Meet the Team; 10 Questions with Raelene
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Tell us a bit about your background.
I developed strong work ethic early. At the age of 10 I was employed at the train station kiosk before school, selling papers and cigarettes from 6.30 – 8.30 am (Horrifying, I know!). As funny as it sounds, I think that experience sparked my curiosity for careers. I wondered what all the people in the suits were running off to do – and needless to say, I wanted a career change pretty swiftly myself.
My career developed quickly and by the age of 22, I was accountable for 10 reports and 300 contractors. After 15 years in HR Management roles (primarily global corporates), I had 3 children and decided it was the coaching pieces of work that I loved – so I returned to study Career Development.
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Describe yourself in 3 words.
Determined, Approachable, Creative
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Why did you choose coaching as your profession of choice?
There are many days when I’m sure I get just as much out of it as my clients – the uniqueness of each individual challenges me. The profession changes weekly, so I push myself to continually learn (and I love that too). I’ve always got a professional development book or course on the go – but even if I wasn’t a coach, I think I would read them anyway. Human behavior and careers fascinate me – always have, always will. I also think people in this sector are constantly willing to explore and collaborate on new things, and that really resonates with me too.
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What’s the greatest piece of advice you have been given?
It’s an oldie but a goodie – “Don’t sweat the small stuff”. Being somewhat of a perfectionist, I have to continually remind myself to put things in perspective.
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How do you spend your time when you’re not career coaching?
Does a 2-week-old gym membership count? Experimenting with new recipes, running an incredibly busy household with 3 children (aged 10, 12 and 14) and as an indulgence, exploring homewares stores.
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What are 3 things you love?
Jogging in the morning with my dog Henry, brainstorming opportunities (for myself and others), and I recently hiked in Wilsons Prom – breath-taking.
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What are 3 things you loathe?
People holding me up (I’m a true “J” personality type), wilting flowers and PG rated ‘family’ movies that are full of sexual references… Why?!
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If you could live at any time in history, when would it be and why?
I’m a passionate feminist, so there’s not many times in history that look too appealing to me! I’ve got my sights firmly fixed on the future and changes that are happening, and need to continue to happen for women to have true equality. If I had to say a time, maybe the 60’s – gorgeous fashion.
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If you could invite anyone (dead or alive) to your ultimate dinner party, who would it be and why?
When Michelle Payne won the Melbourne Cup I was on a high for days. She is a true battler who has challenged the system and won against the odds. She also seems incredibly grounded and good fun. I would love to have a conversation with her!
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What is your most prized possession?
My Mum’s journal – it’s a treasure-trove of wisdom.
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