Sometimes I find myself making up stories about the person sitting opposite me, not elaborate adventures or complex histories rather judgements or expectations coming from my unconscious bias. Although these derive from a need to simplify a complex world they are often not helpful and if unchallenged can result in harm or missed opportunity.

The fact I can call it ‘unconscious bias’ is because I recently attended a workshop on the topic organised by my colleague and delivered as part of the D&I support Shell offers to it’s staff.

This article features a former Shell employee who has never let anyone else’s bias, unconscious or not, define him. The article reminds us to not to overlook a persons contribution because it may look different to our own.

Please click on the picture above to read the article.

 

 

‘Rolling with the waves’ is our second article focusing on the careers of partners as they accompany a Shell employee on an international assignment. Author, Dr Gianna Minton, is remarkable for many reasons, she chose a highly specialised field, one she needed to study for a further six years to do and has managed to stay within this profession despite relocating to different parts of the global.  In her article she shares all the varied roles she took on to make her career viable and the effort she continues to invests to tip the scales of luck in her favour. Click the image below to read Gianna’s article.

This is the first in a series of articles that documents the experiences and successes of Shell partners who have managed their own careers as they moved around the globe to the rhythm of another’s employment.

In this first article by Melissa Frost, a successful market researcher and editor describes how flexibility and a willingness to work in a number of different fields have prepared her for her current role.  Melissa now based in London works for a company that specialises in advising new parents on which baby equipment to buy. They provide a global service which leverages many of Melissa’s skills and experiences.

To read her article about all the different ‘hats’ she has worn during her career please click the image below.

To find out more about the service Melissa runs click on the link Anita’s House.

Next month Dr Gianna Minton, a consultant for the World Wildlife Foundation in the Hague, will share her story of how she managed to build and sustain a career in a single field as a marine biologist, something few people have achieved when faced with the challenges of global mobility.

Despite the difference in career path both women demonstrate a resourcefulness and resilience that contribute to their success.

Later in the year Colleen Reichrath-Smith, the Author of ‘A Career in your Suitcase’ will share her experiences as a both a writer and career advisor for those who also want to plan for a career on the move.  Colleen has been a long time supporter and contributor to the Outpost network.

If you have a story about your career you would like to share in the future, please contact the GOS communications advisor to discuss how we the possibility.