By Savoy Roach, Career & Employability Officer at FSB

On the 28th of March 2024, FSB Digbeth had the privilege of hosting a distinguished guest speaker, Andrew Webber, from the National Careers Service (NCS). As the Area Manager for Birmingham, Solihull, and Staffordshire, Andrew brought invaluable insights and guidance to our campus, enriching our students’ understanding of the services offered by NCS.

Andrew covered a diverse array of topics, providing expert advice and useful tips on various aspects of employment. He addressed fundamental questions such as the nature and scope of the NCS, elucidating how it can assist individuals in securing new job opportunities, navigating career changes, and accessing training and educational resources.

The NCS is renowned for its provision of free, professional, and personalised advice tailored to individual needs. Utilising the expertise of qualified career advisers, the service offers high-quality guidance on a wide range of topics, from exploring career pathways to enhancing skills development and crafting compelling CVs.

Accessing the service is conveniently facilitated through multiple channels. Whether by telephone, online via the website’s 24/7 availability, or through face-to-face consultations, individuals can readily access the support they need to embark on their career journeys.

Crafting a winning CV is a crucial step in the employment process. A well-crafted CV not only distinguishes candidates in a competitive job market but also serves as a compelling advertisement for one’s skills and qualifications.

Andrew Webber, Area Manager at the National Career Service, with Savoy Roach Career Advisor at FSB Digbeth. Photo: FSB

Upon successfully securing an interview, Andrew provided invaluable advice on interview preparation, including researching the company and job role and practicing a range of interview questions. He highlighted the significance of competency-based interview questions and introduced the STAR method as an effective strategy for crafting comprehensive and compelling responses.

The STAR method, which involves structuring answers using Situation, Task, Action, and Result, enables candidates to provide detailed and structured responses, showcasing their problem-solving abilities and past experiences effectively.

Considering FSB’s focus on business and health courses, Andrew tailored his presentation to address the types of roles our students can explore post-graduation. His adept handling of students’ queries and concerns demonstrated his expertise and commitment to supporting their career aspirations.

The session with Andrew proved highly beneficial, fostering engagement and rapport among students and equipping them with invaluable insights into navigating their career paths. In response, as a career advisor, I organised a workshop on CV writing, with plans for regular presentations and workshops to support our students’ career development.

In conclusion, Andrew’s visit was a resounding success, and we eagerly anticipate his future engagements with our campus community. With the guidance and resources provided by the NCS, our students are well-equipped to embark on their professional journeys with confidence and competence.