The Lucky Man

Wow!  What a week it's been!

As most readers will already be aware by now, I was absolutely blown away by a fabulous job offer last week.

Even as I write this passage, I'm still shaking my head in utter bemusement at just how well everything seems to have turned out for Team Taylor in the end!  ...In fact, I'm actually kind of waiting to be involved in an epic car crash any moment now, or maybe to fall down the stairs and break both my legs …just to even things up!  Surely some kind of equilibrium is due upon me! 

But I also believe in karma too, and perhaps after those stormy, dark days of unemployment, it was inevitable that the sun would eventually shine again after the rain? 

There's obviously a sizeable part of me that will be very sad to leave the BBC (and my lovely new colleagues) behind - especially with the exciting move to MediaCityUK just around the corner now.  After all, it was Harriet and her team that offered me a life-line back into the world of employment, when I really did need it the most.

I will of course always be very proud to have represented the BBC and will be sure to obtain a letter-headed reference from this world-famous British institution.  It’s been a pleasure to be a part of this beacon of Britishness and to have been an employee of the finest broadcaster in the world.

However, the above sentiments have been totally eclipsed by joy, happiness and a surreal sense of self-pride!  My faith in the force of nature has also been well and truly restored, as it really feels as though the decisions I made earlier in the year have been vindicated.

Indeed, the foundations to the 'happy ending' of this story were ultimately underpinned by the instigation of this very  blog!  If there was no blog ...there would be no job!!!  (What was that my Mum said about all this blogging being “a big waste of time")?  IN YOUR FACE MOM!!  (erm, …I love you really Mum!).

Following your heart...

Sometimes in life, you simply have to follow your heart ...but how often can we actually say that all the other bits agree!

Suddenly, everything seems to be 'just right' on the career front, and even though I am yet to start my new job, I've had the privilege of a sneaky-peek into the inner sanctum of the JD Williams world.  Thus, (and whisper it very quietly), I'm almost certain that everything is going to be Supergrass.

But how can I be so sure?  Well, the truth is, I can't.

As we all know, there are no guarantees in life.  But as creative writing is right up my street, the position is a permanent one, the role is as secure as it can be and as the commute will actually become easier and more straightforward, I can't really go too far wrong!  ...The improved financials on top of this, are of course - a very welcome bonus!

So, how about that for a surprise?   My head actually agrees with my blood-pumper for once, and I’m making a decision that will MAKE me some money for a change, instead of costing me the earth!

On the subject of queeny notelets, I should take a moment to mention the mean green.  I certainly waxed lyrical about the value of job security, job satisfaction and career development over the value of cash after all.

Perhaps it would be easy for 'an outsider' to conclude that I’ve simply 'sold out'; The truth is of course, that the position at JD Williams offers me the security, the job satisfaction and the career development opportunity I craved, so I feel truly lucky that the salary is just as attractive as all the other important elements of the offer.

So - along with all the other blessings in my life, I feel a very happy man indeed at the moment.  Blow me down with a feather ...even the sun has been shining!

And, just nine weeks after starting out 'Life at the BBC' - and saying an official goodbye to "Life After the Public Sector", I find myself signing off once again!  I finish my work with the BBC on the 28^th of April and commence my role as Lead Copywriter with JD on the 3rd of May, just after the Royal Wedding and May Day bank holiday breaks.

2011 really has been one hell of an adventure so far and once again, I'd like to thank all the readers of this blog for sharing this journey with me.  I've already summarised the ups and downs in my earlier epilogue, and I’ve already thanked people individually in my previous final edition …but nevertheless – thank you!!!  The advice, encouragement, reassurance and positivity that you have all shared has been priceless - and will never be forgotten.

This really is the end though ...it’s been emotional!!!

But do look out for my new “That’s-Life”-themed blog in the next few weeks!  I just need to think of a funky new title for it and, erm, some actual ‘things’ to continue philosophising about!

Whilst of course, a blog is primarily autobiographical, I make a promise that it will be a little less self-indulgent next time …and that the new editions will be a little less chunky, compared to some of my marathon-reads of the past!

Until next time ...thanks for your much-appreciated time and fabulous company.  Many blessings to you all! x x x

Career-Decision Death-Match – Continued

Defining Moments

We often talk about defining moments in our life, and how these pivotal moments affected us, changing our lives forever.  But when we look back on our life's journey and try to pick those definitive moments out, it's often common that we choose to recollect 'major events' instead.

Pick a year for example, and it's highly likely that the standout moment was a memorable holiday, a sunshine-drenched music festival or a special winter weekend where you snuggled up before the log-burner in a snow-surrounded log cabin.  All are fabulous events, granted: But not definitive moments.

Highlights of the past often spring to mind, but lowlights do too.  Select another bygone season for example, and it could be a car accident, a bereavement or the break-up from a long-term loved one that stands out?  As above though, these are actually events, and merely the final outcomes of a previous defining moment.

The definitive moment of that unfortunate car accident for example, may have been the decision to spend an extra few minutes in bed, or even that you chose to  have toast instead of cereal for breakfast that fateful morning.  Those definitive actions, then had an impact on the minutes and the crucial seconds that followed; The time 'lost' meant that the 'blind spot' wasn't de-iced as well as it should've been ...and as a direct result of this, the crash ensued.

Extreme?  ...Maybe.

But the result of that break-up, would actually have been as a result of definitive moments, decisions or choices that were made in weeks, months and perhaps even years long before the final outcome.  The "goodbye" isn't the definitive moment ...the reason(s) behind it, was.

What about that fabulous holiday you had?  Sure, the memories and smiles were created right there and then, but surely the definitive moment, was making the choice to book that trip, at that time, with that person ...to that wonderful place.  Perhaps even more acutely, it was actually changing the discussions of where you might like to go into a reality, by actually handing over the deposit:  A definitive moment.

All very deep, I'm sure you'll agree.  But nevertheless - proof in the proverbial pudding that every action has its consequences ...and that every definitive moment is simply yet another junction in life's endless choice of crossroads.

Take Natasha for example...

After a hugely successful career in recruitment, the world (quite literally), was her oyster.  Admiration and recognition in her work were followed by promotions, pay-rises and perks - in what is commonly known as a fast-paced and fiercely competitive industry.

Having a talent though is one thing.  What one chooses to do with that talent, is quite another.

Unbeknownst to your writer, there are probably a million and one reasons behind Natasha's 'defining moment' of emigrating to Australia to continue the cultivation of her career.  How brave of her to relocate though - all alone - to manufacture a brand new life, engineer new adventures and create a new home, with new friends...

...But was this brave re-mapping of Natasha's life actually a 're-definition', as opposed to a 'defining moment'?  In simple terms, did previous defining moments, simple help confirm a choice was that was always actually "meant to be"? ...

As I alluded to above, there were probably a million (and one!) reasons behind Natasha's ultimate decision to relocate to Australia.  These are all personal to the lady in question, but if asked, she'd surely be in no doubt at all about what the 'defining moments' were behind her career-changing (and life-changing!) decision.

Defining moments shape entire lives.  ...After all, the defining moments which shaped a move to the other side of the world could have a direct effect on all the where's, when's and who's for the rest of Natasha's life - and the generations of all the Mini-Natasha’s to come!

And all as a consequence of a defining moment.

*

Career-Decision Death-Match – Continued

So, what has all this got to do with me then?

Well...the long awaited news finally arrived today via a lunch-time phone call, and an official offer letter is set to drop on my doorstep by Thursday morning at the very latest.

No recruitment.  No application forms.  No interviews.  …I’ve actually been bloody head-hunted!

Upon receipt of the letter, I will be officially asked to consider the position of 'LEAD Copywriter'! …and with a requirement to commence the role "as soon as possible"! 

Now, without wishing to put too much drama on the subject, the next few days are absolutely crucial.  I've got a wedding to attend over the weekend, but in the interest of mental clarity (and my bedtime sanity!), I’d very much like to conclude my decision by the time night-falls this Sunday night.

Without further ado then, it’s time for seconds out and Round 4!  or in the immortal words of Harry Hill ...."Fiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigggggghhhhhht"!!!

Round 4 -Salary

Over the last few months and years, I've often said that "salary doesn't matter to me", and in the past, I really have been trying so hard to secure some long-term security, that it really has been low on my list of priorities.

Without wishing to renege on that statement, I should perhaps re-phrase it to "salary isn't the most important thing" ...which of course, I’m sure most of us would probably agree with.

However, whilst the money I earn isn't the most important motivator here, it is ultimately the primary reason why each of us go to work each day.  We all strive to reach the highest level of our respected professions for job satisfaction, but in return for our efforts, our dedication and our desire to succeed, we hope to be remunerated accordingly.

Whilst I still feel that job-security and job-satisfaction supersede salary in terms of their importance, the take-home cash that one earns surely affects the overall enjoyment and satisfaction that one gets from his or her job. 

In today's world, (and in my recent experience!) job security takes precedence over all the above but nevertheless, opening offer salary – as well as future earning potential - needs to be considered.

That letter with the all-important details is not likely to arrive for at least another 48 hours, but during today’s conversation, I was asked what I’d be looking for in terms of salary.  In response to my answer, the reply was that I was “likely to be more than happy with the offer”, which perhaps indicates that it’s more than I suggested, which is more than what I’m earning right now.

But money isn’t everything.  Is it?

Round 5 – The People

The people at the BBC are wonderful. My colleagues - and new friends - are all lovely guys, with intriguing past-times, interesting lives and great stories to tell.  All are very bright, well-educated professionals and my close colleague Phil, is actually 'Dr. Phil'!

My immediate team have been friendly, helpful, accommodating and understanding - whilst my nationwide colleagues have also been happy to offer their help at all times.

Everyone in the entire building seems to have a very laid-back, easy-going demeanour and an almost 'casual' attitude to going about their busy schedules.  As masters of creation, this is probably just as you'd expect from such a creative industry.

The high volume and fast-paced nature of the work ensure that discussions and decisions are decisive and straight-to-the-point, but there is always time for a great story, a bit of banter and a BBC canteen brew!

V

My short time at JD introduced to me to a working environment that I'd never quite witnessed before. (- which, for me, is quite surprising, given the huge amount of jobs I've had!)

It opened my eyes to a whole new ball game of working etiquette, where everybody worked at pace, whilst dressing in ways that are just as individual as they are!

As you'd imagine from a fashion house - very smart, high-heeled ladies were flanked by quirky indie chicks in Doc Martens, whilst gents in sharply-cut suits liaised with surfer-type dudes, adorned in their casual threads and sneakers.  I found this all quite surreal, but very cool.

Despite the 'unorthodox' dress code and the unfamiliar sight of head-phone wearing staff bopping along to the sound of an iPod, I was under no illusion at all about how busy everybody was; Creative industries require creative minds after all, and any obstacle to creativity would surely prove detrimental to success?  ...I liked this concept, but also learned it wasn't quite as unique as I initially thought, when I quickly discovered an equally relaxed culture at the BBC.

Whilst at JD, I thoroughly enjoyed my short time working with Simon and Alison - two driven, young, motivated and switched-on individuals whose enthusiasm for the industry and their brand excited me.

I also spoke to a number of staff during my trial period and consistently, the same observation came up: "The turnover of staff here at JD is extremely low".  To me, this speaks volumes and shows that if one works hard for the department, they'll be recognised and rewarded accordingly.

The other bonus of course, is that my brilliant retro buddy also works at the company too!  Whilst I wouldn't be working directly with Jonny, it's always nice to see a familiar face when you're the new kid on the block (and a bit like having a big brother at high school I guess!).

And then there's a certain Mr. RD ...a chap who I have a great admiration and respect for.

Two great organisations then ...with two great sets of people.  Certainly upon first impression.  If we were talking about choosing a wife here ... ...you'd be reading the Blog of a Bigamist!

*

The question is, should I consider being that job-pimp-whore-gypsy-jump-jockey with yet another notch on my career bed-post ...or do I just go ahead and "do the right thing"?

My head tells me that only a fool would walk away from the BBC, but my heart is naturally torn.

It's time for my defining moment.

Until next time, many blessings.

Jay x

Career-Decision Death-Match

It's just over a week now since my last blog, and decision time may be imminent.

Although I'm yet to receive any further information or firm updates from Richard, I have learned that he's just as good as his word.  I also appreciate how long these processes take, particularly when a company must make a long-term financial commitment.

Despite the absence of any new information since my last update, it would have been remiss of me not to put some serious thought into the "what if's?", should a choice present itself.

In true Celebrity Death-Match fashion then, I'm pitting my challenging-but-wonderful job with the BBC, against what I have learned about my short time at JD Williams.

Over the course of the next five rounds, these two jobs will exchange on-screen blows in an attempt to find a career-decision death-match champion!  Perhaps readers could even be the ring-side judges, with your very own post-bout scores!

Just one cautionary note though:  Whilst the forthcoming battle is personal and sensitive to me, it shouldn’t really be published in the public arena.  One of these jobs is still very much up-in-the-air, whilst the other is very real.  If you would like to leave a comment, particularly upon Facebook, please do so via a personal message to my inbox.

Ding Ding …Second’s out: Round One!

Round One: Opportunity & Security

The BBC offers a whole host of opportunities and everything I have ever wanted from a job: Opportunity and above all else, security.

They call the contracts here at the Beeb, ‘continuous' rather than 'permanent', but it's as close to permanent as I could possibly wish for.

The TV licence settlement has recently been agreed for the next six years, but this is actually irrelevant; the added bonus of working for BBC Children in Need, is that staff salaries are NOT taken from the general licence fee pot.  Instead, whilst every single penny raised by the public goes directly to Children in Need, the bank account interest upon it totally covers the overheads for us guys, to make sure the right money, goes to the right children that need it the most.

In terms of career opportunities within the Children in Need team, there are only 3 levels above me, so it's fair to say that promotional opportunity is fairly limited.  However, there is constant talk of 'attachments' (rather like secondments) about the place, so I'm already well aware that there are lots of channels to diversify in to.  Most of these however, would obviously require a move to London.

Beyond Children in Need, I receive e-mails every single day informing me of internal attachment opportunities and full-time vacancies based across the corporation, and all over the world.

The BBC then is without doubt, an everlasting corridor into the future, with any number of doors to choose should the right opportunity come along at the right time.

Looking deeper at ‘the bigger picture’, anyone who knows me will already be well aware of my HUGE interest in broadcasting - particularly within the world of radio.

Although I'm still a thousand steps away from being anywhere near the wireless (and my radio-hero Chris Evans!), I am surely a thousand steps nearer to working in radio than I would be if I took a single step outside of the corporation?

In respect of this final point alone, would JD be able to compete in this round?  …you bet they can!

-V-

Whilst JD will undoubtedly offer me the opportunity to do something I enjoy, and something I'm good at right now, what of the future?

As the first member of staff to be recruited to this brand new department, perhaps I could one day be the Daddy, and then even the Granddaddy of the team, so perhaps a position of seniority could develop in time?  Having said that, I've never actually been a fully-fledged copywriter before and therefore, I'm certainly not an expert, nor a natural leader in the field.  Would an experienced professional be a more suitable candidate for progression in this newly formed department?

In terms of ‘the bigger picture’, JD could be perceived as a shrimp compared to the colossus of the BBC, but they’re by no means a small fish:  The Company are major players in their field and industry leaders in the sector, employing over 3000 staff in Greater Manchester alone.  JD Williams operate over sixty brands, with several recent acquirements being added to the portfolio.  What’s more, they’re also branching out into the retail sector via the ‘Simply Be’ brand, so it’s certainly a case of onwards and upwards for this historic company.

The reputation is second-to-none and from the conversations I’ve engaged in, it’s clear that the low turnover of staff can mean only one thing:  They’re a dead good company to work for.

Round Two: Location, Location, Location

The exterior of Dock House, MediaCity

A huge inspiration behind me starting to write this blog was that of the character 'Ugly Betty', especially during the last series of her self-entitled and heart-warming television series.

One of the things I often thought about when watching the show was how "I'd love to work to work at a place like Mode" ...and having checked out the department’s new office at MediaCity last week, the BBC have just about got it nailed!

We got the chance to drive over and check out 'Dock House' last Wednesday - one of three brand new, purpose-built office blocks at Salford Quays.  The new surroundings are seriously cool and whereas the 'Mode' surroundings are predominantly orange, the BBC’s new home is dominated by fresh, spring-time shades of green.   The lighting is sophisticated, the artwork is quirky and the funky bespoke wall-papers used give each area a very individual, modern and contemporary look.

Meeting rooms are accompanied by i-pad style booking systems upon glass walls, bins have been made extinct by dedicated 'slots' in the walls and the 'touch-down areas' are fully equipped with concealed data-cables and comfortable seating. 

The view from the afternoon: The view from my desk with the Lowry Outlet Mall to the left,
the quays and tram stop at the centre and Old Trafford at the far top right.

The downside of moving to Salford Quays is that just as I'm getting used to the advantages of the big city life, the privileges will be lost!

I've really enjoyed being in and around the city centre, if even for a short time each day.  Already, I've been able to nip into the centre to visit my favourite shops, stay overnight in a close-by hotel for a gig, and had a couple of brilliant post-work beverage-fests!

As cool as the new place is, I've already grown to love the rustic authenticity of New Broadcasting House and I'll certainly miss working right in the very heart of one of the coolest cities in the world.

The upshot of the move though, is that I'll be able to start driving to work once again - rather than catch the train. 

Whilst catching the train has been pleasant, I do have to catch two trains each way at the moment in order to get to Oxford Road Station, which is just a few minutes away from where I'm currently located.  Catching four trains a day then, as opposed to just two obviously increases your chances of getting a delay by 50%.   …and these delays have started to become more and more frequent over recent weeks!

I could of course continue to catch the train when we move to Salford Quays, but this would then require an additional tram ride at the Manchester end of the journey – a half hour trip on top of my usual drive to and from the station at the 'home' leg of the commute.

Whilst the train ride to Manchester would become direct, the additional cost of a tram season-ticket, on top of the train fares, would make it extremely difficult to justify the cost of keeping my car...

The Studios at MediaCity

A simple calculation provides financial clarity:  Car loan + car tax + car insurance + diesel + £140 per month train ticket + £50 tram ticket = not enough spare money for soda-pops and shandy-beers!

Of course, it would be naive to think a driving commute would be a 'walk in the park'.  I'm yet to experience a daily drive to Salford Quays yet, but having been advised of a 'guaranteed' parking spot, it has further cemented my determination to get back behind the wheel. 

Perhaps the traffic jams would be hell-ish ...and perhaps it would cost more in fuel than it would in combined train and tram fares?  But - as my friend Francine quite rightly pointed out, at least I wouldn't be hanging around in bad weather, waiting for a packed-out and often-late tram or train, and I would also be in the comfort of my own car. 

...Some people on public transport can be a bit pongy too!

Hmmmmn. Ponderment!

-V-

JD Williams is based in Manchester city centre, at the heart of the popular Northern Quarter.

Griffin House is much newer and much more modern than New Broadcasting House, but not quite as 'funky' as the brand spanking new Dock House at MediaCity.  Nevertheless, the offices are by far the smartest I’ve ever worked in!  They’re super modern, with all the latest IT gadgetry, glass elevators and lots of beautiful people!  They also have beautifully clean, well equipped kitchens and bathrooms.  As with the BBC, the four-storey block also has its very own in-house restaurant.

More centrally located than the BBC’s current and future premises, JD's HQ is just a five minute walk from all the city centre shops and bars - whilst crucially - it's much closer to the more convenient Victoria Station.

My thinking behind the proximity to Victoria is that it's a simple, easy and convenient one-train journey.  In turn, this could have a reasonable effect upon my finances …if I was willing to make a brave change...

Whilst I couldn't possibly be without 'a' car, I have been giving some thought to what might be the most sensible thing to do about my current motor, should I be offered, and take a job at JD, and not move on with the BBC to Salford Quays.

In summary, it would again be very difficult to justify the ownership and running costs of a brand new car, that’s simply being left at the train station each day.  At present, I'm only travelling 4 miles per day, so in quantifiable terms, it wouldn't make any financial sense at all to keep it.

Fortunately, there should be more than enough equity in the car to buy myself a really decent set of second-hand, fully paid up wheels, should I decide to sell it.

…Funny how such a simple dilemma, could throw up so many connotations and knock-on effects!  As you can tell, I'm not blessed with that fabulous skill of 'going with the flow'!!

Round Three: Content of work & Job Satisfaction

My new job at the BBC is tough. ...really tough!  It's labour intensive, sensitive, intricate and involves huge investments of time in order to reach even the simplest of conclusions.

Whilst hard graft doesn't phase me at all, there are no 'quick' tasks:  The in-depth processes involved, mean that much of my time is spent digging, investigating and chasing - rather than actually 'doing':  All good news for keeping me busy; Not quite so good for ever getting to the bottom of that ever-increasing 'to-do' pile!

The problem at the moment is that I'm still learning and as a result of my inexperience, it does seem to be taking me a long time to resolve queries and find answers.  This is tending to leave me quite frustrated as I reach the end of each day, as I seem to be no further along the path of progression than I was in the 24 hour period previously.

The positive aspect of all this of course, is that my days are already starting to whizz by and I genuinely feel shocked when the clock approaches 4:30.  I also feel safe in the knowledge that my contribution to the team seems greatly appreciated, and that my particular position is an extremely valued cog within the department’s mechanics.

-V-

The JD job would undoubtedly give me much more of a creative license, as it would loosen up all the 'at-your-service' constraints of my BBC role.

Whilst deadlines would still be tight, I don't envisage the multitude of responsibilities, the plethora of phone-calls and the conflicting priorities that I’m juggle in the BBC role.

Whilst I readily accept and embrace 'variety' in my work, I do feel it is something that may have hindered me somewhat in the past.  Being a jack-of-all-trades is all well and good, but this has undoubtedly made me a master-of-none over the developmental stages of my recent career.

To combat this, the copywriting position at JD would afford me an opportunity to finally become a 'specialist' in a very specific sector: Not only in 'copywriting', but also in the field of 'fashion copywriting' - and even more specifically - that of the 'home shopping, fashion copywriting' field!

If offered a position, I would of course be able to work in a field that I enjoy (i.e.: writing), an area that i am interested in (i.e.: fashion) and for the first time in years - in an area I am actually (quite) good at!!

It certainly presents a dilemma, as on the flip-side, I can't help but think about the possible limitations of fashion copywriting?

In the past, I have written plenty of copy for a variety of mediums, including websites, prospectuses, press releases and guidebooks, which is not bad for a novice.  Having said that though, here's the BUT: I've never actually worked full-time as 'a copywriter'.  

...surely there are other people out there better than me? What if I run out of ideas!? What if I exhaust all my fashion superlatives and on-trend phraseology in a matter of mere weeks? What if I get writers block when a deadline is imminent?  What if, despite the kind praise received so far, my 'flowery style' just isn't appropriate for the sector...and what if - rather like I'm doing now, I ramble on too much?

At that point, I'll appropriately leave part one of the death-match right there.  Seconds out for the final two rounds …sometime soon.

The Return of Blogger Boy ...Part II

The Return of blogger-boy continues …

Enemy Three
When I arrived at work the morning after the night from hell, I felt absolutely pants.  During that night and in a state of complete despair, I'd sent texts to both my girlfriend and my faithful old Mum.  I knew something wasn't quite right, and as I supped my first few coffees of the day, their replies confirmed what I’d already concluded:  "Get yourself booked in at the doctors Jason ...and do it now!"

Once again, I found I was explaining my weary state of lethargy to the boss, who by now, was surely beginning to think she'd employed some kind of sickly-child-drama-queen?  She too agreed though that an appointment with the doc would be the best course of action, and so, I promptly picked-up the phone with high hopes of finally bringing the curtain down on this zombie-like plague.

Unfortunately, I would be home too late to make it in time for surgery and without taking unnecessary leave, there’d be no chance to get in and actually see the quack at all.  So I enquired about a call-back from the doctor instead and with a brief description of my symptoms, the receptionist helpfully obliged.  Within a couple of hours, I received a call back from her and was relieved to find out that I'd been prescribed some sleeping tablets.  Embarrassingly, the conversations with the doctor’s receptionist took place right beside my boss and with that, my indignity was now fully complete.

The rest of the day really was a blur to be honest, but towards the end of it, I received a significant phone call from my Mum…

My Uncle Terry had collapsed earlier in the day and having been ambulanced-in to the hospital, a blood clot had been discovered on his brain.  He was on life support and in a grave condition.

I literally burst out of the office doors at 4:30 and with a mixture of exhaustion, anxiousness and anger, I felt as though I would burst into tears as the fresh air hit me.

As I was about to board the train, I received a friendly text from my good friend Natalie, who simply wrote to ask how I’d been getting on in my new job.  (I'm not sure she was quite expecting the response that followed!).

It was only my fifth day then, but a huge storm of self-doubt had already gathered and a dark raincloud of negativity had taken over.  Why was I finding it so difficult to take on board all these new processes?  Why was I having such conflict with the database that was supposed to be my ‘new best friend’, and why the hell was every single IT tool I'd been given either faulty or completely broken?  Even my goddamn selltotape dispenser was totally knackered!

The more pressing question of why I was having so much trouble getting to sleep was the issue concerning me the most.  Maybe this was my sub-conscious hammering home the fact that I was walking in the wrong man's shoes?  Quite simply, I concluded that I wasn't sleeping, because I had simply found myself in the wrong job.

My new ID Badge ...but how long would I be using it for?

The third enemy of ‘self-doubt, worry and anxiety’ had joined forces with the common cold and the lack of sleep, and it seemed to be that this three-pronged attack on me had been victorious.  Already, I was starting to get ‘scared’ of going to sleep, and with only five days of my new job on the clock, I’d already begun to ‘dread’ going in to work the following morning.

…Surely all this was a crystal clear sign that it was meant to be JD  ... and not the BBC for JT?

During the longest journey home yet, I thought about the last conversation I’d had with Richard.  I was aware that a meeting was scheduled at JD Williams later in the week to discuss this potential new department, and of course my ‘phantom’ job, which would be a part of this new department.  Desperately (and perhaps fairly unprofessionally of me) I wrote out an e-mail to Richard to find out what his ‘gut feeling’ was about the forthcoming meeting ...and I hit send.

Typically of Richard, the reply arrived almost immediately…

“Hi Jay,

Thanks for the e-mail.  Difficult to guess which way the meeting on Wednesday afternoon will go?

Director wants to progress, because he needs to save money by bringing the design work in.

Marketing managers want to progress as one of their main agency has just been released.

Simon is keen that I keep you on the radar - he and Alison have been impressed with your work.

My management team are happy to progress, as long as we are given the right people to make a success of it.......and here comes the BUT

The Director is reluctant to recruit at the level I have suggested for the creative designers and this may/may not kill the whole deal on Wednesday.

So, I don't know really what to advise other than sit still with your fingers crossed - rather like supporting the Albion really!

Will let you know how it goes as soon as I can.

Richard”

Encouraging news then, with the only negative being that the salary wouldn’t be quite as attractive, as perhaps Richard had proposed?  At this stage though, money really didn’t matter to me one jot, and it was really good to know that if things carried on being as difficult as they had been so far at the BBC, there might be a very decent escape route.

Tomorrow though, was to be a brand new day.

Uncle Terry
With my first sleeping tablet, a dash of lavender spray, a mug of Horlicks AND a Nytol all consumed, I slept reasonably well that night.  (Although, I'm sure the fact that it was the first time I’d slept in two whole days, might have had something to do with this!)

After the difficulty of my first five days, I'd already stopped looking forward to my day at work ...But despite the sad news that I was about to receive, this was actually going to be the day that everything got better.

But first of all…

I knew Uncle Terry had been on a ventilator throughout the night, but I received a text not long after I arrived in the office from my Mum.  She was texting to let me know that the doctors had discovered an inoperable tumour on Terry’s brain. 

Terry was the husband of my Nanna's sister, and although actually my Mum's Uncle, he was always known as 'Uncle Terry' to me.  Now, not a lot of people know this - but as a youngster, Terry and Joyce used to take me down to the match every other week … … … …to watch Blackburn Rovers!!!

The trouble was, although I was being plied with a quarter of Midget-Gems and a Howard Gayle programme for my troubles, Terry and Joyce were taking me in to the Nutall Street stand, which as far as I was concerned, was where all the ‘old fogeys’ sat.  As an impressionable 8 year old just discovering football, I found it all a little bit 'boring'.  (But I did enjoy the Midget Gems!).  Meanwhile, on the alternate weekends, (and much to the 'other' half of my family's displeasure!) my Dad would be taking me into the thriving hustle and bustle of The Longside at Burnley FC.

In no time at all, my Rovers-watching days were over and in effect, perhaps anyone who’s ever argued with me about football, should blame my Uncle Terry for turning my allegiance to all things Claret and Blue!

Later that night, we learned that the doctor’s had decided to take Terry off his ventilator, and let nature take his true course.  He passed away shortly afterwards.

God bless Terry Newby.

Turning the corner
On a slightly more positive note, my work earlier that day went really well and with the benefit of perspective, (and a much, much clearer mind), the complex processes and technicalities I'd been struggling to grasp so far, all-of-a sudden started to become clearer.

One thing I must put on record at this point is just how friendly and helpful everyone at the BBC is.  From the cleaner and the brew-lady, to the security guys and the people I've bumped into on the corridor.   …All of them: Brilliant!

And as far as my colleagues in the office - and across the country in the BBC Children in Need team - are concerned, I really couldn't wish for any more support.

Everybody REALLY has been absolutely lovely, extremely pleasant and genuinely helpful.  (…Maybe it's the influence of Pudsey and the fact that they're 'doing it for the kids'?)Whatever it is, these guys really are something else!

The day also had some lovely icing on the cake too! ...As this was the evening I arrived home to find that Dr. Mike Brescia's CD had arrived, "Think Right Now: Tranquil Sleep now"! And oh-my-word word ...how it has helped!!!

Tranquil Sleep now! My brilliant new 'weapon'.

I was still slurping on my Horlicks and I was still popping in a sleeping pill and a herbal Nytol each night.  I was still 'doing my stretches' and wearing my in-flight sleep mask! But now I had another brilliant weapon in my arsenal too!

This brilliant CD lasts for 61 minutes and is split into four 'tracks' ...but I really couldn't tell you too much more about it! For, even at the time of writing (a full week in retrospect of this part of the story), I am yet to even make it to the third track!

It's so, so very soothing, so, so calming and a brilliant way to help you breathe your way into a very relaxed state.  Utter bliss!  It may well be a sack of psychological spiel, but in the end, I guess that's the whole point?

From this night forward, my sleep-pattern improved ten-fold and in turn, so did everything else. My cold finally departed, I was feeling back-on-track physiologically and psychologically, I was ready to take on everything my new job threw at me!


Onwards
The next couple of days seemed to improve as every hour passed by.

As I elaborated upon earlier, all the people I've come into contact with had been real beacons of positivity and this encouragement continued.  But on a broader spectrum, I was now starting to realise how wonderful this organisation was, and how lucky I'd been to have actually been employed by them.

Alright, I was still having IT problems and still working with a very dodgy monitor.  But knowing I’d be getting a brand spanking new set of absolutely everything when we move over to MediaCityUK in May, kind of compensates for all that.  But in all other areas, the technology and the ‘toys’ are amazingly cool.  There’s WiFi everywhere, and every meeting is presented with a 'proper' TV-quality video! …I suppose there’s no need for OHP’s or Powerpoint presentations here when they're professional television-show makers!

I also thought is was really cool when I purchased some train tickets online, and was able to collect the tickets myself by printing them off at our very own self-serve national rail ticket machine ...just down the lobby!


We're also encouraged to keep in touch with our colleagues around the country via Instant Messenger and they've even got 'YAMMER' - a kind of internal BBC Facebook, where we can network with everyone from the Commisioner General to the photocopier guy!

There are TV and radio-types milling about everywhere and in general, just as I imagined, there really is a very cool vibe about the place.

The infamous ‘BBC Canteen’ is actually a very pleasant restaurant, attached to ‘BBC Club’ - a proper bar, where I’ve already seen North West Tonight’s Tony Livesey, Gordon Burns and his co-presenter Ranvir Singh.

The plush surroundings of the bar at 'BBC Club',
...with Ranvir Singh from NWT supping her coffee on the left.

Then there are the work-hours, which are just 35 per week.  Holiday-entitlement is a generous 25 days per year, plus all the bank holidays.  And then, there's the annual 'Corporation Day' - an additional bank holiday between Christmas and New Year especially for BBC employyes!  AND ...On top of all this, Children in Need staff also get a FURTHER two days holiday at Christmas, (for all the extra hard work and effort put in around the televised Appeal Night!).

Oh, and did I mention there are also some very hot chicks to look at? ...and there are LOTS of them!

Looking up
The week had improved so much so, that the significant Wednesday had passed me by without me even checking my e-mails for the latest update from JD Williams.  My goodness ...even my football team was winning back-to-back away games for the first time in years!  Things really were looking up!

Another good night of sleep ensued and it was during my journey on the Thursday morning that I discovered the following e-mail from Richard:

“Hi mate,

Met up with the boss man et al today.

Agreed we should recruit a copywriter, although the rest of the team will follow in June, due to some business changes that need to happen first.

Simon & myself are to pull together a role/job description for the director to agree and sign-off.

Fingers crossed, will be in touch sometime next week.

Rich”

Wow!!! After a couple of really great days at work, I received the very news I'd been desperate for just a few short days later.  But things had improved significantly since then and if my understanding and enjoyment of the job continued to advance at a similar rate over the next few days, what on earth would I do if I was offered a job?! 

The Here And Now

It’s now just over a week since that e-mail from Richard, and I’m expecting to hear the outcome of that job description, (and possibly even a job offer) …any day around now!

During that time though, I’ve finally begun to settle in to my new role and although there isn’t quite the freedom to be as ‘creative’ as I'd like to be, the positives of this wonderful organisation that we all know and love are far outweighing the negatives.  this is the bloody BBC after all!


Whilst it’s true that my first week-or-so was a complete disaster, the tragedies in Japan certainly put sleepless nights, Man-Flu, a difficult introduction to a new job and a family bereavement into perspective somewhat.

The question is …what happens next?

Feet under the table ...and name on the door!

Until next time, thanks for your patience, thanks for reading, and many blessings!

Jason x