5 Things i’ve learned about the public sector
For the past seven months, following a 15-year career in the professional sports industry, I’ve been diving into the world of the public sector through my role at Invuse. To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect—coming from the private sector, I was half-worried someone might ask me how many government reports I’d filled out before I could even introduce myself! But seriously, after years of focusing on the bottom line, it’s been refreshing to see the public sector’s emphasis on impact and service. I’ve gained some valuable insights that I’d love to share with you…
One of the first things that really struck me is how deeply committed the public sector is to making sure everyone is included. It’s not just about ticking boxes— there’s real heart behind the effort to make services accessible to all citizens. I’ve had calls with some truly open, fun, and charismatic people who’ve made me laugh so much while sharing their passion for inclusivity. Their dedication has been incredibly inspiring, and it’s taught me just how important it is to ensure no one gets left behind.
In my conversations, I’ve seen how public sector organisations often face tight budgets and a mountain of regulations, yet they still manage to innovate and get things done. It’s amazing how they adapt and come up with creative solutions
despite these challenges. The resilience and positive attitudes I’ve encountered have been so eye-opening for me. It’s a great reminder that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
Transparency and accountability aren’t just buzzwords in the public sector— they’re a way of life. I’ve witnessed firsthand how being open and accountable helps build trust, both within organisations and with the public. It’s refreshing compared to the private sector, where the focus can sometimes be more about profits. The people I’ve spoken with have shown me how important it is to be straightforward and responsible in everything we do.
What stands out the most is the power of teamwork in the public sector. Whether it’s different departments working together or partnering with organisations like ours, collaboration is key. The collective effort often leads to better, more effective solutions. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredibly collaborative and fun people who reminded me that we can achieve so much more when we work together—and have a good laugh along the way!
The focus on user-centred design in the public sector has been another big takeaway for me. It’s clear that these organisations genuinely care about meeting the needs of the people they serve. The empathy and understanding I’ve encountered have left a lasting impression. It’s not just about creating useful solutions; it’s about making them truly helpful for the end-users. And the people I’ve met along the way have shown me that a little empathy goes a long way in making a real difference.
Even though my journey in the public sector is just getting started, I’ve already learned a lot. These experiences have really shaped how I think about my work and the importance of serving the public effectively.
