What do you consider the tools of your trade? There are some obvious ones, like tech solutions, but some are less obvious, here is our top 8:

1. Hardware: whatever job you do being IT literate is essential in our ever-changing world. Having fast working and reliable computer solutions is essential.
2. Software: applications to streamline work and tools for working remotely. In addition, you need to have good internet speed and mobile functionality. Working from home (WFH) has become an everyday occurrence, so ensure you have the tech to get it right.
3. Transport: you may not think of your car or other modes of transport as tools of your trade, but we see how you do your job and being ready to do anywhere at any time is an essential part of your toolkit.  Often vehicles get used as storage cupboards and even wardrobes, depending on the profession or trade.
4. Presentation: This article from Forbes cites research that it can take as little as a tenth of a second to make a first impression, so very important to get it right - read more here.
5. Qualifications: Most trades, professions, and businesses have registration and licensing requirements, keeping these up to date goes without saying but is often overlooked or undervalued.
6. Experience: Believe it or not, your experience is part of your toolbox and should be referred to, shared, and expressed regularly to add value to your work and client experiences.
7. Continuing Professional Development (CPD): keeping your toolkit sharp means maintaining your CPD and keeping up to date. We have found a way to make reporting CPD easy.
8. Support: No one is an Island; everyone needs a good support group (at home and at work!) as well as a good referral and conferral group. We run a professional peer support group to ensure we are across industry and current events.