Dive into your Career

Networking / relationship building is an important part of creating a successful career journey... however sometimes introverts may feel that networking is too overwhelming for them. Here on the Dive Into Your Career podcast, we don't want anyone to miss out on the HUGE benefits of networking due to either shyness or introversion and hope that this episode will help even the most reluctant of networkers know there's a way to make it work for them. If this episode is useful for you, be sure to share it with other students and graduates in your life that can benefit.For previous episodes about networking on the Dive Into Your Career podcast, see here: 034 - Why networking is essential for students035 - 5 top networking tips for students and new graduates Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

With Valentine's Day falling in February and the world seemingly headed in a less "loving" direction from some global leaders... today's episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast focuses on How to create a career you loveAfter all, we all deserve joy and safety and part of that can include purposefully creating a career you love. Now, I am not being tone deaf about what is happening in the world and the fact that there will be many people who were surprised to be laid off recently, for whom thinking about work they love is a luxury that may not feel realistic in a competitive market and increasingly expensive world. However, I would argue that even with all that context, you whether you are listening as a student or graduate which is the originally intended audience or as someone further in your career who clicked on this episode seeking inspiration for your next steps, it is worth bearing in mind some of the topics raised in this episode.Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

These days, there are many viable, worthy options for students on their journey from education and / or entrepreneurship i.e. from school into the world of work. These options include university, apprenticeships and hybrids of the two. To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week 2025, this week's episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast asks "Are apprenticeships a good option for me?"... and guess what? The answer is yes! In that apprenticeships are a route that every young person should consider as they navigate their 16+ and 18+ options. "Considering" does not mean "choosing" of course - but why not be purposeful in the research that you do and the options you consider. Check out this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast to gain more insight into why all students / families should explore apprenticeships as an option. And as you investigate, remember:National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is the biggest week in the apprenticeships and skills calendar! It takes place from 10 to 16 February 2025. The week brings together everyone passionate about apprenticeships and skills to celebrate the value, benefit, and opportunity that they bring.Be sure to visit the website (whether in real time or even after the week) to access important information and resources.Further useful resources include: The first episode of the UCAS Parents Podcast - which I am proud to feature in alongside Tash Tustin from Atkins Realis and hosted by Jon Smith. Click here to access it. Episode 110 of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - What is an apprenticeship and is it a good option for me?National Apprenticeship Week 2025 website Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

2025... and in many ways, it feels like the world has gone nuts...More wars... Clear and direct threats of ethnic cleansing Removal of science and factual information from the public Fires and more evidence of climate change Further erasure of women's rights and autonomy Removal of DEIA / EDI initiatives (from organisations claiming anti-racism less than 5 years ago) An unelected citizen gaining access to private information via government sources ... and yes, most of this is mainly relates to or is instigated by the United States of America (USA) but you know that when it catches a cold the rest of the world sneezes.It feels clearer than ever that we are in a new era of activism (unlike early in my career 20 years ago where we may have been protesting the Iraq war but generally, things felt more centrist and less extreme then)... so it's no wonder that you as a candidate may be wondering whether your future employer aligns with your values or not. Here are some things (in this episode) to consider before you decide where you are applying...Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

Hey hey hey... HAPPY NEW YEAR! (To anyone listening in real time... and wishing the spirit and hope of a new year to anyone listening to this months later!)Welcome to the first Dive Into Your Career podcast episode for 2025. Regardless of how you spent the Holiday season, there's a chance that you experienced a change of pace and routine and as such may have deliberately or even subconsciously set some - insert appropriate word for you... intentions / resolutions / goals / promises for the year ahead. While creating unnecessary pressure on yourself at one time of the year probably isn't helpful, there is a collective energy in the are which we each have the opportunity to tap into and as such today's episode focuses on...How to start 2025 right if you're a student or recent graduate on your early careers journey. Spoiler alert: as a teen or twenty something, regardless of whether you engage with it or not, you are already on your career development journey. Paying attention and actively getting involved in your journey towards your future will be beneficial for you. In this episode, career coach, consultant and content creator Gina Visram shares 8 ways to start your 2025 on a positive note - though even if you're listening in June instead of January, you still find it beneficial. At the start of the episode, Gina does pause to recognise that natural and political disasters mean that at this time, some people won't necessarily have the bandwidth to do this reflection and action taking encouraged in this episode... but many... in fact most of us do have the agency to take charge of our present and potential future and if that includes you, why don't you listen to this episode today and share it with a friend. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

In today's quickie episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, I (Gina Visram) reaffirm my commitment to you - to support you on your early careers journey, enhancing a spirit of fun and optimism.This episode is filled with GratitudeReflectionsHope Self-awarenessPledges... and more and I hope you will stick around for more free (podcast and TikTok) and paid (soon to come - group coaching and job seekers planner) content, services and products designed to bring joy and impact on your journey from education to employment and entrepreneurship. Do stay connected, subscribe and share. Join the mailing list (links below) to receive the Hello Career newsletter. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

I am not okay. That's an important thing to admit these days right? While I had intended to record and release an episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast last week, on 6 November, my emotions in relation to the result of the 2024 US Election had left me reeling... and unless you wanted to listen to minutes of me sobbing... or stunned silence... I needed to step away for a week. And I have...Having paused and reset, somewhat...Today's episode of the Dive Into The Career podcast is focused on "Why keeping politics out of it may be outdated career and life advice" - a topic which is the result of some of that reflection.This episode will be useful for you if you:Were disappointed / devastated about the results of the US Election 2024 Feel affected by world events Are increasingly aware that how companies invest and who they support, may have an impact on your own career decisionsWant to reflect on how important it is to reflect on values - yours and those of companies you may be consideringIf you needed to pause, reflect and acknowledge these recent political developments before getting back to your day to day life... I hope this episode helps you to feel seen and heard. PS - As mentioned in the episode, here is a link to a website which shares some of the ways Trump's administration rolled back civil rights in his first term... and it is this sort of legacy which has many people, like myself, so concerned about a second term:https://civilrights.org/trump-rollbacks/Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

Inspired by the 2024 theme for Black History Month (BHM) in the UK, "Reclaiming Narratives" - this episode of the Dive Into Your Career looks at this concept more widely as well as specifically in relation to proudly owning your careers story. In this episode, career coach and host of the Dive Into Your Career podcast shares thoughts around: Critical thinking in relation to history when it comes to who is telling stories and what their motivation is (as well as considering who is not telling their own stories)Hidden Figures - The brilliant film inspired by the discovery of the impact 3 black, female Mathematicians (Katherine Goble Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn and Mary Jackson) who worked for NASA during the space race Reclaiming Narratives in relation to your career journey Acknowledgement that with the global situation being what it is, there are many people who cannot own their own journey, due to their circumstances. Bisan from Gaza is named as an example (of the thousands and millions who may not have control of their career trajectory but certainly are reclaiming their story)Proudly owning your career journey and your career story (and what the difference is) Don't be a passenger in your own life. Ready to own your experiences and differences?Time to level up and take some ownership of your trajectory?This is a powerful episode for you...Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

GCSEs. A-Levels. IB. University and apprenticeship choices. There are so many decisions that students need to make on their early career journeys. How can you as a parent / guardian,help? That's what we're talking about this episode of the podcast and I have at least 11 ideas for you so I hope you'll try at least one and let me know how you get on.Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

Have you ever tried to engage your child/ren in conversations about careers, future plans and been shut down?They haven't engaged. Have maybe even been dismissive. Not in a rude way per se but often due to their confusion and lack of clarity and not feeling equipped to navigate this stage of their education and early careers journey. In today's quick (10-minute) episode, I have had a great time, sharing a (as one of my new favourite sit-com characters Mr Kim from Kim's Convenience would call it) - "sneak attack" in relation to careers and future related conversations. Nothing sinister I promise. Purely a non-pressured... easy way to get kids thinking about and talking about skills and careers... without it actually being about them. Check out the episode to find out more... and if this was useful - please share it with your parent network. One of the upcoming episodes is another "parent perspective" one - focused on "How do I support my teen to make education and career decisions" so be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

At the time of recording this episode, it is Autumn. The days are getting colder, the nights are drawing in and the leaves are doing their annual magical process of changing colours and shedding. Change. It is a period of change. In terms of how our academic year works, September and October represents lots of change too and it is this 'season' that has inspired this episode about "How to navigate transitions and times of uncertainty on your early career journey"Whether you are in Year 11, 12, 13 or at university (all times of transition or change)  - I hope the reflections and tips in this episode will help you on your journey through new-ness, nervousness and second guessing yourself. There are some very specific ideas in here for you to implement which could speed up your journey towards setting in your new environment and / or feeling more confident about the (subject / institution) choices you are making. Welcome to the new season of the Dive Into Your Career podcast...Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

In today's episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, we approach a topic in direct response to the fears of some students this exam season... what happens if I fail? First of all - if you are listening to this in real time, I want to make the obvious point that there is still plenty of time to actively work towards your exam success:FocusStudy (in a variety of ways)Believe in yourself However, whether you are in the middle of exam season and panicking about failure; have completed exams and are worrying ahead of your results... or whether you are listening having received disappointing results - this will be a useful episode for you. What happens if you fail at this stage of your education? Your I/GCSEs, A-Levels, IB, SATs, university exams... What happens if you don't achieve the required or desired grades? Let's spend 25 minutes today and talk through:The importance of not gaslighting you into thinking that your results don't matter because... well, they do. The mainstream education system means that the better grades you get, the more immediate next options you have so in an ideal world, achieving the desired grades would be optimal The fact that if you don't succeed in this year's exam season, you will be okay - especially if you enlist guidance including that from a qualified career development professional (who can be found in some schools, university and independently)Recognition that if you 'fail' this time - either your timeline or your vision may need to change - and that will be okaySome stories of students in my world who embody the notion of timeline or vision changing Further stories of those who had to pivot due to 'failing' and are so grateful for how things turned outIf 'failing' is something you are fearful of right now - let's tackle it head on...... and then get back to your studying. It's always best to do as well as you can. You've got this.Do stay tuned for a last thought for anyone who is having a hard time studying due to despair over local and world events right now. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

"Follow your passion"Follow your passionYou ever heard that advice? Yes? Did it help? Hinder?How do you feel about this idea?In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, we take  a look at whether advice to "Follow your passions" is received in the positive way in which it is usually intended. This episode is inspired by a chat I recently had with a parent of a teen... a parent who said that as her child doesn't really have a sense of what they want to do in the future - the idea of following your passion feels more overwhelming than helpful. This got me thinking...I mean, I have had conversations about this topic in real life but it is the first time raising the topic on the Dive Into Your Career podcast. When I was a teen, that advice was helpful for me, partly because I had a good sense of what I liked and didn't... and felt capable of leaning into my direction of interest (Spoiler alert: That career I was determined to do then is not the career I have now). But what about the students who are good at everything academically? Or ones that aren't currently self-reflective and aware of their interestsOr ones who don't know how interests can translate to jobsWhether the phrase "Follow your passions" has positive or negative connotations for you in terms of your career development, this will be a useful episode - as it gives more context and technique around that notion. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries Also - are you a job seeker early in your career? Download the checklist: 25 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO SKYROCKET YOUR JOB APPLICATION SUCCESS RATEYou've got this!

Want to know the foundation for a happy career? You do? Yay... It's "careers curiosity". I promise this is no more complicated than it sounds... it is literally the process of being curious about careers. Jobs. Sectors. Companies. Entrepreneurship.Curiosity is the process of being eager to know or learn something... and can take many forms. In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, we take a quick dive into discussing the importance of careers curiosity in your early career - and also talk about they key steps alongside that curiosity...   action and exploration. There's also a tip for a careers curiosity technique when you feel a bit stuck when it comes to looking forward in your career. If you take action on this, this can be an absolute game-changer for you! You'll be able to take away actionable tips from this episode though if you would like my support in implementing some of this - in the form of my upcoming SORT OUT YOUR SUMMER workshop - do sign up via the link. It would be my pleasure to help you make the upcoming one a great one for your early career development. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

The word "Overwhelm" is used in many contexts and in this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - we are taking about it's definition as having too much to deal with. (Ha - a little but like how I felt when my computer didn't want to save this edited episode due to the disk being too full - Aaaaargh - but I digress!)The timing and topic is inspired by a LinkedIn post from fellow Registered Career Development Professional Elizabeth Lloyd - and of course, here in the world of Your Career And Future and Dive Into Your Career - we are always taking about facilitating the journey from education to employment being in a spirit of joy and optimism, not fear and overwhelm. (You can click here for the LinkedIn post mentioned - which includes some useful tips)Listen in to get 6 top tips to support your overwhelm... ... and a good range of context before the tips - to set the scene and get you thinking of your own circumstance/s (as well as excuses and priorities)Also - why don't you come along to a 90-minute "Sort out your summer" workshop if this is one of the priorities for you right now. For a teeny financial investment in yourself, I am happy to help you efficiently and enjoyably take some brilliant steps towards carving out a balanced summer including some game-changing career development opportunities. Click here to buy a place on the workshop. Listen in.You won't want to miss this one. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

As a school or university student, the term time / holiday cycles mean you have multiple opportunities a year to have greater control of your time. Whether it's the Easter holidays, summer holidays or any others - these moments provide great opportunities to build your employability skills - skills which ultimately result in you being an increasingly appealing candidate to future employers. In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, career coach and consultant Gina Visram encourages you to: Recognise the importance of rest (let's start there!) AUDIT / self-reflect on where you are on your career development journey Make progress through (often free) ONLINE COURSES which could benefit your next steps (arguably - all online courses could but if you know you are interested in supporting a career in healthcare for example, you can do a healthcare-related short course)Sign up for and progress through ONLINE WORK EXPERIENCE TASTERS (through platforms such as Springpod, The Forage, Bright Network etc.) Update your CVAudit and progress your LinkedInHave curious conversations Do understand more about this and to hear some real-life examples which can inspire your action... check out this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast.More information to follow on the "Sort out your summer" workshop and more.Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

Ready for some tough love? Well good... that's what you've got today with this episode which focuses on 5 things holding you back in your career development (and what to do about them). You my lovely... you are sometimes your own worst enemy when it comes to how you positively move your career forward. How can that be? Well... it's because there are certain things you do or attitudes you have which are not conducive to you moving forward positively on your career journey. There are a number of these... and the 5 I mention in this episode are:PerfectionismLack of clarity (and indeed what you interpret lack of clarity means)Lack of engagement Attitude Lack of support and accountability But don't fear - for each of these areas I go into some amount of detail about what you can do to improve the situation. I wouldn't leave you hanging like that! Also - in reference to number 5 - remember, one of your solutions to this can be the Work Experience Wins offers I am developing. Join the waiting list for Work Experience Wins hereWhich of these points most resonate with you? Do share... Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

What's happening this National Careers Week? National Careers Week (NCW) is a one-week celebration of careers guidance and free resources in education across the UK. The aim of the week is to provide a focus for careers guidance activity at an important stage in the academic calendar to help support young people develop awareness and excitement about their future pathways.NCW is a dedicated week every year allowing schools, colleges, universities, alternative provision settings and organisations to work towards. It's backed-up with free high-quality printable, downloadable, digital and video resources for educators to support planning and delivery.In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - I take a look at some of the NCW opportunities which are nationally accessible online - however this episode is all about reminding you what week it is and encouraging you to explore what's available in your school / university. Enjoy NCW2024... and take advantage of the opportunity to joyfully immerse yourself in all things careers.Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

Did you know that sometimes the highest achieving students are the most fearful when it comes to their career journey? Sometimes this can manifest as disinterest or not wanting to make decisions. In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, the topic of fear and uncertainty takes centre stage. How are you feeling about your early career journey? If you have any worries or fears, what are they? Take the time to name them. It may include fear of:The unknownRejectionSpeaking to people Making a decisionMaking the wrong decision Wasting timeWasting money Coming across as pushy... what is it for you. By recognising and owning it you can overcome and / or live alongside it... resulting in a more joy-filled, less stressful early career journey. Sound good? Good. If this episode has been useful to you, please share it with at least one friend. Let's support the mental health and progress of those at this stage in their journey. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

If you want to get past the needing work experience to get work experience cycle that exists in the world of careers - this pep talk is for you...In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - you will get a full on work experience pep talk.  I say full on because I started with certain points I wanted to convey to you... and then was on a roll so you now have half an hour of gems, designed to help you re/engage with the process of securing work experience. In this episode I mention that some people in the early careers space may not agree about the importance of work experience but here is where I respectfully disagree and provide my take on this. Please, do lean into my experiences and knowledge as a careers professional of over a decade... your early career journey gets easier once you build up your work (and adjacent) experiences. Whether you are in secondary school / high school / sixth form / college / university, beyond or in between - know that this episode is for you. You may even want to listen to it multiple times while actively applying for opportunities. Oh, and don't forget to share this episode with at least one friend. Securing work experience may not be easy but let's spread some positivity, hope and advice to help make it happen. Once you have checked out this episode you may want to explore some other work experience related episodes on the Dive Into Your Career podcast, including: 096: How to secure work experience when you have given up hope 066: 3 steps to finding work experience 057: How do I find work experience? (10 top tips)017: Where can I find virtual work experience? Adjacent topics which can be helpful include:097: Whether you think you can or whether you think you can't you are right... the power of mindset 091: How to make your career a positive one: 8 foundations for a positive career journey 088: 8 inspiring quotes about goals and goal setting Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

This National Apprenticeship Week 2024 is based on the theme "Skills for Life" and what better time to go back to the basics about apprenticeships and whether they are a good choice for you.National Apprenticeship Week is a week-long celebration that brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. So... this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, Gina Visram - career coach and consultant and host of this podcast explores "What is an apprenticeship and is it a good option for me?" If you are a student on your early careers journey - this is actually a question you should ask yourself at least once. In exploring your options on your education towards employment / entrepreneurship journey - it is important to consider the variety of pathways... apprenticeships included. What is an apprenticeship?An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee learns and gains valuable experiences It involves on the job training and at least 20% of their working hours completing class room based learning with a college, university or training provider which leads to a nationally recognised qualification. This episode of the Dive Into Your Career explores this topic and recommends some resources including:Website: The National Apprenticeship Week 2024Website: UCASWebsite: Amazing Apprenticeships Website: Rate My Apprenticeship Website: Not Going to Uni Website: Government (Gov.Uk) apprenticeship site Website / Course: The Career People - Apprenticeship Academy Website / Online course: All things careers - Degree Apprenticeship Academy Book: Understanding Apprenticeships: A Student Guide (Ben Rowlands)Enjoy this exploration of apprenticeships and whether this can be a good opportunity for you...Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

What is a growth mindset? Is a fixed mindset or growth mindset better?Why is the word "yet" so magical when it comes to mindset? In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, Gina Visram takes a look at what a growth mindset is and why it is so important this and every year when it comes to making progress with our goals. Inspired by the work of American psychologist Carol Dweck, who studies human motivation, this episode is a short, sharp, important reminder of how:embracing a growth mindset tweaking / changing our language and praising the process, not the talent...... can be a game changer when it comes to how we work towards any developments in our life and/ or career.If you liked this episode, do remember to share it and to subscribe. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

For nearly 20 years, there has been talk of "Blue Monday" - the most depressing day of the year which is said to be the third Monday of the year. In 2024, that is Monday 15 January. Now, you and I know that there is unlikely to be a scientific way to confirm this as the most depressing day. In fact, it was a travel company (albeit led by a psychologist) who first created a campaign about this - with the first Blue Monday being 2005. All of that said, I suspect that one of the reasons why the notion has lingered for nearly two decades is because it resonates. There is something that can feel 'heavy' about the shorter days, freezing weather, lack of Christmas lights now that the festive season is over, financial challenges after the festive season and more. As such, in case you are feeling a touch blue at this time of the year - this episode of the Dive Into Your Career has one... just one but a powerful one tip for you to help. Create a high vibe (music) playlist. Listen to the episode to find out more about go to the Your Career And Future blog for a post which features some of my favourite high vibe tunes. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: The Dive Into Your Career podcast page of the Your Career And Future website where you can also leave me a message suggesting a careers-related topic for a future episode Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any queries

It's here! The last of 3 episodes in this series shining a light on some very accomplished women who would likely enhance your feed if you follow them on LinkedIn.  "Saluting Our Sisters" is the theme of Black History Month 2023 in the UK. This has inspired today's topic of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - "32 awesome UK-connected black and mixed heritage women to follow on LinkedIn" (Part 3 of 3).In this episode... I am proud to introduce  the final11 of the 32 women who feature in this series. Please note... there was no vote. There are no rankings. This isn't even divided by industry. Over the three parts, these episodes feature 32 black and mixed heritage women whose work I have seen up close or from afar and who I greatly admire. Importantly, for the purpose of this list - they are also active content creators and contributors on LinkedIn, the world's biggest online professional network - so aren't you lucky to be able to click a button in these show notes and follow them on the platform.So here goes, here's the list. Do remember to make sure that you share this episode if it's of value to you and also subscribe to the Dive Into Your Career podcast to make sure you don't miss more valuable career development content. (22) Shereen Daniels Follow Shereen on LinkedIn(23) Annika Allen Follow Annika on LinkedIn(24) Ladi Mohammed ChapmanFollow Ladi on LinkedIn4(25) Cel Amade Follow Cel on LinkedIn5. (26) Serlina Boyd Follow Serlina on LinkedIn6. (27) Deborah B Williams Follow Deborah on LinkedIn7. (28) Naomi KellmanFollow Naomi on LinkedIn8. (29) Ramat Tejani Follow Ramat on LinkedIn9. (30) Vanessa Sam Follow Vanessa on LinkedIn10. (31) Hayley Mulenda Follow Hayley on LinkedIn11. (32) Marielle Legair Follow Marielle on LinkedInand a bonus mention 12. (33) Ore Ade Follow Ore on LinkedInAs you know, this list is not exhaustive but is packed full of recommendations so that when it comes to content and fascinating people to follow, engage with and learn from -  you can ensure the spirit and energy of BHM stays with you, throughout the year. Catch you on another episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast soon. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

"Saluting Our Sisters" is the theme of Black History Month 2023 in the UK. This has inspired today's topic of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - "32 awesome UK-connected black and mixed heritage women to follow on LinkedIn" (Part 2 if 3).In this episode... I am proud to introduce 11 of the 32 women who will feature in this series. (If you've listened to the first episode you will see that there were meant to be 20... but I added a few more!)Please note... there was no vote. There are no rankings. This isn't even divided by industry. Over the three parts, these episodes feature 32 black and mixed heritage women whose work I have seen up close or from afar and who I greatly admire. Importantly, for the purpose of this list - they are also active content creators and contributors on LinkedIn, the world's biggest online professional network - so aren't you lucky to be able to click a button in these show notes and follow them on the platform.So here goes, here's the list. Do remember to make sure that you share this episode if it's of value to you and also subscribe to the Dive Into Your Career podcast to make sure you don't miss more valuable career development content. Names and LinkedIn links of 11 of our 32 women featured in this short series include the below. Listen to the episode for further details and context:(11) Chichi EruchaluFollow Chichi on LinkedIn(12) Vee Kativhu Follow Vee on LinkedIn(13) Dr Anne Marie ImafidonFollow Dr Imafidon on LinkedIn(14) Rebecca Achieng Ajulu-BushellFollow Rebecca on LinkedIn(15) Kike Oniwinde AgoroFollow Kike on LinkedIn(16) Lisa AndersonFollow Lisa on LinkedIn(17) Sharon ThomasFollow Sharon on LinkedIn(18) Faith LockenFollow Faith on LinkedIn(19) Lady Phyll Opoku-GyimahFollow Lady Phyll on LinkedIn(20) Stacy MooreFollow Stacy on LinkedIn(21) Michelle Raymond Follow Michelle on LinkedInSee you soon for part 3!Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

"Saluting Our Sisters" is the theme of Black History Month 2023 in the UK. This has inspired today's topic of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - "20 awesome UK-connected black and mixed heritage women to follow on LinkedIn" (Part 1). In this episode... I am proud to introduce 10 of the 20 women who will feature in this series. Please note... there was no vote. There are no rankings. This isn't even divided by industry. Over the two parts, these episodes feature 20 black and mixed heritage women whose work I have seen up close or from afar and who I greatly admire. Importantly, for the purpose of this list - they are also active content creators and contributors on LinkedIn, the world's biggest online professional network - so aren't you lucky to be able to click a button in these show notes and follow them on the platform. So here goes, here's the list. Do remember to make sure that you share this episode if it's of value to you and also subscribe to the Dive Into Your Career podcast to make sure you don't miss part 2 or any other amazing episodes ahead. Names and LinkedIn links of 10 of our 20 women featured in this short series include the below. Listen to the episode for further details and context:Davinia Tomlinson Follow Davinia on LinkedInJenny Garrett OBEFollow Jenny Garrett OBE in LinkedInNova ReidFollow Nova Reid on LinkedInVeronica Patton-CemmFollow Veronica Patton-Cemm on LinkedInShola Mos-ShogbamimuFollow Shola Mos-Shogbamimu on LinkedInRonke LawalFollow Ronke Lawal on LinkedInAmina Yonis PhDFollow Amina Yonis PhD on LinkedInAkima Paul-LambertFollow Akima Paul-Lambert  on LinkedInDenise MyersFollow Denise Myers on LinkedInMildred TalabiFollow Mildred Talabi on LinkedInSee you soon for part 2!Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

How do I make new friends? What is the accommodation like?How does cleaning work in halls? Conversations about creating a positive start to the new academic year are taking place far and wide - and while not all of these questions above are addressed - this 2-part episode episode highlighting "10 ways to have a positive start to the new academic year" is my contribution. Listen to Part 1 (featuring numbers 1-5) hereIn this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - there are even more suggestions about how to create a good foundation for an amazing academic year ahead... including actively building employability skills (# 6) and start conversations (with curiosity) (# 10). Whether you are starting Year 12 in a new school or college; starting your undergraduate degree or even just determined to have a great year - regardless of your stage in education - I hope you will find a few suggestions here that you will commit to trying! As ever, it would be brilliant to hear about what resonates and what actions you take so feel free to DM me on Instagram, message me on LinkedIn or get in touch in any way (details below) to let me know how you are getting on. Have an amazing start to the academic year. You've got this! Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Happy New Year! Okay okay... that's not quite right. Happy New ACADEMIC year! (If you're listening in real time), it is September - and it's back to school season, whether you are heading back to secondary school or starting / returning to university. New academic years are so full of promise, but also before you get into the swing of things, can be nerve wracking and uncertain - especially if you are in a new environment, be it:a new post-16 setting like a college or new sixth form to you... or post-18,  where you may be embarking on a new apprenticeship or university degree. The coming weeks may include leaving home for the first time, moving into student accommodation, having a first taste of lectures and seminars and so much more. It's a big deal for you... and indeed for your parents who are supporting you with the greatest of hope for this new chapter. So, on this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, we take a look at the first 5 of 10 ways to have a positive start to the new academic year.  (If you haven't subscribed to this podcast yet make sure you do, so you ensure you don' miss the second part to this episode and the many awesome episodes which will follow)Check out the episode and don't forget to share it if you find it helpful!Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

If you, or anyone you know is in a situation where it recently became apparent that your "Plan A" wasn't going to happen as you hoped - then this will be a useful episode for you. Inspired by A-Level (& GCSE) results season, this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast gives some food for thought and specific ideas around how to change direction and create a new vision for your future. Coming to terms with the fact that your original plan will not be happening in the way you intended can be tough, but stay tuned to this episode for some ideas about how you can take the necessary next steps to adjust your vision and move forward positivelyAs ever, if this is episode is useful - please do share it far and wide! Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

As we enter A-Level results day 2023, my mind and heart goes out to students around the U.K. and globally who follow the British system, with their own hearts in their throats right now. On the cusp of greatness (whether or not they achieve their grades) and soon to realise whether the expectation and hope they have for themselves for their immediate next chapter is to be realised as they envisioned it… or whether it is time for them to dream a new dream (or pivot the existing one, or at the very least - reset the potential timing of it all).Such a big day.  If you missed your offer - firstly *hugs*. I am so soooo sorry. I know it can be devastating. You will need to recalibrate and come up with a new plan. Do listen to this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - it is full of gems just for you. Do listen and share this episode with anyone in your world who is creating a new vision  or new plan for themselves, after navigating some disappointing results. All while remembering that regardless of your results you are just as incredible as you were before receiving them - and if you are kind to yourself in this process and ready to take action, you can create a brilliant alternative plan. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

In the 100th episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast (that's right - 100... woohoo!!!) and today we are focusing on "8 ways to dive into your career which will improve your life and make your career journey more fun". At Your Career And Future, it's my mission to support students and graduates on their journey from education to employment (and entrepreneurship) in a spirit of fun and optimism, not fear and overwhelm. That fear and overwhelm on the journey to employment can be a result of uncertainty, confusion, fear of 'failure', denial and and even just the lack of interest and engagement when it comes to career development.  So - what can improve the feelings around the early career journey. How can it be more fun, interesting and impactful? Listen to this episode to work out how really immersing yourself on your career discovery journey can make it so much more fun! There are 8 ways in which you can do this and through listening to the episode you'll hear all about the below with full explanations and examples. Be self-reflectiveBe curiousStart researchingTake actionRecognise the proximity principleFail forwardRecognise your life has chapters Be kind to yourself If you are a student or graduate and haven't yet subscribed to this podcast - do so now! Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Hello. Helloooooo?! Anybody there?! If you are a subscriber / regular listener to the podcast (and huge thank you if you are!) - you may have been knocking on my podcast door and asking this question. It has been over a month since I published my last episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast. Not great (says my inner critic) for someone who intends to publish one podcast episode per week. But (she says, determined to turn lemons into lemonade) - what better time to talk about this week's topic: Finding joy in creating content and your personal brand.When it comes to career development, I am a HUGE advocate of actively creating your personal brand and an integral part of that is publishing content online. Think about it:- Do you have a favourite beauty TikToker?- Do you know which LinkedIn contacts talk about opportunities for international students? Or social mobility? Or diversity, equity and inclusion?- Which instagrammers in your world create awesome travel on a budget content?- When you are ready to pay attention to your finances, which podcasters or YouTubers do you turn to?  Content creators often carve out a niche of sorts - for which you can depend on them. I hope that the Dive Into Your Career podcast here is one of the places you turn to when you are focused on your career progression. When you associate a certain person with a topic or specialism (or even personality trait - such as a content creator being funny) - that person is successfully building a personal brand. This is something that can make you positively stand out. ... and where else it is useful to positively stand out? Yup - that's right - when you are applying to jobs. Be yourself - loudly! Whether you want to publish content about sports, marketing, social impact, entertainment (music / film) , travel or anything else - you are engaging with something which is of interest and potentially brings you joy. So - whether you know you can regularly publish weekly or fortnightly or whether you are a bit adhoc (falling off the map like I did for a month) - get started. You can even warm up with LinkedIn (such an important platform) before potentially going down the road of a blog, podcast or YouTube channel.As well as any awesome work experience and internships - you can highlight your uniqueness through sharing what you choose to be known for online - and let this be a jumping off point for building relationships and positioning yourself well for job opportunities. If you are not yet convinced remember, you can revisit episode 077: What is PERSONAL BRANDING and can it improve my career prospects - but I do hope you are 'sold' on what we have been talking about today and are ready to create or revive the platform/s upon which you are creating content. In the summer or autumn of 2023 I am likely to create an online community where I can support you with this. Message or email me (gina@yourcareerandfuture.com) if you think accountability and support will help you to make thiDo feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

How do I figure out what I want to do with my life? This is a big, important question that many students and graduates grapple with on their journey from education to employment. Sometimes, the magnitude can result in overwhelm, uncertainty and even shame - none of which are helpful in moving forward positively.So  in this episode of the Dive Into Your Career career coach Gina Visram recommends 5 ways to approach what can be a big question, in a more purposeful, meaningful way. Dive in...Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

"Whether you think you can or think you can't... you're right." This quote from Henry Ford is one of my favourites and is a brilliant embodiment of "mindset" - the focus of today's podcast episode. In my experience of working with 3000+ students and graduates and indeed in my experience as a human being(!) - I have recognised the importance of mindset on the process towards achieving any goals we set for ourselves.  Paying attention to your attitude, your thinking - whether it is positive or negative - all of this has a massive impact on our experiences going through life and stretching ourselves in the direction of what we want to achieve... what we want to be / do / have. Mindset. In this episode you'll hear some insights from psychologist Carol Dweck and fixed and growth mindsets - which are always a good reminder. There's a solid chance that listening to this 12 minute episode of the Dive Into your Career podcast may be exactly what you need to hear today... so check it out and be sure to share it with friends if it resonates. You've got this! (See that... mindset!)Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Ever found it tricky to secure work experience? Difficult? Ooooh.... "impossible" you say? If it is feeling like you are not having any success finding work experience, this  episode - "How to secure work experience when you have given up hope"  is for you. I'm Gina Visram - a career coach and consultant who wears multiple careers support 'hats' in varying settings. Head of Careers in a secondary school. Freelance Careers Consultant at a University. Careers content creator, workshop facilitator, coach and (soon to be digital product creator) at Your Career and Future (part of Limitless Coaching). I have had over a decade of supporting students and graduates with their careers - including the oh so important element of work experience and this is truly one of my favourite topics to come back to again and again and again. Why? Well, because it is that important. Work experience (and indeed volunteering) truly has the potential to be a game changer on your early career trajectory. The earlier you engage with it the better (some schools offer work experience from Year 10) as before you know it, when you are applying for apprenticeships, part time jobs and graduate jobs - you may get stuck in that frustrating "need experience to get experience cycle". So - whether you are tuning into this episode as a 22 year old or a 15 year old - I sincerely hope today's topic - "How to secure work experience when you have given up hope" is helpful for you. The 5 main tips given today include:Our mindset and words are powerful: change your tuneTake stock of what you have done - and remember to follow up where relevant Approach organisations which are less hierarchical than big corporatesRemember all work experience is good work experience: Be open minded Be tenacious: Keep goingIf you have found this useful, please share it with at least one friend so they too can be motivated to stick with it and secure their next opportunity.In the meanwhile, previous episodes about work experience include:066: 3 steps to finding work experience 057: How do I find work experience? (10 top tips)017: Where can I find virtual work experience? Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Got an interview coming up? Chances are there will be some "competency questions" as part of the interview process. What is a competency question? You have come to the right place to find out all about this popular method of asking interview questions... and indeed about the STAR technique / method - the recommended way to answer questions of this nature. In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career - you will continue to build on your interview skills through learning some of the fundamentals in relation to interview techniques. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Got an interview coming up? Congratulations! What sort of questions might they ask you?While it isn't beneficial to  prepare excessively - to the stage of being inauthentic and overly rehearsed, it is also essential to do your homework ahead of any interviews so that you can truly shine.In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, I talk to you about 7 common interview questions and explore some of the ways you may answer them. There's much more coming on interviews shortly so stay tuned and subscribe  now so you don't miss out.Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Do you get in your own head about interviews? Tell yourself that you don't enjoy them? Or complain that it's a stupid process? You may even have told yourself "I'll never be good at interviews". That thinking is unlikely to get you the job or opportunity you are seeking because as per one of those famous Henry Ford quotes "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't - you're right." Why ruin before your chances before you even start due to that sort of thinking? In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast - we take a look at how to "Embrace the mindset for successful interviews." There are 5 very clear recommended thought processes here and implementing some of them could be an absolute game-changer for you when it comes to navigating through the recruitment process. This episode is one of many "interview tips" episodes coming up in this season of the podcast so be sure to stay tuned for more (and don't forget to share the link to this episode with friends if you find it useful). While waiting for some of the upcoming new interview tip episodes - check out this one below about different types of interview. Episode 007: Let's explore different types of interview https://diveintoyourcareer.buzzsprout.com/977632/4875905-007-let-s-explore-different-types-of-interview Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

What GCSEs should I choose? What if I make the wrong choices?The stage at which you choose your GCSEs is often the first (of many) choices you will be making and it can feel daunting! Check out this episode to hear more about some of the elements which can help you with these choices! (And good luck - you've got this!)Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Students and graduates... Do you want your career to be a happy one? (If your situation is one in which you are working to be able to earn... That question ultimately equates to saying, "Do you want to be happy in your day to day life?!") Not sure I know anyone who would answer "no" to that question - yet jobs and careers can often slip into unsatisfying and mundane territory. In this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast, we explore how you can make your career an enjoyable one. A joyful one. Yes... seriously! In the week of recording this episode, I was writing content for the new Your Career And Future website. I thought about what some of the foundations of the career coaching and support I provide are and came up with 8 essential ones. While I suspect that may increase to 10 before the site is actually published - I knew that you would benefit hearing about how the existing 8 can have an incredibly positive impact on your career trajectory - so here they are. Check out the podcast to learn more about how these values and notions can bring you career joy and excitement. CuriosityCreativityConfidence CollaborationChaptersMindsetFunInclusivity Intrigued? Good. Enjoy listening to the episode and please share it with at least one friend if it resonates with you. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Should you keep your dreams and goals a secret? Inspired by a TikTok I saw this week in which the creator was talking about "6 things you should always keep private" - a list upon which "your dreams and goals" was at the top - this week's episode of the Dive Into Your Career considers that perspective. Should we be secretive about our dreams and goals? Does the risk of being unsupported or mocked or dismissed mean it's better not to discuss these topics? Will our dreams not come true or be jinxed even... if we talk about them? In this episode, I explore one of the childhood beliefs and traditions that could be a foundation for these sorts of beliefs...... and I share my opinion on this - which is that where possible (and I appreciate it isn't always possible), we should be shouting our dreams and goals from the rooftops! Well, sharing them anyway. Listen to this episode to find out more.What are your thoughts on this topic? Comment on any of the socials where you see this episode. I'd love to know whether you are also of the belief that sharing our dreams and goals (even if selectively at times) is a better approach to take. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Chances are, in the coming years there will be many... I mean MANY things for which you will be applying. Think about it...sixth form / collegework experience volunteering rolesleadership positions / positions of responsibilityuniversity apprenticeships internships placement year / year in industryjobs (part time / full time / graduate)... and this is not an exhaustive list! As such, it's no wonder that students ask me how they can stand out in their applications. This is the question that prompted today's episode. Please embrace a positive mindset when it comes to this topic - as opposed to a pressured one. Any activities you do are brilliant for your own personal development and confidence... and it's a bonus that they also happen to be factors in how you present yourself in your applications. Listen to this episode to find out more about 19 ways you can make yourself interesting on paper. Other episodes of the Dive Into Your Career podcast which may be of interest include:077: What is personal branding and can it improve my career prospects066: 3 steps to finding work experience064: Curiosity is a catalyst to career success057: How do I find work experience: 10 top tips056: How to make your job application stand outGet in touch via socials or email and let me know which of these 19 ways to become interesting on paper you are leaning into this week. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Are you at a stage where you are looking to achieve something important? This episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast may be the boost you need. "8 inspiring quotes about goals and goal setting" delivers what it promises and features goal setting quotes from Oprah Winfrey, C.S Lewis, Jim Rohn, Michelle Obama and more. Which ones feel particularly relevant for and / or encouraging to you right now.?Let's discuss via socials.Also, don't forget these other episodes about goal setting:087: Are you for or against making New Year's resolutions? 062: 3 powerful ideas from James Clear to take your goal setting to the next level Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

Happy New Year! Well, Happy New Year if you are listening in real time... and all the best if you are listening at another time of year - because, well, setting goals at any time of year can be a good thing. Do you like the energy of New Years resolutions? Or does it feel icky / counterproductive or like you are setting yourself up to fail? Do the statistics about the failure rate of New Years resolutions mean you are idealistically opposed to setting any? Have you noticed how on social media this year, there seems to be a move away from them?Here's what I recommend (lol - not that you asked, but I will share anyway)... don't shy away from deliberately setting goals - just call it what you want in the way that feels good for you. A "resolution", "goal", "intention" "promise" -  can be such a great thing. In my experience, deliberately moving towards something you want to be / do / have is better than not setting any goals. Being intentional not only means that you are more likely to take the required action to achieve said goal but it also means that you are more in tune with conversations and some of the more surprising ways that what you want can come into view. Want to achieve a certain A-Level grades or a 2:1 or above? Focused on getting into a certain educational institution?Ready to build your personal brand and start attracting opportunities? Interested in starting a side business - whether you are currently a student and / or an employee? Want to ensure you are having vegetables with every meal?Why not speak it / write it down / set the intention... and then importantly take action towards it. Real life conversations I have had and what I have seem online tells me that much of the resistance to resolutions or goals comes from the notion that we can be hard on ourselves if we don't achieve what we set out to do, however I'd suggest it's then a case of being kinder to ourselves and being less judgemental - as opposed to not setting them in the first place. This is a loaded topic and I hope you'll agree that this episode is a great place to start. There are many more episodes about goal setting on the Dive Into Your Career podcast already (just scroll!) and this January we will continue to explore this topic in varying ways. Have you subscribed? Make sure you do so you don't miss any episodes. Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

What is a digital footprint?Do we all have one? Can it impact my career (positively or negatively)?Is it true that I can lose a job  or opportunity due to my digital footprintThe answer to the last two questions is yes yes yes - anyone who uses the internet has a digital footprint. Wikipedia kindly highlights that: "Digital footprint or digital shadow refers to one's unique set of traceable digital activities, actions, contributions and communications manifested on the Internet or digital devices. Digital footprints can be classified as either passive or active." (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_footprint#Types_of_digital_footprints) Recording this episode at this time is inspired by a viral TikTok video where a young woman shared that her job offer was revoked due to (from what I understand), what her prospective employers saw of her internet activity.She is not the only one. There are so many tales like this. In fact, click here to read an article from 2017 about the "Harvard Facebook Scandal" in which10 students had their offers to attend Harvard University rescinded (they would have graduated as Class of 2021) due to their posting of inappropriate discriminatory and hateful memes. Listen to this episode to find out more about what a digital footprint is - what are the different types of digital footprint - and what control do we have over these. How can our digital footprint positively contribute to our career and life prospects (ahem... personal branding) or how can it negatively do so? Also, how is what is currently unfolding with Harry and Meghan entirely relevant to this conversation. Listen to this episode to find out more. I hope it blesses your career and helps with some of the decisions you make. Related Dive Into Your Career podcast episodes:077: What is PERSONAL BRANDING and can it improve my career prospects045: Why you should start a passion projectAdditional resources:Click here to access a BBC take on what a digital footprint is, courtesy of some content created for 7-11 year olds! Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

What is career success, really? The answer to this is a very personal one and it is with that spirit that I invite you explore 12 secrets of career success for students and graduates.Your career goals are specific to you. Not your mum, your dad, your sibling, your cousin... you.  No matter how well intended your supporters are, it's important to be building towards aspirations that resonate with you. What is exciting you about your future career prospects? Remember that at times when it seems everyone is running around, frantically applying for opportunities which you may not even want, you may start to feel inadequate, as if you should be in an intense period of applications as well. This is a scenario that plays out every autumn term for example, when candidates applying for banking, finance and consulting spring weeks, internships and graduate schemes are deeply entrenched in their application season - yet students who aren't interested in those industries can feel pressured to be doing the same. Even though their career development at this time would look different. I'm excited to share these 12 ingredients to your own career success - the secret sauce! I'd love to know what you think about these. What are you already doing and which one or two will you be working towards next?Do feel free to engage with this topic (or indeed with me) at any of the below: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTok Via "Gina Visram" on LinkedIn (where they may be a post with a link to this episode where you can contribute some wisdom / reflections) Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow) E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics

What A-Levels should I choose? Judging from the recent interactions I have has with many Year 11s (and indeed their parents and supporters), this is a topical question as late in the Autumn (and sometimes at the beginning of the Spring) term, these pupils are contemplating their post-16 plans. There are so many things to consider and importantly, one of them is that A-Levels are not the only option so in this episode of the podcast, some of the following topics are addressed:What options exist after GCSEs (this includes A-Levels, BTECs, T-Levels, IB, Apprenticeships etc.)?How many A-Levels should I choose? What is an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)? What specific subjects are required for certain careers / certain degrees? (including medicine, architecture etc.)When is a good time to start research entry requirements of university subjects?What sorts of questions This and more is covered in this episode. For wider advice on choosing a sixth form or college, check out the "How to choose the best sixth form for you" episode here. This episode does not go into the factors  around grade requirements for subjects and what is included with each syllabus, but as is the case for this whole process - do communicate clearly with your subject teachers about whether they think you'd be a good candidate for their subject at A-Level AND engage with the institution you are applying to, so you are clear about their entry requirements. (While requirements vary - in some institutions, you will need a 9, 8 or 7 at GCSE to move onto the subject at A-Level. Some may accept a 6. The educational establishment where you hope to do your A-Levels will have some clear information about this to share with you)Any questions about this choosing A-Levels or any other post-16 option? Cheering you on!Do feel free to engage with me:Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTokVia "Gina Visram" on LinkedInSign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow)E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics 

What is an influencer? How do influencers make money? How can I become an influencer?  Is this a 'legitimate' job? Do influencers only exist in the fashion and beauty world or might they exist in other industries? Can I create an additional income as a content creator without being an influencer myself?If you have ever asked yourself any or all of these questions (whether out loud or in your head) - then you won't want to miss this episode of the Dive Into Your Career podcast. In this episode  Lorella Palmer... CEO of Lorella Palmer Ltd, a social media coaching and management company talks us through these topics and more. When I spotted the 2-year anniversary video celebrating her social media agency on TikTok - I knew I wanted to (1) connect with her and (2) interview her for this podcast, so reached out excitedly. What particularly caught my eye was that within the celebration video about her business, there was also footage of her university graduation and I just knew that she'd have an interesting story to tell. I wasn't wrong. This entrepreneurial Law graduate in her early twenties has already had an interesting career trajectory and it is continuing to evolve as you would anticipate. Since recording this episode, she has delved even further into the influencer world with an offering around influencer management. As a "Head of Careers", careers coach and careers consultant, I am tuned into a wide range of careers open to young people and recognise that any careers professionals who don't recognise the validity of influencing as a career are not supporting our clients as well as we could be. Thanks to Lorella for shining a light on this evolving industry.  How can I become an influencer? (or respectfully support someone who is exploring this as all or part of their career?)Listen to this episode and find out more! To follow / connect with Lorella:Instagram TikTok To connect with Gina: Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTokVia LinkedIn Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow)E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics 

If you are aged 14-16 or are the supporter (parent, sibling, aunt or uncle, teacher, careers adviser) of someone who is - this episode is for you. Within the British education system (whether you live in the U.K. or elsewhere), at the age of 16, students sit GCSE (or IGCSE) exams. This is the culmination of five years of secondary education and is the first experience of national exams for most pupils. So what comes next?! Between the ages of 16 and 18 - students have a crucial runway between GCSEs and university, apprenticeships or other post-18 options and it can often feel like this choice could be 'make or break' when it comes to moving towards future prospects. It's no wonder then that students and parents alike are often thoughtful and pro-active (and sometimes confused) when it comes to figuring out the best education choices at the post-16 stage. In recent conversations - I have spoken to a few parents who feel like there isn't enough emphasis or guidance on choosing a sixth form (or indeed a college) - which has inspired today's episode "How to choose the best sixth form for you"As ever, this isn't an exhaustive list but it includes 13 important considerations for you. If this is useful for you and those in your community, do please be sure to share it. Let's build confidence for students and their supporters when it comes to making these crucial education decisions!  Let's stay connected:Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTokVia LinkedIn post about this podcast (go to "Gina Visram" to connect with me on LinkedIn)Sign up for the mailing list (for students and graduates... a list for their supporters will follow)E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics 

Volunteering can be one of the most powerful things you do in your early career development. Truly. Earlier this year I was delighted to speak to David Coles, Volunteer Centre Manager at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) about all things volunteering - and I hope you'll immediately recognise what a 'win win' situation it can be.First things first - a quick definition. According to the NCVO, "Volunteering is when someone spends unpaid time doing something to benefit others.Helping your close friends or relatives isn't volunteering. But doing something to benefit the environment (and through that, other people) is.Volunteering can be formal and organised by organisations, or informal within communities. It should always be a free choice made by the person giving up their time."In this episode, you will find out more about:Why volunteering is so important for students How it supports your career developmentInsights into the LSE Volunteer Awards 2022 (read more about this year's winners here)Listen to a 'lightening round' where David gives examples of great volunteering opportunities based on what industry you are interested in career-wise.Want to talk about this further? Or are you so pleased with this episode that you want to amplify it and tell your friends? As ever, let's stay connected:Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTokVia LinkedIn post about this podcast (go to "Gina Visram" to connect with me on LinkedIn)Sign up for the mailing list E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics ... and don't forget to leave quick review for the podcast too (wherever you are listening). It's much appreciated! Catch you on another episode soon. 

Trick or treat?!That's easy... this episode is a definite treat for you... as it can powerfully support you on your early careers journey (even if said career journey scares you). In this season of all things scary - this episode, "What scares you about the future" encourages you to name and acknowledge what you fear and / or are worried about when it comes to your future. Within this episode I also refer to an article on CNBC, by futurist Scott Steinberg, which you can access hereBoth REJECTION and FAILURE are mentioned in this episode as are some anecdotes, resources and wisdom which will help you approach your career with the fun and joy it deserves - even if you won't have immediate success all of the time. Furthermore, it what may be a career podcast first (ha - who knows?!) at the end of the episode I share a careers poem (which I wrote on National Poetry Day) - to help re-centre you and head off with a skip in your step.What scares you about your future? About your career? Let's stay connected:Follow Your Career And Future on Instagram and TikTokVia LinkedIn post about this podcast (go to "Gina Visram" to connect with me on LinkedIn)Sign up for the mailing list E-mail me on gina@yourcareerandfuture.com with any questions you have or suggestions for future podcast topics ... and don't forget to leave quick review for the podcast too (wherever you are listening). It's much appreciated! Catch you on another episode soon.