In this episode, Tammie pulls back the curtain on the biggest mistakes candidates make during the recruitment process. Learn what instantly turns recruiters off, what actually matters behind the scenes, and how to avoid sabotaging your own chances. These are Tammie’s personal opinions and experiences, not formal advice or guidance. For interview prep, you can book an appointment with Tammie at www.realisticcareers.com.au Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs i...

How Police Records Affect Your Job Prospects In this episode, Tammie breaks down how police checks can impact your chances of getting hired from a recruiter’s perspective. With crime rates making headlines across Australia, more employers than ever are conducting background checks, especially in industries like health, disability, childcare, finance, and government. Tammie explains why these checks matter, how they’re processed, what shows up, and how the severity of an offence can affect you...

In this episode, Tammie breaks down the simplest, most realistic pathway to start a career in HR, even if you have zero experience. Perfect for career changers, admin professionals, or anyone curious about human resources, this episode maps out a clear three-to-four-year pathway to HR. You’ll learn how to build experience strategically, use your existing skills to your advantage, and make the move to HR professional with confidence. Disclaimer: This episode contains general opinions and...

In this episode, Tammie shares a practical, step-by-step guide on how to answer one of the most important interview questions in the recruitment process: “Why did you apply to this job?” You’ll learn how to break down the job ad, research the company, and bring it all together into a genuine, professional response that sets you apart from other candidates. Plus, Tammie shares a real example showing you how to personalise your answer and impress any recruiter. Disclaimer: This episode co...

In this episode, Tammie shares the telltale signs that your interview actually went better than you think. From building instant rapport with the interviewer to conversations that flow naturally, this episode helps you recognise when you’ve truly made a great impression. Perfect for job seekers who leave interviews overthinking every detail, Tammie explains what hiring managers look for, what those “green flags” mean, and why good interviews often feel more like conversations than assessments...

In this episode, Tammie shares a practical, step-by-step guide on how to apply for jobs in person. An old-school approach that still works today! Perfect for hospitality and retail jobs, this episode is especially helpful for parents wanting to support their teens in finding their first job (not doing it for them), but guiding them through the process. Tammie explains how to prepare, what to wear, what to say when speaking to a manager, and how persistence pays off when job hunting in person....

In this episode, we unpack the Westpac Fair Work case and explore its impact on the Australian workforce. Was it the right decision? What are the lessons for employees, employers, and HR professionals? If you’re an HR professional, business owner, or employee wanting to understand how this case affects you, this episode offers grounded commentary from an industry expert. Tammie is the owner of Realistic Careers, a leading career consultancy in Australia. With a strong background in rec...

In this episode of Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis, we unpack the growing unrest in New South Wales correctional facilities after prison officers staged walkouts across the state. Tammie explores what’s driving the industrial action - from staffing shortages and safety concerns to workplace morale and government negotiations. She discusses why safety concerns are at the centre of the unrest and why, no matter what job you do, everyone deserves to come home safe and sound at the end of th...