Career Advice Archives - Amanda Bernardo

We don’t need to prove ourselves every single day to deserve our success

admin — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:18:40 +0000

I recently came across a quote that really stuck with me:

“Maybe you don’t notice your progress because you’re always raising your bar.”

For many of us—especially women—the bar is always moving. We push forward, take on more, prove ourselves over and over again. The gas pedal is always down because slowing down feels like falling behind.

We’re told we need to be twice as good, work twice as hard, and never let up. And even when we do achieve something, we immediately focus on the next thing. We minimize our wins, telling ourselves, it’s just part of the job or anyone could have done this.

For me, going beyond expectations wasn’t just a habit; it felt necessary. While part of that is just who I am, the other part was fear. Fear that if I slowed down, I’d lose the momentum that kept me moving forward.

But here’s the thing: we don’t need to prove ourselves every single day to deserve our success.

Yes, we will always push ourselves to grow—but organizations need to push to do the same, to raise their bar too. On support. On work-life balance. On development. On opportunities. On all the things that make careers sustainable for women. When they do, they don’t just support women—they build stronger, more resilient workplaces for everyone. Because success shouldn’t come at the cost of burnout for anyone, and ambition shouldn’t mean sacrificing well-being.

Becoming a mom has made me think about this even more. It’s shifted how I see the system—not just as something to navigate, but as something that needs to change. We deserve workplaces that recognize our value without demanding we constantly prove it at the expense of our health, our families, or ourselves.

And let’s be honest—this burden isn’t the same for everyone. Women of colour, women with disabilities, and others facing systemic barriers often have to work even harder just to be seen. If we’re going to talk about raising the bar, we need to make sure it’s being raised for all women, in ways that acknowledge and address these deeper challenges. Because real progress isn’t just about individual success—it’s about changing the system altogether.

So with #InternationalWomensDay this Saturday, let’s keep pushing forward—but let’s also demand better.

For ourselves. For the women coming up behind us. And for a workplace that truly values balance, growth, and equity.

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I met my younger self for coffee today

admin — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 04:33:08 +0000

There’s a poem making its rounds on socials about how people are meeting their younger self for coffee. While on the forefront they are merely poems, the exercise of looking back at how far we’ve come is valuable. As a passionate writer, I couldn’t help but write my own …

So, I met my younger self for coffee today.

She rushed in, breathless, still getting used to the weight of a blazer on her shoulders. A fresh graduate, full of questions but afraid to ask too many.

She didn’t know what she wanted to be – only that she wanted to make a difference wherever she landed.

She sipped her coffee, eyes scanning me with quiet curiosity. I could see the thoughts racing in her mind – Did we figure it out? Did we make it?

“I don’t know what I’m doing,” she admitted.
I smiled. “You won’t for a while.”

She sighed. “Will I ever?”

I leaned in. “You’ll go back and study more, change roles, chase new ideas, start a business. You’ll make sacrifices, work late nights, doubt yourself more times than you can count. But every step will lead you here.”

She studied my face, looking for something – proof, maybe. Her voice softened. “That sounds like a lot. Did I lose myself in all that?”

I shook my head. “No. You just had to grow. And trust me, you did.”

We finished our coffee, and as I stood to leave, she called after me.

“Wait! So… what are you now?”

I turned back, smiling. “A leader. But so are you, you always have been. Don’t worry about the title, just keep being you.”

She tilted her head, unconvinced.

I leaned in. “Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking the right questions. It’s about listening more than speaking, standing firm in your values, and lifting others as you climb.”

She exhaled, the weight of uncertainty still heavy on her shoulders.

“You won’t always feel ready,” I added. “But keep showing up. Keep learning. Keep being the person who cares enough to do the hard things.”

She nodded slowly, sipping the last of her coffee.

And as I walked away, I knew she’d be just fine.

The post I met my younger self for coffee today appeared first on Amanda Bernardo.

Finding balance on maternity leave

admin — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:51:20 +0000

Being on maternity leave is such a special time, one that goes by faster than you realize. For many, as they embark on this new chapter, disconnecting from work is the goal; for others, staying a little connected may help with their transition back.

For me, I knew I wanted a bit of both. I wanted to fully immerse myself in this new chapter of motherhood, but I also didn’t want to feel like a stranger to my team or organization. This allows me to maintain a sense of identity outside of motherhood and keeps me tethered to the professional world I love. It also helps me feel more confident about the transition back, knowing I haven’t completely stepped away from the conversations and ideas that fuel my work.

And so, I’ve shared a quick check-in here and there with my team and thought or two (or more) here on LinkedIn.

These small interactions help stretch the parts of my brain I know I’ll need when I’m back but also offer a way for me to keep learning from afar, even in small doses.

For many, completely disconnecting during maternity leave may be the right choice—and that’s okay too. Stepping away entirely can provide the space to fully focus on this new chapter, recharge, and return feeling ready to dive back in. Everyone’s approach to this time is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Ultimately, this approach works for me because it feels balanced. It allows me to honour this precious time at home while also keeping a finger on the pulse of my professional life. Whether someone chooses to disconnect entirely or stay a bit engaged, what matters is finding what feels right for you.

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Navigating career unknowns

admin — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:55:51 +0000

The federal public service, like many workplaces today, is undergoing significant change. On top of the change already underway, more change is anticipated with transitions this March and unknowns that linger with an election come October. These uncertainties can leave many public servants feeling anxious. Uncertainty can feel overwhelming, especially when it affects our sense of purpose, stability, or career trajectory. But while we may not have control over external circumstances, we do have control over how we respond to them.

Here are some ways you can navigate uncertainty in your career and emerge stronger:

Focus on what you can control

When everything around you feels unpredictable, channel your energy into what’s within your sphere of influence. This could include building new skills, strengthening relationships, or taking steps toward personal growth. By focusing on tangible actions, you’ll create momentum and confidence, even in the face of external unknowns.

Tip: Write down three things you can accomplish in the short term to better position yourself for whatever comes next.

Lean into adaptability

The ability to pivot and adapt is one of the most valuable skills you can develop during uncertain times. Being open to new opportunities, projects, or ways of working can help you thrive. Remember, adaptability isn’t just about reacting to change—it’s about being proactive and seeking ways to add value, even in unexpected circumstances.

Tip: Approach challenges with curiosity. Ask, “What can I learn from this situation?”

Invest in your network

During periods of uncertainty, your network can be a lifeline. Seek out conversations with colleagues, mentors, or peers who can provide advice, share their perspectives, or simply offer support. For many seasoned leaders, this isn’t their first rodeo and they may be able to offer some advice on how to navigate unknowns such as those ahead.

Tip: Schedule a coffee chat with a colleague or mentor to exchange ideas and stay connected.

Remain impartial and stay grounded in your role

As public servants, one of our core responsibilities is to remain impartial, no matter the outcomes or decisions made around us. This means focusing on the work, serving the public interest, and maintaining a professional demeanor even in times of change. Staying impartial doesn’t mean being indifferent—it means staying true to your values and the principles of public service, regardless of the circumstances.

Tip: Remind yourself of the bigger picture: your role in contributing to a stronger, more effective public service. By focusing on your purpose, you can stay grounded and maintain clarity through the unknown.

What strategies have helped you navigate career uncertainty?

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Looking for a new job in the public service?

admin — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 13:24:00 +0000

This week I’ve received several messages seeking advice on how to navigate career transitions, specifically in the context of joining the federal public service and/or finding new opportunities within it.

The basics

For external candidates, my advice is pretty standard – visit jobs.gc.cafor any external job postings (be sure to turn on notifications) and/or network online by reaching out to hiring managers in departments/teams that interest you to see if there are any short-term casuals (4 month less a day) to help build your experience in the public service.

However, while this is often my short-quick answer, I thought I’d dive a little deeper today in offering some additional food for thought.

The deep dive

Making a leap into a new career path can be invigorating and daunting all at once. Before your search for that new job begins, start by assessing your skills, strengths, and passions. Identify what truly drives you and where your expertise lies. This will help you to not only narrow your search but it will allow you to end up in a role that aligns well with your interests and skills. This assessment shouldn’t only apply to yourself but later to the organization and team you’re exploring. In the federal public service, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the structure, mandates, and priorities of the departments and agencies you’re interested in. This is in addition to understanding the requirements, necessary skills, and potential challenges of the role.

We often hear people talk about the importance of networking, and I would emphasize it’s importance here, especially for those looking to move laterally within the public service networking can open many doors. Reach out to professionals in your desired field or organization. Set up a virtual or in-person coffee and get to know them and the organization better, while inquiring of any possible openings. This can lead to invaluable insights, mentorship, and even open doors to opportunities you might not have considered.

Don’t forget to also participate in government-hosted information sessions and workshops. For external students, keep an eye out for career fairs, FSWEP, and other recruitment programs. Also consider following the Federal Youth Network for great events, resources and advice (check out YouTube).

Finally, if you know what role interests you next, and you’re aware of some gaps in your skills or experiences, it’s important to position yourself where you can invest in upskilling or additional training to bridge any gaps. Online courses, workshops, or certifications can be game-changers.

It’s important to understand that a career transition takes time and effort, this can be especially true in the public service. Stay resilient, be patient with yourself, and celebrate every step forward. Don’t lose sight of your goals and seek out people, organizations and opportunities that will help you achieve them!

Good luck!

Additional tips and advice to keep in your back pocket when applying to job posters in the federal public service:

If you stumble across a link and cannot open it, the poster is likely only available to internal public servants. There are, however, many other opportunities you can review for external candidates via jobs.gc.ca.

Carefully read the job posting to understand the requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications.

Ensure you follow all application instructions and submit the required documents in the specified format.

Customize your resume and cover letter for each position, emphasizing relevant skills and experience.

Showcase how your past experiences align with the job requirements, emphasizing achievements and skills relevant to the position.

Incorporate keywords from the job posting into your resume and cover letter to pass through automated screening systems.

Familiarize yourself with the organization’s mission, values, and objectives to demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.

The federal hiring process may take time, so stay patient and follow up appropriately if required.

Maintain a professional tone and demeanor throughout the application process, including in your communication and interactions.

If you’re not selected for a position, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback to improve your future applications.

Regularly check the federal job website for new postings and updates that match your skills and interests.

The post Looking for a new job in the public service? appeared first on Amanda Bernardo.

Applying the STAR method to your job application

admin — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:32:00 +0000

One of the most common questions I get when it comes to applying for roles in the federal public service is how to structure responses, be it for screening questions or an interview.

The STAR method is a highly effective approach to share your experiences in a structured and compelling manner. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and it helps you present a clear, concise, and engaging response. You may also get a question where the START method is better used, and this is adding Takeaway – e.g reflections on what you learned.

Here’s how to utilize the STAR/T method effectively:

Situation (S):
– Describe the context or situation you were in.
– Set the stage by explaining where and when the event occurred.

Task (T):
– Clearly outline the task or challenge you were facing.
– Detail what was expected of you or what needed to be accomplished.

Action (A):
– Describe the specific actions you took to address the situation or task.
– Focus on your role and contributions, highlighting relevant skills and expertise.

Result (R):
– Share the outcome of your actions.
– Discuss the impact of your actions on the situation or organization.
– Quantify results if possible, emphasizing achievements or improvements

Takeaway (T):
– Reflect on the experience and extract valuable lessons learned or insights gained.
– Discuss how this experience has influenced your approach or decisions in subsequent situations.

Using the STAR method can improve your responses in the following ways:

It helps organize your thoughts and information in a clear and structured format, making it easier for the interviewer to follow your story.

It ensures you cover the essential aspects of your experience, providing a comprehensive view of your abilities and accomplishments.

It allows you to showcase specific skills like problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and communication through real-life examples.

By discussing the results, you demonstrate the impact of your actions and highlight your ability to drive positive outcomes. This is the part a lot of candidates miss. You want to go beyond just stating that you have experience briefing, for example, but what result did your briefing accomplish.

When I first started my career over a decade ago, one of my mentors at the time gave me this very advice that I’m sharing with you now – specifically the image below. I hope in sharing it forward with you, you’ll feel more confident in your own competitions to start or grow your career in the federal public service.

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FWD50 Executive Cohort

admin — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 13:50:00 +0000

In the rapidly evolving landscape of today’s world, the adage “knowledge is power” holds truer than ever, especially for executives steering the course of government initiatives. The criticality of continuous learning and growth cannot be overstated, and this principle extends to executive leadership. When an executive embraces opportunities for personal and professional development, they not only enrich their own capacities but uplift the entire spectrum of their team’s potential.

As leaders, we set the tone for our teams, and our hunger for knowledge serves as an example—a catalyst for a culture of perpetual growth and improvement. When we invest in our own development, we demonstrate that learning is a lifelong journey, urging our teams to embrace the same ethos. This has been my own personal philosophy for many years, and I can attest that the learning I take on has helped me in improving team dynamics, fostering innovation, and driving organizational progress.

My learning also extends beyond the classroom and takes the form of volunteering and taking on new experiences that will make me a stronger leader. For the past several years I’ve been fortunate to attend, host, and this year be part of FWD50’s Board of Advisors. That means I often get the first look at training that will be offered, and this year we have something truly unique to support executive learning.

The FWD50 Executive Cohort is a groundbreaking format designed exclusively for government executives. Through a meticulously crafted cohort-based learning model, a select group of participants will embark on a transformative journey. Engaging with special guests, collaborating with peers, and engaging in candid discussions with global digital pioneers, this cohort promises a great opportunity for immersive learning.

Spanning three weeks and blending online interactions with in-person engagements, the FWD50 Executive Cohort offers a curriculum delving into the fundamentals of digital government, effective team and project management, and adept leadership during times of upheaval and transformation—all while keeping core objectives in sharp focus.

Participating in this extraordinary experience means gaining access to compelling talks, dialogues with seasoned global executives, and tackling real-world challenges alongside peers. The result? A refreshed perspective, fortified with invaluable tools for your digital journey.

Best of all, if your department has purchased general passes, they already hold a select number of tickets to send executives to this training! Be sure to ask your learning advisor if interested in joining.

I’m excited to see you there!

Learn more about FWD50’s Executive Cohort, here.

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Resume tips for public servants

admin — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 16:44:00 +0000

If you are a public servant and sharing your CV with a hiring manager, consider including some of these musts within it:

Current classification and level
Any actings
Security clearance
Language profile
Note the classification and level throughout your experiences
Qualified pools

I’ve received a lot of CVs lately and many do not include any of the above info, whether it be in the resume or accompanying email.

Consider at the top of the resume adding something like this:

Substantive: EC-07 | Acting: EX-01 | Secret Clearance | SLE: EBC | Qualified Pools: (Classification – Level) , (Selection Process Number)

If your substantive is a term, next to the classification and level in brackets include (Term). If you are only partially qualified in a pool, also note this in brackets.

Hope this helps!

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Can coffee chats really help your career?

admin — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 20:57:00 +0000

One piece of advice that I often give mentees is to connect informally within their organization. Most leaders (at all levels) will welcome the invite to connect over coffee (virtually or in-person) to learn more about the people that make up their organization and how they can help them grow within it or beyond.

These coffee chats, as simple as they may seem, help to:

establish meaningful relationships, foster trust, and develop a sense of camaraderie within the organization

tap into your colleague’s expertise, gain different perspectives, and broaden your knowledge base

create mentorship opportunities where leaders can offer guidance, share their professional journeys, and provide valuable advice, helping you navigate your own career path

create visiblity for you within your organization

So, you book the coffee chat but then what? What questions should you ask? Well, certainly do your research on who you’re meeting with to help plan ahead but here are a few questions to keep in your back pocket:

1⃣ What motivated you to pursue a role in our organization? What has been your experience to date?

2⃣ Can you share any challenges you faced in your careeer/role to date and how you overcame them?

3⃣ Are there any hobbies or personal interests of yours that have positively influenced your work or leadership style?

4⃣ What advice do you have for someone looking to advance their career within our organization (or in your next role)?

5⃣ What skills or competencies do you believe are most valued and sought after in our organization?

6⃣ What are some effective ways to ensure that all voices are heard and valued within our organization?

7⃣ What are the most critical challenges or opportunities our org is currently facing? How is my branch/team best positioned to address these?

8⃣ How do you see our organization evolving in the coming years?

9⃣ Is there any one in the organization that you’d recommend I connect with next (depending on what else you may have discussed)?

What are the key strategic priorities for our organization in the coming year, and how can individuals across different teams contribute to their success?

This last question allows you to gain insights into the organization’s overall direction and objectives. It also demonstrates your interest in aligning your efforts with the broader goals of the organization. By understanding the priorities, you can better position yourself to contribute effectively and support the achievement of those objectives.

These questions demonstrate your proactive mindset, eagerness to grow, and commitment to contributing to the success of the organization.

Ultimately, use these conversations as an opportunity to learn, gather insights, and showcase your enthusiasm for professional development and making a meaningful impact.

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Navigating a career in the public service

admin — Tue, 30 May 2023 21:14:00 +0000

Why choose a career in public service?

Public service offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the betterment of society and the ability to positively impact the lives of others. By choosing a public service career, you become part of a larger mission to create positive change and promote the common good.

Public service requires dedication, compassion, and a genuine commitment to serving others. Embrace the privilege of being entrusted with the responsibility to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Your work has the potential to shape policies, implement initiatives, and positively impact the lives of countless people.

And yet, like any job, navigating the public service can feel daunting to new public servants. So, here’s a little advice to get you started:

Familiarize yourself with the goals and objectives of your organization (a good place to start is reading your mandate letter). Understanding the broader purpose will help you align your efforts and contribute meaningfully.

Seek guidance from your colleagues who can provide valuable insights and mentorship – at all levels. Their expertise and experience can help you navigate complex situations and make informed decisions.

Networking within your organization and across different departments is crucial. Don’t hesitate to reach out for an informal coffee – whether virtual or in-person – or to ask for an introduction.

Engage in professional development opportunities, attend training sessions, and actively seek out learning opportunities to enhance your skills. Federal Youth Network and the Canada School of Public Service | École de la fonction publique du Canada are great resources to support such development.

Public service demands high standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct. Ensure that your actions and decisions align with these principles, as they are crucial for maintaining public trust.

Be adaptable and resilient. Public service often involves navigating complex challenges and evolving situations. Cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. This mindset will help you respond effectively to unexpected situations and overcome obstacles.

Develop strong written and verbal communication skills, and learn to tailor your message to different audiences. Effective communication fosters understanding, collaboration, and the ability to convey complex ideas. I can also guarantee almost every competition will ask about this experience so be sure to cultivate it.

And remember, public service is not without its challenges. There may be obstacles along the way, but view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast belief in the importance of your work. With perseverance and a positive mindset, you can navigate through the complexities and overcome any hurdles that come your way.

You got this!

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