APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives her expert advice to a reader who is trying to find a role around school hours, but feels like they are getting nowhere..
Q: I’m a single mum on benefits, but now my youngest child has started school, I want to find a term-time-only job.
However, I’m really struggling.
Every time I find a role that sounds perfect, such as a TA job in a local school or a part-time lunchtime supervisor, I get through to the interview stage, then realise I’m up against lots of other mums who all have more experience than me, so I never get the job.
I can’t afford to pay for childcare, so I’m stuck trying to find something around school hours, and feel like I’m getting nowhere.
How can I make myself more employable?
Cassie
A: Don’t let lack of experience be the thing that holds you back – ensure your passion and personality are what the interviewers remember.
Start by building up relevant experience wherever you can, even if it’s volunteering at your children’s school or helping with after-school clubs, as this shows initiative and gets your foot in the door.
Take free online courses in areas like safeguarding or first aid to prove you’re serious about working with children.
When you get an interview, don’t just list what you’ve done. Instead, show how your life both professionally and personally has made you reliable, patient and great at problem-solving.
And use your network – talk to teachers, parents and local schools, because most opportunities come from people, not job-vacancy boards.
Keep your focus on term-time roles you most want, like lunchtime supervisor or teaching assistant, but stay open to stepping-stone jobs that get you experience.
Remember, determination and attitude count just as much as qualifications. If you show that energy and reliability, the right employer will see your value.
- Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.
