Your time to shine
Finding a job in today’s market is tougher than ever. But Countryfile star Anita Rani says a positive mindset can take you a long way
FROM dazzling us on Strictly Come Dancing to winning the celebrity version of Bake Off and drawing in over nine million viewers a week on Countryfile, TV star Anita Rani has foxtrotted her way into the nation’s living rooms and into our hearts.
She may be a natural on screen, but the presenter admits her path to primetime success wasn’t always clear. Anita knew from a young age she wanted to be on TV, but without many British Asian role models to look up to she wondered if she could ever achieve her dream.
The key to overcoming challenges like these, she says, has been a positive mindset. And it can help anyone succeed – whether it’s finding a new job, or standing out from the crowd when it come to that all important interview.
Both can be intimidating experiences at the best of times. But it’s even harder right now with the effects of the Covid-19 crisis seeing vacancies dropping and applications rising.
That’s why Anita has joined BT’S new Stand Out Skills campaign, to make sure you have the right tools to shine in the jobs market and to show the power of positive thinking.
“Looking for a new job can be tough, and sometimes demoralising,” says Anita. “But think of it as an opportunity to embrace new experiences, grow and move forward.
“It’s about looking at your skills – what you have, your interests and what motivates you. I find jotting them down makes it easier to think about the careers you’re suited to.”
TURNING POINT
Watching the classic British comedy Bhaji On The Beach as a teenager was a turning point for Anita, and at 14 she walked into a local radio station to ask for work experience. It wasn’t long before she was on air herself.
A stint as a researcher for the BBC’S Asian Network was followed by presenting roles on Sky Sports’ Cricket AM and BBC One’s Watchdog, before her big break with The One Show and Countryfile turned her into a household name.
“My career as a television presenter has taught me how important it is to convey your enthusiasm so that people want to listen to what you have to say,” adds Anita. “It’s about having a bit of confidence, whether you’re taking your first step on the ladder or changing careers. Believing in yourself makes all the difference. It’s even more vital than ever to make sure you give yourself the best chance possible and stay positive.”
That’s where BT can help. As part of its Skills for Tomorrow programme, BT has launched Stand Out Skills, offering you unmissable support and advice through BT’S social media and the bt.com/standoutskills website.
Alongside Anita, BT has recruited stand-up star and voice of Love Island, Iain Stirling, to offer some classic comedy tips to help you break the ice in interviews and pen a stand out CV.
And Rupaul’s Drag Race star Divina de Campo has drawn on her experience of taking the spotlight to help you be your best and shine – even on those awkward video calls!
New information will be posted every day on BT’S social media channels and the bt.com/standoutskills website, with a weekly focus on different areas of the job search.
“I’ve had a few challenges in life, but if you’re determined, you just get on with it,” adds Anita. “It feels great to have achieved something.” From January 19, you can access unmissable advice, tips and support on BT’S social media channels and the bt.com/standoutskills website. Covering different topics of the job search to help you stand out at every stage – from where to start to showing your best self in interviews.
16
The number of roles that the average UK jobseeker has been rejected from over the past 12 months
81% say job search has had a negative impact on their mental wellbeing