Career Confidence

"Stop chasing golden carrots. Build your skills, stay visible, and create real value where you are." ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ Colleen Pender on LinkedIn  ___________________________________ In this powerful episode of The Career Confidence Podcast, Georgie sits down with Colleen Pender, a tech leader with over 14 years of experience at NAB, to uncover the career strategy that no one talks about—but every aspiring professional needs. From mastering networking as an introvert to leveraging emotional intelligence over technical expertise, Colleen shares the actionable insights that took her from entry-level to leading teams of 40+. Whether you're job-hopping or aiming for a leadership role, this conversation will reshape how you approach career growth, leadership, and the future of work in tech. Tune in to learn the keys to building clarity, confidence, and an unshakable career foundation. Key Takeaways: The Hidden Career Advantage: Why staying and growing within an organisation can outweigh job-hopping for quick salary gains. Networking for Introverts: Practical tips to build visibility and create authentic sponsor-mentor relationships. Emotional Intelligence Matters: Why tech leaders prioritise soft skills like adaptability and public speaking over technical expertise. AI and the Future of Work: How curiosity and adaptability can help you thrive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Timestamps: 3:02 – Colleen’s Journey: From Entry-Level to Head of Technology at NAB6:35 – The Power of Education and Building Career Confidence8:40 – Why Job-Hopping Isn’t Always the Best Move11:57 – Networking Advice for Introverts: Building Sponsors and Mentors15:02 – Setting Career Goals and Gaining Clarity for Confidence18:32 – Soft Skills vs. Hard Skills: What Tech Leaders Are Really Looking For23:53 – Leadership at Scale: Colleen’s Style and Managing 40+ People27:54 – Why Leaders Must Recognise and Reward Good Performance34:52 – Tackling Tough Conversations in Leadership43:30 – Thriving as a Woman in Male-Dominated Boardrooms46:02 – AI, Tech Trends, and Staying Ahead of the Curve51:28 – What’s Next for Colleen: Her Vision for the Future

Adopting AI isn’t optional anymore—embrace it, or risk being left behind. ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Pam - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ 🎙 Join Georgie and Pam as they break down the inspiring highlights of the Sisterhood Club Social Tech Gala 2024. They take lessons from the inspiring Katherine Boiciuc, Kath Blackham, and Krithika Hansen as they share insights on: Why prompt engineering is a must-have skill for the future. How embracing risk leads to growth, both professionally and personally. Breaking stigmas around menopause and creating inclusive workplaces. The role AI could play in achieving a four-day work week. Get ready for actionable takeaways that will help you future-proof your career and embrace the transformative power of technology! ___________________________________ Timestamps 3:45 - Behind the scenes: How the Sisterhood Club went bigger and bolder in 20248:30 - Katherine Boiciuc on AI: Why adopting tech is non-negotiable for women13:10 - Prompt Engineering 101: The future of communication and creativity18:05 - Kath Blackham’s insights: Four-day work weeks and supporting women at every stage of life23:45 - Krithika Hansen’s story: Becoming fluent in Catalan in 6 weeks and embracing lifelong learning30:20 - Menopause at work: Breaking the stigma and creating supportive workplaces36:00 - The power of community: Lessons from building the Sisterhood Club network41:10 - Actionable takeaways: AI adoption, mentorship, and preparing for the future45:00 - Closing thoughts: Why it’s time to invest in yourself and embrace change

"I’ll be damned if I watch another technological revolution leave women behind." ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Pam - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  Thanks to our event sponsors - 7-Eleven Australia & UniSuper ___________________________________ Krithika Hansen: LinkedIn Kath Blackham: LinkedIn Katherine Boiciuc: LinkedIn  ___________________________________ 👩‍💻 Course: IBM AI Developer Professional Certificate ___________________________________ Live from the Sisterhood Club's Tech Gala 2024, this incredible panel featuring Katherine Boiciuc (Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at EY), Kath Blackham (CEO and Founder of Versa AI), and Krithika Hansen (Chief People Officer at Telstra Super) dives deep into the future of AI, leadership, and empowerment. With thought-provoking insights and candid personal stories, these inspiring leaders challenge the status quo on technology, career growth, and societal impact. Get ready to learn why "opting out of technology is not a luxury women have," how AI is transforming industries, and what critical skills are needed to thrive in the workforce of tomorrow. Plus, hear Katherine’s bold advice: "Delete Google now!" She explains why switching to AI-powered tools is the key to future-proofing your career and unlocking your full potential. This episode will inspire you to embrace AI, rethink leadership, and start building a future where diversity and innovation go hand in hand. Key Takeaways: AI’s Potential and Pitfalls: Why the next technological revolution must be inclusive, and how AI can solve societal challenges if used responsibly. "Delete Google Now!" Learn how switching to generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot can future-proof your career. Resilience and Leadership: The panel shares inspiring stories about courage, adaptability, and redefining success in the tech industry. Empowering Women in Tech: Why it’s critical for women to embrace technology and how to make bold career pivots into the world of AI. Timestamps:5:15 - Katherine Boiciuc12:30 - Kath Blackham19:45 - Krithika Hansen27:10 - AI’s Real-World Impact36:50 - The AI Gender Gap44:15 - Future Skills for Success51:30 - "Delete Google Now!"1:02:00 - Environmental Concerns1:10:45 - Q&A Highlights:

"Your default mindset is like a GPS—it keeps you on the same path unless you consciously reprogram it. ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ Anu Villarosa on LinkedIn  ___________________________________ In today's Career Confidence Podcast, Georgie sits down with Anu Villarosa, Chief People Officer and mindset coach, to uncover the hidden patterns that keep people feeling stuck in their careers and lives. Anu shares transformative insights from her personal and professional journey, from pivoting careers as a lawyer to becoming a leader in people development, all while balancing family life and personal growth. We explore how mindset shapes behaviour, the power of self-awareness, and actionable strategies to break free from limiting beliefs. Whether you're navigating a career change, feeling unfulfilled, or seeking ways to unlock your potential, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical tips to help you move forward. Key Takeaways: Identify and Reframe Default Mindsets: Learn how your habitual thoughts may be holding you back and how to shift them to foster growth and opportunity. The Role of Reflection in Personal Growth: Why taking time to observe and question your thoughts without judgment is the first step to change. Embracing Risk and Overcoming Fear: How saying yes to new challenges can lead to transformative experiences, even when the future feels uncertain. Practical Tools for a Growth Mindset: From journaling to mindful reframing, discover simple but effective techniques to create long-lasting change. Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction and why people stay stuck5:12 – Anu’s career journey: From law to HR leadership11:17 – The power of curiosity and self-awareness17:45 – Overcoming fear of failure and saying yes to new opportunities23:30 – Practical steps to build a growth mindset30:10 – Why reflection is critical for breaking out of limiting patterns36:48 – Balancing gratitude and ambition in career development42:00 – Anu’s tips for navigating overwhelm and making meaningful change48:35 – How mindset work shapes leadership and team performance54:20 – Final thoughts and where to connect with Anu

“Every person you meet has a strength, a perspective, and a story. Go in with curiosity and see what you can learn.” ___________________________________  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ In today's solo episode, Georgie dives deep into the art of authentic networking—without the nerves. As someone who understands the anxiety many feel before entering a room full of strangers, Georgie shares a fresh approach that shifts the focus from “networking” to building real, lasting relationships. Drawing from her own experience as a recruiter and event host, Georgie offers actionable tips, mindset shifts, and easy conversation starters to make connecting with others feel natural and meaningful. Whether you’re preparing for your first networking event or looking to improve your professional relationships, this episode offers practical advice to help you show up with confidence, authenticity, and purpose. Key Takeaways: Shift Your Mindset to Relationship BuildingNetworking doesn’t have to be transactional. Georgie explains how reframing it as “building relationships” makes it feel less formal and more genuine. Set Small, Achievable GoalsTo reduce anxiety, go in with one or two simple goals, like having a meaningful conversation with one person rather than thinking you must speak with everyone. Prepare Conversation Starters & Practice Active ListeningHaving a few open-ended questions ready and focusing on active listening helps you engage in more memorable and impactful conversations. Follow Up and Foster Connections Beyond the EventNetworking doesn’t end when the event does. Georgie shares easy ways to nurture the relationships you build, ensuring they last. Be Yourself, Not Just Your Job TitleWhen you’re authentic and open, people connect with you on a personal level. Leave the corporate façade at the door, and bring your true self. Timestamps:  [02:30] Why Networking Events Can Be Intimidating—and Why They Don’t Have to Be [06:15] Reframing Networking: Focus on Building Real Connections [08:40] How to Set Intentions and Goals for Each Event [11:50] The Power of Preparing Conversation Starters and Researching Speakers [15:30] Overcoming Networking Anxiety: Tips to Relax and Be Present [20:00] Importance of Active Listening and Being Fully Present [23:10] Following Up: Nurturing Relationships Beyond the Event [26:30] Embracing Authenticity and Leaving the Corporate Mask Behind [30:00] Give Yourself Grace—Building Confidence Takes Time [33:00] Final Thoughts and Upcoming Sisterhood Social Event

"Taking time away didn’t mean I gave up my career; it meant I came back stronger and more determined." ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ Stella Noutsis on LinkedIn  ___________________________________ In this episode of the Career Confidence Podcast, we dive into the remarkable journey of Stella Noutsis, a Program Manager at UniSuper, who courageously re-entered the tech industry after an eight-year career break to focus on her family. Stella shares her experiences navigating self-doubt, overcoming imposter syndrome, and finding her footing in a rapidly changing field. From her early days as an IT graduate to becoming a leader in project management, Stella's story is one of resilience, adaptability, and grit. Whether you're considering a career change, struggling with work-life balance, or seeking inspiration to pursue your goals, Stella's insights are both relatable and motivating. ___________________________________ Takeaways from This Episode: The Power of Resilience: Stella talks about how she navigated her return to work after an eight-year break, from not knowing how to write an email to becoming a confident leader in tech. Imposter Syndrome is Real—But Manageable: Hear how Stella overcame her fears and self-doubt by investing in mentorship, networking, and continuous learning. Networking and Mentorship Matter: Stella reveals how her connections helped her land new opportunities and how finding the right mentors has shaped her career. Balancing Career and Family: Learn Stella’s strategies for juggling motherhood and a successful career, and why flexibility and organizational support are crucial for women in tech. ___________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Stella’s Background and Career Overview 03:05 – Starting in IT: From Graduate Program to Project Manager 05:57 – Taking an 8-Year Break: Why Stella Chose to Focus on Family 10:35 – The Challenge of Returning: Feeling Like a Newbie Again 19:09 – Finding a Way Back: Stella’s Unexpected Role in Recruitment 23:17 – The First Day Back: Battling Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt 28:51 – Building Real Confidence: The Impact of a Women in Leadership Course 31:14 – Returning to Project Management: Adjusting to the New World of IT 36:48 – Networking During COVID: How Stella Made Connections Remotely 41:10 – The Role of Mentorship: Why Having Multiple Mentors Matters 46:12 – Program Management at UniSuper: What Stella’s Role Involves 49:29 – Advice for Women Entering Tech: Skills, Traits, and How to Get Started 52:11 – What’s Next for Stella: Future Career Aspirations in Strategy and Business   ___________________________________ 🔗 Related Links & Resources: Sisterhood Mentorship Program – Learn more about how mentorship can transform your career. UniSuper Careers – Explore opportunities to join a company that supports women in leadership.

"True confidence comes from aligning who you are with how you show up in the world." ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Pam - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ In this episode of the Career Confidence Podcast, hosts Georgie and Pam dive into the core of what truly builds — and breaks — confidence in your career. They explore the three biggest "confidence stealers" that hold you back and reveal the three key "confidence boosters" that will help you reach your full potential. Whether you're looking to step into a leadership role or simply grow in your current position, this episode will give you actionable insights and real-life examples to help you build unshakable self-belief. Learn how clarity, courage, and competence can elevate your career and life! ___________________________________ Key Takeaways: The 3 Confidence Stealers – Comparison, Complaining, and Criticism: How they erode self-belief and what you can do to stop them. The 3 Confidence Boosters – Clarity, Courage, and Competence: How focusing on these will help you cultivate lasting confidence. How to Align Internal and External Confidence – The importance of balancing how you feel internally with how you present yourself to the world. Practical Strategies to Build Confidence – From taking small, consistent steps to stop self-sabotage, to embracing the power of self-reflection. ___________________________________ Timestamps: 6:30 – Defining confidence: Internal vs. External confidence11:15 – The 3 Confidence Stealers: Comparison, Complaining, and Criticism20:40 – How to stop comparing yourself and live according to your own values29:50 – Building confidence: Courage and stepping outside your comfort zone37:10 – Competence is key: Why mastering a skill can elevate your confidence45:30 – External confidence: Presentation, posture, and speaking up54:25 – Bridging the gap between internal and external confidence1:00:50 – Final takeaways: Clarity, courage, and competence in your career1:10:30 – Closing thoughts and call to action

"If you don’t define what success means to you, society will do it for you." ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ In this solo episode of the Career Confidence Podcast, host Georgie Hubbard takes a deep dive into recognising the early signs of burnout and the dangerous cycle of overwork that many high achievers face. Drawing from her own personal experiences with exhaustion, anxiety, and panic attacks, Georgie explores how to spot the warning signs of burnout before it impacts your health and well-being. She shares practical strategies to break the cycle, redefine success, and prioritise self-care without losing your ambition. Tune in to learn how you can shift from running on empty to living a balanced, fulfilling life. Key Takeaways: Recognising the Early Signs of Burnout – Learn how poor sleep, constant fatigue, and irritability are key red flags that shouldn’t be ignored. Breaking Free from the Hustle Mentality – How societal pressures and perfectionism fuel burnout, and why it’s crucial to redefine success for better mental and physical health. The Importance of Self-Reflection and Boundaries – Why setting limits, taking breaks, and aligning your goals with your values can help prevent career burnout. Practical Self-Care Tips – Georgie’s daily practices that promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and help you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Timestamps: 3:10 – Balancing ambition with self-care: A common struggle for career-focused individuals 5:30 – Recognising the signs of burnout: Poor sleep, constant colds, and irritability 10:40 – The frantic energy of hustle culture and how it leads to burnout 13:55 – The turning point: Georgie’s panic attack and what it taught her 17:20 – Redefining success: Untying your self-worth from career achievement 21:10 – Prioritising self-care: Daily habits to maintain mental, emotional, and physical well-being 25:50 – Why perfectionism is holding you back and how to embrace “good enough” 28:30 – The importance of reflection and setting boundaries for long-term success 32:00 – Final thoughts: Embracing life’s challenges and staying aligned with your values

"Confidence in interviews comes from knowing your worth. You’re not there by accident – you deserve this opportunity." ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ In this solo episode, Georgie Hubbard, with 12 years of recruitment experience, shares her expert advice on how to master job interviews and land your dream role. From pre-interview research to using the STAR method, Georgie breaks down the exact steps you need to take to feel confident and prepared. She offers actionable tips on how to avoid common interview mistakes, improve nonverbal communication, and present your best self. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a first-time interviewee, this episode is packed with invaluable advice to help you ace your next interview! Key Takeaways: Why Preparation is Key: Research the company, job description, and the interviewer to ensure you're ready for any question. How to Master the STAR Method: Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to craft concise, impactful answers during your interview. Why Nonverbal Communication Matters: Body language, eye contact, and posture play a crucial role in making a great first impression. How to Build Your Confidence: Visualise success, believe in your worth and stay calm to project confidence throughout the interview. Timestamps:  [02:00] – Why mastering interviews is crucial in today’s competitive job market [04:00] – The importance of self-belief and recognising your worth as an interview candidate [05:30] – Pre-interview preparation: Research, job description review, and knowing the interviewer [08:00] – How proper research can help you stand out to potential employers [09:20] – The STAR method explained: How to structure your answers for maximum impact [14:05] – Nonverbal communication tips: Body language, posture, and eye contact in interviews [16:30] – How to handle online interviews: Keeping eye contact and professionalism on virtual calls [18:50] – Thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer and why they matter [21:15] – Wrapping up the interview: Expressing interest and following up with a thank-you note [25:00] – Final thoughts: Confidence, mindset, and visualisation techniques for interview success

“The hybrid work debate isn’t just about productivity—it’s about quality of life.” ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Pam - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________In this week’s episode of Career Confidence, Georgie and Pam tackle the controversial return-to-office movement. With companies like Amazon and Tabcorp mandating 5 days back in the office, is it really the right move, or are we heading back to outdated work norms? They explore the reasons behind the push, the impact on employees’ work-life balance, and whether hybrid work is still the future. Tune in for a heated discussion on whether full-time office life is a strategic necessity or a colossal error. Key Moments: Why are companies reversing hybrid policies, and how is this impacting employee morale and retention? What does the data say about productivity and collaboration in a post-pandemic world? Forcing employees back into a 5-day office routine could have long-term implications on mental health and job satisfaction. Are we witnessing the end of hybrid work, or will the backlash push companies to reconsider? ___________________________________ Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction: Why Hybrid Work is a Hot Topic [03:59] – Georgie and Pam’s Recruitment Background: Insights from Both Sides [06:18] – Setting Up for Success While Working from Home: Morning Routines [08:35] – Creating a Productive Routine: How to Separate Family Time and Work [12:56] – The Reality of Hybrid Work: Why Some Companies are Shifting Back to Full-Time Office Mandates [15:14] – Productivity Trends: How Companies Like Amazon and Tabcorp Justified the Return [17:31] – Challenges and Opportunities: Candidates’ Motivations and Employer Policies [19:57] – Pros of Working from Home: Flexibility, Autonomy, and Cost Savings [22:24] – The Leadership Dilemma: Should We Go Back to the Office? [24:44] – COVID’s Lasting Impact: Shaping New Expectations for Workers [27:07] – The Knowledge Gap: What Young Professionals are Missing Without In-Office Exposure [29:26] – The Visibility Factor: Why Being Seen Still Matters for Career Growth [31:43] – Mental Health Impacts of Remote Work: Isolation and Burnout Risks [34:05] – Collaboration and Creativity: Why In-Person Time is Still Essential [36:32] – Conclusion: Why Hybrid Work is Likely the Future of Work [41:18] – Personal Values and Work-Life Integration: A Leadership Perspective [43:43] – Setting Clear Expectations: Leadership’s Role in Hybrid Success