Get in touch with your Chartered Accountants Ireland Careers Team today to help sculpt your new CV now that you are qualified. Its never too early to start this essential document. We will send you a template to get you started and you can schedule an online call to review and talk through it once complete.   For the moment, here are some initial CV tips, pitfalls, versions and suggestions : Minimise (no) colour No photo – that’s more a continental thing. Your latest job detail should take up about half of the 1st page – good detailed points. Use ‘ownership’ terminology such as “I drove, I led, I resolved … “ 1 or 2 lines about your current employer = context Use the width of the page- no large whitespace gaps | Typically 2 full pages give or take. Ariel or Calibri 11 or 12 Include your Annual Review Rating if you got a good one. Naming Clients – where suitable … to give context. Clients : - what size / what sector ? Have a few versions of your cv for different applications Include Academic results 2.1 / 2.2 / 510 points 3.8 grade avg etc Punchy – Not long winded story style points. Profile Summary for HR/Website applications – per below Strong References available on request(include of you have) Include Charity work, societies, events, articles written etc. Spelling – check it and triple check it Focus on the getting across your competencies and your value add Identify your USP / What differentiates you System Skills ? ( Tip )  Create a Summary profile or synopsis to go alongside your CV or to be mailed with your cv attached to either recruiters or employers : For example :  My Profile Summary : ACA 2022 Big 4 Trained – Audit Currently in XYZ plc as a Financial Accountant Previously Audit Senior working with Banking Insurance and Funds clients Very strong leadership qualities and relationship building track record Strong audit fundamentals Very keen on a move into IA with the right organisation and ABC ltd very much appeals. Excellent communication skills and very positive client interaction feedback 100% comfortable with travel required On 55k base + solid bens currently Target base 60/65k base circa Linkedin Profile : https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveriordanaca/ Get in touch with your Careers Team in the Institute as your first step once you qualify for cv, interview and market guidance as well as job placement and an unbiased, objective view of the market and your career path.  Dave Riordan (ACA) Recruitment Specialist & Career Coach | Careers Team Chartered Accountants Ireland. Dave.riordan@charteredaccountants.ie   

Institute recognised as one of the 25 most innovative organisations using AI and automation at UiPath AI25 Awards   Award comes as Institute becomes first Professional Accounting Body to roll out full Adaptive Learning for students  Chartered Accountants Ireland has been recognised for its use of robotic process automation (RPA) to enhance the student enrolment experience with an award at the UiPath AI25 Awards. The awards recognise organisations using AI and automation to increase productivity; transform customer experiences; deliver substantial return on investment; and support corporate, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.  Chartered Accountants Ireland is the largest professional body on the island of Ireland, representing over 38,400 members and educating 6,600 students. Each year, from June to September, the Institute processes enrolment and exemption applications from over 2,000 students seeking to commence the ACA programme to become a chartered accountant. Chartered Accountants Ireland has the largest share of new student registrations in the Republic of Ireland and is the fastest growing professional accounting body in Ireland and the UK. The Institute’s automation solution has significantly reduced the processing time of applications from weeks at peak times, to only hours. This automation ensures that exemption approvals reach candidate students and their training firms faster than ever before. The award winners were selected by a panel of expert judges.  Ian Browne, Director of Education, Chartered Accountants Ireland said  “We are proud to receive this global recognition from UiPath for our integration of AI and automation into what are complex enrolment and exemption processes. This award demonstrates our continued dedication to delivering innovation and excellence to the accounting profession in Ireland, from the moment that aspiring chartered accountants engage with our team for the first time as student applicants.  “These technologies will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of accounting, and the work our members do in every area of the economies on this island and around the world, and we are committed to staying at the forefront of this transformation.” Bobby Patrick, Chief Marketing Officer at UiPath said “We are pleased by the overwhelming quality of AI25 entries we received from customers globally. These 25 companies exemplify the transformational impact of AI and automation, having effectively demonstrated and executed new opportunities to advance innovation and improve productivity.  “We are proud to support customers with their AI and automation journeys as they take full advantage of UiPath's platform to deliver transformational outcomes with fast time-to-value. We look forward to continue leading unprecedented innovation with the next chapter of automation which combines robots, AI agents, and humans.” This application of RPA is just one example of the Institute’s use of technology to reframe the delivery of education and assessment for the next generation of accountants. Seven years ago, Chartered Accountants Ireland commissioned extensive research into the future of the accountancy profession and the needs of employers. A future educational strategy was subsequently agreed.     Chartered Accountants Ireland’s early adoption of online education delivery, drawing on automation and AI as far back as 2019, enabled it to move delivery entirely online in March 2020, with minimum disruption to the student learning experience.  Just this month, the Institute's new learning platform was launched, introducing Adaptive Learning to students for the first time. Chartered Accountants Ireland is the first Professional Accounting Body to roll out full Adaptive Learning modules and one of the first educational institutes across any industry globally. A data-driven, personalised and participative learning journey, Adaptive Learning allows the learner to choose their level of proficiency at the start, and progress according to their assimilation of the material and resulting proficiency.           

With colder, darker days setting in, people may notice they experience a dip in mood, feel more irritable, fatigued and less motivated. The reason for this may be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or the less-severe form, the winter blues. SAD symptoms are very similar to depression but has a seasonal pattern. The HSE estimates approximately 7% of the population experiences SAD. Here, we share some timely information and advice on how to combat the winter slump.  What causes this? Nobody really truly knows what causes the winter blues or SAD, but some experts believe SAD is caused by fewer hours of sunlight during the winter months that deplete your body’s levels of serotonin – often called the ‘feel-good’ chemical. Low light levels are thought to affect the production of melatonin, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock (or circadian rhythm).  If you’re diagnosed with SAD, your GP may recommend treatment with antidepressants called selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), alongside talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy.  But if you have milder symptoms, we have some tips you can try to protect yourself against the winter slump: See the light Sunlight is known to activate a specific hormone called serotonin. This hormone is responsible for regulating and elevating your mood, helps with sleep and wakefulness and is linked to feeling good and living longer. Try getting outside into the sunlight as early and often as possible throughout the day.  Get help from tech If access to bright sunlight isn't possible, studies have shown light treatment/therapy is another effective way of reducing the symptoms of SAD. Many people with SAD or the winter blues respond well to light therapy, which involves sitting in front of a special light therapy lamp – or light box – at home. You may also find dawn simulators useful,  they use a gradual light to wake you up in the morning, simulating a summers morning. Always remember to check any light therapy devices to make sure that it has been made by a fully certified manufacturer and is designed for treating SAD. Additionally, you could try using aromatherapy and the use of essential oils to help boost your mood. As some studies suggest that it could potentially lessen any symptoms. Get active Physical activity is widely thought to be an effective way to boost your mood, and there’s a solid body of evidence that suggests exercise may help to alleviate depression. Exercising outdoors, especially when it’s sunny, may have an even stronger effect on SAD/winter blues symptoms. You don’t have to turn into a fitness fanatic. Just being more active in your day-to-day life can have a huge benefit on the way you feel, especially during the winter. Eat mood-boosting foods Many experts believe what you eat can make a huge difference to your mood, especially during the winter, particularly foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan, which converts into serotonin in the brain. Foods rich in tryptophan include bananas, turkey, chicken, fish, cheese, eggs, milk, nuts, avocados and pulses. Some also believe omega-3 fatty acids may enhance serotonin activity, so eat oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and fresh tuna at least once a week (if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, try adding flaxseeds or chia seeds for an omega-3 boost). Stay warm Some SAD sufferers say their symptoms improve when they keep warm, so make sure your home and workplace are properly heated and wrap up well when you go outdoors.  If you’re worried about the financial cost of turning up your thermostat, get in touch to find out about CA Support's emergency financial assistance.   Keep in contact When feeling down, it’s natural to want to shut ourselves away from the world. It’s important to keep our social muscles active, as positive relationships bring both joy and perspective to our lives. Make sure you arrange regular catch-ups with your family and friends throughout winter.  How we can help The Thrive wellbeing hub provides free emotional supports to members, students and family members. We offer a confidential space for you to talk, whether you need a listening ear, wellbeing advice or professional counselling, we are here for you. You can contact the thrive wellbeing team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294

According to a Forbes article, 69% of people said their manager impacts their mental health more than their therapist or doctor—and it’s equal to that of their partner. Further research from Gallup identifies management style as the second leading cause of work-related stress absence. If you’re struggling with a difficult manager, it's important to understand how to effectively navigate the situation.    Understand what’s driving their behaviour Managers can act difficult for a variety of reasons, many of which may have nothing to do with you. They may be stressed, lack proper training, have challenging personality traits or may have other personal issues. Recognising this can help you avoid taking their behaviour personally and cultivate empathy. While constructive feedback and direction are a normal part of any job, if your manager is delivering this in a harsh or unhelpful manner, it is more likely a reflection of their internal struggles or skill gaps than your performance. Regulate your own emotions and behaviour Dealing with a difficult manager can be incredibly stressful, often taking a toll on your self-esteem. It’s important to prioritise self-care and process these difficult emotions. Techniques such as breathwork, meditation, journaling, practicing self-compassion and grounding exercises can help you stay calm and avoid reacting impulsively to their behaviour. It is also important to reflect on your own actions—are there any behaviours or responses on your part that might be contributing to the tension? Being self-aware can help you navigate the situation more effectively. Communicate your concerns It is important to remember that no one is a mind reader. Although we might expect our manager to know what to do or not do, it is crucial to communicate your concerns openly and professionally, rather than letting frustrations build up. While preparing for this conversation: - Provide specific examples of the issues you are facing rather than vague complaints. - Focus on the behaviour rather than making it personal. Avoid placing blame or statements like ‘you’re too critical’ and instead use ‘I’ statements such as ‘I noticed that I received a lot of detailed feedback on my last three reports.’ - Be clear on the impact it is having on your work and your mental health, for example, ‘It’s making it difficult for me to feel confident in my work, and it’s starting to affect my motivation and self-esteem.’ - Offer solutions to improve the situation rather than just pointing out problems for example, ‘Could we balance detailed feedback with what’s working well, so I can improve more effectively?.’ - Ask for feedback and be open to hearing their perspective on the situation, for example, ‘I’d like to get your perspective on the situation and how we can improve it going forward.’ Seek Support A problem shared is a problem halved. When dealing with a difficult manager, it is vital to have a support network. Trying opening up to a trusted family member, friend or colleague that can listen or give you impartial advice. If your entire team are struggling with the same issue, consider discussing the issue collectively. Having addressed the issue with your manager without seeing any progress, it may be time to escalate the situation to their manager or HR, either informally or through formal channels. If you’ve exhausted all options and you are still struggling, it may be worth considering whether the role or team is the right fit for you in the long term, or if exploring new opportunities could offer a better environment. Written by Gillian Bane on behalf of Thrive.  If you are struggling with the impacts of work-related issues, Thrive is here to help. Thrive is the Institute's dedicated wellbeing hub that offers free wellbeing support to members and students. Contact the team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie  or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294.  Gillian Bane is a chartered accountant and workplace health and wellbeing consultant who specialises in manager and leadership training. You can find more information on her website www.wellwork360.com.

Do you find yourself constantly feeling drained by the end of the workday? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with maintaining their energy levels at work, often due to habits and practices that can be adjusted. Here are four things you can avoid to help you feel more energised throughout your workday. Always Being “On” Between back-to-back meetings, an overflowing inbox and a constantly ringing phone it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, research shows that multitasking, or task switching, can cost up to 40% productivity. To combat this, block out specific times in your diary to tackle different tasks and stick to your schedule as much as possible. Minimise email notifications during focused work periods and consider setting ground rules with your team about when and how to communicate more effectively. Not Taking Breaks More and more people are skipping lunch and eating at their desk for multiple reasons - it’s the cultural norm, perceived work pressures or a desire to finish early. However, breaks are essential for recharging your energy. Make it a priority to block out your lunch break on your calendar and avoid eating at your desk. Furthermore, taking short microbreaks throughout the day have been proven to reduce stress and boost productivity. Overworking While busy times may sometimes require late nights, it is important to distinguish between hardworking and overworking. Hard work means achieving your goals through sustainable efforts, balancing productivity, achievement and well-being. However overworking means pushing yourself beyond healthy limits. Working extra hours or taking on too much work is often driven by fear of failure, work demands or a need to prove oneself. Reflect on what is driving your work habits and set boundaries with both yourself and others. Keeping Things Bottled Up Whether it’s frustration with a colleague or struggling to admit to your manager that you’re feeling overwhelmed, keeping your emotions bottled up can drain your energy. There are various reasons why we don’t feel comfortable opening up – culture, stigma and fear of negative consequences. However, a problem shared is a problem halved, so try expressing your feelings to your manager, co-worker or a trusted friend. Journaling can also be an effective way to process your thoughts and emotions. Feeling drained at work does not have to be the norm. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can create a healthier and more sustainable work routine. To learn more about this topic, you can attend Thrive and the ACA Professionals upcoming webinar ‘Managing your energy for better balance’ on Wednesday 11th September. See link to register below. https://bit.ly/3SXZ40j Written by: Gillian Bane, chartered accountant and workplace health and wellbeing consultant. You can find more information on her website www.wellwork360.com

Practices, such as meditation and mindful breathing, help individuals regulate their attention and emotions. This regulation leads to a balanced mental state, allowing for greater cognitive flexibility and creative problem-solving. Cognitive psychology suggests that a calm and focused mind is better equipped to generate innovative ideas. Chronic stress impedes creative thinking by limiting cognitive resources. Mindfulness reduces stress by promoting relaxation and fostering a positive mental state has shown that lower stress levels correlate with higher creative output, as individuals are more open to exploring new ideas and taking risks. Enhancing interpersonal relationships Mindfulness enhances empathy and communication skills, which are crucial for effective teamwork. A theory that puts this into practice and provided evidence-based research is the social exchange theory, positive interactions between colleagues builds trust and cooperation, creating an environment where creative ideas can flourish. By fostering better relationships, mindfulness contributes to a supportive and collaborative workplace culture. A mindful workplace culture encourages openness and reduces fear of judgment, which are essential for creativity. Organisational behaviour theories highlight the importance of a positive organisational culture in promoting innovation. When employees feel safe to express their ideas without fear of criticism, they are more likely to think outside the box and contribute creative solutions. Inclusivity and diversity Mindfulness practices can also promote inclusivity and respect for diversity, further enhancing creativity. By encouraging non-judgmental awareness and acceptance, mindfulness helps create a culture where diverse perspectives are valued. This inclusivity leads to a richer pool of ideas and innovative solutions. Mindfulness training programs Many organisations have successfully implemented mindfulness training programs to enhance employee wellbeing and creativity. These programs typically include guided meditation sessions, mindfulness workshops, and ongoing practice support. Case studies from various industries demonstrate the positive impact of such programs on both individual and organisational performance. Beyond training programs, integrating mindfulness into the organisational culture is crucial. This can be achieved through leadership commitment, regular mindfulness practices, and creating spaces for reflection and meditation. By embedding mindfulness into the company’s values and practices, organisations organisations can sustain a culture that supports creativity. Measurement and evaluation To assess the effectiveness of mindfulness initiatives, organisations can employ both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Surveys, interviews, and creativity assessments can provide valuable insights into how mindfulness practices influence employee creativity. Social sciences methodologies, such as thematic analysis and statistical modelling, are useful tools for evaluating these outcomes. New areas of study The intersection of mindfulness and workplace creativity presents numerous opportunities for further research. Future studies could explore the long-term effects of mindfulness on creativity, the role of individual differences, and the impact of organisational context. Interdisciplinary research, combining insights from psychology, sociology, and organisational behaviour, can provide a comprehensive understanding of these phenomena. Practical benefits Understanding the social sciences perspective on mindfulness and creativity offers practical benefits for businesses and employees. Organisations can leverage this knowledge to design effective wellbeing programs and foster a mindful and creative workplace that not only enhance employee satisfaction but also drive innovation.  This article was written by the Institute's DCU Intern, Jennifer Lukikeba, on behalf of Thrive. Jennifer is currently studying Social Science and Cultural Innovation in DCU, entering into her final year this September. In partnership with DCU's Access to the Workplace programme, the Institute hosted Jennifer as part of its professional summer internship placements.  For more advice or information, contact the team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie  or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294.