors in your career.🤝 Strategic Volunteering: Volunteering is not just about giving time; it's about strategic engagement. Choose opportunities that align with your career goals and can provide meaningful experiences.🎓 Education's Role: While a degree in events management is helpful, it's not the only path to success in the field. Education can broaden your perspective and skill set, but practical experience is equally valuable.🚀 Be Bold and Ask: Don't hesitate to ask for opportunities or advice. Being bold can lead to significant breakthroughs in your career.📅 Dynamic Role of Events Management: The role of an Events and Partnerships Manager is diverse and ever-changing, involving creativity, strategy, and logistical planning.🔮 Future of Events Industry: The industry is evolving, with a trend towards more intimate, technology-driven events. Staying adaptable and forward-thinking is key.🤗 Maintain Approachability: Regardless of career success, staying approachable and grounded is important. It helps in building lasting relationships and a positive reputation in the industry.📈 Continuous Learning: Olivia's pursuit of a master's degree highlights the value of continuous learning and development in one's career.🌟 Leaving a Positive Impact: Aim to leave a mark in your industry by being helpful, open to conversations, and never dismissing others' queries or concerns.📲 Stay Connected: Engaging with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.

    Connect with Olivia

    For those interested in connecting with Olivia, she can be found on LinkedIn here and Instagram (@oliviaprestonlee.events).

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    Read the episode round-up here

  • The Core of 'Let Them' Theory: At its heart, the 'Let Them' theory is about releasing the need to control others. Whether it's a colleague, a family member, or a stranger, the theory encourages us to let people be as they are, without imposing our expectations or desires on them. This approach is not only liberating but also reduces stress and anxiety, allowing us to focus more on our own goals and well-being.

    Application in the Workplace: For women in the workplace, the 'Let Them' theory can be particularly empowering. Often, we find ourselves trying to meet unrealistic expectations or attempting to control situations that are beyond our influence. By adopting this theory, we can redirect our energy towards our own growth and productivity, rather than getting caught up in what others are doing.

    Personal Insights from Zoe Haydn Jones: Zoe shares personal anecdotes and examples from Mel Robbins to illustrate the power of this theory. From handling slow drivers to managing workplace dynamics, the 'Let Them' theory helps in maintaining peace and fostering better relationships.

    Transforming Workplace Dynamics: In a professional setting, this approach can significantly alter how we interact with colleagues and superiors. By letting go of the need to control every outcome, we can create a more harmonious and less stressful work environment. This is especially crucial for women who often juggle multiple roles and face unique challenges in the workplace.

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  • This week we welcome Jess Heagren, CEO of Careers After Babies. The conversation was a profound dive into the challenges and triumphs faced by working mothers, illuminated by Jess's personal experiences and her organisation's initiatives.

    Jess on Maternity Policies: Jess emphasised the importance of accessible and transparent maternity policies, stating, "You should be able to have access to those before you join an organization."Addressing Career Changes Post-Pregnancy: Jess shared alarming statistics from a survey she conducted, revealing the harsh reality many women face: "Within two weeks, I had more than 800 women come back and say this is my story."On Starting Careers After Babies: Jess described the genesis of her organization as a response to the need for family-friendly employers, saying, "Careers after babies is all about making really family-friendly employers, and we're doing that through our accreditation process."

    Key Takeaways:

    The Need for Transparency in Workplace Policies: Jess highlighted the importance of companies being upfront about their maternity and flexible working policies, advocating for these to be known before even joining an organization.Impact of Motherhood on Careers: The podcast shed light on the significant number of women who are compelled to change their careers post-pregnancy due to inadequate workplace accommodations.Empowering Employers and Employees: Careers After Babies is pioneering a movement to create a cohort of employers who are thoroughly supportive of working parents, setting a new standard in the corporate world.

    Jess's journey from facing personal challenges as a working mother to spearheading an initiative that advocates for better workplace policies is both inspiring and a call to action. Her insights on the podcast offer valuable lessons for both employers and employees about the importance of supportive work environments, especially for parents returning from maternity leave.

    Access the careers after babies report here: https://www.careersafterbabies.org/careers-after-babies-report

    Findout more about accreditation here: https://www.careersafterbabies.org/careers-after-babies-accreditation

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  • Our new episode HOW THEY DID IT invites Vicky Heward from Optimo

    Vicky is a skilled Business Analyst with over a decade of diverse experience. With a strong background in both technology and business analysis, she has worked across a range of industries, from not-for-profit to healthcare and manufacturing. As a mentor and advocate for EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion), Vicky is committed to empowering new talent in the tech sector and promoting inclusivity.

    It was during her tenure at the charity that Vicky discovered her aptitude for analysis. Her involvement in user acceptance testing and project work within the operations department revealed her natural inclination for understanding and improving processes. This realisation was pivotal, as it steered her towards a more analytical role within the organisation.

    Embracing a Sideways Career Move

    A significant turning point in Vicky's career was her decision to apply for a junior systems analyst role within the same charity. This move, though lateral, represented a significant shift in her career trajectory. It was a step out of her comfort zone, moving away from a managerial position to a more specialized analytical role. This decision underscores the importance of being open to non-linear career paths and the value of exploring new professional avenues.

    Key Takeaways

    Diverse Paths to Success: Vicky emphasises that there are different types of analysts and that not all roles require technical skills like coding. Her ability to act as a translator between business and technical teams highlights the diversity of skills needed in this field.

    Qualifications vs. Experience: While qualifications can be beneficial, Vicky points out that they are not always essential for breaking into the field. Practical experience and a willingness to learn can be just as valuable.

    Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Vicky candidly shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, particularly in male-dominated environments. Her story is a powerful reminder of the challenges women often face in tech-related fields and the importance of perseverance.

    The Value of Mentorship: Reflecting on her own experiences, Vicky underscores the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth. Finding someone who can provide guidance and support can be a game-changer in one’s career.

    Embracing Fear: One of the best pieces of advice Vicky received and shares is to face fears head-on. She encourages taking on challenges that seem daunting, as these are often the most rewarding and growth-inducing experiences.

    The Importance of Continuous Learning: Vicky's journey shows that learning and development are ongoing processes in a business analyst's career. Staying curious and continuously seeking knowledge is key.

    Read the episode round-up here

    Connect with Vicky on LinkedIn here

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