A day in the life – Factoring Services Officer

Sarah Copland joined Highland Residential in April and has continuously worked with the public which has helped her enormously to get started in the role. She loves the outdoors, being out and about and the variety of responsibilities which suits her position perfectly.

Sarah tells us about a typical day in her role as Factoring Services Officer at Highland Residential.

Question 1:
What does an average day in your role look like?

In my role every day is different, and you’re never quite sure where you will end up or what you will be doing! We cover a large geographical area from Thurso to Laggan and Brodie between the two officers out on site.

Question 2:
What is the biggest challenge you face in your role?

Time!! I always have a list of things I need to do but – particularly through our busy summer season – finding enough time in the day to get everything done can be a big challenge!

Question 3:
What do you like most about working at Highland Residential?

The amount of variety and flexibility. Because everyday is different there are always new challenges and things to be learned. No two days are ever the same and each situation needs problem solving which I enjoy, and that’s what I love most about my job.

Question 4:
What skills do you think are important to have to carry out the tasks in your role?

Communication and problem-solving skills are vital in this role. Being able to communicate with a wide variety of people and roles is a fundamental skill I depend upon. Quickly finding effective solutions to a problem usually means discussing and liaising with several people across a wide field of trades and departments, and then organising the solutions. If clear communication, practical thinking and people skills weren’t applied, then I wouldn’t be able to carry out my role in an effective manner.

Question 5:
What advice would you give someone looking to start a career in Factoring?

My best piece of advice would be to listen! There’s so much knowledge gleaned from other experiences that just can’t be taught on paper. Everything that you pick up on will help you paint a bigger picture and broaden your knowledge base. An extensive collection of knowledge and tips through listening to others will be invaluable as it will provide you with a variety of potential solutions to a multitude of situations.

Question 6:
Outside of work, how do you spend your free time?

As well as working full time, I’m also a mum to two girls so my time out of work is spent with them doing as much as we can in the time we have together.