career advice Archives - Amanda Bernardo

Rethinking Parental Leave: It’s time we start recognizing parental leave as career growth, not career interruption

admin — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 18:52:39 +0000

Becoming a mother changes everything—your routines, your priorities, and even how you see the world. But beyond the sleepless nights and endless to-do lists, it also equips you with new skills, perspectives, and even emotions that make you a stronger leader.

With that in mind, we need to flip the narrative on parental leave.

It’s not “time away” from our careers—it’s time that enables them. Just like any other learning experience, parenthood challenges us, teaches us, and strengthens us in ways that directly benefit our professional lives. The resilience, adaptability, and leadership we develop as parents make us better colleagues, decision-makers, and problem-solvers.

It’s time we start recognizing parental leave as career growth, not career interruption.

So what can we learn from this time? For me, here are a few takeaways that stand out:

Motherhood has strengthened my ability to juggle competing priorities while staying focused on what truly matters. As a leader, this skill allows me to balance strategic goals with day-to-day challenges, ensuring progress without losing sight of the bigger picture.

Raising a child requires patience, understanding, and the ability to see things from their perspective. As a leader, this translates into creating a workplace where my team feels valued, supported, and heard—leading with both strength and compassion.

Parenthood teaches you to expect the unexpected and bounce back quickly from setbacks. As a leader, this resilience helps me navigate change, uncertainty, and challenges with a solutions-focused mindset.

From managing tantrums to making quick decisions that impact my child’s well-being, motherhood has honed my ability to think fast and make confident choices. In leadership, this means I can assess situations effectively and take decisive action when needed.

Children don’t just listen to what we say—they watch what we do. This has reinforced my belief in leading with integrity, modeling the behaviours I want to see in my team, and fostering a culture of accountability and growth.

Parenthood isn’t just a personal journey—it’s a leadership masterclass.

These examples alone show that time spent raising children isn’t time away from our careers—it’s time that creates better leaders (and employees). It creates leaders with empathy. Leaders with a renewed understanding of work-life balance. Leaders equipped with the skills to achieve results and become better people managers. So when it’s time to welcome these parents back, we should embrace what they bring to the table. In fact, we should prioritize hearing from their experience and exploring how it can improve the workplace.

Whenever someone steps away from an organization or role and returns, there’s a huge learning opportunity. The trick is leveraging this feedback to strengthen your organization instead of losing this insight altogether.

If we take this one step further, when we talk about supporting employees and embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion, parenthood needs to be part of that conversation.

Creating a truly inclusive workplace means recognizing the unique challenges parents face and ensuring they have the flexibility, support, and resources to thrive. Family-friendly policies, flexible work arrangements, and a culture that values the leadership skills gained through parenthood aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re essential.

If we want to build workplaces where everyone can succeed, we need to treat parenthood as an asset, not an obstacle.

So, if you’re still reading, I challenge you to think differently about how we support working parents. Let’s move beyond the traditional mindset and start actively embracing the leadership potential parenthood brings. Create spaces for parents to share their experiences, listen to their insights, and implement changes that truly support them. From flexible work arrangements to DEI strategies that include parental support, we have the power to build more inclusive, effective, and empowered teams.

The question is: Will you make the changes needed to support this shift?

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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.

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.

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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Why are transferable skills so valuable?

admin — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 01:18:00 +0000

Why are transferable skills so valuable?

First, let’s explain what they are.

Transferable skills are abilities, knowledge, and competencies that can be applied across different jobs, roles, industries, and contexts. These skills are not specific to a particular job or field, but rather they are general skills that can be adapted and transferred to different situations.

Some examples of transferable skills include:
Communication skills
Leadership skills
Analytical skills
Problem-solving skills
Time management skills
Interpersonal skills
Adaptability
Teamwork

As illustrated both above and below, there are many transferable skills that one can obtain, often through their work and educational experiences, that can be transferred from one job to the next.

But why are they so valuable?

Transferable skills are valuable because they give you the flexibility to adapt to new roles and industries, make you a more competitive candidate for jobs, and provide a strong foundation for a successful career. Possessing these skills can demonstrate your ability to contribute to a variety of roles and situations in an organization, which is highly valuable to potential employers.

Having these skills is one thing, knowing how to highlight them is another. This is especially true when seeking out new opportunities in your career. So, how can you demonstrate the value behind your transferable skills?

Before your interview, research the company and the job requirements to identify the skills and experiences that are most relevant. This will help you tailor your responses to highlight your transferable skills that align with the job requirements.

Use specific examples from your previous experience to demonstrate how you’ve applied your transferable skills in real-world situations. This will help the employer understand how you can use these skills in the new role. You can use the STAR method to help structure these examples (Situation-Task-Action-Result + Takeaway).

When highlighting your transferable skills, emphasize the benefits that you can bring to the role and the company. For example, if you have strong communication skills, explain how this can help you collaborate effectively with team members, clients, and stakeholders.

Highlighting your transferable skills is important, but it’s also essential to show that you’re willing to learn and adapt to new challenges. This can help demonstrate your commitment to growth and development and show that you’re a strong candidate for the role.

“The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.” – Robert Greene

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