Karren Brady gives career advice on opportunities for girls in football and dealing with family issues

BOSSING It columnist Karren Brady is here to solve all your burning careers questions.

Today she helps a reader strategise how to get back into work that would suit her new family life after maternity leave. Karren, who stars in The Apprentice and is the vice-chairperson of West Ham FC, also advises another to jump to the opportunity of becoming a mentor in her company.

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Fabulous’ Bossing It columnist Karren Brady answers your career questions[/caption]

My granddaughter is at college studying for a qualification in sports management. Her tutors are pushing her towards university, but she wants to be “on the job” in a coaching position.

She has been coaching a local girls’ team and has FA qualifications, but was told by her tutor these would mean nothing if she was up against an applicant with a degree, even in an unrelated subject. What advice would you give about the opportunities that exist for girls in football?

Sue, via email

Football has long been considered a man’s world, but thankfully this is changing. With the Women’s Super League gaining momentum, there are lots of professional coaching opportunities. The correct coaching badges are vital and qualifications are important, but great coaches are more than just a badge or a degree.

There’s a saying that people do business with people, not brains, and this is true – personality matters. Football clubs are looking for great coaches with leadership and communication skills, who can find the balance between discipline and support, and lead by example.

Coaches with a great attitude and positivity are sought after. We want to work with people who are passionate and also patient – people who understand that not all players are at the same level. Just like any job, it’s vital to build up a CV by coaching on a volunteer basis, and networking whenever possible. I wish your granddaughter lots of luck.

Recently, I was approached by an agency about a new role. I was offered the job, but a close family member became very ill, so I had a major wobble and declined the position. I quickly realised I’d made a mistake and, after much to-ing and fro-ing, I was asked to re-interview.

This seemed to go OK, though the manager was worried about my commitment. The job was then pulled because of coronavirus. I really want the role, but I’m not sure how to go about the situation once the country gets back to normal. Can you help?

Kate, via email

You have proved that perseverance and resilience conquers all! It’s not easy to get a second chance when you have accepted and then turned down a job. I can see why the company may have questioned your commitment, but you have now hopefully won back their trust.

The world has turned on its head because of Covid-19, so it’s not surprising the company has put everything on hold. This is the time for you to make your mark and really prove your commitment. Email the person who interviewed you and ask if there is anything you can do to assist.

Plus, offer suggestions on ways they can communicate with their staff and customers, as well as ways of keeping their profile up, so when the situation changes they can quickly get back to business. Be innovative and interesting and this will prove to them that you can be a valuable asset. They should jump at the chance to employ you when they’re able to.

• Compiled by: Claire Frost 
• Karren cannot answer emails personally.
• Content is intended as general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice