Career story: junior program analyst

What does a day in your shoes feel like? And what are the key skills that can make or break a career in your field?

We’ve asked a diverse group of Apolitical members to share their career story with us and the tips they have for junior public servants. In this article, an anonymous civil servant explains why it’s important to always speak your ideas in their role as a junior program analyst.

What is your current job title?

I am a Junior Program Analyst

How do you spend most of your time on an average day?

Our team currently has a huge transformation project on our caseload, so day-to-day, my focus is on supporting key stakeholder engagement and rolling out tools for those projects. I design content to support their learning and development, and I monitor their feedback. We really value the input of our stakeholders when piloting projects, so that we're always learning, improving, and considering their needs when things inevitably evolve. We want to make sure what we do always reflects the voices of those we serve, and the voices of the frontline staff who deliver them. My team rightfully dedicates a lot of time to understanding our stakeholders, so you can imagine what a caseload I have!

What did you do before?

I was an Administrative Assistant before, still within the world of social assistance but in a slightly more far-removed role. I learned so much about the benefits of strong, resilient teams and how they directly contribute to delivering the best service possible. The positive atmosphere, the transparency by our leadership, everyone's willingness to listen, learn and work together were invaluable. Although I didn't work directly with the public then, from what I know, these values are directly reflected in how services were delivered. The leadership I witnessed at all levels in my previous role will be something I'll look up to for the rest of my career.

What are the most important skills someone needs to excel in your field?

I came to this role not quite aware of all of the skills it would take to succeed. I'd say the most important skills I brought with me were my organization skills, my commitment to continuously learning and adapting, and the ability to prioritize my time because there are a lot of competing tasks. Learning how to pivot when things are moving quickly is a skill I continue to learn each day. I'm also quickly learning that attention to detail is a must to succeed anywhere!

What's the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is building something (almost from the ground up), that will help people for years to come. To know that I contribute each day towards a better, more inclusive system and to a better, more inclusive work environment. I'm always learning new perspectives to tackle problems which I enjoy a lot. But to be honest, I think the best part of my job is getting to work with an amazing, smart and dedicated team. Since starting my role, they've supported me, encouraged me, laughed with me. I cannot stress enough how much that has empowered me to come into my own in this new role.

What advice would you give to future public servants interested in a career in your field?

Even if you have limited experience and you don't feel confident, your voice matters so always speak your ideas! Be curious, ask a lot of questions. The only way to learn is by listening and being a student of whatever career path you journey on. And ask for help! Building strong relationships with the teams I've been on has helped me in too many ways to count. Join committees you're interested in, talk to people whose jobs you're curious about. Only you can drive your career and it pays to find people you trust along the way.

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