I Got Hired: Business Transformation Associate

Posted on: 30 January 2023 by Samantha Riella in Graduate stories

Finn Thompson is a class of 2021 Psychology graduate, now working as a Business Transformation Associate at Xander Talent.

How did you get to where you are now?

During my degree, I volunteered (and still volunteer) for a mental health charity, Be Free Campaign. Through the work I completed for Be Free, I learned many valuable project management and implementation skills, improved communication and the value of a robust kind voice in a project. This directed me toward a project-based pathway, and towards a business with a strong social value set. Additionally, through my degree, I gained knowledge of many aspects of human behaviour, including personal and large-scale change and transformation. The eclectic knowledge I gained from my degree allowed me to be prepared to move toward any sector that involved human behavioural change. Once I realised my two strengths were already a career I could join, I applied for my current position.

What has been your best experience as part of your role?

The challenge of helping individuals and businesses move through each step of the change they are experiencing as easily as they can is one of my favourite parts of my role. Knowing the knowledge and expertise I brought to the team would help improve the project and subsequently the recipient of the change makes my job satisfying and enjoyable on a daily basis.
For example, within a project I worked with, we implemented physical and mental health support for individuals struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Implementing new procedures and methods to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of  COVID kept me intellectually stimulated and always thinking about how I can improve the work I am doing. Additionally, knowing that the work I was doing that day would make a real difference to someone in need made me excited to go to work.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?

Rejection was a large part of my journey. Getting through multiple stages just to be rejected at the last hurdle does hurt. But, be resilient, keep applying for roles you are honestly interested in and sell yourself the best you can!

What are your top tips for other students and graduates?

1. Go for opportunities you might not think you could get.
2. Get a LinkedIn account. Many opportunities and experiences can be found this way. Grow your network sooner rather than later.
3. Volunteer as much as you can. The skills and experiences you learn supplement your CV enormously.