Coffee Break Conversations… with Marie O’Reilly

Coffee Break Conversations... with Marie O'Reilly

1. What inspired you to work with Barden?

The people. Everyone at Barden has such a good sense of humour, it makes the busy days fly by and makes work feel a lot less like work.

2. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far, and how has it impacted your work?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned so far is how important it is to manage my workload in a way that helps me stay on top of deadlines. I work off a to-do list to prioritise what needs to be done first and keep track of everything without getting overwhelmed.

It’s made a big difference in how I work.

3. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering a career change?

I’d say, just go for it. Life’s too short to be stuck waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment, because it rarely shows up. If you’re thinking about a change, there’s probably a good reason. Trust your gut. You’ll figure things out as you go.

4. Can you describe a project or accomplishment at Barden that you’re particularly proud of?

I’m really proud of how much I’ve learned over the past six months. Coming into a recruitment and talent advisory firm was completely new to me, but I’ve been continuously learning every day, whether it’s about the industry, the people, or the processes. It’s been a steep but rewarding learning curve.

5. What aspect of your work at Barden excites you the most?

There’s never a dull moment when you’re in the office. There’s always something new & exciting happening.

6. What’s a hobby/interest you have that might surprise us?

I love baking! My nan taught me when I was younger, and even though I don’t do it much these days, it’s honestly so therapeutic when I do.

7. If you could master a new skill instantly, what would it be and why?

I think I’d go for something like public speaking or presenting with total confidence – no nerves, no second-guessing. It’s such a useful skill, no matter what you’re doing, and being able to communicate clearly and confidently can really open doors.

8. If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be and what would you do?

Very random, but I did a safari recently in South Africa, and I’d probably swap with one of the guides who takes people out on the horse-riding safaris. I did one while I was there, and it was such a cool experience.  The guides definitely get to see something different every day with the animals and the views.

9. What’s one thing you’d like to accomplish, personally or professionally, in the next year?

I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the piano. It’s been on my list for ages, and this year I’d love to finally make time for it. I think there’s something really calming about playing it.

10. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received? 

The best advice I’ve ever gotten is to treat people how you’d want to be treated. It’s such a simple thing, but it really does go a long way. Being kind and respectful, especially when things get stressful, makes a big difference. People tend to remember how you make them feel.

At Barden we invest our resources to bring you the very best insights on all things to do with your professional future. Got a topic you would like us to research? Got an insight you would like us to share with our audience? Drop us a note to hello@barden.ie and we will take it from there. Easy.

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