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Hey there!

Welcome to this episode where I was thrilled to have Amelia Sordell as my guest on the podcast for you.

Amelia is the founder of the personal branding agency Klowt. An incredible woman who built her own brand and following of over 70K followers during the pandemic. Amelia has a background in PR and marketing making her one of the most knowledgeable voices on linked in for this topic.

In this episode, we talk about:

• What is personal branding
• How you can overcome imposter syndrome to start building your personal brand
• The value of personal over company page branding.
• Some tactical tips to help you get going
• The mistakes some people make when building a personal brand.

You can connect and follow Amelia on Linked in, Instagram and Tik tok searching Amelia Sordell : https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameliasordell/

If you want to learn more about personal branding you can subscribe to my newsletter as we talk all about influencer marketing, being the go-to expert and social content marketing on the journey to building a successful lifestyle business.

I’d also recommend following Amelia on Linked in who often shares tips to build yours.

Let me know in the comments what you found most useful from the show and what questions you still have.
Watch the interview at
https://sueparker.io/personal-branding-with-amelia-sordell

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You can read more about Ronke and comment on my personal blog, Sue Parker.io

I absolutely love sharing this interview with you, I know Ronke Babajide personally and from our work on diversity in tech. Ronke is launching a mission-led business platform called the Queen beehive.  With a 25-year long successful tech career, Ronke is a great role model for us all and we talk all about her work and mindset in this episode.

My favourite quotes from this episode: 

I thought this is something I could do in the future, then I thought no, this is something I need to do now.Whether or not I do it , the time will pass anyway! 

In this episode we talk all about: 

• Ronke's Tech Career [02:00- 8:54]
• The Podcast - Women in Tech Spot light series
• Launching the Platform as a Female Founder

The book Ronke mentions is the The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams and you can also check out her channel The Women in Tech Spotlight series. 
And the platform https://thequeenbeehive.net/en/

I can't wait to hear what you have taken away from this episode. I'm hoping this inspires you to take some action today on your own idea. 

How difficult can it be?

Ronke Babajide

Drop me your comments on the blog https://sueparker.io/?p=3118 

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Hello!

Welcome back to season 2 of the empowered leaders in tech podcast, where we are talking about writing your own story. Starting from a blank canvas. 

Because when we can see it we can be it! 

And introducing The Freedom Project podcast for people who want to create more freedom flexibility in life, to love more and still have meaningful work & impact. 

Whether you are full of ideas, a side-hustler, start-up or mid through launch as an online freelancer or entrepreneur who wants support on the mindset, personal development and then strategy go check out the new podcast. 

https://open.spotify.com/show/1YsNMsatvjkIQcX16ur7pc

Sue :-)

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Reflection, I bet it's the one thing you rarely get time to do. ....

In this episode:

• I give you a summary of some of the inspirational interviews of this series for you to check out
• I talk about my reflections, my personal career and how over the last 12 months this too has changed.
• And get deep, challenging you (like a good coach should!) to think about what this is really about,
• The exciting details of our expert series for season 2

Often we think it's about promotion but the reality is that this rarely leads to happiness. 

We believe that following the traditional old carer path is still the only way, and I wanted to challenge you to think bigger. 

Most of all I would love for you to spend quality family time this summer. 
Enjoying one of life's most important gifts, love. 

And I will see you again in September for more...

Don't forget to get in touch on Linked in or sue@elitedigitalspace.com with your quetsions. 

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In this series, I've welcomed guests to the Empowered Leaders in Tech podcast to inspire you to take control of your career and build a life YOU love.

We're all facing the fear of the next move, the feeling that we can't keep up and that we will never be enough.

The all too familiar imposter syndrome, and every time you think, I am the only person to have this. We hear another story of someone who feels just the same. Yet in our professional lives, we rarely let it show.

Today I'm sharing with you an Interview with the inspirational Karen Jean-Francois. An analytics manager, Karen is passionate about how data science and analytics can support businesses and help them better understand their customers. While she finds digging into data fun, she believes that it comes with responsibility, and her uncompromising focus on data integrity enables her to build trust and strong relationships with stakeholders.

Most of all, she strives to help others craft their own path to personal and professional fulfillment. She believes that focusing on personal development and having access to role models is key to having a successful career – no matter what your definition of success is. This is why she created the Women in Data Podcast in partnership with Women in Data UK. This resulted in an industry recognition as a Twenty in Data and Technology 2020, which awards visible and accessible female role models for the next generations of data professionals.

Karen's story reminds us of the importance of being open to new ideas, exploring alternatives, and asking those difficult questions.

Starting her career as a Mathematician, it's no surprise she came to work in data analytics.
But like many, this was a squiggly career. In fact, starting life in Guadeloupe with her family as an aspiring maths teacher without even a computer at home, we can now see how unlikely this was.

She became an athlete training in Paris, where her sport became a way to step out as a natural introvert.

As Karen juggled the demands of her athletics career and a master's in France, far from home, she heard some advice that helped her to see she wasn't alone.

Later she took the brave decision to drop her track career and focus on studies to become a data analyst.

She took a master's in Engineering & statistics and loved it.

We talked about the importance of knowing your own skills and passions, and how role models and mentors can help a lot.

Then onto career progression and the unspoken rules surrounding promotions and recognition that see many high-performing professionals leave organizations. They feel unrecognized, unfulfilled and disengaged.

Karen shares with us openly how she too questioned her career, when on the track you know what time you have to run to be at that level

In business you can't compare, it creates conflict and the career ladder can be ambiguous at best.

We talked about diversity and Karen admitted to once thinking, 'I'm different and that means maybe I shouldn't be here.'

Role models and mentors help a lot.

With Karen acclaiming one book that really transformed her thinking by Valerie Young, Secret thoughts of successful women.

Not to mention that the Women in Data podcast also helped Karen to become more visible in the community.

Inspired? Are fellow women in data? You can always check out the Women in Data Podcast and find Karen Jean-Francois on linked in.

I would love to hear what you think of this episode and the first season.
What would you like to see more of? Let me know over on Linked in or mail sue@elitedigitalspace.com

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It’s taking time but many of us are starting to recognize that high performers don’t necessarily have a textbook-perfect career. 

Some of the biggest thought leaders in the Tech and Data industry started out in very different fields altogether. So pivoting, being courageous and taking uncomfortable steps is part of the journey. 

In this inspiring interview, we learn from Amardeep Sirha co-founder of Amati software consulting. A strong woman in tech showing us all how you can build the life you want.

We talked about how she found the courage to pivot from a safe and successful career in teaching. 

How we all need to take her approach always learning, asking questions, and doing the research to grow with our roles. 

We discussed the highs and lows, with a boost of encouragement, Amardeep shows us how to cheerlead for ourselves. Reminding us that there is always tomorrow to try again and it is never ever too late! 

For all you new generation leaders there is a discussion around what creates a supportive place at work, with psychological safety and getting the most potential from your team to be high performing as Ama.

Listen and let me know what resonates with you most..  

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How many times have you had a setback and told yourself one of these things?

Successful people are just lucky

I’m not good enough, I tried but I can’t do it.

Whenever we fail to do the self-care and mindset work every day, a failure or rejection can feel like the reason to admit defeat.

So I wanted to share 5 strategies for your toolkit, practise these regularly and I know you will make the progress you really desire, listen or watch the full episode to learn more:

1. Your Identity holds the key

2. Take the stoic assessment

What’s the worst that can happen? And if it did what would you do?

What’s the best possible outcome if I do anyway?

1. What would you say to your best friend

Be empathetic, shake it off, ask yourself ‘What next?’

Get super solution focussed

That didn’t work, what do I try next?

1. Learn to celebrate the struggle, the trying, the small wins and marginal gains.

2. Be in it for the long game

I hope that you use these to follow your path to wherever, no matter what gets in your way.

Sue

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Do you find that after the working week is done there is a void? Like a whole part of who you truly are is missing.

In this episode, I'm joined by Ketaki Vaidya Senior Software Engineer at Oracle and Host of the "Personal Branding for Professionals" Podcast. 

We talk about having a personal purpose, something which expresses who you are, along with practical tips and advice for building a brand at work. Watch or listen below:

In this episode we talk about:

• What is personal branding - your reputation, what you do others know of you
• How trying to be someone else is not the answer.
• The courage and vulnerability with being authentically you
• The two types of people at work and how keeping your head down and working hard won't cut it
• Why you should treat your manager as a partner
• Start nominating yourself
• Ketaki recommends having biweekly check-ins with your manager

I hope you got a lot from this episode, remember if you have anything you'd like me to cover on the podcast, drop me an email sue@elitedigitalspace.com or message me Sue Parker on Linked in. 

Head over to Linked in and tag me a post - what did you take away today?

Learn more about Ketaki's podcast here. "Personal Branding for Professionals"

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Listen or watch this fantastic Empowered Leaders in Tech episode where Nicole shares with us the 3C framework and real actionable steps to increase your credibility at work. 

Nicole's vision is 100% in alignment with the empowered new generation, people who find purpose in their work, helping you to get selected for the projects you want to do and creating the job of your dreams.

If you want to find out more about the positioning matrix Nicole talks about you can find that using the link below:

https://www.mattchurch.com/talkingpoint/positioning-101

In this episode, we talk about:

• The importance of building credibility with yourself - Acting as the compass for your career and being clear on your strengths and passions.
• How to get colleagues and managers to see our strengths at work
• How to get the projects and jobs we want
• How to pitch for something when your experience is mostly in a different field.

You can also join the Women in Stem reimagined masterclass here.

You can listen on the usual podcast players Spotify, apple play and google. 

Or you can watch the full video. https://youtu.be/CpCUJW93Abo 

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Do you ever get caught in this never-ending cycle caught between:
"yes I can do this" 
followed by but no "I'm just not that confident"

I want to share with you a new way to think of confidence, as a new perspective is often all it's takes to give you a boost. 

Don't forget to grab the free empowered leaders training series from: https://elitedigitalspace.com/ 

Your coach,
Sue

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For a long time I would beat myself up for failing to have the textbook morning routine.
The gurus show us a perfect morning routine, these perfect situations of calm tranquility and relaxation to get focused on your big goal, your mindset and body.

Perhaps you read the articles and feel like it's impossible for you too. And that's why I wanted to talk about this - it's the Successful morning routine for real people and real life!

Now as a mum of 2, working a corporate career and business, I had to learn how to win the morning.
Because we know that when we start right, we get better clarity, improved mood, focus and instead of reactively passing through the day. Losing day after day to the busyness, we can attend to our mind and body. So that we get the energy to really be set up.

In this episode I share the challenges and undoubtedly you will have some of these, but most importantly some life-changing strategies so that you can:

• Be better prepared (even when you have kids to get ready)
• Stick to healthier habits - for the whole family.
• Still, have fun together in the mornings
• Incorporate envisaging that amazing future ahead of you

Basic morning habits recommended

• Hydrate
• Exercise
• Get in the outdoors
• Visualize your future daily

Tops tips for a family
Make sure school bags and clothes are ready the night before
Reduce decision making - breakfast, clothes etc decide in advance

Deciding no matter what happened that night or that morning as soon as you can, reset and start the day again. Show up present, connected and determined to work towards your goal.

This podcast is taken from a series of moring motivation lives I do on Instagram a couple of times a week. If you'd like to follow along live - jump on https://www.instagram.com/iamsueparker/

If you like the episode please keep this podcast going by leaving a review or clicking the 5 stars.

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When you are looking to advance your career or in a leadership role, it can be unclear what is expected from you.

We move to from the detail as a 'doer' with a very prescriptive role where your outputs are clear. Into space where you need to think bigger, more strategic and have the full picture in mind.

This can be both the exciting challenge you are ready for and the fear-inducing factor that leads up to 40% of leaders fail in the first 18months.

In this episode, I want to give you clarity on how you define 'What should I be working on?'

So that you know where to focus your energies, which as we all know can be easily overwhelmed by urgent busy work. The noise that comes at us from all angles, the stakeholders, the team, the systems and more.

Asking these questions will ensure you reduce the 'busy' work that not really having an impact.
Stop wondering why you are not getting the recognition your hard work deserves.
Becoming stressed yet unfulfilled by not doing the amazing projects that matter and give your work purpose.

In this episode, I talk about the questions you need to ask.
The Top 2 to figuring out How you figure out what to work on.

1. What are the business goals over the next 1-5 years?
2. What can I do / my team do to support you (the business leader)?

Then collate, do your homework
Ask who I can learn more about these areas from.
Make proposals
Review your planned work and pipeline frequently with these leaders for a steer.
Get yourself at the table! Suggest there are meetings or projects you should be involved in.

I hope that you gain clarity and take action in your role to get this clarity for your career advancement and fulfillment.

For more training head to https://elitedigitalspace.com/ and sign up to the FREE Empowered Leader training series.

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An Inspiring Interview with the Founder of Empowering Analysts

I absolutely loved this interview and I know you will too. Nicki is an incredibly driven business intelligence manager and the founder of empowered analysts.

Nicki shares openly her squiggly career journey and invaluable insight into how we can all build resilience. The reflection on her career which was far from perfect serves as a lesson to us all how we can pivot at any time, strive for great things and as she put it ‘sit in discomfort and build resilience.’

https://youtu.be/iLc2NoE7kmg

You can listen to the podcast above, or watch the video.

My favourite quotes from Nicki:

‘Sit in discomfort and build resilience.
’You are always going to feel the fear and resistance, lean into it.

Align with your values

Strive for a higher self – don’t just contain yourself

Nicki Tinson

If you love this don’t forget to share and tag me in a post, what did you love? and I can’t wait to give you a shout-out back!

Sue
https://elitedigitalspace.com/

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Can you believe that it's already June?
What with the pandemic, shifting between the office and home. A remote or distributed team, life on and off zoom it's easy to get distracted from our goals. 

This week to mark the half way point in the year I want to get you in a state where you can get clarity and focus again. 
To make bold decisions, to plan and know how to define productivity. 

And it's not a waste of time exercise either... in fact, a study showed that 17% of people have goals in life. 
Of them, 14% are 100 times more likely to be successful. 
And the other 3% are 3 times the 14% more likely to achieve them. 

So join me in getting clear on the big picture. 
Asking yourself - what would myself 1-year from now want me to have been doing?

Here's to building a successful career and life you love, waking up motivating and ending the day fulfilled. 

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Inspired by a wonderful TED talk I want to motivate you today by flipping the happiness switch.

Why?
Because when we are happy, we perform better, we feel better, we build better relationships, we're healthier - so naturally, we achieve more goals in life.

One of the biggest myths that lead us on a never-ending search for happiness.  I'll be happy when.... I've achieved X, got Y...

I remember telling myself for years that I will have achieved something when I have a leadership role. That would finally make me feel like I was progressing and contributing.

The myth that happiness is always beyond success.  Yet we never get there.
The goal post constantly moves.
One promotion leads to another, and the expectations change.

Let's explore how you can learn to feel happy now and perform better.

If you want to check out the Empowered Leader Series, it's a transformational mini-training completely FREE  get your access at  http://elitedigitalspace.com

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I wanted to share a snippet from my talk with the Her plus Data Manchester group where I talk about confidence and imposter syndrome. 

I found it useful to understand how it's common for people who suffer imposter syndrome to become overwhelmed with it just after receiving a promotion or achievement. 

I also teach the Dunning Krugger effect which can be useful to highlight how the more knowledge you have can lead to self-doubt as you realize how complex the subject really is. 

I'm sure that you too will find the value in these insights, to help you understand your own reactions to these feelings. 

Remember you are capable, you can do this and your inner voice is helping you to do better every day. 

You can grab the free training series I mention by hitting the button empowered leader series on http://elitedigitalspace.com/

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I am extremely excited to bring this informative, passionate and thought-provoking episode with Author, Gender balance expert and Coach Suzanne Doyle Morris. 

We talk about the content of Suzanne's latest book The Con Job, Competence in a world obsessed with Confidence.  

We talk about imposter syndrome, how to build your confidence and competence by getting more exposure to these situations. 

How confidence is contextual. 

How recognizing competence we can improve equality. 

Redefining confidence to be about displaying courage, going against the grain and self awareness. 

Listen and let me know how this changes your thoughts on confidence! 
Linked in - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/ 
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iamsueparker/ 

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lDy3kAYqBw 

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In this episode, I share a recent Instagram LIVE I did that sparked a lot of messages from people talking about how this had resonated. So I had wanted to share this with my podcast community. 
These last 12 months or so some of us have found that there has been a sharp increase in the amount of change we experience yet a severe downturn in the support available. 

The need to feel connected is so important because it's human nature, it gives us strength and resilience. 

So we need to feel connected to these three areas, when we do we feel part of something, we feel supported, we feel important or needed. We have the love connected, the self-appreciation, and contribution. 

I talk about establishing a connection with:

• your SELF, becoming self-aware, self appreciative and more.
• With OTHERS, the relationships, and connection to other people.
• And to the WORK that we do - Simon Sinek fans would view this as their why, the work with purpose & meaning.

You can view the full episode details including the diagrams here:
https://elitedigitalspace.com/feel-more-connected/

Don't forget to subscribe and connect on social media. 
https://www.instagram.com/iamsueparker/ 

Until next time, be more intentional about building your connections. 
Sue 

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This is a thought-provoking and uplifting episode - looking forward at your career! 
Join me as I talk about the quiet revolution across high-performing professionals, who are easily defining the new generation leader. 

This culture shift started before the pandemic and has since been accelerated as more professionals demand diversity and inclusion, and embrace learning.

Competence and empathy are valued highest of all traits. 
With a shift from Victim to Role Model mindset. 

I've previously talked about how I consider anyone to have the capacity to be defined a leader. In this episode, many of my listeners associate themselves with some if not all of these. 

This revolution will improve work life balance and fulfillment for all professionals.
Helping you to wake up motivated and come home fulfilled! 

If you are aspirational to become a leader of impact the program mentioned in this episode can be found here https://elitedigitalspace.com/empoweredleader/  

Don't forget to subscribe and share with me over on Instagram (@iamSueParker) or Linked in your comments. 

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It was not that long ago when the term 'Personal Brand' became popular and with it the belief that branding was only really for commercial businesses. 

Well nowadays branding applies to everything, and if you want to protect but also advance in your career, side hustle or even hobby you'll be well advised to get some visibility. 

Now to some of us we might be thinking, this means getting on a stage (ARRR!!! ), but the reality is that there are so many things we can do every day in work that lead to greater opportunities and visibility. 

You can watch the video of this episode or listen to the podcast on Spotify or Itunes, 

In this show, I talk about:

Why is visibility important?

How to build visibility?

Don't forget you can always visit:
https://elitedigitalspace.com/ 

You can follow me on Linked in 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/iamsueparker/

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Since the day I met Riona I knew how her story could inspire others and in this episode, I am very pleased to share the mindset behind this incredible woman.

Riona Rooplal followed her natural talents into project management and passion for architecture. As a young woman leading architectural projects, Riona went on to lead an ATM roll out with the largest bank in South Africa.

Before embarking on a new journey, with the growth mindset and focus on her goals and how she can build the life she wanted, Riona shows us what it takes to move to a new country, without speaking the language, to complete an MBA and build a consulting business. Riona is now the Founder of Ribicology Consulting embarking on building a business across Europe.

If you wonder what the mindset of a successful person in tech sounds like, listen to this interview and get insight to develop yours.

Episode Summary

• Life's Goals & Bucket Lists
• Where do you get your mindset from?
• Questions we should all be asking
• About the MBA & thesis?
• What is success?
• Resilience & mindset
• What is the future?
• What drives you?
• Time Blocking
• What advice would you have given your younger self?

Riona also explains that she constantly plans to the future answering these questions:

• Where do you I see myself in 1, 5 & 10 years time?
• What do I need to do to achieve this?
• And what is manageable that we've got to start tomorrow?

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'Owning the Day'

You know it's one of those pieces of wisdom that you don't really hear, or actively listen to until you're ready to. In fact, most personal development is like that, how many times have people told you to follow a passion, be more positive, be grateful.

We take so many of these things for granted as common sense but rarely put them into practice until we are ready to listen and hear the philosophies & science. Or need them to make a transformation in how we live.

I believe Owning the Day is about being intentional and being in control of how you spend it.

I know that being more effective and productive in my work, and those of my clients, means less late night working. Less overtime to finish the presentation, and that means more quality time at home.

It means less risk of burnout and that is negatively life-changing.

I'm with you, I'm not productive all the time, but I focus on the things that matter and deflect the urge to receive instant gratification from social media, email and responding the other people's needs. Especially when we have a big project to deliver.

The key is getting the 3 dimensions for success
- Clarity, focus/direction.
- The right mindset to go deep, know you can do it and get started.
- The support to remove distractions and help where they can.

I'd love to know how you get set up to be productive on purpose.
All the best
Sue

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Eat That Frog - This week's challenge if you need to get those big awkward tasks done!

Yes it's an odd phrase, but one that I heard a couple of years ago and have pretty much made it a habit, which is one that really ramps up your productivity of the things we normally procrastinate most over.

I challenge you to take your no 1, Most Important, but also significant task and get that done first.

Forget checking off quick to-do list items, getting stuck in your inbox of other people's agendas.

Tackle the needle mover, and feel that dopamine hit when you realise it's done.

And of course, the trick is not to start anything else until it's complete.

** For larger projects break down into tasks, just as you would any IT project. And make committed progress by completing a task first every day.

Get some accountability, before each day work out the 'Frog' you need to eat.

Share it on here #EatYourFrog or DM me and check-in later that day, feel how rewarding it is to know that it's done.

In fact, this will be so satisfying, it will start to train your brain that these tasks are actually good for you!

Don't forget to folllow:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/

Watch:
& Subscribe!

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This week we are talking about stress and burnout, specifically how to recognise the signs and take control to avoid it! Especially as it's Stress Awareness Month.

There may be someone in your network battling with this and like me doesn't even know.
Please share and this could save them or you from a serious breakdown.

Episode Key sections
[0-8mins] My experience, how burn out manifests itself physically. 

[9 mins] Managing signs of burn out - stopping Stress in its tracks. 

Things I learnt about Burn out

I learnt two things after my year-long breakdown,
In this episode I split these into two sections:

1. Self-care
2. Tackling the 'to do' list and growing pressure

Let me know what you think.

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Do you feel like you blend in?

That it's hard to stand out, perhaps it feels unnatural....

Well, it's probably how you were always trained to be and not anything you have done wrong.... in fact, it's more about everything that you have ever done right.

You waited to be asked, you stayed quiet and did as you were told. You didn't question what your parents or teachers told you. And so now you are cautious about challenging your leaders.

But times have changed and to innovate, respond quickly and strive forward.

We need to relearn how to communicate for positive influence & impact.

What do you think holds you back?

personalgrowth #career #success #authenticself #empowerment #personalbrand #personaldevelopment #ELiTeSueP #leadership

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Are you heading back into offices now?
After a year of turmoil, more uncertainty to come I know how overwhelming this can suddenly feel. 

I want you to know that you are not alone, that simply by taking some control you can bring more predictability and safety to the day. 

My main takeaways:

Start to think about a routine, how you can assign some predictability to the day. 

And right now before you go into the office do these 2 things.. and I promise you will feel a lot stronger about the day:

1. Breath, take 10 deep breaths and calm yourself
2. Decide in Advance, what needs to happen today to make it a GREAT day. 

And finally make it feel so in the way you show up as that person, strong and intentional. 

You've got this - you are stronger than you think!

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I was lucky enough to work with Dave Roberts as my CIO, a high achieving and recognised director at that. So I was incredibly honoured when Dave agreed to share insight into his career journey and some insight into the mindset and growth to get there.

Dave Roberts BIO

Dave Roberts who has been ranked number 3 in the CIO 100, which recognises the most transformative and disruptive CIOs in the UK. Awarded Top Technology Executives to Watch by HMG Strategy

Included in the Hall of Fame by the Cybersecurity Observatory for contribution as a senior global Cybersecurity leader. Now he heads up Stantec as a Global IT Director, in Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Asia Pacific. And is also a Non-Executive Director, BCS Fellow and Tech Mentor with over 20 years of IT experience.

.....

My Key Takeaways

I started to write notes of all the little golden nuggets of advice, before finding that I was in danger of not being part of the conversation...

• Keep challenging yourself - take on additional responsibilities
• Focus on study

The list of gems go on.... it was such an inspirational interview - packed with practical strategies

• Having a long term plan of where you want to get to
• Focus on goals
• Foster the IT - provide wraparound Governance
• Make space to innovate

Focus forward

Dave Roberts

https://elitedigitalspace.com/cio-it-director-interview/

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review.
Reach out on linked in and tell me what you loved.

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Tackling some of the common interview questions. 
In this short series, we take a look at two key interview questions and how to answer those. 
Plus how to perform at your best in a video interview. 

This is a great episode to return to each time you prepare for an interview and need a reminder of how to answer the question: Tell me your Strengths and Weaknesses. 

You can subscribe to stay up to date, and sign up at elitedigitalspace.com 

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Changing Gears, how the Podcast will feature deeper conversations starting this spring 2021.

Are you being authentic? Your true self, where the real energy flows. 

This episode is challenging you to show up as your role model, and if you don't know who you really are... just watch out for those moments when you feel energised and in full flow. 

Follow that, do more of that.  

• Forgive the sound quality - it sounds like I'm in a bathroom! 
  I will try to do better next time. 

personalgrowth #success #authenticity #motivation #coaching

Follow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/
Sign up www.elitedigitalspace.com 

Credit:
Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland
Watch: http://youtu.be/IIrCDAV3EgI 

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What does it really mean to be a new generation empowered conscious thought leader?

I want to draw attention to some of the languages we use today - because it's in this that we can understand massive social & business change:

Nowadays everyone is a leader is some way…

For some the navigation of the wrong career path has led to confusion, and dissatisfaction, the impact of the pandemic makes us also sit back and think is this even possible for me.

The Traditional Career Ladder

I can think not so long ago climbing this corporate career ladder without a thought to the other options. Only when mentoring did it become clear to me the other routes were there all along we just don't have our eyes wide open.

A Harvard review talks about the damaging impact a 'delusional view of our careers' does for professional progress and personal satisfaction. A belief now backed by research.

Challenging the Single Track View of Your Career Progression

And I recently heard a great quote 'the world needs doers' - the people that won't sit back until someone else sorts it out but will take action.

The world needs doers

The truth is the world needs all we have to offer, the contributions at technical, people, managerial, strategic - all levels.

Harvard Research into Careers

The Skills Needed For a Modern World

We've gone form schools and business with management saying…
Do as you're told, don't ask questions, follow the instructions, don't answer back, get on with everyone and do everything you're asked and you'll get on. You may have been one of these who promoted, or maybe you saw people leapfrog you for being this way

In the new world, we have companies needing to adapt, the pace of change in IT so fast, not to mention the pandemic and revolution right now. I don't just need a smart professional who can do as they're asked - I need a creative, advancing, thought leader, who knows and grows with the sector, who advises and leads, who is innovative while being mindful of the impact on my customers and business and systems & data… and everything.. Who can influence stakeholders and shareholders, board members to make the best decisions for this company - this technology. Everyone is a leader, step up…

It's overwhelming. And a skillset we weren't prepared for. From one change to the next you're not sure what you should be focusing on or delivering.
Follow the 3 dimensions of success, you're missing the direction clarity, the support & probably even a growth mindset to do all this…

If you're starting to feel misdirected, questioning your career decisions, feeling plateaued, worn out, overwhelmed and not sure what you should be focussing your efforts, get a coach. It can often make a huge difference to achieving and understanding your goals.

If I want to leave you with anything it's to rethink your definition of a leader...

I suggest to you that the new generation of empowered conscious thought leaders are strong high impact contributors, as a high performing influencer, you show up in full flow almost every day. Passionate and connected to your work and personal growth as your life's work.

You are a CEO, a CEO of your own professional journey and destiny - the power to choose to challenge what's expected of you… to instead do what you want…

I want to know what breakthrough did you have as part of this connect & message me on Linked in or email sue@eliteditalspace.com

Tell me your views & experiences,

Sue

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There's always a reason not to do something. Like many things, there are unplanned and uncontrollable factors that demand our attention.

Women, mums or dads imparticular are often caught out by meeting the needs of others.

In this episode, I share a common story I hear from high performing busy IT professionals. And empower you to take a little more intentional control to make things happen.

Joanne set out in 2019 to change companies, her organisation had no opportunities that she could grow into in her field of passion.

But January kick-started and so did a hugely significant work project, which she felt conscientious enough to stay and see-through, giving it her full attention. Which she always did.

Then before you know it Easter has arrived and the kids needed her, Joanne was too busy living life and there is absolutely nothing wrong with this! Trust me, the philosophy of working hard on ourselves and our professional lives, to spend quality time with the family is the best reason of all.

She was focussed enough after the schools went back to look for new roles. This is when the self-doubt arose, staring at lists of role requirements, Joanne felt like an imposter applying.

Like many women, Joanne felt she needed to have all the skills to be qualified to apply. When the reality is that studies have shown male candidates will apply with just half the required skills.

Either way, Joanne had decided that she needed a certification before applying for anything. This is where the scarcity mindset stepped in and told her it was frivolous or selfish to spend the family money on her own growth.

Meanwhile, if you're anything like my house, eBay purchase after eBay purchase arrives at your door. And no one else feels the guilt. Or that subscription that got left running for the gym you never went. Or the Amazon Prime account that didn't get utilised.

You get the picture, we often waste money on many things for the one time we may want to have it. Yet overthink a purchase like a course, book or a coach that could actually improve our lives or fulfilment in some way.

Later Joanne found a discount voucher for her course that could be redeemed within 6 months and felt more comfortable with the self-investment. But then the lack of urgency meant that it was easy to park it for now.

Before we know it it's October and Joanne needs to complete the course now. As a conscious hardworking professional she passes with almost full marks. And proudly shares her certificate on Linked in.

So late in the year, Joanne has decided to leave it until January to continue the job search. And I'm pleased to say that she did. She was offered an incredible role which has since led to more responsibility as a senior supporting 3 associate project managers.

And Joanne tells me the role didn't even stipulate the qualification she gained, and her only regret was not making the move sooner.

She now has a coach in me and an ambitious career plan she's driven to achieve. Realising how she can transform her situation, and keep progressing in her key area of interest has given her the motivation she needed to love what she does. And most importantly the person she is becoming.

Joanne's story is not unusual, many of us let other people control our schedules and priorities. We're not intentionally passive, but leaving our growth for unplanned and uncontrollable things to take over.

Key Takeaways:

--- Carve out 10-20% of your time for your personal growth

----Don't wake up one day feeling like you've plateaued.

I hope this empowers you to take action. If you want to stay in touch, subscribe to the podcast, or connect on Linked in, Sue Parker.

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You know that you can predict 90% of what will come upon most interviews yet still many of us struggle to confidently answer the #1 job interview question, tell me about yourself.

This episode talks about a new approach to maximise the first impression you have, listen on Spotify, Apple, Google play.

Now, this is going to contradict probably everything you've ever done or been told. The number one mistake people make is chronologically running through your CV.

You start by talking through your first job and why you decided to take a second. The situations you found yourself in. And before you know it, 5 minutes have passed and you haven't really sold your recent relevant experience. And perhaps you mentioned some career moves you weren't entirely happy with. But the interviewer is ready to move on.

I want to turn this on its head. Every leader and hiring manager we spoke to, said the best candidates are those who start with telling me their recent relevant experience and why this makes them suitable.

In this episode, I share an example response and how to structure yours.
Plus a little about the C word -- Confidence of course.

To download the scripts visit:
https://elitedigitalspace.com/interviews

Don't forget to check out our empowering interview program to help you be the master of successful interviews.

To your net job move, Sue :-)

Credits:
Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland
Watch: http://youtu.be/IIrCDAV3EgI

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So I know I can be a serial procrastinator, for personal projects, I'll at whatever costs avoid the daunting or significant thing that needs doing.

Are you the person that will happily get tied up in data queries and problem solving from the service desk to avoid that painful project?

I know in the past I've lost several weeks in this cycle of quick wins and I've had team members do this too.

My husband had exactly this when we decided to purchase a renovation project with a 2-year-old in tow. We'd stretched to the highest mortgage we could afford to create a dream family home.

Dave's in the trade which means he would either be doing or organising most of the work himself. And I'd done my usual trick of wanting more, with an elaborate wrap around extension.

It wasn't long before we did what any 'grand design' couple do and we had another baby. And we noticed we weren't progressing the build.

Like most of us when we're overwhelmed with the scale of something, and there's a mounting to-do list somewhere else. We find it hard to focus on the thing that matters.

He was kept busy enough with the little things and unable to get traction. We found with a few tricks we were able to make progress & I'm pleased to say it's almost complete.

This podcast episode is all about reminding you to make the Priority or Big thing, the Big thing in your life or work.

I talk a lot here about work projects, I watched as colleagues learnt the hard way how failing to devote enough resource or failure to even recognise the big focus will damage your reputation.

I know how delivering on the 'big projects' can really propel your career. Sue Parker

Key Steps to Focusing on the Big Work Priority

It's to help you prioritise, control your time and is so simple that it's a reminder you can use at work, but also in any goals in your personal life.

1. Get clarity on the number #1 key priority
2. Schedule the time - make sure you're spending the bulk of your time on this project.
3. Manage interruptions - take back control of the day or you'll continue to work to someone else's agenda
4. Get clear on the ROI, the value added by this project or work - why? Because they may need challenging, next week they may not be important, but you need to read the situation and invest your effort in the right place.

Take back control of the day or you'll continue to work to someone else's agenda

Finally, grab your calendar and block out your schedule to work on the 'big priority'.

Listen for more and do me a favour, if you like it, drop me a 5-star rating, I would really appreciate it.

Music credits to
Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland
Watch: http://youtu.be/IIrCDAV3EgI

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Do you often find yourself side-lined in meetings?

This episode is about helping you to take a key role in meetings (even online), to be a contributor, to get your voice heard.

So if you feel afraid like you have nothing to offer, think again, your perspective, whether it's feasibility, to flag challenges, or contribute to the solution someone believes you are important enough to be invited.

Ok so be honest how many of us, give up our seat for someone? Or allow ourselves to get cramped into a corner.

Online when we sneak in late, quietly with the camera off we might as well be sat in the corner again.

Yet there are some very simple adjustments that can radically change the role you play, and influence you have.

If you find the meeting a daunting place, use the time before to get prepared, look at the agenda and get clear how you can contribute.

Time for honesty, how many of us sit quietly waiting and waiting until someone asks us for our opinion? But before you could speak someone has your idea and has taken credit for it.

Next time get in early with your thoughts, use positive language, such as 'have you thought about x'.

Always face the camera or your audience looking at the room to gain engagement. Building allies and teammates in the process.

After repeatedly being asked to note take, I became so conscious of this and noticed many colleagues barely wrote a single word. So I closed the book and took on a role as an active participant in the discussion. I switched from frantic notetaker and saw a huge shift in the influence I had.

Ever heard of the 'Power Walk' Or the 'Power Pose'? Studies have shown that after just two minutes of standing in a 'Power Pose' you can change your feelings, to become a more confident version of yourself. Next time you're about to head into a meeting, give it a try and let me know how you feel.

If you find this subject fascinating then check out the book 101 unconscious mistakes women make, many of these are so ingrained by stereotypical norms we live by even today.

Tell me what would you add to this? And when you've given these a go, how did it help you to feel?

drop me a mail sue@elitedigialspace.com or linked in.

If you find this podcast empowering, then please consider leaving me a 5-star rating and review. This will really help others to find support.

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Now while so many of us are feeling insecure, this episode is to help you find the areas in your professional life that you can leverage to gain more visibility and increase your own chances of a promotion. Not to mention strengthen the safety of your current position, so that you don't become a redundancy victim of covid.

It's easy to fall into the shadows during the pandemic. To have your efforts completely go unseen. For one there's less contact and face to face interaction or meetings to get noticed indirectly.

It's true just as much in our work life, the saying 'Out of Sight Out of Mind'.

WFH with the Kids

But with limited face to face contact, how do you keep visible, so that colleagues and decision-makers have an awareness, and can indirectly see you performing and adding value?

In this episode we explore 5 creative ways to boost your visbility during the pandemic even when working from home.

Even when you might have your kids running in everytime you get on an important teams call.

Because you can never truly predict when they might wander through in their nappy.
I remember this one meeting I had a major project status update I must have had 3 directors and a group of other stakeholders on a conference call. All eyes were directed at our department to deliver this critical project. And from the moment we'd launched the meeting my daughter screamed. And wailed the whole way through. It just happened to be nap time. my husband was wrestling with her to nap. And I wanted the call the end, the screaming to stop and I kept apologising.

It's tempting in those situations to mute and sit back (fall into the shadows) and if I hadn't been chairing, I might have done.

It didn't end, One director said oh your poor daughter,…. but the truth is my husband was taking the brunt of the problem so that I could carry on.

And we know non of these challenges mean we do any less, that we're any less conscious, committed or adding less. I like you delivered so much during this time and now.

Working Extra

In fact, if your company cut back last year, you might be bridging the gap or holding down 2 jobs. I know Developers also being Business Analysts since they'd been covid restructure victims.

You might be a Head of Department working hands-on like me helping your team to deliver for the business.

Maybe you're also running the double shift looking after the kids, without any grandparent backup.

Why does staying visible matter?

For all these reasons it can seem obvious that you should want to work on quietly behind the scenes without drawing too much attention.

Yet to protect the job we have from being a pandemic restructure victim and to secure our chances of a promotion you need to stay visible.

At the very least you must stay visible because:

1. no one knows what you are doing or how it impacts on someone
2. you miss opportunities because you don't know what he next big initiatives are. We don't know what we don't know!

5 Ways to Stay Visible and Boost Promotion Opportunities

In this episode, I run through 5 practical things, summarised below, that you can do right now so that you don't get forgotten you move out of the shadows and take the opportunity to develop your future leadership skills. Listen to learn more

1. Schedule Regular Catch ups

2. Be Physically Visible

3. Help Solve Business Problems

4. Take Part in Initiatives

5. Be the Light - Positive ProgressAs always don't forget to subscribe and connect with me on linked in.

I would love to hear what you have implemented and has worked for you.

To your career success

Sue

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This episode is dedicated to helping you to set Career goals that you will achieve and showing you how to do this. 

Now answer honestly, have you achieved your career goals?

Are they your goals? really? 

You know there are 3 big mistakes most of us make with goal setting. In this episode, I walk through these and you'll probably find that they are the reason you rarely succeed. 

I also wanted to share the secret to sticking power when it gets tuff and.....

How answering why is the most important question - this is the catalyst to taking action. 
Finding the pull - your why! 

Finally, one of the biggest game-changers for me and loads of the professionals I have worked with was overcoming the challenge of time... the full calendar, the busy days and demands of others. 

That's why I share the power of using habits to make regular progress.

Don't forget to grab the workbook with the Goals, Career planning and visual Career Wheel gap analysis tool.  

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In this episode, I talk about the guilt we feel as a parent juggling homeschooling and working from home. 

Sharing my own situation to reassure you that you are not alone, with some practical steps to help you feel amazing at both. 

My favourite quote from this episode: "Your kids will never fire you" 

I hope to make you feel better about your situation and encourage you to reach out, get support and connect with others in the same boat.

Don't forget to connect with me on linked in and share your tips too! 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/

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I was lucky enough to view an incredible interview with the inspiration, Sarah Blakeley, this weekend and I have to share!

For those who don't know Sarah was the first female billionaire and the founder of Spanx. Many of us think she was in the right place at the right time with the right product, but it was far from it.

There are so many things we can learn from determined women like Sarah. I want to share just one of these today:

Complexity is the biggest killer of progress

What's the one simple step you've been overcomplicating?

We look at how Sarah came to get Spanx in a major department store.
How she took a simple step, which other's were overcomplicating.

And when it doesn't go well - keep trying, and try try agian.

I want you to think what are you overcomplicating that's sabotaging your progress.

Maybe you want help from your employer to fund some training.
Perhaps you want a promotion, you keep being overlooked.
You'd like exposure to a new role.
Maybe there's a company you would love to work for.

I know I've been overcomplicating one of my goals. There's a couple of podcasts I love and really want to be a guest and in my head, I'm overcomplicating the process. Why don't I just pick up the phone and ask? or at least introduce myself.

So let's grab some accountability - think in simple steps what is the one action you need to take to move forward?

myelitecareerpodcast #careergoals #careerprogress #podcastguest #guestspeaking #techcareers

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So you see a job advertised or internal vacancy and you think, yeah I could be interested in that.
But before you make a move your imposter syndrome reminds you that you probably aren't that good. Your skills won't be at the level they're looking for. You are not good enough.
Other companies do things differently and you've been blagging it for this time.

This held so many people I've worked with back and I was determined to find some ways to help benchmark your skill competency so that you can:
a) Get more #confident in what you have to offer and
b) figure out your development areas.

Unlike my usual musings this post is very geared towards hard skills if you want to explore strengths and natural talents keep a lookout for the espisode 'Finding my Superpowers'.

Now this list should serve you in two ways, firstly to identify your base knowledge and second to LEARN and use for development.

1 Accreditations/ Certifications
2 Check out Podcast Content - How much can you follow? - but be open to new information
3 Teach someone what you know - master your domain
4 Meetups/Talk to Peers - how do they do things?
5 Conferences /Presentations - how much base knowledge do you have?
6 Read books - Which level do you feel comfortable with now? And what's next?
7 Ask People - Feedback can be a great way of getting outside perspective

Key Takeaways

You can always learn

Learners are often more open to new ideas

Benchmarking the now, to define career development areas and give you confidence.

Will you ever be ready?

Go for it anyway!

Don't forget to connect with me over on linked in https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc-78348898/
And do me a favour share the podcast and tag me, tell me what you loved about it!

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I believe that this episode is for everyone! Well almost...
The number #1 reason people hold back from any job move, applying for a promotion or even starting a project to explore their career options is FEAR.

• Fear of getting it wrong
• Fear of what someone may think
• Fear that you can't do it

Listen now to learn how to overcome your fears to move forward with your career.

No-one wins when you play small!

Episode Highlights

2:00 What fear types hold you back from making a career move? Building a brand, applying for a job or advancing?

4:29 - Did you know the average salary rise from a job move is between 10-20%?

6:58 - Remember the book - Feel the Fear and do it anyway

How to Overcome your Fears and Move Progress your Career in 4 Steps

7:15 - Step 1 - Identify the fear & logical consider the outcomes

10:00 No-one Wins when you play small

11:40 Dealing with challenges as a team builds strong working relationships

12:00 Determination when you step out of the comfort zone with the intention to make the project succeed.

12:45 Retraining the brain - get closer to a promotion or gaining confidence

Decide in advance how you'll show up next time the fear crops up.

14:54 Step 4 Celebrate every time you step outside your comfort zone

15:40 Building a future proof career - the world is changing

16:15 What if I make a mistake?

-- Get Comfortable feeling uncomfortable.

I hope that you really like this episode - don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss a thing & share on linked in to keep this going!

If you really want to excel your career this year then message me on linked in.

To your career success!

https://elitedigitalspace.com/

Credits:

Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland
Watch: http://youtu.be/IIrCDAV3EgI

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In this episode, I wanted to share what we've found makes people stand out and be more successful in job interviews, securing more job offers.

If you're a job seeker or holding off on a job move because of interview dread you will want to give this a listen!

Key Episode Highlights

If it feels like it's not going well, bounce back and keep going

5 common themes of successful candidates

1. Preparation & research
2. Depth of knowledge
3. Confidence
4. A stand out career backstory
5. Willingness to grow and develop

If you find this episode useful, do me a favour, leave a review, subscribe & take a photo, share it and tag me on linked in.

Let me know what you learnt and how I can support you in your next career move.

Credits:

Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland
Watch: http://youtu.be/IIrCDAV3EgI

View Details

For many of us coming out of 2020, we felt like it was the year that stood still, our careers, our lives and personal development. And we started 2021 with great intentions only to have the rug pulled from under us.
Well, the truth is you learnt a lot from 2020, we all did, which means this time you can not only manage the situation and remain in control. You can grow and progress even if this is at a slower rate than planned.

In this episode I share 6 valuable lessons and strategies form 2020 to make 2021 the year of great transformation and career growth.

Episode Highlights
2021 lockdown
8.45 mins Lessons from 2020
12 mins 1 What are the positives?
15 mins 2 Don't do it alone
19 mins 3 Routine - but be flexible with timings
21 mins 4 Healthy Body, Healthy Mind - stay productive with recharge points
25 mins 5 Be Professional and stay top of mind - building a strong relationship with your leader
28 mins 6 Schedule your personal development
31 mins Using the Circle of Control to Influence situations
33 mins Handling personal challenges this won't work for me - I'm a single parent,
My partner's work is inflexible!
I want to get a promotion and I'm worried this will affect my career!

I hope you find this episode gives you a much-needed boost for 2021. I'd love to hear from you, Tell me what you are dealing with right now over on linked in. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/

And if you're feeling generous, I'd be so grateful for a review and a 5-star rating,

Other resources

Interview with Liz Mearns, the Circle of control https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrnQW8bf6fw&t=8s

Free Career Clarity Series https://elitedigitalspace.com/career-clarity

Credits

Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland

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I am so excited to share this debut episode of My ELiTe career podcast. In this episode, I share two incredible teachings to help you move forward and build a future proof career, one that fulfils you and how you can build confidence in the face of imposter syndrome.

My Elite Career podcast is all about sharing results-based strategies to help you Make a Career move, Get a job, get a promotion or progress.
With a good dose of confidence-building and motivation, I’ll also share the secrets of other successful people.

“It’s not about doing more, it’s about Increasing your value”

“Be agile, keep trying new things, validating them and turning the Rubix cube until the pieces show the picture of the life you want”

As a leader in IT and Data, I share my own career story and you’ll notice that it’s rarely linear. I open up about some of the toughest times in my career and in future episodes share these valuable learnings.

You can expect to progress each week with the Career progress podcast. Don’t forget to share, subscribe and leave a review.

Get the most out of having me in your corner- connect with me on linked in and tell me what blockers you face.

“We need to fulfil all our needs, not just the basic need for money, but the ones for contribution and impact, achievement and to progress”

“Life & Work are intertwined”

“We spend 90K hours in work and 86% of us are disconnected with it”

Remember if you like this podcast to subscribe, share and if you’d be so kind as to drop me a review. It would really help to widen the reach and enable the ELiTe movement to continue.

Don’t know what you want to do? Need career clarity – get the career clarity Free 3 part Series link - https://elitedigitalspace.com/career-clarity

Connect with Sue - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/

Song: Tobu - Candyland [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds
Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/candyland
Watch: http://youtu.be/IIrCDAV3EgI