The Little Careers Book

࢚࢚ It’s incredibly satisfying to provide research to and advise government representatives on policy and to then convert policy into plans for public services. ࢚࢚ If you have interest in particular areas of government or politics, it is possible to focus your work on those interests. ࢚࢚ Some jobs require working to tight deadlines, dealing with complaints or awkward queries or regularly changing systems and ways of working. ࢚࢚ Most jobs are not highly paid and the hours can be long, especially as you progress in your career. ࢚࢚ The main reward of a career in the Civil Service is the opportunity to be involved in stimulating and interesting work. ࢚࢚ You have to be willing to move where the jobs are, and for some government departments, you might need to work overseas. ࢚࢚ With good experience and a track record of success, you may get opportunities to move to jobs in different government departments, which can make your career more varied and interesting. ࢚࢚ Most jobs are office-based, so if you are averse to spending a lot of time in an office, this career may not be right for you. TRUTHS XX Pay rises and promotions are automatic if you are patient. XX Everyone receives an Honour, eventually. XX Those who are most effective working in government are individuals who have firm views on economic and political issues. ࢚࢚ You’ve got to be able to remain calm under pressure, analyse a problem dispassionately, and produce a well-balanced and well-argued solution. ࢚࢚ You need to be open to considering the views and opinions of all stakeholders, especially when theirs conflict with yours. ࢚࢚ You need to be the kind of person who plans, prioritises and manages time well. ࢚࢚ It is essential not to be too committed to a political party or philosophy, and to be able to see issues from all different perspectives. ࢚࢚ For individuals who prefer more solitary work, you may be able to conduct research, compile reports, or contribute to policy development. ࢚࢚ There are some rather unpleasant people out there and you are likely to have at least one of them as your boss at some stage in your career. ࢚࢚ Sir Humphrey in “Yes, Minister” is not that far from reality! MYTHS MYTHS TRUTHS REWARDS AND SACRIFICES PERSONALITY TRAITS