My Story
I was 15 when I wrote my first CV in preparation for two weeks work experience at Leeds Student Newspaper. I was struck by how difficult it can be to present someone’s whole experience and achievements with only two sides of A4.
I started to help my siblings with their CVs and before long I was advising them on job application forms and interviews. The more success I had the more determined I became to help others get the jobs they wanted to live the lives they wanted.
I started my working life in catering. I worked to fund my university degree in many different fields: banking, stock broking, insurance, the police, and legal firms covering criminal, family and charity law. I also did a lot of catering and bar work including serving Madness dinner in a private box at Doncaster Races! After graduating I enrolled on a Graduate Diploma in Law and gained more legal experience.
I had a job at Bradford Council offering systems support to social workers. I found the nature of their work fascinating and enrolled on a part-time social work degree, graduating with first class honours. I love my work and colleagues say that my passion and determination really comes over on a daily basis.
I want to help other people get the job that’s right for them whether that means having a bit of help with CVs and application forms or coaching them with interviews and providing mock interviews. I am also working on practice guides with tips on how to get the job of your dreams.
I live with my husband Pete, son Max and our two cheeky cats Oreo and Miki.
I look forward to working with you.
Best wishes, Stefanie xxx
My name is Peter McDonald, I am Stefanie's husband and I assist her in certain aspects of Clever Careers. My specialty is in written and verbal communication.
I have worked for several years with healthcare data, both in the private sector and for the NHS directly. I have a degree in English Literature, and have had a lot of experience in proofreading and hosting training sessions for clients and staff.
I have also had experience in different types of practical tests for interviews - such as being asked to create a presentation, or produce a piece of data work under time constraints. These are becoming more and more common in the recruitment process in certain industries. I understand how this can seem like a daunting task, but I can help you to prepare for these and to increase your confidence so that you can make the best of the opportunity to show your skills to prospective new employers. So if any of this sounds like it may help you in your quest for the perfect job, please let us know!
Pete