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What inspired you to pursue a career in talent advisory with Barden?
Covid ended my time at UCC quite abruptly, and like everyone else, I was trying to figure things out. But it gave me a unique chance to step back and think about what I really wanted to do. When I came across Barden, there was a line, something along the lines of; Are you someone who looks beyond the laptop to watch the people behind it?’ It really stuck with me. Talent Advisory at Barden felt like the perfect way to bring people and my degree in technology together.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far, and how has it impacted your work?
Hands down, it’s been learning to listen – really listen. Not just waiting for my turn to speak, but actually hearing what someone’s saying (or not saying). It’s made me so much better at understanding people.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering a career change?
Don’t overthink it, but do your homework. If something excites you, even if it’s a little scary, that’s usually a good sign.
Can you describe a project or accomplishment at Barden that you’re particularly proud of?
As the first hire in the technology practice, I’ve had the opportunity to watch it grow from strength to strength, and it’s made me so proud. It’s amazing to think of where we started and where we are now.
What aspect of your work at Barden excites you the most?
It sounds cliché, but no 2 days are the same. Tech is always evolving so there’s always something new to learn and understand. Every role is like solving a new puzzle, which keeps it so interesting.
What’s a hobby/ interest you have that might surprise us?
At the moment, most of my time outside work is spent raising a puppy for the Irish Guide Dogs. We’ve had him since July last year, and he’s stolen our hearts. It’s basically a full-time job on top of my full-time job but I wouldn’t have it any other way for these 12 months.
If you could master a new skill instantly, what would it be and why?
I’d love to be able to play an instrument like the guitar or piano. It would be great to just pick one up and play without struggling with the commitment of learning it.
If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be and what would you do?
I’d love to swap with a coffee shop owner; it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do.
What’s one thing you’d like to accomplish, personally or professionally, in the next year?
Make more time for reading. I have so many books that I start and never finish, and I think it’d be great to take more time away from screens to focus on reading, even if it’s just a few pages a day.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Don’t compare your chapter 1 to someone else’s chapter 20.” It’s a good reminder to focus on your own journey and not get caught up in what everyone else is doing.