Our Blogs
Read practical advice, real career stories and plain-English explainers to help you understand public sector careers, applications and progression.
35,000+
views across our blogs
Most Popular Blogs
Start with some of our most-read stories and explainers.
All Blogs
Browse the full collection of Unofficial Guides articles and explainers.
-
A Career in National Security: Pooja’s story
When Pooja Patel speaks, you listen. A civil servant whose career has been shaped by some of the UK government’s most pressing challenges – Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and national cybersecurity -Pooja’s story is one of grounded leadership, clear-eyed resilience, and fiercely held purpose. This conversation, hosted by Nathan White from The Unofficial Guide to…
-
Mastering Civil Service Applications: Key Insights from Our Workshop
Earlier this month, we hosted another one of our Application Workshops. This is part of our ongoing mission at Unofficial Guides to level the playing field for anyone trying to break into the Civil Service. With a brilliant group of early and mid-career professionals, we rolled our sleeves and dove deep into the real work…
-
3 Career Lessons from Jen Upton’s Journey in Diplomacy
Introduction “My kids have the dubious distinction of being evacuated at six weeks old – twice.” Jen Upton’s story is filled with remarkable moments that show just how unpredictable a career in diplomacy can be. Jen Upton, a former diplomat with over 20 years of experience in the UK Foreign Office, shared her candid insights…
-
Finding Your Place In the Civil Service: Stephanie’s Story
Meet Stephanie Brown Hello everyone! My name is Stephanie Brown, and I joined the Civil Service in September 2023 as a Fast Streamer. In my first posting I was based in DWP, and this year have moved over to Scottish Government which is a completely different experience. I have been fortunate enough to work with…
-
Opening doors to the Civil Service: Carole’s story
Who I Am I’m Carole Lovstrom, Head of Ministerial Affairs in the Department for Transport and pleased to be asked to write a blog for Nathan, author of the Unofficial Civil Service Guide. I have worked in local office, head office, IT, HR, and Project Delivery, and I have to say it is my team…
-
Breaking Barriers: Teslimah’s Journey into to Civil Service Success
Meet Tesmilah My name is Teslimah Abubakar. I am care experienced and I’m motivated by connecting with like-minded people, learning new skills and advocating for systematic improvements for care experienced individuals. I have been part of the civil service since 2022. Before the Civil Service Before joining the civil service, I studied media production at…
-
From events to HM Treasury: Elijah’s Journey into the Civil Service
Elijah is pursuing a career in international security, currently studying Global Security and Strategy. With a background in economics and experience in the entertainment industry, he launched a non-profit for youth employment. Now working at HM Treasury, he emphasizes the importance of networking and adaptability within the dynamic Civil Service.
-
From Military to Civil Service: My Career Journey
I’m Bradley, a Senior Programme Manager in the Civil Service. My role involves delivering complex projects that impact the public sector. I’m passionate about problem-solving, collaboration, and driving change. The Civil Service offers diverse opportunities, and I enjoy seeing the tangible impact of my work every day. The Path That Led Me Here Before joining…
-
How to Stand Out in Your Civil Service Career
Last month, I had the opportunity to share my journey as a civil servant with prospective and current public sector professionals. Reflecting on my decade of experience in the UK Government, I realised that my lessons are just as relevant today as they were when I started. The Civil Service is a place where impact…
-
The opportunities are out there – seize them!
By Anna Ogilby, People Development Lead at the UK Health Security Agency Who are you and how long have you been a civil servant? I’m Anna, I live in East Yorkshire with my 4 daughters. I have been in the Civil Service for nearly 9 years now. What were you doing before you became a…
Want our new blogs in your inbox?
Join the newsletter for practical public sector career guidance, new blogs, event updates and free resources.
The Unofficial Guides 