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Let’s be honest – feeling confident and being able to communicate well can sometimes feel like a moving target. Some days it flows. Other days, not so much. But when we do find our voice and trust it? That’s where real connection, progress, and positive change begin.

Whether you’re early in your career or you’ve been in your role for years, these two skills—confidence and communication – can quietly shape how we show up, speak up, and support the people around us.

Communication isn’t just about being good with words.

It’s about knowing how to listen, how to ask thoughtful questions, and how to get your message across in a way that feels true to you. It’s how we build trust, express our needs, and make things happen – together.

And confidence?

It’s not about having all the answers or being the loudest in the room. It’s about knowing your value, backing yourself even when things feel uncertain, and stepping forward anyway. It’s that quiet courage, the kind that helps you speak up in meetings, lead conversations, or just say, “I’ve got an idea.”

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That’s why we’re running this Co.next workshop.

We want to create a space where you can grow these skills, without pressure or pretense. Just real talk, practical tools, and the kind of encouragement that reminds you – you’ve got more in you than you think.

At this session, we’ll explore:

• How to communicate more clearly and confidently in everyday situations
• Tips for handling tricky conversations or moments where nerves take over
• Ways to build trust in your own voice (and actually enjoy using it!)

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Confidence opens doors you didn’t even know were there.

When: July 24th 11.45 – 1.30pm
Where: (Norfolk Chambers of Commerce Business Hub, Hardwick House

? Book your place here

We’d love to see you there – whether you’re full of confidence already or just starting to build it. Because communication isn’t a “nice-to-have.”

Let’s be honest. When you hear the word “networking,” it can conjure up images of awkward icebreakers, name badges, and people angling for sales leads over soggy canapés. But real networking? The kind that genuinely supports your career and helps you grow as a person? That’s built on something much more meaningful: authentic connection.

People, not prospects

At its heart, networking isn’t about selling yourself—it’s about showing up as yourself. Whether you’re at a breakfast event, on a paddleboard, or grabbing coffee with someone new, the most impactful relationships start when you ditch the pitch and lead with curiosity.

Ask questions. Listen more than you talk. Be open to learning from people with different experiences, industries, and perspectives. Some of the most valuable career moments happen when you make space for honest conversations, not transactions.

Networking doesn’t have to mean small talk

If the thought of traditional networking makes you nervous, you’re not alone. That’s why more and more people are turning to activity-based networking. Think paddleboarding, creative workshops, volunteering, or walking groups.

These experiences create a shared focus—something fun or interesting to do together—which naturally takes the pressure off. It’s a bit like a cinema date. Even if conversation doesn’t flow straight away, you’ve always got the movie (or the water, or the wobbly board moment) to talk about. It gives you an easy “in” and a way to connect that feels genuine and low-pressure.

Growing your circle, not just your CV

Authentic networking helps you build a web of support around your professional life. It could mean finding a mentor who gives you the nudge to go for that promotion, a collaborator who helps you bring an idea to life, or a peer who simply gets it on a tough day.

These relationships don’t always have immediate outcomes, and that’s okay. Sometimes the best networking moves are the slow burns—the ones that quietly build trust and spark ideas long before they lead to anything.

It’s not just who you know—it’s how you show up

Showing up authentically means being honest about what you’re curious about, what you’re trying to figure out, and even what you’re struggling with. It also means being generous with your time, your insight, and your encouragement. Because good networking is reciprocal. It’s not about collecting contacts, it’s about being one others are glad to have.

The takeaway? Just be you.

Forget the elevator pitch. The best approach to networking is a human one. Be curious, be kind, be real. Whether you’re early in your career or years into your journey, showing up as yourself will always be your greatest asset.

For more about our Co.next events

Disclaimer: Co.next events are designed with a focus on supporting and empowering individuals under 35 — but they are open to everyone. We warmly welcome participants of all ages who are interested in connecting, learning, and contributing to a vibrant and inclusive community.

We recently hosted a brilliant session exploring how individuals with ADHD can embrace their unique strengths, work with their brains (not against them), and unlock their full potential in life and business. Led by Ian Hacon from Energise.me, this session was packed with practical advice, relatable insights, and real strategies that resonated deeply with our audience.

ADHD Looks Different for Everyone

Whether you’re inattentive, impulsive, hyperactive, or a combination of all three, understanding how ADHD shows up for you is the first step. This self-awareness allows you to better manage your day-to-day experience and create systems that actually work for your brain.

Managing Energy Highs and Lows

ADHD isn’t a constant — it’s a rollercoaster. Some moments are bursting with focus and creativity, while others feel like you’re stuck in the fog. Ian introduced energy mapping and hacks to honour your natural rhythms. One highlight? The “ADHD Eisenhower Box” — a game-changer for tackling urgent vs. important tasks without overwhelm.

Outsmarting ADHD Sabotage

We talked about common ADHD pitfalls like time blindness and task paralysis — and how to avoid them. Techniques like chunking, hacking your start button, and prioritising using urgency-friendly methods can help you move from stuck to unstoppable.

Health = Focus Fuel

Neglecting basics like exercise, sleep, hydration, and nutrition can seriously mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms. Just 30 minutes less sleep can impact your brain as much as being mildly drunk. From protein-packed snacks to walking meetings, the message was clear: your brain needs your body to be functioning if you want to perform at your best.

Your Neurodiversity Is Your Superpower

ADHD isn’t a limitation — it’s a difference. When managed well, it becomes a serious strength:

• Hyperfocus = deep work mastery
• Creativity = innovation and problem solving
• Urgency-driven brains = calm leadership under pressure

Avoiding ADHD Burnout

Burnout can sneak up on neurodivergent minds. We explored five red flags — including hyperfocus hangovers and dopamine droughts — along with a toolkit for building resilience. Micro-recoveries, sensory resets, and even outsourcing your willpower with distraction-blocking apps were all encouraged.

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Final Takeaway

“Your neurodiversity is your fingerprint — don’t try to erase it. Start building around it.”

This session wasn’t just about managing ADHD — it was about celebrating it, designing smarter systems, and finding your own path to success.

Ian Hacon, Founder of Energise.me is working towards a fuller ADHD programme to be launched early summer, and has limited capacity to take on personal coaching clients.

Ian Hacon FCA, FRSA

Founder and Chief Energy Officer, Energise.me 

Tel: 01493 800032 Mob: 07733265953

When you’re in your 20s or even early 30s, saving for retirement might feel like something far off your radar. Between navigating new careers, paying off student loans, and managing rent or mortgage payments, retirement can seem like a distant worry for “future you” to deal with. But when it comes to financial planning, one of the smartest moves you can make is to start contributing to your pension early, no matter how small the amount.

Here’s why paying into your pension at a young age is not just a good idea, but crucial to your long-term financial well-being.

Compound Growth

The earlier you start contributing to your pension, the more you can take advantage of compounding growth, which is essentially earning interest on your interest. Even small, consistent contributions early in your career will grow exponentially over time.

More Time Equals Less Stress

One of the key advantages of early pension contributions is that it spreads the financial burden over many years. Instead of scrambling to make large contributions later in life when expenses like mortgages or family commitments might peak, starting early allows you to contribute smaller amounts over a longer period. This gradual approach not only reduces financial stress but also makes your saving efforts more sustainable. As your career advances and your income grows, you can increase contributions with less strain.

Early pension contributions can save you stress later in life.

 Employer Contributions

Many employers offer pension schemes that include a matching contribution, meaning they’ll match the amount you contribute up to a certain percentage of your salary. By not taking advantage of this when you’re young, you’re leaving free money on the table.

If you start early, you get more out of these employer contributions over the years. This can significantly boost your retirement fund without any additional effort on your part.

Flexibility Later in Life

Life is unpredictable, and having a well-funded pension means you won’t have to worry as much about financial security if unexpected changes happen in your career or personal life.

Contributing into your pension early will help you achieve your dream retirement.

 Good Financial Habits

Starting a pension early in life also establishes good financial habits. Consistently setting aside money for retirement trains you to live within your means and prioritise saving. As your income grows, you’ll already be in the habit of saving, making it easier to increase your contributions and plan for other financial goals like homeownership, vacations, or investing.

The discipline of early pension contributions often spills over into other aspects of your financial life, helping you to become more conscious of budgeting, debt management, and long-term planning.

Even though retirement seems light-years away, think of contributing to your pension as a gift to your future self. Your older self will thank you!

How Can We Help?

Our retirement planning and pension review service is specifically designed to help you take charge of your own retirement plans. We will help you assess your current pension, if you have one, or multiple pensions and consolidate into one and advise on the next steps you should take based on your unique needs. Get in touch to find out more.

You can read this article and more like this from Bracnaster house here

1. Reflect on the Root Cause

Really think about what’s making you unhappy at work. This will help you shape your next steps.

• Do you enjoy some parts of your job but not others?
• Do you like your job but feel you need more to do?
• Do you enjoy your job but feel ready for the next step? What does that look like for you—more responsibility, more technical work, or mentoring others?
• Do you like your job but want/need to earn more?

In all these cases, your first step should be to speak to your boss. Prepare beforehand:

1. Identify what’s bothering you and explore your goals in depth.
2. Research other roles or duties within the company that align with your aspirations.
3. Think about how these changes would positively impact the business.

If you can show the value you add to the company, your chances of success increase significantly. Be realistic –  companies often can’t implement changes overnight. Work towards an agreement with specific milestones and goals over time.

2. Assess Relationships with Your Boss, Team, or Company

If the issue lies with your boss, team, or company, ask yourself why. Understanding this will clarify what you’re looking for in your next role.

• Knowing what you don’t want can be just as helpful as knowing what you do.
• Consider how to articulate these feelings positively—no one wants to hear you bad-mouth your current workplace.

Try speaking to your boss about the challenges you’re facing.

• Plan your points carefully to present them fairly and constructively.
• If needed, write notes to organise your thoughts.

If you work in a larger organisation, you might explore transferring to a different team. Reach out to the hiring manager and explain your circumstances and motivations.

3. Understand If It’s a Job Misfit

If you don’t like your job at all, consider what aspects you dislike and what you’d enjoy doing instead. Identifying this might take effort, but it’s worth it.

Switching careers often requires significant changes, so be prepared:

• Research your interests, motivations, and long-term goals.
• Investigate new career paths: What training will you need? How can you acquire it? How long will it take?
• You may need to stay in your current role temporarily to fund your transition.
• In cases where transferable skills are lacking, you might have to start at a more junior level, potentially with lower pay. Plan accordingly.

4. Leverage the Power of Conversatio

Talking things through with someone can unlock answers. Reach out to:

• A friend, mentor, trusted colleague, parent, boss, or career adviser.

Grab a coffee and chat—it’s often the first step to finding clarity.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re unhappy at work, try finding small positives in your day-to-day:

• A customer you helped, a chat with a colleague, praise for a job well done, or even just the pay cheque at the end of the month.
• Acknowledge the progress you’re making towards change.

Staying in a negative mindset can harm not only your mental health but also your relationships and reputation.

I hope this helps if you’re considering your career options. Happy job hunting—whatever that may look like for you!

Written by Rebecca Headden, CO-Director, R13

When it comes to professional development, choosing your next career move, or enhancing your own personal branding on platforms such as LinkedIn, a lot can be said for authenticity and a willingness to learn.

My Journey in Recruitment & Career Conversations

Taking on a marketing role at Contract Personnel (a recruitment agency) over the past three years has enabled me to speak with people daily about their career options, development, and dreams.

I often speak to students and young professionals who are looking for their first break in their professional careers. Or I am asked for advice on:

• How to gain experience
• Where to make friendships
• The best places to network
• How to reach the right people

The Key to Success? A Willingness to Learn

My first piece of advice always tends to be around ‘a willingness to learn’. If you have this mindset, you will achieve success as you will show determination and hunger.

As a former journalist, telling stories and finding the best in people is something I did on a daily basis. To achieve your ambitions and fulfill your potential, a lot depends on how willing you are to learn new things, be a bit quirky, and showcase your talents.

A Career Built on Storytelling & People

Prior to working in recruitment, I have had marketing roles at:
✔ Marina Theatre
✔ Desira
✔ Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure

I have also covered large sporting events during my time at BBC Sport and completed complex investigative journalistic stories working at the EDP.

But something that underpins all of these roles is the person that I choose to be on a daily basis.

I love listening to people, hearing their stories, celebrating their successes, and showcasing them.

Shifting Into Events, Partnerships & Networking

Over the past 12 months, I have grown more into an events, partnerships, and business development role, which has allowed me to:
✔ Regularly attend networking events
✔ Host some of my own

In my opinion, there is nothing more powerful than meeting people and finding out more about them.

At the end of the day:

• People buy from people
• We learn from each other
• We can recommend and support one another

Standing Out in a Scrolling Culture

My key tip over the past six months has been around video content, especially on LinkedIn.

At a recent careers fair at UEA, my key advice was:
1️⃣ Research companies in the sector you are interested in
2️⃣ Start connecting with people who work there on LinkedIn
3️⃣ Show a willingness to learn – record a little video about yourself and your experiences

If you have no professional work experience, say that. It is not a negative. Instead, explain all of your other interests and skills that make you a suitable candidate.

Someone who puts themselves out there and wants to learn will shine brighter than everyone else.

Creative Ways to Gain Experience & Get Noticed

✔ Offer to come in and shadow or learn from someone in a company – this can be a great way to gain hands-on experience
✔ Meet fellow professionals and learn from one another – career growth happens in communities
✔ Research available opportunities and connect with relevant people – relationships matter

Sometimes, stepping outside your comfort zone can be one of the hardest things to do.

Whenever I do a talk at a networking event, I now try to make it:

• Entertaining
• Filled with a few jokes and one-liners

People now come up to me and ask when my next comedy routine will be taking place—not that the jokes are any good, mind!

But this is because I have tried to be memorable, and hopefully, people see the real me—a genuine, fun person who brings something a little different to professional events.

At the end of the day, it is important to smile and have a laugh sometimes.

Your CV is Your Story—Tell it Well

One of the hardest things on a CV, in my opinion, is the personal statement. It is never easy to talk about yourself. But you should see this as an opportunity to showcase yourself and the type of person you are.

Recruitment = Matchmaking & Finding Inspiration

Recruitment can be a bit like match-making:
✔ Finding the best in a person
✔ Matching their skills to the most appropriate job role

But for me, it is about being inspired and enjoying the work that you are taking on.

It is crucial to have aspirations and dreams to try and achieve.

Pushing Myself in 2025

I have taken on a number of running challenges in 2025 – including a 5K run every day in January for charity.

Why? Because I am ambitious and want to challenge myself to achieve something I didn’t think I could do.

This Applies to Your Career Too

This motto can be related to all types of professional situations:
✔ Attend a new networking event
✔ Record a video for LinkedIn
✔ Write something new for your personal statement
✔ Offer to volunteer your services

By having an ambition and putting yourself out there, you will hopefully reap the rewards.

Let’s Connect Over Coffee ☕

I am really keen to meet people for a coffee (my treat!).

Recently, catching up with like-minded professionals and offering advice has been really rewarding for me.

Or, even if I can:
✔ Link someone up with a key contact
✔ Help with CV writing
✔ Assist with what to say or how to record a video

I will try my best to help.

Ultimately, we should all be smiling and helping one another.

Let’s Make Norfolk a Thriving Place for Collaboration

We are the future. Let’s embrace it.

Joe Randlesome

Married and Divorced by 26, bought a house he didn’t want, stayed in a job that didn’t make him happy. All mistakes that James has made. James thought life was a box ticking exercise. James wanted to do as much as he could as quickly as he could, without learning from his mistakes.

James learnt to not dwell on the past, not to blame himself or others and to learn from his mistakes. Through a ‘Cygnot’ process, caring for his team and a no blame culture, James grew his business and improved his and the lives of others around him. James is Managing Director of Award-Winning Energy Consultant Indigo Swan. James is an inspirational leader and his caring approach to his staff (the swans) is felt by all that meet him. Whilst caring for his staff he will also look to challenge them in order to develop them and help them be the best possible versions of themselves.

James played a key part in growing Indigo Swan and creating the happiness first culture that Indigo Swan is so proud of. What’s the biggest mistake you have made? James has made a few. Learning from these, James has grown as a person, implemented the ‘Cygnot’ process at Indigo Swan and changed an ordinary life into an extraordinary one.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

When it comes to creating or updating your CV, it can be quite overwhelming to consider a short document that is ultimately showcasing yourself!

But at Contract Personnel, our team of recruitment experts are here to help you!

We caught up with our Permanent Recruiters in our Thetford office, Gemma Ellis and Louis Brabin, to find out what it takes to create the ultimate CV.

When it comes to applying for a job, your CV could be the difference between securing an interview or narrowly missing out.

Its important to list your personal and contact information, including name and address. You can then use the next section to introduce yourself.

Your CV should also include your education and qualifications, work history/experience, relevant skills related to the job in question, any further achievements and then some references.

When asked for his top tips for creating and presenting a CV, Louis Brabin said – “Add job titles followed by five bullet points max on each. Ensure your CV can be flexible and change it for the different roles you are applying for. Also, highlight key areas/expertise and qualifications that are relevant to the vacancy you are applying for.”

Presentation is also key to a successful CV.

As Gemma Ellis explains, “make sure that your CV is laid out in a professional format so clients can read and digest with ease.”

The layout should be clean and well structured and check all spellings and grammar with a friend/family member. The CV hotspot tends to be in the upper middle area of the page – so be sure to include some important information there. Keep the CV to no more than two pages.

In addition, a recommended trait is to tailor your CV to the relevant job description and role you are applying for and to ensure you keep it up to date.

Be sure to follow us on our social media pages and visit our website for top career tips.

www.contract-personnel.com

Here you are, it’s your first day in your brand new job and you are super keen to impress! Who wouldn’t be? But, believe it or not some people make the mistake of thinking all the hard work is done now that they have bagged the job. When really it’s when the real work begins.

On your first day/weeks your attitude and work ethic are the main things people will see, as no one has had a chance to evaluate your work skills just yet… you want to make the RIGHT impression.

Here is a quick round up of things you could do to make sure you are on the right road:

• RELAX the night before, get plenty of rest so you are ready for the first day full of beans!
• Choose the right clothing, if in doubt of what to wear always go more conservative, as you can relax your dress code once you see what everyone else is wearing.
• Show up early, don’t be that late person on your first day. Get there at least 15 minutes before.
• Smile. Simple but very effective, you will be meeting lots of people and shaking lots of hands. Your co-workers will remember a smiley/approachable colleague rather than a glum one.
• Pay attention to your body language, think about how others could perceive you.
• Give 100% attention, turn off your phone, do not find a dark corner to sit down in, project energy and general interest.
• Prepare an elevator pitch, get ready to give a 30-second explainer of who you are and where you were before, as no doubt lots of people will ask!
• Figure out the social landscape, associate with the right crowd, get to grips with the office politics.
• Don’t try too hard, be yourself as much as you can. By doing this you will naturally be more open and approachable.
• Say YES if you are asked out to lunch! This is an excellent opportunity to mingle with your new team.
• Kindness and mental wellbeing are deeply connected. Being kind to others gives us the feel-good factor that helps to keeps things in perspective, boost our self-esteem and keep us connected with our community.

AND finally listen & observe….. The best thing anyone can do in the first few days of a new job is listen, listen, listen. It’s your chance to grasp the bigger picture which will help you progress as time goes on!

Written by R13