Bravo Careers

As the year winds down and the holiday season takes center stage, there’s something truly special about this time of reflection. Amid the hustle and bustle, I encourage you to take a moment to pause, breathe, and think about you—your career, your growth, and your dreams for the future. Every path, whether it winds through a corporate office or a busy workshop, tells a story of dedication and perseverance. This is the perfect season to honour that story. Reflect on the challenges you’ve faced this year and celebrate the milestones—big or small—that brought you closer to your goals. For many of us, 2024 has been a year marked by more than the usual professional hurdles or even the political upheaval globally. Perhaps you’ve felt the weight of work-related stress, whether it was meeting tight deadlines, adapting to new roles, or navigating changes in your industry. Maybe you, or a loved one confronted health challenges that tested your resilience. Some of us have also faced an immeasurable loss this year, saying goodbye to someone we dearly loved. These challenges shape us in profound ways. They remind us of the fragility and preciousness of each moment. When the noise quietens, and we find time to reflect, these experiences can also give us clarity about the kind of life we want to create—both personally and professionally. They urge us to consider what really matters. Is it time to pursue a role that feels more meaningful? To find a career path that gives you balance and allows space for the relationships and moments you hold dearest. Or maybe it's about proving to yourself that even in hard seasons, you have the strength to grow, adapt, and overcome. Gratitude is a powerful motivator, and taking stock of where you are—what you’ve endured and how far you’ve come—can ignite a fresh sense of purpose. Now, as we find ourselves facing 2025, I challenge you to dream boldly. What does success look like for you in the year ahead? Could it be mastering a new skill, looking to a promotion, starting a business, or simply finding more balance in your work-life rhythm. Whatever it is, give yourself permission to pursue it with courage and intention. This season isn't just about gifts under the tree—it’s about the gifts we cultivate within ourselves. Your passion, ambitions, and resilience are the keys to transforming goals into realities. Take this moment to honour where you are right now. Celebrate the victories, acknowledge the pain, and use it all as fuel to create a year that reflects your values and aspirations. Here’s to celebrating how far you’ve come—and to the exciting paths that await you in the new year! What’s one dream you’re reigniting as we step into 2025? I’d love to hear it—drop it in the comments below. Let's inspire each other to keep growing!

I know many of you out there will be supporting a child into their first exciting year of higher education in 2025, and possibly even living away from home. Here are a few suggestions on how you might best support your child through this transition: 👉 Foster Independence If you are lucky enough that they are flying the nest, encourage them to take on responsibilities like cooking and budgeting before leaving home. You might organise a "cooking week" at home where they cook one meal each night using a basic recipe, improving their confidence in the kitchen. You could help them create a simple weekly schedule that balances studying, chores, and downtime, so they understand the importance of managing their own time. Building these habits prior sets them up to thrive independently. 👉 Support Financial Management Discuss budgeting early. Together you could create a mock monthly budget based on their expected expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and social activities. Use the "cash method" for a week—withdraw a set amount for discretionary spending, so they experience what it’s like to manage finite resources. That makes it real. 👉 Encourage Social Connections Networking starts young! Suggest they join clubs or societies to meet peers and build friendships. Look through their institutions’ website or welcome materials with them and point out clubs they might enjoy, such as a photography society or a sports team. Share advice based on your own experience, such as chatting with flatmates by asking simple questions like, "Where are you from?" If they’re more introverted, remind them it’s okay to start small by inviting one or two classmates for a coffee after lectures—it’s about creating connections in their own way and time. 👉 Promote a Healthy Lifestyle Remind them to balance their studies with exercise, proper sleep, and a healthy diet. Help them learn to shop on a budget by planning grocery lists together that include fresh produce, showing them how to batch cook meals that can be stored for the week. Send them scary links to websites on the dangers of excessive booze and pizza. It may land on deaf ears but at least you tried. Encourage micro habits, like suggesting they go for a 10-minute campus walk during study breaks or replace sugary drinks with water. Remind them that many campuses have gyms that often offer free or discounted memberships—encouraging them to sign up could be a great step toward maintaining their physical health. Finally, it can be so tempting as a caring guardian or parent to step in at the first sign of struggle, but showing confidence in their problem-solving skills helps boost their independence and self-belief. Sometimes, letting them learn through trial and error is the best gift you can give—after all, these moments build resilience and prepare them for life’s challenges. We are all in the business of creating champions are we not?

The university application process is a significant milestone in anyone’s life. Recently, a good friend of mine told me how he had helped his son last year through Year 12 and the maze of university applications. It wasn’t always smooth sailing. From deciphering the ATAR system to balancing the stress of deadlines, it was a challenge. He inspired me to reflect on how parents can make a real difference during this pivotal time. 👉 Get Familiar with the Application Process Learn about the ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank), how universities use it, and the prerequisites for certain courses. Getting to grips with state-based systems like UAC, VTAC, or QTAC will help you guide your child through the process. Attending information sessions or researching online can also ensure you’re both well-prepared. 👉 Encourage Extracurricular Activities While academic results are important, universities also appreciate well-rounded individuals. Yes, the ATAR is used to help universities compare students' achievements and predict how they'll perform in their first year of university, however, it's not the only factor considered when selecting students. Reference extracurriculars such as sports, arts, volunteering, or community initiatives. These experiences demonstrate commitment and leadership and provide valuable life skills. Some courses select applicants based on additional selection criteria such as a personal statement, a portfolio of work, an interview or a test. 👉 Help Them Prepare for Interviews For courses that require interviews, role-play can boost confidence. Help your child brainstorm potential questions and practice answering them with clarity and enthusiasm, leveraging body language skills and speaking with passion about their goals. 👉 Guide Personal Statement Writing Writing a personal statement can be daunting. Start by helping your teen brainstorm ideas about their interests, ambitions, and key achievements. Encourage them to focus on how these attributes relate to their chosen field. Offer constructive feedback and suggest ways to add specific examples to make their application stand out. Remind them to be authentic. 👉 Provide Emotional Support Year 12—and the lead-up to university—is a stressful time for teens. My friend told me how simply being a calming presence helped his son stay on track. Celebrate the small wins together, offer a listening ear during setbacks, and remind them of their strengths when self-doubt creeps in. 👉 Seek Help When Necessary Reach out for guidance from career advisers at school to university open days and professional mentoring programs. There is no shame in looking outside for help – this is new territory for all concerned. I’ve seen how a supportive parent can profoundly impact their child’s experience. What strategies have worked for you as a parent? Share your thoughts below—we’d all love to learn from your experiences. 💬 Next week - How to support the tertiary transition!

My eight career thinking tips to inspire your growth for the New Year... You can’t create champions without giving them a little nudge. Whilst lounging on the the beach drinking Mojitos this Summer break, in between sips take some or all of these steps towards creating your success in 2025. 1. Update your résumé and LinkedIn profile o The return: The holiday period provides a quieter time to reflect on your accomplishments over the past year. By updating your résumé and LinkedIn profile, you'll enter the new year prepared to seize new opportunities, whether it's a promotion or a career change. Look at this as a stock-take. 2. Complete an online course or certification o The return: Many online platforms offer short courses or certifications that can be completed in a few hours or days. Gaining new skills during this downtime boosts your expertise and confidence whilst giving you an edge right at the start of the year. 3. Conduct a personal skills assessment and audit o The return: Reflecting on what you do well and what you may be interested in doing better helps you set clear goals for professional and career development in the upcoming year. Pinpointing areas for growth ensures you're proactively working towards long-term success. 4. Honour your relationships and reconnect with people you know o The return: Reaching out to former colleagues, mentors, or peers during the festive season builds stronger relationships. Consider how you may be able to help them. It also keeps you and them at the forefront of your minds. 5. Read a biography of an interesting leader and their journey o The return: A well-chosen book can provide fresh perspectives on how others have lived their lives fully and succeeded in their chosen path. Being inspired provides you with new insights allows you to ride on the back of others’ wisdom. (A good book to read “Into The Magic Shop by James Doty”) 6. Set career goals for the upcoming year o The return: Taking time to outline specific, achievable career goals helps you redefine your priorities and direction. You will have garnered wisdom over the year. Apply this to determine your goals. 7. Volunteer for a cause you care about o The return: Volunteering is also about meaningful contribution and it has the benefit of enriching your community, building relationships, reminding you of what you love and excel at doing in a different context and it can lead to the development of meaningful relationships with like-minded people. 8. Research Industry Trends and Emerging Skills o The return: Understanding where your industry is headed allows you to adapt to new trends and focus on acquiring skills that are in demand. Be a nerd about what you love doing and where you love doing it. This knowledge can help you stay ahead and extends your influence and impact in your field. Rest and have fun with those you love whilst looking forward to your year ahead in 2025.

It is time for organisations to truly take up the gauntlet on diversity. Whilst the moral imperative is key, there are many more reasons why this makes sense. Mckinsey did an article on Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson and James Robinson of MIT and the University of Chicago, who were awarded the 2024 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for their research on how societal institutions shape a country’s prosperity. Diversity was key. “I believe that the political economy of growth, how we make it happen, what sort of institutions we have to have in order to undergird growth, who benefits from growth, how you regulate growth, and technology, automation, AI, the direction of technological change—those are intimately connected,” said Acemoglu. Acemoglu underscores the importance of inclusivity in organisational success. Acemoglu's research emphasises how inclusive institutions are key drivers of economic growth. By fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued, organisations can tap into a wealth of untapped potential. This inclusivity not only propels growth but also builds resilience, enabling companies to weather economic fluctuations and societal changes more effectively. As organisations adapt to a complex global economy, the composition of leadership teams is under scrutiny. Embracing diversity is not just a moral responsibility; it offers a strategic advantage that aligns with organizational goals. The benefits include: https://mck.co/4fKGp17 • Enhanced Decision-Making and risk mitigation: Diverse perspectives lead to more thorough discussions and innovative solutions. • Customer Connection: Diverse boards can better understand and resonate with a broader customer base, fostering loyalty and trust. • Improved Governance and Performance: Diversity leads to better governance and financial performance, as seen in successful companies like IBM and PepsiCo. However, achieving diversity is not without its challenges. It requires a deliberate and concerted effort from directors to champion this cause. Board members must actively seek out diverse candidates, ensure inclusive practices in recruitment and promotion, and foster an environment where all voices are encouraged and valued. This commitment to diversity should be ingrained in the corporate ethos, influencing policies and decision-making processes. Furthermore, directors must hold themselves accountable by setting measurable diversity goals and tracking progress. Transparency in these efforts signals to stakeholders that the organisation is serious about its commitment to diversity. This accountability not only enhances the organisation's reputation but also attracts top talent who want to work in an inclusive and progressive environment. Inclusive institutions are the key to sustainable success. Directors must pick up the baton in championing diversity, ensuring their organisations are equipped to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

I recently came across an article about McKinsey's approach to managing their alumni network, and it truly resonated with me. It got me thinking about how organisations can transform employee departures into meaningful opportunities for both the individual and the company. I’m excited to share these insights, as they might inspire others to rethink how they manage employee exits, reshaping it into the loyal experience of valued alumni. Best Practices for Managing Alumni Relations Effectively 1. Maintain Regular Communication: Establish consistent communication channels such as newsletters, emails, and social media updates to keep alumni informed and engaged with the organisation's activities and developments. 2. Offer Career Transition Resources: Provide access to job opportunities, career workshops, and ongoing learning resources to support alumni in their professional journeys and demonstrate continued investment in their success. 3. Organise Networking Events: Host regular events, both virtual and in-person, to facilitate networking among alumni and with current employees, fostering a sense of community and belonging. 4. Facilitate Knowledge Sharing: Encourage alumni to participate in knowledge-sharing sessions, webinars, and panel discussions. This allows them to share insights and expertise, enriching the organisational culture and offerig mutual benefits. 5. Encourage Mentoring Programs: Develop mentoring initiatives where experienced alumni can guide and support current employees or other alumni, enhancing professional development and strengthening bonds. 6. Leverage Data and Feedback: Utilise surveys and data analytics to gather feedback from alumni, identifying trends and areas for improvement. Use these insights to refine engagement strategies and address alumni needs effectively. 7. Promote Non-linear Career Paths: Support alumni exploring diverse career paths by offering guidance and opportunities for growth across different roles and industries, fostering a versatile and adaptable network. 8. Recognise the Value of Boomerang Employees: Encourage former employees to return if opportunities align, valuing the fresh perspectives and experiences they bring back to the organisation. 9. Create a Strong Online Community: Develop an online platform or portal where alumni can connect, share updates, and access resources, ensuring they remain an active part of the organisational ecosystem. 10. Celebrate Alumni Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of alumni through awards, features in publications, or spotlight stories, reinforcing their importance to the organisation's success. By implementing such practices, our organisations can build robust alumni networks that support career development, enhance engagement, and foster enduring relationships. At Bravo Careers we can help your organisation in setting up an Alumni. Message me for a confidential chat about those first steps.

Having networking meetings can create exciting opportunities in your career journey. We advise you to approach them with professionalism and preparation to make the most of the meeting and each other’s time. *Preparation* Whether it's virtual or face-to-face, it goes without saying that you want to present yourself professionally: dress appropriately and ensure you’re punctual. Leverage digital tools like Zoom or Teams for virtual meetings, ensuring your tech setup is reliable. If you have a mutual contact, mention their name and your connection. Introduce yourself with a brief but impactful professional description, highlighting your background and experience in about three to four minutes. Prepare insightful questions to draw out valuable information. Remember, this is a professional meeting. We suggest you ask about your contact’s career journey and any advice they can share. Outline your future strategy and seek their input. Having a digital copy of your CV ready could be beneficial; if the meeting goes well, consider asking for feedback on its relevance to your field. Always ask for referrals to others who might be useful contacts. Aim to obtain at least two new referrals per meeting and take note of their details to expand your network. *Conducting the Meeting* Throughout the meeting, balance professionalism with friendliness. Listen actively and show genuine interest in your contact's insights. The aim is to establish rapport while keeping your objectives in focus. *Closing the Meeting* As the meeting concludes, express gratitude for their time and insights. Offer to keep them updated on your progress and ensure you do so. Share your contact details and express openness to returning the favour. *Follow-Up* After each meeting, assess what went well and identify areas for improvement. Consider if you asked all pertinent questions or if there are additional inquiries for future meetings. Document the insights and contacts gained on your network contact list and follow up on any action points. Sending a thank-you email or message is courteous and reinforces professionalism. It's also a chance to share your contact details again. Connect on LinkedIn to maintain the relationship. *Maintaining Your Network* Keeping your network active is essential, not just during a job search but also for future opportunities. Regularly update your contacts on your progress and share relevant articles, news, or LinkedIn posts. Tailor updates to their interests, such as sharing relevant webinars or articles related to their projects. Building strong relationships requires consistent, meaningful communication. As the name suggests, ‘networking’ is about creating a group of interconnected acquaintances and associates and maintaining it through regular communication. Each connection contributes to the foundation of enduring professional relationships. For more guidance on enhancing your career network, contact us at Bravo Careers.

We understand that networking can initially seem daunting, but we also know that with the right approach, it can be transformed into a rewarding process of building relationships. Today, we will explore approaches to reaching out to familiar or new contacts. 1) Start by acknowledging the diversity within your network: This includes close acquaintances such as friends and family, professional contacts, and those referred by others. While approaching some might feel easier, remember that many will be willing to share their expertise if approached appropriately. 2) Prepare thoroughly for each interaction. Define how you'll introduce yourself, your background, and your objectives. Be specific about the information you're seeking, whether it’s general industry insights or specific expertise. A concise overview of your experience and skills will help convey your professional aspirations effectively. Email and social media tools are invaluable for introductions in the digital age. Keep communications clear and succinct. Here's a sample email: Hello Jon, Dale Simpson recommended I contact you about instructional design trends. I've spent 15 years in corporate management and am exploring consulting opportunities. I'd appreciate your insights over a coffee or virtual call. If this isn’t convenient, please let me know. Best regards, Mindy When calling, have a clear script. If the person doesn’t know you directly, mention the person who referred you and always be courteous. Request a brief meeting at their convenience, and ensure you exchange contact details. If you reach voicemail, leave a concise message, stating your purpose and that you’ll call again. Approach different contacts thoughtfully. For a close contact: “Hi Jan, I'm currently seeking a new role due to a restructure at work. I'm exploring industries beyond Finance and would appreciate a coffee chat—say 15 minutes—as I look to understand your industry better.” For a less familiar contact: "Hi Paul, I'm exploring career progression and would appreciate 10-15 minutes of your insights into communications. Your expertise would be invaluable to my research." For a new contact: "Hello Gail, I'm Paul Smith, and Ben Lagado suggested I contact you. I'm considering a career change and would appreciate your insights into social media marketing." Remember, you're not asking for a job but seeking knowledge and advice. Overcome any reluctance by focusing on the potential rewards. Networking is about accessing opportunities within the hidden job market, a critical step for career advancement. Use digital communication tools and social media to expand your professional reach. Engaging with global communities broadens your perspective and enhances career opportunities. It’s also interesting and fun to connect globally! Looking for career support? Talk to us at Bravo Careers.

The purpose of ‘Networking’ is often misunderstood as a transactional exchange. At Bravo Careers, we view it as an opportunity for relationship building, and with the advent of remote work and virtual connections, reframing our mindset around networking can lead to stronger and more meaningful relationships and career success. Networking involves creating and maintaining a circle of acquaintances through regular connection and communication. The key is prioritising "How can I help?" over "What can I get?" This perspective enhances connection in your personal and professional life. Here’s why networking, infused with modern tools, is indispensable: 1. Digital Preparedness: Establish connections before you need them. Platforms like LinkedIn and professional community forums allow you to cultivate relationships that can be tapped into during unexpected career changes. 2. Social Media Insights: Researching an organisation's social media presence can provide real-time insights into job opportunities and new developments within the company. 3. Global Trends, Industry Knowledge: Networking now transcends borders, offering access to global trends and insights. Engaging with industry leaders worldwide enhances your understanding, providing a competitive career edge. 4. Enhanced Professional Visibility: Networking digitally can significantly boost your profile, making you visible to potential employers and influential figures globally who could become key allies. 5. Career Exploration, Online Communities: Digital networking opens doors to new career paths and opportunities. Engaging in online communities allows you to explore roles and industries you might not have considered. 6. Building Digital Friendships: Networking can lead to genuine friendships, even in virtual spaces. Many enjoy sharing their expertise online, so don’t hesitate to reach out and connect. Your network is likely bigger than you realise! To get started, we suggest you create a comprehensive digital list of your professional contacts. This list will be the foundation of a self-sustaining cycle of introductions and opportunities. In times of uncertainty, maintaining a strong digital network ensures you're prepared for any career move, planned or unplanned. Embrace the opportunity to reach out, connect, and build lasting relationships that support your professional journey. For further guidance on cultivating your professional network, contact us at Bravo Careers.

5 questions to determine: Is Your Board Fit for Purpose? 1. Does the board possess the necessary diversity? Board members are often selected informally, and it is only human to gravitate toward others who are like us Here we run the risk of ending up with group think with few, if any outliers. Outliers are good for our thinking, helping us think outside the square. They question/interrogate current thinking and norms. Do: Conduct an assessment of your board composition and identify areas lacking diversity . Consider a structured recruitment process that actively seeks candidates from underrepresented groups, shortlisting without knowledge of age, gender, race or sighting. A colleague did this “blind recruiting” The result was telling, in the best of ways. HBR has a great article on this, go find it. 2. Is the board equipped with relevant expertise and skills? A board with the right mix of skills and expertise is crucial for guiding the organisation through industry-specific challenges and opportunities. Misalignment can lead to strategic missteps and missed opportunities. Financial and regulatory expertise is vital, but boards dominated by this focus may be blind to critical areas of strategy, foresight, culture and customers. A balanced board composition, ensures a well-rounded approach to governance. Do: Perform a skills gap analysis to identify missing competencies/abilities. Offer ongoing professional development ; appoint directors with the required expertise or lived experience. 3. How does the board handle conflict? Clear and open communication is vital for building trust, ensuring alignment on goals, and enabling efficient decision-making. Poor handling of misunderstandings and discord will undermine these. Do: Conduct a psychometric profile for each director and a group psychometric assessment of the board. Feedback and review after every meeting to assess performance. Develop clear communication protocols and targeted interventions to enhance interpersonal relationships. 4. Is the board actively involved in strategic oversight? Boards must play an active role in setting and monitoring strategic objectives, ensuring the organisation remains on track to achieve its mission. A lack of engagement can result in strategic drift and reduced performance. Do: Establish a robust framework for strategic planning and monitoring, with regular board meetings focused on reviewing progress against key objectives. Encourage active participation and accountability. 5. Does the board practice good governance and ethical standards? Upholding high governance and ethical standards fosters trust with stakeholders and ensures the organisation operates with integrity - neglect can lead to legal issues/reputational damage. Do: Regularly update governance policies to reflect best practices. Provide training in ethics for directors and establish a code of conduct with clear accountability. Good behaviour starts at the top.