Career Stories

My World of Work

Career Stories brings the world of work to life. Hosted by Skills Development Scotland Careers Advisers, each episode sees someone from different jobs in the world of work talk about their career journey to date, their learning experiences, skills and ambitions for the future. Career Stories will inspire you to discover the world of work.

  1. 2d ago

    Vikki Ridler, Estate Agent and Entrepreneur

    What does it take to build a successful career in estate agency, become a property valuation expert and grow a recognisable business using the power of social media? In this episode, Joe and Carrie are joined by Vikki Ridler, owner of 5th Avenue Homes, to explore her journey through the property and estate agency industry. Vikki talks candidly about the work ethic she developed from a young age, the experiences that shaped her career and what it takes to succeed in a fast-moving, people-focused profession. She also shares her advice for young people considering a career in estate agency, explaining why strong communication skills, confidence and assertiveness can make all the difference. The conversation also explores Vikki’s unexpected social media journey. Despite initially knowing very little about platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, encouragement from her Head of Social Media helped her step in front of the camera and use short-form content to promote 5th Avenue Homes, share her property expertise and connect with new audiences. Whether you’re interested in estate agency careers, property valuation, entrepreneurship, social media marketing or building a personal brand, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical career advice. Watch the full episode and let us know in the comments: Which skill do you think matters most in estate agency? Subscribe for more conversations about careers, skills and the different routes people take into the world of work. Discover more from My World of Work (https://linktr.ee/myworldofwork) Follow 5th Avenue Homes on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/5thavenuehomesltd) ...and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@5thavenuehomes)

    Vikki Ridler, Estate Agent and Entrepreneur
  2. May 28

    Arnold Masayila and Kyna Malcomson, Harper Macleod LLP

    Legal eagles will enjoy the latest episode of Career Stories, which features two aspiring lawyers from Harper Macleod LLP. Joining Joe and Carrie on the podcast is banking trainee Arnold Masayila and Kyna Malcomson who has just finished her final law exams at Edinburgh University. Arnold, who lived his early life in Zimbabwe, talks about his career journey; from studying in London to moving to Scotland and completing his studies at Stirling University. While Kyna discusses how her business apprenticeship at Harper Macleod’s office in Lerwick gave her the impetus to explore a career in law. On the subject of career expectations, Arnold explains how his parents’ traditional expectations set him on a choice between careers in medicine and law…but it was the fictional Uncle Phil (of Fresh Prince of Bel Air) that swayed his desire to become a lawyer. It was also a family relationship that got Kyna considering her path. Learning from her dad, she considers herself handy on the tools as a mechanic – but it didn’t feel like a long term thing for her, which led to exploring other avenues. Arnold also talks about his love of American Football and how a gap year helped him take the time to mentally prepare for the next phase of his academic and work-based learning. Beyond sports he is also a champion for diversity in work and loves to celebrate parts of his African heritage (particularly when it comes to music and food) with his colleagues. He was named Young Professional Rising Star at the Black Scottish Awards in October 2025. Listen now for lots of insightful chat on what both guests are learning and how their roles work in practice with Harper Macleod. Kyna shares her take on what it actually means to study law and why other young people shouldn’t feel daunted by the prospect of entering the profession. Like and subscribe to catch all the latest episodes of Career Stories. For even more Career Stories insights, visit https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/career-stories/1

    Arnold Masayila and Kyna Malcomson, Harper Macleod LLP

About

Career Stories brings the world of work to life. Hosted by Skills Development Scotland Careers Advisers, each episode sees someone from different jobs in the world of work talk about their career journey to date, their learning experiences, skills and ambitions for the future. Career Stories will inspire you to discover the world of work.