The Flexible Job Market in 2026: What’s Really Happening

In this episode of the Work it Like a Mum Podcast, we’re sharing the fourth session from Smash 26, our two-day virtual event designed to help women start the year with confidence, clarity and momentum in their careers.Hosted by career advancement coach Leanne Cooper who shares powerful strategies to help women rebuild confidence, own their story, and step into 2026 feeling empowered and career-ready.Leanne is the Founder of Accelerate, a leading career advancement programme for senior women, and has supported over 1,000 women to secure roles they love, negotiate confidently, and progress with impact.This session focuses on both the practical and mindset shifts needed to move forward with clarity and confidence. What We Cover:How to prioritise the relationship with yourselfReconnecting with your strengths and achievementsMoving away from external validation and building self-recognitionOwning and confidently framing your career storyPractising how to communicate your story with impactKey Takeaways:Confidence starts with how you treat yourself.Your achievements matter — even if you’ve underestimated them.Create your own system for recognising wins.There is always a positive way to frame your career story.Practising your narrative out loud builds power and presence.Why Listen:Whether you’re progressing within your organisation or re-entering the job market, these strategies will help you show up with confidence and communicate your value effectively.Show Links:Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn hereConnect with Leanne  hereFind out more about Leanne’s work hereSupport the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work it Like a Mum Podcast, we’re sharing the third session from Smash 26, our two-day virtual event designed to help women start the year with confidence, clarity and momentum in their careers.Hosted by recruitment expert Elizabeth Willits, Founder of Investing Women, who shares nearly two decades of insider hiring experience. Having worked at Hays and Deloitte, Liz has reviewed thousands of CVs and interviewed countless candidates.In this session, she breaks down exactly how to position yourself as a high-value candidate, on paper, on LinkedIn, and in interviews, so you can stand out and get hired in 2026.What We Cover:How to turn your CV into a value-focused marketing toolStructuring experience with measurable impactTailoring applications to stand outOptimising your LinkedIn profile for visibility and recruiter searchesPreparing confident, structured interview answersKey Takeaways:Focus on outcomes, not responsibilitiesUse metrics to prove your impactCustomisation beats generic applicationsStrong LinkedIn presence increases opportunitiesPreparation and clarity are the foundation of interview successWhy Listen:Get practical, insider advice to strengthen your CV, boost your LinkedIn visibility, and approach interviews with confidence, so you stand out and position yourself as the obvious choice.Show Links:Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn hereView our career coaching services hereVisit the Investing in Women website here  Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work it Like a Mum Podcast, we’re sharing the second session from Smash 26, our two-day virtual event designed to help women start the year with confidence, clarity and momentum in their careers.Hosted by the recruitment team at Investing in Women, for an in-depth look at the current recruitment landscape and flexible working opportunities. This session is designed to help job seekers and professionals understand the realities of flexible roles, what employers are prioritising in 2026, and how to navigate the application and interview process successfully.What We Cover:Which industries and roles are leading the way in flexible working – and which are lagging behindSkills and experience employers are actively seeking in 2026, including AI literacy, sales, account management, and training rolesHow to identify genuinely family-friendly employers from job adverts and initial conversationsCommon mistakes candidates make when applying for flexible roles and how to avoid themPractical advice on discussing flexible working requirements, including for those with chronic conditionsKey Takeaways:Clear understanding of flexible working trends across industriesInsight into what skills and experiences are in demandTips for positioning yourself effectively during applications and interviewsGreater confidence in negotiating and discussing flexibility with employersWhy Listen:Whether you’re returning to work, seeking a new role, or exploring flexible opportunities, this session provides actionable insights and guidance. Adele and Elizabeth share their expertise from years of recruitment experience, helping attendees feel more confident as they navigate today’s competitive job market.Show Links:Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn hereConnect with Adele McNicholl on LinkedIn hereVisit the Investing in Women Website hereSupport the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this bonus episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we’re sharing a special webinar conversation for small business owners who want to scale without burnout and build businesses that actually work in today’s world.Hosted by Elizabeth Willetts, Founder of Investing in Women, this episode features expert insight from Sam Cooper-Gray, Founder of The Wisdom Studio, on what really drives sustainable growth as we head into 2026.Together, we explore:Why strategy doesn’t need to be complicated to be effectiveHow clear anchors, focused priorities and simple tactics outperform over-planningWhy systems — not willpower — are the key to executionHow flexibility, leadership and culture now underpin growthWhat small businesses must do to stay resilient in a shifting economy⭐  Key Takeaways:Don’t overcomplicate strategy - clarity beats cleverness every time.Set an anchor, then focus on a few priorities that actually move the business forward.Systems drive results -  you rise to the level of the systems you build, not the goals you set.Execution beats intention -  doing the small, consistent actions daily is what creates progress.Adapt with confidence -  when the world changes, reset your tactics without panic or chaos.Why Listen: This conversation is about building better systems, better leadership, and better ways of working — so your business can thrive, not just survive.Whether you’re scaling a business, resetting your strategy, or simply craving more clarity and less chaos, this episode is packed with practical insight you can apply straight away.2025 exposed the cracks in outdated business models.2026 belongs to employers willing to evolve.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Sam on LinkedIn hereVisit the Women Are Good Business website hereVisit the Wisdom Studio website here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work it Like a Mum Podcast, we’re sharing the first session from Smash 26, our two-day virtual event designed to help women start the year with confidence, clarity and momentum in their careers.The session is hosted by Kim Holland, career transition expert, who works with women navigating career pivots, identity shifts and changing priorities,  particularly after becoming parents.Kim opens Smash 26 by tackling one of the biggest questions women tell us they’re struggling with:“I know something needs to change in my career…but what?”What we cover:- Why career dissatisfaction is often clearer than career direction- How to identify what you’re moving away from vs what you’re moving towards- Understanding your professional DNA: who you are, what you need, and what you offer- Why values and motivators shift over time, and why that’s not failure- A practical exercise to reflect on your career so far and spot patterns that matter Key takeaways:⭐Clarity comes before confidence, not the other way around⭐Your next move doesn’t need to be perfect, just intentional⭐Knowing what motivates you now saves time, energy and misaligned applications⭐Career change isn’t about starting again,  it’s about building on what you already haveWhy listen:If you’re feeling successful on paper but restless underneath…If you know you don’t want to go backwards, but aren’t sure what forward looks like…If you’re craving change, flexibility or meaning, without blowing everything up…This episode will help you pause, reflect and get clearer on what you actually want next.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Kim on LinkedIn hereVisit Kim’s website here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this weeks episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we chat with Marina Boyce, a Utility Warehouse partner who shares how she has turned chronic illness into chronic income. Marina opens up about living with ulcerative colitis and fibromyalgia, the impact this had on her career, and how flexible, home-based work has helped her regain control, confidence and financial stability. What We CoverMarina’s journey from working in a physically demanding role to needing a flexible alternativeLiving and working with chronic illness, flare-ups and fluctuating energyWhy traditional employment wasn’t sustainable and what changedWhat a Utility Warehouse partner actually does day to dayHow Marina built income quickly through friends, family and online communitiesPromotions, bonuses and incentives and what’s possible in a short timeThe importance of flexibility, community and support when work needs to fit around healthKey TakeawaysChronic illness doesn’t mean giving up on income, ambition or progressionFlexible work can restore confidence, independence and purposeYou don’t need perfect health, long hours or prior experience to get startedSmall, consistent actions can lead to rapid momentum and resultsWork that adapts to your life (not the other way around),  can be genuinely life-changingWhy Listen:If you’ve ever wondered how to earn an income when traditional work isn’t an option, Marina’s story is proof that work doesn’t have to cost you your health to be worthwhile.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Marina on Facebook hereConnect with Marina on Instagram hereFind out more about joining Utility Warehouse hereSupport the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of Work It Like a Mum, we’re diving into one of the biggest shifts facing women at work today: AI and the future of jobs.I’m joined by Heather Black, Founder and CEO of Supermums, a brilliant organisation focused on upskilling women (and men) in tech. Together, we unpack what AI really means for women’s careers — cutting through fear, hype and headlines to focus on what’s actually happening right now.With women overrepresented in roles already being reshaped by AI, this is a conversation every working woman needs to hear.What We Cover:Why AI is already changing women’s jobs — right nowThe roles and tasks most at risk (and why women are more exposed)How AI is reshaping hiring, interviews, and expectationsWhy “waiting it out” isn’t an optionPractical ways to start using AI to save time and stay relevantHow to future-proof your career without becoming a tech expertKey Takeaways:AI is replacing tasks, not entire careersWomen are disproportionately impacted — but also well-placed to adaptAI skills are quickly becoming essential, not optionalUsing AI can boost productivity, confidence, and employabilityThose who embrace AI early will have a real advantageWhy Listen:If you’re worried about AI, feeling stretched, considering a career shift, or want to stay relevant at work, this episode is for you.You’ll come away feeling informed, confident and empowered, not fearful.AI isn’t going away, but with the right mindset and skills, it can work for you, not against you.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Heather on LinkedIn hereVisit the Supermums website hereFollow Supermums on Instagram here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week's episode of the Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we're joined by Michelle Coulson, founder of Remote Rebellion, a consultancy dedicated to helping people secure meaningful remote work.With demand for remote roles still sky-high — and competition tougher than ever — Michelle shares honest insights into what’s really happening in the remote job market and how candidates can stand out in 2026.What We Cover:Why demand for remote work is still high — even as advertised roles shrinkThe myth that “remote jobs are impossible to get”What’s really stopping employers from offering remote rolesWhen remote work works best (and when it doesn’t)Why networking beats mass applyingHow many roles are filled before they’re ever advertisedKey Takeaways:Remote roles are competitive — but far from impossibleBlind applications aren’t enough — visibility mattersRelationships often beat the perfect CVMany remote jobs are filled via networks, not job boardsEstablished professionals have an edge in remote rolesFlexibility is still king — and employers know itWhy You Should Listen:Want to land a remote role without endless job applications? Michelle shares practical tips, networking strategies, and insider advice to help you stand out and get noticed — even in a competitive market.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Michelle on LinkedIn hereVisit the Remote Rebellion website here Follow Remote Rebellion on Instagram hereSupport the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week's episode of the' Work It Like a Mum' podcast, we’re joined by Ro Feilden-Cook, a personal trainer, women’s wellbeing expert, and founder of The SHE Collective. Ro helps busy midlife women create sustainable breakthroughs in their health—without guilt or perfectionism. She’s also a mum of three and carer to her disabled son, bringing personal experience, resilience, and compassion to her work.Through her award-winning platform, she combines movement, nutrition, mindset, and nervous system support, all within a supportive, empowering community. What we cover:The 4 pillars of health: Exercise, nutrition, mindset & nervous system.Mindset hacks: Navigate setbacks, “week three wobbles,” and hit your “Magic 10” breakthrough.Exercise made simple: Find the best time to move, whatever fits your life.Nutrition without guilt: Why journaling beats calorie counting every time.Power of community: Connection and accountability that make habits stick.Stress-proof your life: Tools for managing stress, inspired by raising a child with complex needs.Self-care that works: Why prioritising yourself is the ultimate gift to your family.Business with heart: Lessons from growing a high-support membership sustainably. Key Takeaways:Self-care isn’t selfish: Taking care of yourself benefits both you and your loved ones.Consistency beats perfection: The “Magic 10” shows small wins compound into breakthroughs.Your community matters: Support and accountability keep habits alive.Food and fitness without guilt: Focus on habits that feel good, not just numbers.Manage stress before it manages you: Breathwork, journaling, and mindset tools.Adapt, don’t give up: Life throws curveballs, including parenting challenges, so adjust and keep pressing play.Why Listen:This episode is full of actionable tips, mindset shifts, and practical tools from Ro to help you show up for yourself, your family, and your future self. Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Ro on LinkedIn hereVisit The SHE Collective website here Follow The SHE Collective on Instagram here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week’s episode, Elizabeth sits down with the brilliant Lindsey Roberts, coach and founder of Gold Digger Coaching, to explore the powerful (and often uncomfortable) truth about boundaries.After spending 12 years in corporate—and hitting burnout hard—Lindsey now helps women redefine success, prevent overwhelm, and create work-life balance without guilt.This conversation is honest, grounded, and full of practical shifts you can start using today.💬 What We Cover:Lindsay’s personal burnout story and the wake-up call that changed her lifeWhy boundaries matter more than ever (and why most of us were never taught how to set them)What early signs of burnout look like, and why they often go ignoredHow to begin setting boundaries, even if your workplace is demanding or the economy feels uncertainThe “micro-boundaries” that instantly create more time, energy and clarityHow to talk to your manager about priority overloadWhy changing jobs won’t fix burnout unless you fix your patternsWhat true work-life balance looks like when it’s sustainableThe transformations Lindsay has seen with clients who finally put boundaries in place⭐ Key Takeaways:Burnout builds slowly: 12–18 months of ignored warning signs usually come before the crash. Small boundaries, big impact: Even a 15-minute break can reset your energy and focus. Stress isn’t the enemy: Constant stress is. Saying yes to everything: Means saying no to yourself. Other people’s urgency isn’t yours: Their priorities aren’t automatically your priorities. Your job isn’t your identity: You are replaceable — protecting your wellbeing matters. Boundaries can be strategic: Align them with business priorities, not combative. Changing jobs won’t fix habits: Boundaries need to be built wherever you are. Rebuild joy at work: Start by recognising what drains you and what energises you.🎧 Why Listen:If you’re juggling work, motherhood and the pressure to “do it all,” this episode gives you practical mindset shifts, early burnout signs to watch for, and real insight from someone who’s lived it, leaving you feeling supported, understood and empowered to set healthier boundaries. Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Lyndsey on LinkedIn hereVisit Lyndsey’s website here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!