My First Week at Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)

After spending sixteen years in the private sector working for HSBC Bank, I recently made the leap to join the Civil Service. The transition has been both exciting and challenging, and I wanted to share my experiences and insights from my first week at DESNZ.

Why I Made the Switch

The decision to move from HSBC was long time coming. My previous role was in financial crime and I thoroughly enjoyed the role, however I felt like I never had the time to put aside for me to look and apply for roles, and then one day my oldest daughter told me, “Mum, you look unhappy at work, you deserve to work somewhere you are cared about”. This then pushed me to make time for me, to be an example for my children that we should work hard and find a happy place at work.

So, I came across DESNZ on the Civil Service website, looked at the role and felt like this was made for me. Making time and applying for the role wasn’t easy but I didn’t give up. I was driven by a desire to be an example for my children and for me.

First Impressions

Walking into the office on my first day was daunting as it was a brand-new atmosphere, however a wonderful colleague was waiting for me outside the building, ready to welcome me and show me around the office. This was a perfect welcome, all the anxiety I felt disappeared in an instant and I just felt like I been here forever. The onboarding process was thorough, and my new colleagues were incredibly welcoming. I quickly realized that the work culture here is more collaborative and focused on long-term goals compared to the fast-paced environment of the private sector. I felt like I was more cared about as a human being and my wellbeing and mental state was important.

Challenges and Adjustments

One of the biggest challenges was adjusting to the pace and different processes. In the private sector, decisions were made quickly and goals needed to be completed no matter what mental state you were in at the time, but here, the decisions are more thoughtful and inclusive.

Highlights of the First Week

• Meeting the Team: Everyone was eager to help me settle in and answer my questions.
• Training Sessions: The training sessions were comprehensive and provided a deep dive into the policies and procedures.
• First Project: As of yet, I haven’t started my first project, but this is in the process to begin soon, however, I am given enough time to settle in well and learn on what my job is and what I am required to do. My team are fantastic and are a call away from any question I may have.

Advice for Others

If you’re considering a similar move, here are a few tips:

• Do Your Research: Understand the differences between the private and government sectors.
• Network: Connect with people who have made similar transitions.
• Be Patient: Adjusting to a new work environment takes time.

Starting a new job is always a mix of excitement and anxiety, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and new experiences. I’m looking forward to what the future holds at DESNZ and the impact I can make in my new role and with my colleagues, but the most important feeling I have since I moved from HSBC, is my mental well-being has never been better!

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