The job market is competitive at the moment with organisations receiving hundreds of applications for each position – many from over qualified professionals. So how do you stand out in a crowd? One local business believes those in the corporate world can learn from their contemporaries in the acting industry when it comes to exuding confidence. Already a successful casting agency, Captured Communications is branching out to help women incorporate acting strategies into corporate communication. “Getting work in any field is all about looking in control because you are in control. That means you know your strengths and you know how to market them,” says Captured Communications’ Tania Bunk, who is a multi-talented actor, recording artist, graphic designer and human resources consultant. “I learned that when I was an actor, and I went through it again when I returned to paid work after having my sons.” Tania said she faced a range of challenges unique to mothers returning to the workforce, and her confidence really took a beating. “Some employers wouldn’t look at me because they assumed I’d need lots of time off to look after my kids. There was also what I call the ‘guilts and gaps’ that nearly every mum faces, guilt […]

Grow Your Network Hunter Business Women’s Network (HBWN) was established in 1995 by a group of enterprising local business women that wanted to support each other. Members represent a wide range of industry sectors including finance, law, retail and wholesale, professional services, hospitality, transport, communication, public relations, health, education, manufacturing and government organisations. A diverse group of women, our members range from brand new micro businesses, small to medium businesses, the corporate and government sector as well as not for profit. This combination of experience creates a varied and supportive environment allowing members to share knowledge and skills with each other so they can connect, inspire and grow. Members are encouraged to participate in activities that will raise the profile and improve the status of women throughout the Hunter Region. If you are looking for advice to help make this year your best business one ever, then look no further than HBWN. The committee and members form part of a supportive network aimed at giving you access to great business opportunities with a chance to make new contacts. HBWN regularly holds networking events to help you meet new people, make great connections and extend your business. They also host special events such as International Women’s Day […]

Lost your mojo or stuck in a rut? You know that feeling. You’re comfortable staying right where you are and yet you often feel unfulfilled. Stuck within the bounds of your invisible hula hoop. According to the State of the Service report on employee engagement in the APS, ‘An engaged workforce is likely to be more committed to organisational goals and (be) more productive.’ Employee engagement in the Australian Public Service, (APS), has remained consistent at 65% in both 2014 and 2015; but how does the APS classify engagement? Statistics don’t tell the full story when it comes to determining an individual’s personal engagement  in their APS role. “One area of the statistical analysis is based on the intention to leave. This does not reflect the fact that employees may just be staying in their current role due to financial circumstances or maintaining a feeling of security”, says Tania Bunk, a trained Life Coach and Human Resources professional, from Captured Communications. “Employees may actually be disengaged from their role and are staying due to fear based reasons. Physically they are listed as ‘engaged’, yet mentally and emotionally they are not fulfilled.” “On average, APS staff are only 65% engaged with their job. This could be seen as being […]