Kyra .. Tax Specialist

Being on TSP and working at HMRC I have never felt that my experience is any different from my male counterparts who I joined with. For me, I think the biggest thing I notice is a feeling of 'imposter syndrome', which is not something that people external to me have made me feel, but actually something internal, and I think this is because I came into the TSP straight from university and many colleagues have been here for a long time and have vast technical knowledge. The best way to get over this I have found is forging bonds with colleagues so that I can go and ask them questions and not feel as if I am wasting their time or asking something 'stupid' (no question is ever stupid!). People here are also very kind, and they never make you feel bad for needing to ask more questions or have something clarified. I find that many colleagues are really keen to help in the development of younger or more inexperienced new joiners/trainees.

In terms of tips for the application/interview process - I think it is always very important to keep the skills listed on the application page for whatever programme/job/apprenticeship you are applying for in mind throughout the application process. This is what you need to demonstrate and be able to verbally communicate in response to scenarios/questions etc. Make sure you can speak confidently - this might take some practice in the mirror - and listen/read all questions carefully. I have a bad habit of wanting to start speaking right away, but there is no harm in thinking of an answer for 5-10 seconds before you start. If you are a fast talker like me, slow down. You want to appear relaxed and assured, and appearing that way will go some way to making you feel that way, even if you are nervous.

22 October, 2024 09:10