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You Have a Voice. What’s Your Story?

Real stories, honest thoughts and dreams taking shape. Our young people are finding their voice through writing, sharing who they are and exploring who they could become. Some write in their own name. Others write anonymously. Every voice matters, including yours.

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Young person looking towards a city sunrise with IM MORE rainbow branding and the words Small Steps Consistent Action A Bigger Future

Small Steps, Consistent Action, A Bigger Future

Introduction: Your Starting Point Is Not Your Destination

Small steps to career success can help young people build confidence, develop transferable skills and create better opportunities for their future.

At eighteen, nineteen or twenty-four, it can feel as though you are supposed to know exactly where your career is going. Meanwhile, you could be working your first shift, searching for an apprenticeship or wondering whether a temporary job will lead anywhere. That comparison can make your progress feel small.

But your first opportunity does not have to be your final destination. An entry-level role can teach you how to communicate, solve problems, manage your time and work with people who have different expectations. The important question is not whether your starting job sounds impressive. It is whether you are learning from it and using the experience to make choices about what comes next.

Why Small Progress Still Counts

Progress is not always a dramatic breakthrough. Sometimes it is arriving prepared for a shift you previously found intimidating. Sometimes it is asking a clearer question, handling a customer calmly or finishing a task with fewer reminders than last week. These moments may not look exciting, but they reveal how skills develop.

Think about the first time you learned something unfamiliar. Work is similar. Confidence often follows practice rather than arriving before it. Keep a short record of achievements, including challenges you overcame and what you would change next time. When you can describe your progress in specific terms, it becomes easier to recognise your value and explain it to future employers.

Skills You May Not Realise You Are Building

Even a role you do not plan to keep forever can help you develop transferable skills. Serving customers can strengthen communication and problem-solving. Working in a warehouse can develop organisation and attention to safety. Supporting a team may teach you how to prioritise, listen and adapt when plans change. Helping at a community event can provide examples of responsibility and teamwork.

Try identifying one skill behind each task. Instead of writing “worked on a till”, describe how you dealt accurately with transactions or answered customer questions. Instead of saying “helped in the office”, explain how you organised information, met deadlines or communicated updates. These details turn everyday activities into evidence. They also help you discover which responsibilities you enjoy and which skills you would like to develop further.

Discipline Is More Useful Than Waiting for Inspiration

Motivation naturally changes. Some mornings you will be eager to learn; other days you might feel tired, distracted or unsure whether your efforts matter. Waiting to feel inspired before doing anything can make progress unpredictable. Small routines help you keep moving without demanding constant enthusiasm.

You could prepare your bag the night before, check travel arrangements, arrive with a notebook or review the day’s priorities. At the end of a shift, spend two minutes recording one lesson. These actions are manageable, and repeating them makes preparation easier. Discipline does not mean working every hour or ignoring your wellbeing. It means building habits you can maintain, recognising when rest is necessary and keeping commitments realistically.

Learning to Ask Better Questions

Being new does not mean pretending you understand everything. If instructions are unclear, asking a thoughtful question can prevent mistakes and demonstrate that you care about doing the task properly. Start by explaining what you already understand, where you are unsure and what you think the next step should be.

For example: “I have completed the first two sections. Should I check the figures with you before sending the final version?” This shows initiative without making assumptions about decisions that require approval. Listen carefully to the answer, make a note and use it the next time a similar task appears. The goal is not to ask fewer questions at any cost; it is to become increasingly capable of solving familiar problems independently.

Treat Feedback as Information, Not a Verdict

A correction at work can feel personal, especially when you are eager to prove yourself. Yet feedback about a task is not automatically a judgement about your potential. Try separating the result from your identity. If a report needs more research, that tells you something about the report. It does not establish that you are incapable of learning.

Ask what good work would look like, which part needs improvement and how success will be measured. Then apply the feedback and check whether the next attempt is stronger. Equally, you should not accept bullying or unsafe treatment in the name of “building resilience”. Constructive guidance should be specific, respectful and useful. If you are being treated unfairly, speak with an appropriate manager, adviser or trusted source of workplace support.

When Your First Job Is Not Your Dream Job

There is no requirement to love every responsibility in an early job. You might enjoy the people but not the hours, or appreciate the experience while realising that the industry does not suit your interests. That does not make the experience wasted. Learning what you do not want can be just as useful as discovering what excites you.

Ask what the role is teaching you and what you need from your next opportunity. Perhaps you want more creative work, practical training, customer contact or a clearer route to qualification. Research the entry requirements before making a move. Leaving a role deserves planning, especially when you rely on the income. Where possible, explore alternatives, build savings and talk through options rather than making an impulsive decision after one difficult day.

Explore Your Next Step with Evidence

There are practical ways to investigate a career without committing your whole future immediately. The National Careers Service has a skills assessment that can help you reflect on your interests and compare possible directions. You can also read job descriptions to identify recurring qualifications, responsibilities and technologies.

Apprenticeships may combine paid work with training and a qualification, depending on the programme and eligibility. The official Find an Apprenticeship service allows people in England to explore advertised opportunities. Do not assume every role is right for you: check the entry requirements, pay, location, working hours and learning arrangements. Comparing several routes can help you make decisions based on information rather than pressure from friends, family or social media.

Build a CV That Shows Evidence

A useful CV does not have to pretend you have years of experience. Employers need to understand what you can do, what you have learned and how you approach responsibilities. Use specific examples from work, education, volunteering, sport or projects, and connect them to the requirements of the role.

For instance, regular training in a sport might demonstrate commitment, but an employer will find it more convincing if you explain the routine you maintained and how you responded to coaching. Completing a group project might show collaboration if you describe your actual contribution. Avoid exaggerated claims and tailor each application. A focused CV with credible evidence is more persuasive than a long list of qualities you cannot explain.

A Seven-Day Challenge to Turn Effort into Direction

Day one: write down three tasks you can now complete more confidently than when you started. Day two: identify two transferable skills and a real example of each. Day three: ask for one piece of constructive feedback or clarification. Day four: research a career that interests you and note its entry requirements.

Day five: improve one paragraph of your CV using a specific achievement. Day six: investigate a realistic next step, such as training, an application, a conversation with a careers adviser or an appropriate workplace development opportunity. Day seven: review what you learned and choose one action to repeat next week. This challenge is not about completing everything perfectly. It is about replacing vague intentions with evidence, practice and a manageable plan.

Keep Your Ambition and Your Wellbeing Together

Personal development matters, but your worth is not measured only by productivity. Some young people face transport costs, caring responsibilities, illness, limited vacancies or financial pressure. These barriers cannot always be solved by determination alone. Being proactive also means recognising when you need practical support or a change of approach.

Set achievable targets, take breaks and speak up before manageable problems become serious. If a task is unsafe or expectations are unreasonable, seek proper guidance. If you are struggling to secure work, a careers adviser may help you identify training routes and improve applications. Remember that rejection and slow progress do not automatically reflect your ability. The employment market, role requirements and timing all affect outcomes.

Your Future Is Built Through What You Learn Next

A better future rarely comes from one dramatic decision. More often, it grows from a series of useful actions: attending the shift, learning a skill, asking for feedback, updating an application and exploring another option. Each action makes the next decision more informed.

You do need to recognise what you can control and take responsible steps towards what matters to you. Keep your standards realistic, your curiosity active and your ambitions open. Small steps, consistent action and thoughtful choices can help you build a bigger future.

IM MORE motivational image showing a young employee confidently sharing ideas with colleagues in a modern office

Your Voice Belongs in the Workplace

Introduction: Being New Does Not Mean Being Invisible

Starting a new job can feel like stepping into a room where everyone else knows the rules. Yet staying silent can prevent you from learning the very things that would help you contribute.

Your voice matters before you have years of experience. That does not mean talking constantly or challenging every instruction. Confidence at work is often built through these small conversations rather than one dramatic moment.

For young people aged 18–24, finding that balance is a practical employability skill. It is to become someone who can speak honestly and listen carefully.

Why Speaking Up Can Feel Difficult

Fear of judgement is common when you are still learning. You might think an experienced colleague will laugh at a question or assume you should already know the answer. Sometimes that worry comes from comparing yourself with people who have spent months or years in the role. Their confidence is usually the result of practice, not something they possessed on their first morning.

There can also be genuine workplace barriers. A rushed induction, unclear instructions or a dismissive response may make asking questions harder. If something is confusing, do not automatically conclude that your ability is the problem. Consider whether the information, timing or method of explanation needs to improve.

A useful first step is to notice the story you tell yourself. Replace ‘I should know everything’ with ‘I am responsible for understanding what I need to do’. That change makes asking for clarification a professional action rather than a confession of weakness.

Ask Better Questions, Not More Questions

You can prepare a question in three parts: what you understand, where you are uncertain and what decision you need. For example: ‘I have completed the first two stages of the task. Should I send the draft to you now, or check it against the template first?’ This gives your colleague useful context and makes it easier to provide an answer.

Keep a record of repeated instructions, approved processes and helpful examples. That reduces unnecessary interruptions and allows you to attempt familiar tasks independently. At the same time, never guess about safety procedures, confidential information, financial decisions or actions requiring approval. Asking early in those situations is responsible, not hesitant.

If someone is occupied, ask when would be a suitable time to check your understanding. Good communication respects the other person’s workload without abandoning your need for accurate instructions.

Learn to Share an Idea Respectfully

You do not need a senior job title to notice a better way of doing something. Perhaps a checklist would prevent repeated mistakes, a clearer message would help customers, or a shared folder would make information easier to find. What matters is how you introduce the suggestion.

Start with observation rather than criticism: ‘I noticed the same question comes up several times. Would a short guide be useful?’ Explain the possible benefit, invite feedback and recognise that you may not know every constraint. A manager might have information about budgets, accessibility, existing systems or previous attempts that you have not seen.

If an idea is not accepted, treat the response as information. Ask what would make it more useful, then keep learning. Contributing to a team means supporting the agreed direction, not needing every suggestion to win.

Speak Up When You Make a Mistake

A mistake feels worse when you imagine it will damage your reputation. But hiding it can create a larger problem for colleagues, customers or the organisation. Explain what happened, what may be affected and which steps you have already taken. If you are unsure how to fix it, ask for advice before making another change.

A clear example is: ‘I used the older document version and noticed it after sending the file. I have the correct version ready. Would you like me to send a correction?’ This is more useful than making excuses or blaming someone else. It shows ownership and a willingness to put things right.

Once the immediate issue is resolved, identify a safeguard. You might verify a filename, confirm the brief or use a final review checklist. Progress comes from improving the process, not replaying the embarrassment.

Have Difficult Conversations Without Losing Respect

Speaking up is not always about a task. You may need to explain that a deadline is unrealistic, a colleague’s comment upset you or two instructions conflict. These situations require a calm, specific approach. Choose an appropriate time, describe the issue without insults and explain its effect on the work.

For example: ‘I can finish the report today, but I cannot complete the extra designs to the same standard by 4pm. Which should take priority?’ This invites a practical decision instead of creating a confrontation. Be ready to listen to the answer and clarify what has been agreed.

Acas explains that many workplace problems can be raised informally first, while serious or unresolved matters may need a formal route. Its guidance on raising a problem at work is a helpful starting point. Follow your employer’s relevant policies and seek appropriate advice when necessary.

A respectful conversation does not guarantee a positive response. If you experience bullying, discrimination or another serious concern, document relevant facts and consider HR, a manager you trust or the appropriate formal procedure. Being professional does not mean accepting unfair treatment.

Listening Is Part of Having a Voice

A conversation is not successful simply because you managed to speak. Listen to the response, check your interpretation and avoid planning your next sentence while the other person is explaining. People are more likely to trust your contributions when they know you take their knowledge seriously.

Try summarising an agreement: ‘So I will update the first section, send it by Thursday and ask you to review the figures. Is that right?’ This takes seconds but can prevent wasted hours. It also helps when you are nervous because you do not need to remember every detail perfectly.

Written communication matters too. Keep emails and messages polite, specific and appropriately brief. When you need an answer, make the request obvious. The National Careers Service highlights everyday digital communication as an important workplace skill, including email and online collaboration.

Build Confidence Through Repeated Practice

Confidence rarely arrives before action. Begin with lower-pressure situations, such as confirming a task, asking one relevant question in a meeting or offering a short update on your progress. Repeat these actions until they feel normal, then take on a slightly more demanding conversation.

You can also practise with someone you trust. Explain an idea aloud, rehearse a polite disagreement and prepare a short account of something that went wrong. Practising is not being fake: it helps you choose words thoughtfully when emotions are stronger in the moment.

Measure improvement in behaviour, not personality. Did you ask for clarification sooner? Did you speak without apologising unnecessarily? Did you listen and act on the answer? These are useful indicators, even if your voice shakes a little.

A Seven-Day Challenge to Find Your Voice

Day one: Write down three situations in which you usually stay quiet. Identify whether you need information, reassurance or practice. Choose one manageable situation to work on.

Day two: Ask a clear question about a genuine task, including what you already know and the specific answer you need. Note how the conversation actually went rather than how you feared it would go.

Day three: Repeat an important instruction back to a colleague or manager. Confirm the deadline, desired result and your next step. Record the agreement so you can follow through.

Day four: Offer one constructive idea or observation. Focus on its potential benefit and ask for feedback instead of demanding agreement.

Day five: Practise explaining a problem using facts, its impact and a reasonable request. You can rehearse privately if no genuine issue needs raising.

Day six: Ask for feedback on your communication. One useful question is: ‘What could I do to make my updates clearer?’ Listen without interrupting, then choose one improvement.

Day seven: Review your efforts. Record what felt easier, where you still hesitated and the next conversation you want to handle better. Progress is about repeating these skills, not completing a perfect week.

Your Voice Is a Skill You Can Develop

You may begin a job feeling inexperienced, uncertain or naturally quiet. None of those qualities disqualifies you from making a meaningful contribution. Speaking confidently is something you can learn through preparation, practice, feedback and supportive relationships.

Use your voice to ask sensible questions, share useful ideas, own mistakes and explain concerns. Use your ears to understand other people and your judgement to know when guidance or approval is necessary. These habits help you build professional trust while staying true to yourself.

At IM MORE, the message is about discovering potential and taking practical steps towards it. You do not need to have everything figured out to speak up. You need a willingness to learn, the courage to contribute and the discipline to keep improving.

Young adult looking towards future career opportunities — IM MORE

Your First Job Is a Starting Point, Not Your Final Destination

Your first opportunity does not define your future

Starting your first job can bring a strange mixture of excitement and uncertainty. You might be pleased to earn your own money but still wonder whether the role is right for you. You might look at friends who seem further ahead and question whether you are making enough progress. These feelings are understandable, particularly when you are still discovering what you enjoy and where your strengths lie.

The important thing to recognise is that your first job does not have to be your final career. A role in retail, hospitality, administration, construction or customer service can be a starting point. It can teach you how organisations operate, what employers expect and how you respond when real responsibilities depend on you. Even if you eventually choose a completely different industry, much of that experience can travel with you.

Look beyond the job title

It is easy to judge a role by its title, pay or how impressive it sounds when you tell somebody about it. But a job description never captures everything you might learn. Helping customers can develop patience and communication. Working on a busy shift can improve organisation and teamwork. Handling stock or records can teach accuracy and attention to detail.

These are transferable skills: abilities you can use in different roles and sectors. The National Careers Service explains how communication, problem-solving, organisation and adaptability matter across many jobs. Instead of asking only, “Is this my dream job?”, ask, “What can I learn here that will make me more capable in the future?”

That question changes how you approach ordinary tasks. Arriving prepared, following instructions carefully and checking your work are not glamorous achievements, but they establish professional habits. Those habits can make a difference when a new responsibility or opportunity appears.

Confidence comes from evidence, not pretending

When you are new, you may feel pressure to look confident even when you are unsure what to do. But genuine confidence develops through evidence: completing a task correctly, improving after feedback and realising that something difficult has become manageable.

You do not need to pretend you know everything. Ask a clear question when instructions are confusing. Write down processes that you will need again. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it, correct what you can and find out how to avoid repeating it. These behaviours show maturity rather than weakness.

Try keeping a short record of your progress. At the end of each week, write down one task you handled independently, one skill you improved and one area you still need to practise. Over several months, this becomes a useful reminder of how much you have developed, especially on days when progress feels slow.

Learn how to work with different people

Most workplaces bring together people with different personalities, backgrounds and ways of communicating. You will not always agree with everybody, and you will not always receive feedback in the style you prefer. Learning to respond professionally is part of your development.

Listen before reacting. If somebody corrects your work, separate the useful information from the uncomfortable feeling of being corrected. Ask what a successful result would look like. When you disagree, explain your concern calmly and focus on the issue rather than attacking the person.

Professionalism does not mean accepting disrespect, unsafe conditions or unreasonable treatment. It means understanding when to resolve a small misunderstanding directly and when to seek appropriate support from a manager, HR representative or trusted adviser. Building this judgement is another skill that can help throughout your career.

Take ownership without expecting perfection

Taking ownership means being responsible for the work you have agreed to do. It involves managing your time, communicating about problems early and making an effort to improve. It does not mean working through every break, hiding difficulties or saying yes to every request.

If you are struggling to finish something, explain what you have completed, what is blocking you and what support would help. If your workload is unrealistic, ask which task should take priority. These conversations can prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones.

Progress is rarely a straight line. Some weeks you will feel capable and motivated; other weeks you may feel tired or uncertain. A useful routine can help you keep moving without relying on motivation alone. Prepare for your shift, keep a realistic to-do list and allow time to recover outside work. Sustainable effort matters more than occasional bursts of intensity.

Use experience to discover your direction

Early employment can help you discover what suits you and what does not. You may enjoy solving problems but dislike repetitive tasks. You may discover that you work well with people, or that you prefer detailed independent work. Neither discovery is wasted time. Both can help you make more informed career decisions.

Look at roles that interest you and compare their requirements with the skills you already have. The National Careers Service offers guidance on identifying strengths and developing new skills. You might choose an online course, a college qualification, supervised training or an apprenticeship. GOV.UK provides an official service for exploring apprenticeship opportunities in England.

You do not need to rush into the next opportunity simply because somebody else is progressing differently. Make a plan based on your interests, circumstances and realistic options. If your current role offers training or extra responsibility, discuss it with your manager. If it does not, you can still use the experience to strengthen future applications.

Turn everyday responsibilities into CV evidence

A strong CV does more than list where you worked. It explains what you contributed and what you learned. Instead of writing only “worked in a shop”, you could describe helping customers, operating a till accurately, supporting colleagues during busy periods or following stock procedures.

Keep your examples honest and specific. Think about the task, the action you took and the result. You do not need impressive numbers if you cannot verify them. A clear example of solving a customer problem or learning a new system can show an employer how you approach responsibility.

The same approach works in interviews. When asked about teamwork, reliability or dealing with pressure, use a real experience and explain what you learned. Even a short placement or part-time role can provide meaningful examples if you pay attention to your development.

A seven-day challenge to build your future

Day one: Write down three skills you already use at work or in everyday life. Include at least one that you could use in another industry.

Day two: Identify one task you want to perform better. Ask a colleague or manager what good performance looks like.

Day three: Practise that task deliberately. Notice what improved and what still feels difficult.

Day four: Read a job description for a role that interests you. Highlight the skills you already have and the ones you need to develop.

Day five: Update one section of your CV with a specific example from your experience.

Day six: Research a realistic learning option, such as a course, apprenticeship or workplace training opportunity. Check the requirements before making plans.

Day seven: Review the week. Choose one achievable action for the next month and decide when you will complete it.

This challenge is not about transforming your career in seven days. It is about proving that you can make decisions, follow through and build momentum through manageable steps.

Your future is built through what you do next

You may not be in your ideal job today. You may still be learning how to manage your time, communicate professionally or decide which direction to take. That does not mean you are falling behind.

What matters is whether you are using the opportunities available to develop useful skills and better judgement. Take your responsibilities seriously, ask for guidance when you need it and recognise the progress you make. Stay open to new paths, but do not overlook the value of what you are learning now.

At IM MORE, the message is simple: discover what you can do, believe that you can develop and become more capable through action. Your first job is not the whole story. It is one chapter that can help you write the next one.

IM MORE motivational image: Show Up, Do the Work, Stay Consistent, Get Hired; distinct artwork illustrating employability and positive action

Show Up, Do the Work, Stay Consistent, Get Hired

Reliability is a skill you can build

When you are aged 18 to 24 and trying to establish yourself in employment, it is easy to assume employers only care about qualifications or previous experience. Those things can matter, but your everyday conduct also tells people something important. Do you arrive when expected? Do you communicate when plans change? Can colleagues depend on you to complete the work you have agreed to do?

Reliability is not about being perfect. Transport gets delayed, people become unwell and unexpected responsibilities appear. What matters is how you prepare, communicate and respond. A person who explains a problem early and works towards a solution often demonstrates more professionalism than someone who pretends everything is fine until a deadline has passed.

You do not need to wait until you feel completely confident to begin practising these habits. Every shift, placement, volunteering session or training course gives you an opportunity to develop them.

Prepare before the working day begins

A good working day often starts before you reach the workplace. Check your start time, work location and journey the evening before. Lay out what you need, charge your phone and leave enough time for ordinary delays. If you depend on public transport, check alternative routes where practical.

Preparation also means understanding your responsibilities. Look at your schedule and decide which task needs attention first. If you are unsure about the instructions, ask before guessing. Five minutes spent clarifying a task can save much more time later.

These steps may sound small, but repeated actions build confidence. Instead of rushing into work feeling disorganised, you begin with a clearer sense of control. That can improve how you communicate with colleagues and how you approach unfamiliar responsibilities.

Turn effort into useful results

Working hard and working effectively are not always the same thing. You can stay busy for hours without making much progress if you have misunderstood the task or focused on the wrong priority. Effective effort starts with knowing what a good result should look like.

Ask your manager which outcomes matter most. Break large tasks into manageable stages. When you finish, check the quality of your work rather than assuming speed is the only measure of success. If something is taking longer than expected, communicate before it becomes an urgent problem.

Do not confuse commitment with working unpaid hours or skipping breaks. Sustainable performance requires appropriate rest and reasonable expectations. Being dependable means taking your responsibilities seriously while also recognising the limits of your role.

Professionalism is how you treat people

Professional behaviour includes the way you speak, listen and respond when a day becomes difficult. You may work alongside people with different personalities or communication styles. You will not always agree, but you can still be respectful and clear.

Listen when instructions are given. Avoid interrupting colleagues who are explaining something important. If you disagree, describe the problem and suggest a practical way forward rather than making it personal. If you make an error, acknowledge it and ask how to put things right.

Being professional does not mean accepting bullying or unsafe working conditions. If an issue cannot be resolved informally, seek guidance through appropriate workplace procedures. Acas provides independent information about workplace rights, resolving problems and communicating concerns.

Consistency matters more than one impressive day

It is tempting to give everything on your first day and expect that one burst of enthusiasm to prove your value. But trust is usually built through repeated experiences. A colleague notices that you follow through. A supervisor sees that you have improved since the last shift. A customer receives the same respectful service even when the workplace is busy.

Some days will be harder than others. You might feel tired, frustrated or unsure whether your effort is being noticed. On those days, focus on the actions you can control: preparing properly, completing agreed tasks, asking useful questions and learning from feedback.

You can also measure progress. Keep a weekly record of one skill you improved, one responsibility you handled and one problem you solved. These examples can later strengthen your CV and help you answer interview questions with evidence rather than vague claims.

Make yourself ready for the next opportunity

Being reliable in one role does not guarantee promotion or another job. Opportunities depend on many factors, including vacancies, training, qualifications and local conditions. But developing strong habits can help you make the most of opportunities when they appear.

Look at job descriptions for roles that interest you. Identify the skills employers request and compare them with your experience. The National Careers Service offers guidance on recognising transferable skills, exploring career options and preparing applications.

If you are employed, ask whether there are appropriate chances to learn another task or take part in training. If you are searching for work, use volunteering, study or personal projects to practise communication, organisation and follow-through. Record what you did and what you learned.

Your current situation is not your permanent identity. What you practise today can help you become more prepared for tomorrow.

A practical seven-day reliability challenge

Day one: Check your schedule and prepare everything you need for the next day.

Day two: Arrive prepared and identify your most important responsibility before you begin.

Day three: Ask one clear question that helps you understand a task or improve its quality.

Day four: Practise professional communication. Give an update before somebody needs to chase you.

Day five: Review one mistake or difficulty without attacking yourself. Write down what you would do differently.

Day six: Find a job or training opportunity that interests you and identify two relevant skills.

Day seven: Review the week. Record three examples of dependable behaviour and set one realistic goal for next week.

If you are not currently employed, apply these actions to job searching, education, volunteering or personal commitments. The aim is to practise habits you can take into a workplace.

Keep showing up for your future

You do not have to know exactly where your career will lead. You do not need an impressive job title to start developing professional standards. You can begin with the next responsibility in front of you.

Show up prepared. Do the work thoughtfully. Communicate when you need help. Stay consistent without expecting perfection. Over time, these actions can strengthen your confidence and give you genuine examples of what you can contribute.

At IM MORE, the message is to discover your abilities, believe in your capacity to develop and become more through purposeful action. Your future is not decided by one shift, one interview or one setback. It is shaped, in part, by the habits you continue to build.

IM MORE motivational image showing a young person looking towards a city sunrise with the title Turn Setbacks Into Comebacks

Turn Setbacks Into Comebacks

You Are Not Your Worst Moment

Turn setbacks into comebacks by learning from difficult experiences, building confidence and taking positive steps towards your goals. Maybe you applied for a job and received another rejection email. Maybe an interview went badly, your first shift felt overwhelming, or a manager corrected something you thought you had done properly. It is easy to replay that moment and convince yourself that you are not good enough. But a difficult outcome is not a complete description of who you are. You are a person who can learn, improve and move forward.

Why Setbacks Feel So Personal

For young people entering employment, a rejection can feel like proof that everyone else is further ahead. Social media rarely shows unsuccessful applications, awkward first days or the months somebody spent developing their confidence. You see the achievement but not always the preparation. When you compare your difficult beginning with somebody else’s polished result, confidence suffers. There may also be practical pressures: earning money, supporting

Separate the Event from Your Identity

Consider the difference between saying, “I failed an interview,” and saying, “I am a failure.” The first describes a result. The second turns that result into an identity. Only one of those statements gives you a useful starting point. An interview can go badly because you were unprepared, nervous, unclear about an example or simply not the strongest match for that role. Some of those factors are worth improving; others are outside your control. Ask yourself what actually happened, what evidence you have and what you are assuming. Replace sweeping judgements with specific observations. That change makes it easier to act instead of remaining trapped in self-criticism. Try writing down the statement you are making about yourself and checking whether it could be verified by somebody who was there. “I was nervous and forgot an example” is observable. “I will never succeed” is a prediction, not evidence. You can work with the first statement by preparing another example

Reflect Without Overthinking

Reflection should produce information, not punishment. After an unsuccessful application, spend ten minutes answering three questions: What went reasonably well? What could I do differently? What is one action I can take next? If you cannot identify a clear improvement, do not invent a personal flaw. Employers make choices for many reasons. You might research an organisation more carefully, practise explaining your strengths or tailor your CV to the role. Write the next step down and give yourself permission to move on. Revisiting the same disappointment all evening rarely makes the next application stronger. A short review followed by deliberate action usually gives your energy a more useful direction. Keep your notes somewhere you can find them again. Over time you may notice patterns, such as questions that catch you out or tasks where you need more practice. Patterns suggest an approach for improvement. They do not require you to label yourself as incapable. Take feedback seriously, but do not invent criticism in the silence after an application.

Use Feedback as Information

Constructive feedback can be uncomfortable, particularly when you want to make a good impression. Yet being corrected is a normal part of learning a role. Listen carefully, ask for a practical example and confirm what good performance would look like. You could say, “Thanks for explaining. Could you show me what you would prefer next time?” That response shows responsibility without demanding that you agree with every comment. Feedback should be relevant, respectful and specific. If treatment becomes humiliating, discriminatory or threatening, that is different from routine coaching. Record what happened and seek appropriate support. Professional development does not require accepting mistreatment. Sometimes you may disagree with a comment. Before reacting, ask what result the other person expected and whether there is a policy, safety requirement or agreed standard you missed. If you still have a concern, explain it calmly. Good communication includes being willing to listen and being able to express a different view respectfully.

Build Confidence Through Evidence

Confidence is not only a feeling you wait for. It can grow when you collect evidence that you are becoming more capable. Keep a simple progress record: a difficult journey you completed, a question you asked, a task you improved or an application you submitted thoughtfully. Even small achievements count because they reveal behaviour you can repeat. The NHS recommends noticing personal strengths and challenging negative beliefs rather than treating every unhelpful thought as a fact. You do not need to exaggerate your abilities. You need a balanced view that includes what you are learning and what you can already do. That is a more reliable foundation than pretending to feel certain every day. A useful record does not have to look impressive. It might be a few notes in your phone every Friday. Describe the task, what you did, what changed and what you would improve. These examples can later help with interview questions or CV updates. They can also remind you that progress is occurring even when there is no dramatic milestone to celebrate.

Keep Taking Opportunities

One rejection should not make the decision for every employer you have not met. Look for roles that fit your interests, availability and current skills. Read the essential requirements carefully and give honest examples from education, sport, volunteering, caring responsibilities or other experiences. When a role requires qualifications or experience you do not yet possess, consider training, apprenticeships, placements and entry-level opportunities. A sensible plan is better than sending dozens of identical applications. Focus on opportunities you can genuinely prepare for, and track which applications deserve a follow-up. Sustainable effort matters more than appearing busy. Rest is also part of maintaining the concentration needed to do this well. If money is tight, think about the total cost of an opportunity, not only the wage advertised. Travel, hours, equipment and training commitments can affect whether a role is realistic. Careers decisions are easier when you have practical information. Do not feel pressured to accept an unsafe or unsuitable arrangement simply to prove you are determined.

Ask for Support Before You Feel Stuck

Independence does not mean solving every problem alone. A careers adviser may help you understand different routes into employment. A trusted colleague can explain an unfamiliar procedure. A manager can clarify priorities when several tasks arrive at once. Asking early often prevents confusion from becoming a bigger problem. Be specific about what you have already tried and where you need direction. For example, “I have completed the first two steps, but I am unsure which document to use next.” This shows initiative while making it easy for somebody to help. If low confidence starts affecting everyday life for a prolonged period, professional wellbeing support may also be valuable. Support can also mean checking whether instructions are accessible, whether expectations are realistic and whether you have been given the training necessary to work safely. Asking a clear question protects both you and the people who depend on your work. Learning where to find reliable advice is itself a professional skill that grows through practice.

A Seven-Day Comeback Challenge

Day one: describe one setback factually, without calling yourself names. Day two: identify one useful lesson and one factor outside your control. Day three: update a CV example, interview answer or practical workplace skill. Day four: ask a trusted person for constructive feedback. Day five: apply for one suitable opportunity or request a manageable new responsibility at work. Day six: review a recent achievement and record what helped you succeed. Day seven: decide which habit you will repeat next week. None of these actions guarantees a job offer or promotion. Their value is that they give you a workable process, help you see progress and reduce the power of one disappointing moment. Adapt the challenge to your circumstances. Someone already employed may practise speaking to a supervisor, while someone searching for work may focus on applications and careers research. If you miss a day, do not treat the challenge as another failure. Resume with the next useful action. The purpose is building a repeatable method, not collecting a perfect score.

Your Next Chapter Is Still Open

Life rarely follows a perfect route from school into a dream job. People change direction, learn at different speeds and face circumstances other people cannot see. A setback can expose a skill gap, a poor fit or simply an unlucky result. It does not cancel your potential. Keep your standards realistic, own the parts you can improve and recognise when you need support. Your next step might be an application, a conversation, a training course or showing up for another shift with a clearer plan. A comeback is not a dramatic overnight transformation. It is deciding that yesterday’s disappointment will not be the only thing guiding tomorrow’s actions. You can be disappointed and still act with purpose. You can need encouragement and still take responsibility. Your future will be shaped by many experiences, opportunities and people, not one difficult conversation. Keep moving in a direction that fits your abilities, circumstances and goals, and allow your definition of progress to develop as you learn.

IM MORE motivational artwork showing a young person with a backpack between a bus and train at sunrise, with the headline Getting There Is Part of the Progress

Getting There Is Part of the Progress.

Getting There Is Part of the Progress when you are starting your journey towards employment and independence. Imagine getting your first interview. You have prepared your answers, chosen what to wear and finally found an opportunity that feels right. Then you look at the journey: two buses, an unfamiliar station or a train fare you are not sure you can afford.

For many young people aged 18–24, the challenge is not simply finding a job. It is working out how to get there consistently. That can feel intimidating if you have never travelled alone to a workplace, do not drive or have a limited budget.

But learning to manage the journey can become part of building your independence. You do not have to feel confident from day one. You need a sensible plan, realistic expectations and the willingness to practise.

1. Getting There Is Part of the Progress: Plan Your Journey

Before your interview or first shift, check where you need to go, which entrance to use and how much time the journey is likely to take. Look at public transport timetables, walking routes and service changes. If possible, try the route beforehand at roughly the same time of day.

Build in reasonable extra time for delays, but do not put yourself under pressure to arrive hours too early. Aim for a routine that you can actually sustain across the working week. Being organised the evening before can make mornings less stressful.

2. Budget for the journey, not just the job

A job might look appealing until you add up daily transport costs. Before accepting an offer, estimate a full week of travel and compare ticket types, weekly passes or eligible discounts. Consider travel time, shift patterns and what happens if your last bus does not run after a late shift.

Some young people receiving qualifying benefits may be entitled to the Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card. Eligibility and ticket restrictions apply, so check the official conditions rather than assuming a discount is guaranteed.

If you receive Universal Credit and need help with costs connected to getting or starting work, you can ask your work coach about support with job expenses. The support depends on your circumstances and may cover some interview-related costs.

3. A delay does not mean you have failed

Buses get cancelled. Trains are delayed. Sometimes you take the wrong turning. A difficult commute does not automatically mean you are unreliable. What matters is how you respond when something goes wrong.

If you are going to be late, contact your employer as soon as it is safe and practical. Explain the situation briefly, give a realistic update and follow the workplace procedure. Afterwards, review whether an alternative route or earlier departure would help. Responsibility is about responding well, not pretending you can control public transport.

4. Being independent also means asking for support

Not everybody has the same travel options. Cost, disability, health needs, caring commitments and where you live can all affect which jobs are realistic. It is reasonable to discuss shift times, accessible routes or support needs with an employer rather than silently struggling.

Where a disability or health condition makes ordinary commuting difficult, Access to Work may offer eligible practical support, including certain additional travel costs. The support available depends on individual circumstances.

If travelling to a job feels overwhelming, begin with smaller practice journeys or travel with somebody you trust while you build familiarity. Independence can develop gradually.

5. The journey is practice for working life

There is something valuable about preparing your bag, checking your route, leaving on time and following through even when you feel nervous. These are practical habits that can support your confidence at work.

You learn to plan ahead, solve problems, communicate clearly and manage your time. Those skills can transfer into interviews, training, apprenticeships and future employment.

At IM MORE, the message is about recognising potential and building it through action. The journey to work may not be the glamorous part of starting your career, but it is a real part of the progress.

Your five-day journey confidence challenge

  • Day 1 — Choose a real workplace, interview location or training venue and map out a route.
  • Day 2 — Check travel costs, ticket options and whether you qualify for support.
  • Day 3 — Plan what time you would need to leave, including a sensible buffer.
  • Day 4 — If safe and affordable, practise part or all of the journey; otherwise review it carefully.
  • Day 5 — Write your backup plan for delays and identify one improvement to your routine.

Final thought: showing up starts before you arrive

You might be excited about working but nervous about getting there. Both feelings can exist at the same time. You do not need to own a car, know every route or feel fearless to start building a working life.

Learn the journey. Ask for help where you need it. Make a realistic plan and improve it as you go. Getting there is not just travel — it is one of the practical steps towards becoming more confident, capable and independent.

IM MORE — Discover. Believe. Become.

IM MORE motivational image showing a young person in a training environment looking towards a sunrise, with the headline Treat Work Like Training Show Up Improve Level Up

Treat Work Like Training: Show Up, Improve, Level Up

Treat work like training: show up ready to learn, practise new skills and improve a little every day. Imagine arriving at a new job and feeling like everybody else already knows what they are doing. They understand the systems, the routines and the expectations. You might be worried about asking a question, taking too long or getting something wrong.

That pressure is familiar to lots of people aged 18–24. But starting work is not a test of whether you already know everything. It is an opportunity to learn skills and gradually become more capable. Think of it like training: you do not walk into your first session expecting to perform like an expert.

Treat Work Like Training: Show Up Ready to Learn

In a gym, consistency and attention matter more than making an impressive entrance. At work, the equivalent is arriving prepared, listening carefully, checking instructions and giving each task a proper attempt. Being reliable does not mean never struggling; it means taking your commitments seriously.

For example, if you are learning to use a till, update a spreadsheet or speak with customers, your first few attempts might feel awkward. With guidance and repetition, the process can become more familiar. Real progress is often quieter than people expect.

A question is not a weakness

One of the easiest ways to hold yourself back is to act as if you understand an instruction when you do not. That can create mistakes that could have been avoided with one question.

Try saying: “I want to make sure I do this correctly. Could you show me the first step?” Or: “I have completed this part. Could you check whether I am on the right track?” These are professional questions, not admissions of failure.

Regular workplace check-ins can also be a place to discuss progress, ask questions and identify extra training or support. Acas guidance on probation reviews explains how feedback and support can form part of those discussions.

Treat feedback like coaching

A coach might tell an athlete to change their stance or practise a technique again. That correction does not erase the effort already made. Similarly, a manager or colleague might point out a better way of completing a task.

Instead of immediately thinking, “I am rubbish at this,” try asking three questions: What specifically needs changing? Can I see an example? How will I know I have improved? Good feedback should give you a clearer route forward. It is also reasonable to raise concerns if feedback is unfair or disrespectful.

Practise one skill at a time

Trying to improve everything in one week can feel impossible. Choose one skill you can work on deliberately: answering the phone, managing time, writing a clear email, using a piece of software or asking a confident question.

Break the skill down, practise it and note what changes. The Get careers information and advice website has resources for developing communication, problem-solving and other workplace skills. You can also explore the wider message of confidence and growth at IM MORE.

A difficult shift is not the whole story

There will be days when you feel slow, nervous or disappointed with yourself. Maybe you make an error or need more support than expected. One difficult shift does not decide your entire future.

Take responsibility for mistakes, correct what you can and ask for guidance where needed. Then decide on one thing to practise next time. Importantly, if you have not been trained to carry out a task safely, do not guess or push through: stop and seek appropriate instruction.

Your five-day workplace training challenge

Day 1 — Identify one workplace skill you want to improve and what success would look like.

Day 2 — Ask one useful question instead of quietly guessing.

Day 3 — Apply one piece of constructive feedback.

Day 4 — Practise a task again and record one improvement.

Day 5 — Review what you learned and choose a manageable goal for next week.

If you are still job hunting, adapt the challenge to your CV, applications, interview practice or an online course. The principle remains the same: purposeful practice builds ability.

Final thought: you get better by doing

No one begins a new job with every answer. The people who develop are not necessarily those who never feel nervous; they are those willing to listen, practise, ask for support and improve over time.

Treat work like training. Show up. Improve one thing. Keep learning. That is how small, repeatable actions become useful experience — and how experience can turn into confidence.

IM MORE — Discover. Believe. Become.

IM MORE artwork showing a young colleague asking for help at a laptop, with the headline Asking for Help Is a Sign of Strength.

Asking for Help Is a Sign of Strength

You Are Not Expected to Know Everything

Asking for help at work is an important skill, especially when you are starting a new job and building your confidence. Imagine starting a job and being given a task you have never done before. Everyone else seems busy. You do not want to interrupt. You worry that asking a question will make you look inexperienced, so you stay quiet and try to work it out alone.

Imagine starting a job and being given a task you have never done before. Everyone else seems busy. You do not want to interrupt. You worry that asking a question will make you look inexperienced, so you stay quiet and try to work it out alone.

This is a situation many young people can recognise. When you are 18–24 and still building experience, it can feel like you need to prove yourself immediately. But employers do not expect most new starters to understand every system, process and responsibility on their first day.

Being willing to learn is more useful than pretending to know something you do not. Sometimes the most responsible thing you can do is ask.

Why Asking for Help Can Feel Difficult

Asking for help at work can feel uncomfortable at first, but it is an important part of learning, building confidence and developing professional relationships. Fear of judgement is powerful. You might think a colleague will find your question obvious, or that your manager will assume you cannot cope. Perhaps you have been corrected harshly in the past, or you feel uncomfortable speaking to people with more experience.

Those concerns are understandable, but silence can create new problems. A small misunderstanding can become wasted time, incorrect work or unnecessary stress. Getting clarity early can prevent a task becoming more difficult later.

Try changing the question from “Will I look stupid?” to “What do I need to understand to do this properly?” That shifts your attention from how you might be perceived to the quality of the work.

Asking for Help Is Not the Same as Avoiding Responsibility

There is a difference between asking someone to do your job for you and asking for the information needed to complete it yourself.

A useful approach is to check the instructions, identify the specific point that is unclear and explain what you have already tried. For example: “I have completed the first two steps, but I am unsure which template we use for the final section. Could you show me the correct one?”

That question demonstrates initiative. It tells the other person you are engaging with the task and want to get it right. If the work involves safety, confidential information, money or an action that needs approval, it is especially important not to guess.

Communicate Before a Small Problem Becomes a Big One

Suppose you are asked to finish a piece of work by Friday, but on Wednesday you realise you will need more time. Saying nothing until the deadline passes usually makes the situation harder for everyone. A professional response is to explain the issue early, say what has been completed and agree on the next step.

You could say: “I have finished the research, but I need more time to check the final draft. Could we review the priority and agree a realistic deadline?”

Clear communication helps teams plan. If you need guidance on workplace concerns or how to raise issues, Acas provides independent information about employment relationships and rights.

Learn from the Answer, Not Just the Moment

When a colleague explains something, take brief notes if appropriate. Repeat back the key instruction to check you understood it, then put it into practice. Next time, use what you learned before asking the same question again.

Confidence develops when experience grows. Every instruction you understand and every task you complete can make the next one feel more manageable. The goal is not to become dependent on somebody else; it is to become increasingly capable of working independently.

Know When You Need More Than a Quick Explanation

Sometimes a problem is not simply about being new. You might need additional training, changes to how a task is explained or support with a health condition or disability. It is reasonable to discuss the support needed to work effectively.

Acas explains how disabled workers can request reasonable adjustments and discuss practical changes with employers. The right support depends on individual circumstances. Asking for an adjustment is different from asking an everyday question, but both start with communicating what you need.

Five Ways to Ask for Help with Confidence

  1. Be specific. Explain exactly which part of the task or instruction is unclear.
  2. Show what you have tried. This demonstrates effort and helps someone give relevant guidance.
  3. Choose an appropriate moment. If it is not urgent, ask when the person can spare a few minutes.
  4. Listen and write down key points. Use the guidance to improve your next attempt.
  5. Follow through. Complete the task, confirm important decisions and update the person if something changes.

The Five-Day Confidence Challenge

Day 1: Identify one situation where you avoid asking questions and write down why.

Day 2: Practise a clear, respectful question about a task or process.

Day 3: Ask for clarification when something genuinely needs explaining.

Day 4: Use the feedback to complete or improve a piece of work.

Day 5: Review what you learned and identify one task you can now handle with more independence.

Final Thought: You Grow by Learning, Not Pretending

Starting work can be intimidating, particularly when other people seem more confident or experienced. But everyone has been new at something. You do not have to act as though you know everything to be taken seriously.

Confidence comes from asking sensible questions, putting guidance into practice and taking ownership of your progress. The strongest learners are not always the ones who speak the most. They are the ones willing to admit what they do not yet know and do something about it.

For more content about confidence, motivation and personal development, visit IM MORE.

Discover. Believe. Become.

IM MORE motivational graphic showing a young adult overlooking a sunrise city skyline with the words Small Actions Today Create Bigger Opportunities Tomorrow

Small Actions Today Create Bigger Opportunities Tomorrow

The pressure to change everything at once

Small actions can make a meaningful difference when you are trying to find a job, build confidence and become more independent. You want to find a job, earn money, build confidence and become more independent. But then you look at everything you think you need to do: write a CV, choose a career, learn interview skills, find vacancies and convince somebody to give you a chance. Suddenly, the future feels like one enormous task.You want to find a job, earn money, build confidence and become more independent. But then you look at everything you think you need to do: write a CV, choose a career, learn interview skills, find vacancies and convince somebody to give you a chance. Suddenly, the future feels like one enormous task.

For young people aged 18–24, that feeling can make starting harder than it needs to be. You may put off an application because your CV is not perfect, or avoid looking for training because you are unsure which direction to take. The answer is not always a huge burst of motivation. Sometimes it is one useful action today.

Small does not mean unimportant

Small actions can help you build momentum, develop useful habits and move closer to your employment goals.

Imagine two job seekers. One spends the evening promising to apply for twenty jobs tomorrow. The other spends fifteen minutes identifying three suitable vacancies and improving one paragraph of their CV. The second person has not secured a job, but they have created something practical they can build on.

Small actions work best when they connect to a bigger aim. Randomly staying busy is not the same as making progress. Completing a targeted application, researching a qualification or asking for feedback could be a more valuable step than submitting ten rushed applications.

Break the problem into pieces you can control

A useful goal is specific enough to act on. Instead of saying “I need to sort my future out”, try: “By Friday, I will identify five suitable vacancies, update my CV and submit one carefully prepared application.”

The National Careers Service recommends setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound goals. This helps you judge your efforts by actions you can control, rather than expecting an immediate job offer.

If you do not yet know which job you want, the first step could be exploring career ideas. An apprenticeship may suit some people who want to earn while learning. The official Find an apprenticeship service explains that route and how to apply in England.

When motivation disappears, lower the starting barrier

Not every day will feel productive. You might be tired after studying, worried about money or discouraged by silence from employers. Rather than deciding the whole day is wasted, choose a ten-minute task that helps you keep moving.

  • Open your CV and improve one sentence with a clearer example of a skill.
  • Save two vacancies that match your interests and current experience.
  • Practise answering one interview question aloud.
  • Ask a careers adviser or someone you trust to review one application.

If practical barriers such as caring duties, transport or limited internet access make progress difficult, adjust your plan to your circumstances. A realistic plan is better than one that only works on a perfect day.

Stop measuring yourself against someone else’s timeline

Seeing friends start jobs, buy cars or move out can create pressure. But you may not know the support, opportunities or difficulties behind their progress. Comparing your starting point with somebody else’s achievements tells you very little about what you can learn next.

Track your own evidence: the skills you have developed, feedback you have acted on, conversations you have had and applications you have improved. These things do not guarantee employment, but they can help you become better prepared.

A five-day small-actions challenge

Day 1: Write down one realistic employment or training goal, and why it matters to you.

Day 2: List three small actions that would genuinely move you towards that goal.

Day 3: Complete the easiest useful action. Keep it manageable, but finish it.

Day 4: Complete a second action and ask for guidance on anything you do not understand.

Day 5: Review what you completed, what got in the way and the next step for the following week.

Your next opportunity starts with your next action

At IM MORE, the message is about discovering potential, believing that development is possible and taking steps towards becoming more capable. That does not mean every effort brings an instant reward. It means giving yourself a better chance by learning, preparing and following through.

You do not need to solve your entire future by tonight. Choose one thing that matters, decide what a useful first step looks like and do it. Tomorrow, you can take the next one.

Discover. Believe. Become.

IM MORE motivational graphic titled Be the Teammate People Can Count On, showing four young colleagues collaborating around a laptop.

Be the Teammate People Can Count On

Teamwork skills for young adults are essential when starting a new job. You arrive for your first shift. People know each other, understand the routine and seem to communicate without thinking. Meanwhile, you are trying to remember names, instructions and where everything belongs. It is easy to wonder whether you fit in.

But being part of a good team does not mean being the loudest person, making friends instantly or pretending to know everything. It means learning how your work connects with other people’s work — and being willing to contribute.

Teamwork Skills for Young Adults: More Than a Personality Type

Some people naturally enjoy conversation. Others are quieter, especially when they are new. Both can be valuable colleagues. A thoughtful listener, somebody who keeps others informed and someone who asks a clear question can all make a team stronger.

The National Careers Service identifies teamwork and communication as transferable skills. You can develop these through employment, education, volunteering, sport, family responsibilities and everyday life.

Why small conversations matter

Picture a busy workplace where two people assume the other has completed a task. Nobody checks, and the deadline passes. The issue may not be a lack of effort; it may simply be a lack of communication.

A useful habit is to communicate early and clearly. If instructions are unclear, repeat your understanding. If you finish a task, let the relevant person know. If a delay could affect somebody else, raise it before it becomes a bigger problem.

For example: “I’ve completed the stock check. Would you like me to help with the next delivery?” Or: “I can finish this by three, but the second task might take longer. Which should I prioritise?” These are ordinary sentences, but they show maturity.

You do not need to do everything alone

Some young people feel pressure to prove themselves by never asking questions. Yet guessing can create more work for everybody. Asking for guidance at the right moment is different from refusing to try.

Start by checking the instructions, considering the options and identifying the specific part you do not understand. Then ask a focused question. You will learn more quickly, and other people will know how to support you.

Respect means working with people who are different from you

Your colleagues may have different ages, backgrounds, communication styles or levels of experience. You will not always agree with everyone, and you do not need to become close friends with every person you work with.

What matters is being respectful, listening without interrupting, giving credit for other people’s contributions and addressing disagreements calmly. If behaviour crosses into bullying, harassment or unsafe working practices, speak to an appropriate manager or seek independent guidance.

Workplace advice from Acas can help you understand how to raise problems and communicate appropriately at work.

The difference between being helpful and being taken advantage of

Being a good teammate does not mean saying yes to everything. If you are already at capacity, be honest about your workload. If a request is outside your training or authority, ask first. Teamwork is strongest when expectations are clear and responsibilities are shared fairly.

You can offer support while still setting boundaries: “I can help once I have finished my priority task,” or “I have not been trained to do that yet — could someone show me the correct process?”

A five-day teamwork challenge

Day 1 — Learn two colleagues’ names and what their roles involve.

Day 2 — Practise giving one clear update on a task.

Day 3 — Ask one useful question rather than making an avoidable assumption.

Day 4 — Offer appropriate support to somebody without neglecting your own work.

Day 5 — Reflect: what did you contribute, what did you learn and what will you improve?

Final thought: belonging grows through contribution

A strong team is not built from people who never make mistakes. It is built from people who learn, communicate and treat each other with respect. Nobody expects a new starter to know every process on day one. What makes the difference is the effort to understand your role and support the people around you.

If you are looking for more guidance as you move towards employment, explore IM MORE. You do not have to be the most experienced person in the room to make a positive difference.

Discover. Believe. Become.

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