There is a type of South African man who will tell you, with absolute conviction, that diesel is the only serious answer.

He drives a bakkie. He has driven a bakkie for 20 years. He once towed a fully loaded horse trailer from Johannesburg to the Karoo on a single tank, and he wants you to know about it.

He is not entirely wrong.

Then there is the other guy. 

He lives in Cape Town, commutes eight kilometres each way to work and genuinely cannot understand why anyone would pay a premium for a diesel engine that spends most of its life idling in traffic on the elevated freeway. 

He is also not entirely wrong. 

This is the petrol versus diesel debate in essence. Two people, two valid positions, two completely different driving realities. In 2026, with fuel prices at an all-time high and a 50-litre tank of 95 unleaded costing R400 more to fill than it did at the start of the year, the stakes have never been higher. 

What the numbers actually say  

Let’s start with the science. 

Diesel engines use compression ignition rather than spark plugs, extracting more usable energy from every litre of fuel. The Automobile Association puts the efficiency advantage at between 25% and 30% compared to a comparable petrol engine. 

On a long highway run, that gap is real and it is felt. More kilometres per tank, better pulling power at lower revs and an engine built to last. The diesel bakkie has become the default vehicle for tackling the South African outdoors for good reason. 

But what the diesel evangelists do not always mention is this: diesel vehicles cost more to buy, often significantly more. The AA’s own running cost data shows that for drivers covering under 35 000 kilometres a year, diesel rarely wins on total cost of ownership, once you factor in the higher purchase price, steeper servicing bills and the cost of components like turbochargers and particulate filters. 

If a diesel vehicle costs you R65 000 more than the petrol equivalent, your annual fuel savings will take a full decade to recover that gap. That is a long time to wait for a return on a decision made in a showroom.  

@toyzautohouse 🚗 Are Diesels still the more economical option? #cars ♬ original sound – Toyz Auto | 082 592 8536

And there is one more thing worth knowing: diesel in South Africa is deregulated. The government sets the maximum retail price for petrol each month, but retailers can charge what they like above the published wholesale reference price for diesel. Perfectly legal. It’s why the petrol station on your corner can be R2 more expensive than the one two streets away. It is also why diesel prices spiked viciously the moment the Strait of Hormuz closed, before most of us had read a single headline about it. 

The honest answer  

“Forget the diesel,” says Brendon Carpenter, brand marketing manager at Suzuki South Africa, “unless your driving genuinely demands it.” 

Direct, perhaps provocative, but it reflects a reality many South Africans need to hear. 

Most of us are not towing horse trailers. Most of us are doing school runs, commutes and the occasional weekend away. 

For that kind of life, a modern turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine will serve you well, cost less upfront and keep you out of the workshop more often. 

The rule of thumb is simple. 

If you cover more than 20 000km a year on open roads, tow often or need serious torque for work, diesel earns its premium. If you are a city driver covering shorter distances who plans to trade in within five years, the numbers favour petrol. Resale value has historically favoured diesel, but that gap is narrowing as more buyers weigh up the options and reach the same conclusion.

@tredcars Diesel gas prices tho 🥴🥴 #carcommunity #cartiktok #diesel #dieselpower #dieselengines #turbodiesel #carfacts #foryou #greenscreen ♬ Lo-Fi analog beat – Gloveity

What about a third option?  

More South Africans are now asking a different question altogether. A March 2026 fuel sentiment study found that 75% of respondents said rising costs were already punching holes in their monthly budget, and nearly one in four was actively considering switching vehicles to electric. 

Most are not looking at fully electric, though. 

Plug-in hybrid sales surged 280% in 2025, while pure battery electric vehicle sales fell 17%. With just over 500 public charging stations nationwide, full electric remains aspirational for most South Africans outside Sandton and the Atlantic Seaboard. 

The hybrid sits in a more honest place. It does not ask you to rewire your garage at home or plan your route around charging stops. It runs on the same fuel you’ve always used but burns considerably less of it, especially in stop-start city traffic. For a country where budgets are under pressure and infrastructure remains uneven, that middle ground is where momentum is quietly building. 

The petrol versus diesel debate was never really about fuel. It was always about who you are as a driver, how you use your car and what your financial reality looks like. Those things have not changed. What has changed is the cost of getting the decision wrong.  

Know your mileage. Know your roads. Know your wallet. Then fill up accordingly. 

Words: Adrain Ephraim
Illustrations: Shutterstock

The post Petrol vs Diesel: Which side are you on?   appeared first on TFG Media.

Mass redundancies, the death of myriad industries and unfathomable water use for Al-generated deepfake images? Or increased efficiency, easier data analysis and less burnout? It depends who you’re asking. There’s an Al anxiety seeping into the professional world at the moment. Traditional industries are grappling with questions they haven’t had to ask before. Will automation replace workers entirely, or is the future really about adaptation? 

Who’s in the firing line?  

There’s no point pretending that all jobs and industries will be safe from changes brought on by Al. According to the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Future of Jobs Report, 39% of workers’ existing skills are expected to change or become outdated by 2030, highlighting the need for adaptation. 

Process-heavy, repetitive and administrative roles are likely to decrease significantly in the coming years as automation makes many of them redundant. Many customer support functions are already being handled by Al at the time of writing, often reducing waiting times and increasing availability for consumers. 

Unlike traditional automation, which follows a fixed set of rules, modern Al systems can interpret language, generate responses and complete more complex admin tasks. Data processing, scheduling, basic communications and other routine functions are increasingly being delegated to LLMs (large language models), with the human role continuing to diminish. 

Don’t rely on walking into a job where routine tasks are the way to work your way up the corporate ladder. Those days may be long gone, and human capability might become even more important than it has been in the past.

@realbraidenshawAI is changing the workforce fast, and the people who win will be the ones who master skills like these.♬ original sound – realbraidenshaw

The human touch  

Vanessa Bluen, founder and managing director of The Consultant Powerhouse, argues that organisations are placing greater emphasis on what she describes as ‘human capability’ and how employees leverage this capability alongside their technical and Al skills With Al becoming increasingly integrated into the workplace, softer skills are growing more important. As a specialist learning and development company working across professional industries, Vanessa’s team has noted that emotional intelligence, interpersonal communication and adaptability are becoming greater differentiators than ever before. 

In industries built around relationships, trust and leadership, the ability to connect with people will remain imperative to efficient and reliable organisational output – so working on your soft skills is well worth your time. 

@noteswnat #selfimprovement #selfgrowth #education #learning ♬ Beep (Blow-up ・ pop-up ・ adsorption sound) – Koi

Learning is more than LLMSD  

The education sector offers an interesting example of Al changing aspects of professions without replacing the human element. 

Jeremy Lovemore, academic director at English-literacy centre I Can Read, notes that Al is proving useful for curriculum design, lesson planning and creating classroom materials. Admin workloads can also be reduced significantly, with teachers able to generate exercises and visual aids within seconds. 

But the classroom environment itself remains firmly resistant to change. Working with children, and students in general, requires nuanced care, personal attention and guidance. For language learning in particular, students are not simply receiving information. They learn to communicate through interaction with both their teachers and fellow students. Jeremy argues that classroom presence is “surely irreplaceable” for precisely these reasons. 

Tricks of the trade  

It might seem obvious, but manual work remains one of Al’s biggest challenges. Information analysis and processing are helpful in the corporate space, but carpenters, electricians, mechanics plumbers still rely on problem- solving that LLMs cannot replace at this point. Tradies in these spaces operate constantly changing environments require adaptability and situational problem-solving  

“Roles that require empathy, ethics, contextual judgement, relationship management or nuanced decision-making will continue to rely heavily on people, says Vanessa. The judgement necessary to reliably perform specialised, physical jobs can only be gained through years of practise. Roofs and pipes rarely break or burst in the same way. 

On balance, it’s worth remembering how quickly AI has evolved: early versions of ChatGPT were widely mocked for their mistakes, yet just a few years later many businesses are already integrating AI into their day-to-day operations. 

The Future of Jobs Report predicts continued growth in construction, education and care- economy roles, suggesting that professions built around physical work, human judgement and interpersonal interaction remain resilient. It would be difficult to overstate both the pace and unpredictability with which AI is evolving, but trade jobs do look safe for the moment. 

Vanessa is of the opinion that the future will be shaped by those who understand both their own and AI’s strengths. Rather than replacing workers outright, AI might increase the number of ‘superworkers’: employees who successfully combine tech capability with sound judgement, creativity and interpersonal skills. 

As routine tasks become increasingly automatable, the qualities that make people distinctly human may become our greatest professional advantage. Learn to delegate the small stuff, or the parts that don’t serve you, and use your time to develop and use your professional strengths.  

Words: Albert Troost
Illustrations: Gallo/Getty Images, Shutterstock 

The post Is AI coming for your job?  appeared first on TFG Media.

When it comes to setting #careergoals, most people do it when they’re in a certain mindset, such as around the beginning of the year along with their New Year’s resolutions or after a promotion. And having goals are important – research indicates that people who have clear goals are 14.2% more likely to feel inspired at work, are more persistent in pursuing achievements and are better able to focus on what truly matters. But over time, things happen – either in your workplace or your industry as a whole, which can make you rethink these goals as they might no longer align with your plans or where you see yourself in five years.

Instead of writing them off completely, it can be worth re-examining to see if any of them are still relevant to your journey up the proverbial ladder, or replacing them with ones that apply to where you’re at and keep you motivated. Here’s how to clarify your work goals to see if they still speak to you or whether it’s time to replace them.

Establish what your current values are

Just like your career goals, as you grow as a person and have you core experience, your core values can also change. When you set goals around work, you may have been in a different phase of life than you are now. Ask yourself what matters to you today, whether that’s flexibility, financial stability, creativity or impact. Because if your work

Be aware of your emotional response

When you think about your goals, how do they make you feel? This is a good way to assess whether they are going to be a good source of motivation or not.

Gut feelings shouldn’t be ignored! If you feel consistent dread, procrastination or even indifference, this can signal that a goal no longer resonates and that it no longer matters to you. You should be feeling enthusiastic about reaching your goal rather than being despondent.

Evaluate whether the goals fit your lifestyle

If you made your goals when you were just starting out in your career then you will most likely need to change, or at least update, them to reflect your current lifestyle. You may have new responsibilities, priorities or even energy levels, so an old goal may no longer feel possible or sustainable. If your lifestyle and your goals conflict, then it may be time to reassess.

Look at your progress in an honest way

Remember: Not progressing the way you thought you would in your career is not a sign of failure. Instead, it could actually be a sign of misalignment. Be honest with yourself about why you are stagnating, whether it’s a skills gap, a lack of resources or simply a lack of desire. Doing some real reflecting on this aspect of your career can help you to establish if a challenge is worth pushing through or if it’s time for the goal to be released and replaced.

What is the ‘why’ behind your goals?

A good way to check if a goal is worth striving towards is by figuring out why you set it in the first place. Was it driven by sincere passion or external pressure, such as societal norms, family expectations or comparison? If your ‘why’ doesn’t feel meaningful, the goal probably isn’t either so it can be removed from the list and replaced with something that ignites and spurs you forward.

@apexclass

Consider who is that you are becoming

Your goals might be stuck in the past and holding you back when what really matters is who you are becoming and the future that you want to build for yourself. Think about who you envision yourself to be in the years to come and consider what you think your priorities, lifestyle and mindset might be. Then, ask yourself if your current goals move you closer to these things or whether they will get in the way.

Out with the old, in with the new

So some of your career goals are outdated and need to be replaced – how do you do that?

The trick to setting goals that work for you begins with having clarity. Reflect on what matters to you, then you can come up with goals that feel both meaningful and realistic. Break them into small, achievable steps and keep them flexible. Check in regularly and adjust them as you grow. Success isn’t about sticking to plans rigidly, but rather creating new ones that actually fit with your life.

@thrivesmartlife

Words by Hellen Wallace

Photographs: Pexels

The post Are your career goals still relevant? appeared first on TFG Media.

Let’s face it: paying taxes is a ‘grudge’ transaction, parting with your hard-earned money. 

But it’s not optional, so why not learn to breeze through it. Tax season officially kicks off in July, and for many it can feel bewildering. People fall into three categories: the anxious filers, the procrastinators and the forward-thinkers. The difference is preparation. 

What does tax filing mean for you? 

This is a set period every year when citizens review their income, track expenses and submit their tax returns to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). A tax return should accurately outline your full financial picture for the previous year – what you earned, your assets and investments, and expenses you can claim back on. Staying compliant avoids penalties and helps you maintain a healthy financial record. Note that anyone under 65 who earns less than R95 750 a year is exempt from paying tax. 

@davronchanderdeo Top 5 Reasons you should not skip on filing your tax returns every year regardless. 💭 Follow me for more Finance related Tips and Tax Hacking 🧞‍♂️ #finance #financetips #taxes #taxseason #southafrica ♬ original sound – Davron Chanderdeo | CA(SA)

3 practical ways for a stress-free tax submission 

Filing your taxes seems like just another burden to add to an already busy life. But don’t wait until the last minute. There are ways you can stay one step ahead. 

Track tax deductions as they happen

A stress-free tax season is about small, consistent habits that save you time and hassle later. If you wait until tax season, you’re likely to forget about all your financial transactions of the past year. Keep a record (and receipts) of all your income and claimable expenses (see ‘It’s the little things’, right). 

Create a dedicated folder for your tax documents

This might sound basic but it makes the world of difference during tax season, keeping all relevant documents in one place. “The golden rule is that if you can’t prove it, you can’t claim it. Financial records are crucial when doing your taxes,” says financial administrator Nelisa Shabalala. From bank statements and medical expenses to receipts and travel logbooks, you’ll know exactly where to look and are less likely to forget important info. Missing documents can complicate your submission, cause you to miss out on a rebate and lead to delays and penalties. 

Speak to an expert

 “Doing your taxes can be complicated, and I’d advise anyone to consult a tax practitioner, especially if you have multiple income streams or are a freelancer, to keep track of different exemptions,” says Nelisa. It will save you time, mental energy and stress. If you’re uncertain about deductions or struggling to get it all done on your own within the deadline, speaking to a professional is the way to go. It’s a small price to pay for being compliant, avoiding penalties and possibly even getting a rebate. 

@yethuj #taxseason2025 #taxpractitioners #southafricantax ♬ original sound – Yethu- The Tax Lady

It’s the little things 

A lack of awareness is the biggest reason people miss out on tax deductions. Taxes are not something generally spoken about – as Nelisa says: “You just come across it one day in adulthood and you’re expected to file your taxes like a pro!” Because people often feel overwhelmed filing a tax return, they under-claim or don’t claim at all. It’s easy to overlook costs that you don’t realise qualify. The quiet costs of doing your job add up over time; they’re often small expenses that don’t feel significant in the moment. 

Home-office costs: From small things like stationery to your desk and chair, electricity bill, internet, phone, rates and rent – all count. 

 Wear and tear: If you use your personal cellphone or laptop (a lot) for work, you can claim for this. 

Travel-related expenses: If you use your personal vehicle for work purposes (not just getting to/from work), you can claim part of the costs. 

 Retirement savings are tax deductible, as are donations to charity. 

It’s all about complying and filing, doublechecking figures and knowing what’s allowed. The truth is that tax does not have to be stressful. Every deduction and opportunity to claim is a chance to be smart and strategic about your money.  

Words: Mbali Zangqa  

Photos: Pexels  

Text Courtesy of Jet Club Magazine  

The post Tax season doesn’t have to be hard — do it your way appeared first on TFG Media.

Financial security often begins with everyday decisions. Budgeting, saving and spending patterns shape the way people approach the larger financial commitments in life. However, for men and women there is often a difference in financial behaviour and financial wellness. In the past, men were the sole providers or they brought in the lion’s share of the money. But this is changing. 

According to Raazia Ganie, executive head of investments at advisory firm NMG Benefits, the role women play in financial decision-making is shifting “We’re seeing that they are increasingly the decision-makers in their households. This makes it more important than ever for women to be financially literate and empowered.” 

The same differences appear in long-term wealth planning. Landi notes that men often gravitate towards growth-oriented or aggressive allocations at an earlier age, while women prioritise steady growth and capital preservation, especially around major life events like having children. 

Decision-making drivers also vary. 

“Men might focus on potential gains and market momentum; women may emphasise fee sensitivity, transparency and alignment with values (for example, ethical investing) or family goals.” 

Planning for the future brings another dimension to these differences. “Women often adopt more conservative withdrawal strategies and are more meticulous about retirement planning and Insurance alignment.” 

Worth the risk?  

Differences in financial choices often appear in how individuals approach risk. Managing partner at Accountants on Point, Landi Khumalo, states that gender patterns in financial behaviour reflect broader economic and social conditions. 

“Men are often more inclined towards higher-risk, higher-reward financial moves, while women tend to lean towards cautious, risk-averse strategies. In South Africa, these patterns can be further influenced by labour market security, financial education and household responsibilities.” 

These tendencies have an influence on investment choices. “Men might be quicker to engage with stock market volatility, specialised funds or higher-leverage investment products, whereas women tend to prefer diversified, long-term growth with clearer risk controls,” adds Landi. 

What’s needed to level the playing field for men and women?  

Inclusive financial education that supports diverse preferences, encourages diversification and improves access to advice.  

Secure, user-friendly digital tools for both new and experienced investors, emphasising scam awareness, password hygiene and two-factor authentication. 

Personalised financial planning prioritised over broad generalisations, recognising that risk tolerance varies by income, debt and goals. 

Financial priorities also reflect different concerns within families. “Women may prioritise emergency buffers, education for children, healthcare and retirement funding. Men may place more emphasis on investment opportunities, status-related purchases or larger discretionary spends.” 

Balancing security and flexibility is another factor influencing financial decisions. 

“There’s often a tension between wanting security with savings and insurance, and a desire for flexibility, availability of credit and accessible investments. Context-specific factors such as cost of living, unemployment risk and housing costs strongly influence these choices,” says Lindi. 

The Gender Pay gap  

Recent data provides further insight into financial behaviour across genders. The 2024 Nedbank Financial Health Monitor shows women currently outperform men in overall financial wellness. The key findings showed women have a financial health score of 57.5, while men’s is 53.7. The gender gap widened from 0.9 points in 2023 to 3.8 points in 2024. 

These stats may be the reason behind the recent rise in wealth-building. Building wealth does not start with complex investment strategies, especially for women. 

Investing itself has become easier to access. Digital platforms and bank-linked applications allow people to start investing with small amounts. “You don’t need thousands upfront. Small, consistent investments compound over time, and grow quietly in the background,” says Raazia. 

Futuristic Financial Shift   

Digital finance has added another layer to how people manage money. Online banking, digital payments and investing platforms are now widely used across all demographics. 

Lindi notes that behaviour online can also show subtle differences. “Many people, regardless of gender, are increasingly engaging with digital finance tools, but some studies show women are more conservative about taking financial actions online, while men may experiment more with a wider range of digital services.” 

“Preferences for financial platforms also vary. Women prefer user-friendly interfaces, transparent fees and customer support, whereas men prioritise advanced features, analytics and speed of execution.” 

As financial tools become more accessible and financial roles within households evolve, these behavioural patterns will shift. But the fundamentals remain grounded in practical decisions around budgeting, saving, investing and planning for the future. 

As Raazia advises: “Build your financial foundation first and then you can enjoy life’s luxuries. When your debts are paid off and you’re investing regularly in your future, you and your family can live without stressing about what’s to come. That’s the real power of investing as a woman today.” 

@ohh_aishaTop lessons from my journey. Learning about money and financial responsibility gave me a level of stability, peace of mind and safety I wish for everyone.

♬ original sound – Aisha M.

Words: Viwe Ndongeni-Ntlebi 
Photography: Gallo/Getty images 

The post Do men and women think about cash differently? appeared first on TFG Media.

With that in mind, let’s dive into AI in job seeking. What’s the state of play with applicant tracking systems (ATS), the Al-driven screening tools that sort through and evaluate job applications before human eyes ever see them? 

With over 98% of Fortune 500 companies using these systems, and in a country where employment, or lack thereof, is a constant and contentious issue, it’s worth dissecting how job seekers can meaningfully navigate the digital gatekeepers of modern hiring. 

Across industries, limited vacancies and high application volumes mean more screening. In the South African context, critical skills shortages and the need to meet strict POPIA and B-BBEE requirements often mean recruitment challenges are amplified. 

Many ATS systems help maximise efficiency to meet these challenges, with some combination of the following: keyword matching, relevance scoring, formatting interpretation, section identification and file-type compatibility. 

Keyword matching 

This is fairly straightforward. Depending on the job title, an ATS will pull info from your CV related to job titles, certifications, technical skills (‘Salesforce’ ‘Python’) and soft skills (‘cross-functional collaboration). ATS systems don’t just count keywords; they evaluate context, which is crucial for identifying candidates with practical experience rather than those who simply list skills. 

According to Jobscan, a 2025 survey revealed that most recruiters filter by skills (76.4%), followed by education (59.7%) and job title (55.3%). This is a good indication of where to focus your attention when compiling your CV. 

Relevance 

This goes hand-in-hand with keyword matching. When you submit a job application, the ATS looks through your CV, compares it against the job description and assigns a score. CVs that fall below a threshold are automatically filtered out. 

It’s worth noting that this score is not a universal measure of CV quality: it reflects job-specific compatibility, so the same CV may score 40 percentage points differently for identical roles at different companies, simply because of how keywords are prioritised. 

Don’t send the same CV to every company. A tailored approach takes more effort but can lead to significantly higher match scores. Systems also check for years of experience and career progression, so ensure that experience claims are substantiated and not merely stated in a skills list. 

Formatting 

This matters more than most people realise. File format, layout and the use of graphics, headers and footers can all affect how well a system reads your standardisation, it’s best to play by established rules: use fonts like Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman; stick to plain text and simple templates; avoid images, logos, charts and tables entirely. 

Section identification 

For the same reasons that you’re sticking to widely used fonts, you should aim to use standard section headings such as Work Experience”, ‘Education’ and “Skills”, rather than creative alternatives like ‘What I’ve Done’ or “My Background”. ATS section detection relies on familiar, recognisable labels to locate and score relevant information. 

On the subject of what not to do: writing word processing platform’ instead of Microsoft Word’ may cause the system to miss the connection entirely, and your application could be rejected – an easy fix that can make all the difference. Use exact terminology from the job description. 

While a two-or multi-column layout might look polished to the human eye, some ATS systems struggle to parse them, reading adjacent columns as a single stream of text and producing nonsensical output that can’t be scored. 

Avoid keyword stuffing – overloading your CV with specific keywords or phrases in an attempt to manipulate a ranking system. And because most systems skip headers and footers entirely, make sure your contact info appears in the body of the CV. 

Navigating the current job market can feel daunting, but the mechanics of these Al systems, once understood, are surprisingly gameable. That said, the old-school fundamentals still apply: a strong, honest CV tailored to the position advertised. But now that CV just needs to speak a language machine can read. 

Get that right, and you give yourself a fair shot at the thing that matters most: getting in front of an actual person.  

Words: Tshiamo Seape 

Photographs: Gallo/Getty Images 

The post How to get your CV past the digital gatekeepers   appeared first on TFG Media.

For the gamer: Xbox Wireless 2.0 Black Headset 

When your dad wants to escape into the world of gaming, these headphones are ideal. Lightweight and comfortable, they deliver crystal-clear audio with auto-mute and voice isolation. With up to 20 hours of battery life, these headphones are ideal for long gaming sessions. 

Price: R 2,499.95 

For the on-the-go dad: Supa Fly 10000mAh PD 22.5W Power Bank 

For the dad who’s always on the move and needs his devices fully charged, the Supa Fly 10000mAh Power Bank keeps phones and gadgets powered up. Its smooth design looks great anywhere, making it perfect for any adventure. 

Price: R 399 

For the fitness fundi: Tempo Pulse Stainless Steel Smart Ring 

If your dad prefers tracking his steps (minus a bulky fitness watch), this smart ring is a great fit. It monitors fitness, heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep – all in a sleek, discreet design. 

Price: R 899 

For the coffee-lover: Bosch Coffee Grinder Black 

For dads who love a fresh brew, the Bosch Coffee Grinder Black lets them grind coffee beans at home, bringing a personal touch to their morning routine. Give your dad the gift of a perfect cup every morning. 

Price: R 649 

For the music lover: JBL Go Essential 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker 

For dads who love music at any gathering, this Bluetooth speaker delivers clear sound wherever they go. Compact, waterproof, and dustproof, it’s great for outdoor adventures. 

Price: R 699 

Photography: Pexels

The post Tech gifts you’ll love appeared first on TFG Media.

Making the decision to get a new job after a long break – whether you took time off to spend with your kids or newborn baby, to travel the world or improve your mental health – can be daunting, especially in the competitive job market we’re currently experiencing.  

Work on your mindset first  

The first step to success is rewiring your brain and reminding yourself that you do possess the skills needed to hit the ground running, even if you feel like you’re not good enough or you’ve fallen behind. 

“Imposter syndrome is about how we perceive ourselves in relation to others, and it connects to the expectations from ourselves, others and society that have been internalised over the years,” explains Charlotte Moore, a counselling psychologist practising at Netcare Akeso Parktown. Charlotte says the first step to identifying (and then managing) imposter syndrome is to notice the negative thoughts that are arising automatically, and to work on reframing these into more positive thoughts. 

 She highlights the importance of finding a safe space. “Find a person whose feedback you trust – and do some perception versus reality testing with them, so that they can help you with seeing where your thoughts are grounded in facts, and where they are just your perception of your reality.  

“It’s also helpful to notice changes in your behaviour, where you may be declining opportunities due to a fear of failure or being seen as incompetent, withdrawing from others and experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Consider professional mental-health support if you are concerned that imposter syndrome is threatening to impact your functioning in any area of life.” 

The language that you use as part of your internal dialogue matters, she adds. And this can be reflected in how you market yourself to potential employers. Cape-based HR manager Ané Schoeman says there are ways to reframe your career gap as a strength when seeking job opportunities. 

“I believe that honesty speaks volumes. Instead of leaving a blank space in your CV, rather put a short summary in that timeframe to indicate the reason for the gap,” she says. 

Olivia Moodley, an HR director, says that her own career gap resulted in growth – and that these gaps can be valuable in the workplace. “As a mom, I learned time management, patience, problem-solving and clear, focusing on skills and achievements and multi-tasking every day,” she says. 

Feeling mom guilt?  

If you’re struggling with the idea of leaving your baby with a caregiver or at crèche when you head back to work, there are ways to manage these feelings of guilt. 

• Remember that you are both an individual and a mother – and these identities can co-exist. Focus on what you can control, set clear boundaries around your time, and manage expectations at home and at work. 

• One of the biggest elements within your control is the nature and quality of the time you spend with your child when you’re not at work. 

• Accept that you have changed because motherhood changes us. Fully accepting this change is crucial for letting go of the pressure you place on yourself and opening up space for this changed self to flourish. 

Build your skillset  

If you feel out of touch with what’s happening in your industry, it’s always a good idea to upskill yourself – and this doesn’t have to break the bank. Start by reconnecting with former colleagues. In addition to finding out about any available roles at the company they work for, also ask what they think you could do to stand out in the competitive and evolving job market. “Join networking groups on Facebook, professional groups and connect with people on LinkedIn,” adds Ané.  

Then, make your learning official. “Start small. Free or low-cost online courses, YouTube, podcasts and short certifications help a lot,” says Olivia. Ané agrees, pointing out that there are many free courses and content available online, books in bookstores and libraries, and you can even re-read your original study material if it’s available.  

Tips for updating your CV 

Olivia advises that your keep your CV short and clear, focusing on skills and achievements, rather than placing an emphasis on dates. “On LinkedIn, a confident summary matters more than a perfect timeline,” she says, adding that it’s beneficial to include any volunteering, part-time work, courses or personal projects you’ve completed during your career hiatus.  

Ané echoes this advice, saying, “Let your CV speak to the new you, with confidence and professionalism. Indicate whether you have done anything during your break that will benefit your re-entry into the workplace.” 

When it comes to AI, Olivia says it can help with CVs, cover letters and job searches, but it shouldn’t replace your own voice. Rather than depending fully on ChatGPT and apps, she says to use them as an added support system in your job search. 

“Never let AI be the final ‘designer’ or ‘writer’ when it comes to compiling a CV or writing summaries. Make sure that it still reflects you,” adds Ané. “I don’t mind getting CVs where AI was used, as long as I can see the person on the other end – AI should make the application better, not replace the original person.” 

Finding flexible opportunities  

If it’s a part-time, hybrid or flexible role you’re looking for, filter your job searches accordingly and be honest about your needs when being interviewed. 

If you’re looking to gain more flexibility in a role you’ve already signed up for, Olivia suggests being honest but smart about your timing. “I’d first show my value and skills, then talk about flexibility,” she says. 

According to Ané, “both parties – hirer and jobseeker – should be open about their expectations, but in the majority of situations you must be open to compromise and show adaptability and resourcefulness to seek solutions. 

“If you are in a position to pick and choose, then don’t settle for a company or position that does not align with your values and needs… it probably won’t change,” she says. Most important of all is to choose a role that truly supports your priorities.
 

Words: Shani Tsai
Photos: Gallo/Getty Images

Also read: Tips for fuel career ambitions 

The post How to reclaim your career after a break appeared first on TFG Media.

So… It’s the start of a new week and the team is getting ready for a brainstorming session. They’re fully prepared, with high energy and ideas jotted down. But Tammy, who usually always volunteers to share first, has gone quiet in the last few sessions. She is not attending ‘optional’ meetings and is saying no to projects she used to enjoy. She hasn’t resigned, hasn’t said anything specifically, but mentally she seems, well, uninterested. 

This slow fade has a name: micro-quitting (also known as ‘quiet cracking’). Different to quiet quitting, which is about doing only what must be done to hang on to a job, micro-quitting (which can be a precursor to quiet quitting) is more difficult to spot.  

“Micro-quitting is the gradual, often unnoticed behaviour that shows an employee is emotionally checked out,” says Zulfa George, a talent acquisition specialist with more than a decade’s worth of experience in HR. “It happens in small steps. Employees lose interest, stop collaborating or mentally withdraw while still being physically present.” There’s no dramatic exit or big argument. Instead, it shows up in small ways. “Early signs include putting in less effort, attending meetings less, responding more slowly to messages, losing their sense of curiosity and shifting from proactive to reactive behaviour,” says Zulfa.  

@motivationalgrass #quietquitting #newgeneration #simonsinek #genzthings #genz #job ♬ original sound – Motivational Viral TV – Motivational Grass

Alone, these little changes are easy to excuse. Maybe Tammy is tired or the week has been busy… However, when these behaviours persist, it creates a wider problem. The whole team’s energy drops. Ideas dry up. And office morale quietly suffers.  

Why do employees start pulling back?

In some cases, it’s about self-protection. “Disengagement often starts when people feel stuck, overlooked or exhausted,” Zulfa explains. “Many don’t quit right away because of money, loyalty or hope that things will get better. So they pull back in order to cope.”  

Employees who feel overlooked and unheard or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, micro-managed, are more prone to micro-quitting. Recognition plays a big role as well.  

@ginnyleads 📣 Time to invest in your people! 💼 According to McKinsey, uncaring or uninspiring leaders are one of the top reasons people quit their jobs. People crave being seen, valued, and supported, regardless of age, level, or tenure. Restore engagement and retain top talent by fostering trust through honest and transparent communication. #LeadershipMatters #EmployeeEngagement ♬ original sound – GinnyLeads

“When people don’t feel appreciated or see ways to grow, their motivation disappears quickly,” says Zulfa. “They start to disengage before they decide to leave for good.” 

@robertleebarber When a top performer suddenly seems disengaged or quiet, it can signal that they are checked out mentally or emotionally. This shift often stems from factors like burnout, lack of recognition, or feeling undervalued. It’s crucial for leaders to recognize the signs early and address the underlying issues. Open communication, meaningful feedback, and a supportive environment can help re-engage these individuals, fostering both productivity and morale. A once-vibrant contributor can be revitalized with the right attention. Don’t wait until they’re gone to take action! #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipMatters #TeamDynamics ♬ original sound – Robert Lee Barber

Signs you may be micro-quitting  

1. You used to contribute ideas in meetings, but now you’re silent, bored or distracted.  

2. Emails and team messages are kept short; without the friendly tone they once had.

3. Consistently logging off exactly on time, avoiding voluntary overtime.  

4. Passing up opportunities to take on new projects.  

5. Work that was once thorough is now just ‘good enough’.  

6. You opt out of casual office chats, team lunches or after-work drinks.  

7. You’re calling in sick more frequently, especially around high-stress deadlines. 

How managers can spot and respond  

@barbara.corcoran #QuietQuitting ♬ original sound – Barbara Corcoran

– Look at behaviour: Who is quieter? Who has stopped sharing ideas? Who is there but doesn’t really seem engaged?  

– Think about systems: “Rigid rules, unclear expectations and treating everyone the same can show employees that their needs don’t matter,” warns HR specialist Zulfa George.   

– Genuinely care about your employees: Ask them how they are really doing? What’s draining their energy? What would help them feel engaged again? 

Advice for employees

If reading Tammy’s story resonates with you, pause and reflect. Think about what’s causing it. Is it your workload, management or leadership, lack of growth opportunities or burnout? “Dealing with it early can prevent long term dissatisfaction,” says Zulfa.

When speaking to your manager, it is important to focus on solutions. Say things like, “I want to do my best work, and this is what I need to stay engaged…”  

Other methods include asking for clarity, setting boundaries, seeking development opportunities and reconnecting with your ‘why’ – your purpose and your passion. And if  re-engaging isn’t possible, “protecting your energy while planning your next steps is equally valid,” Zulfa adds.   

Words: Shanaaz Petersen 
Photography: Shutterstock 

Also read: How to spot a toxic work environment 

The post 7 Signs you may be micro-quitting   appeared first on TFG Media.

Charndré Kippie, Editor 

I think my office love language would have to be acts of service. I really value the way my team rallies together under pressure – stepping in to help manage heavy workloads and meet tight deadlines. I appreciate how we support one another during stressful times and the fact that we often use a bit of comedic relief to keep each other going makes it even more special. 

Claudia Da Silva, Editorial Assistant 

I’d say my workplace love language is teamwork and collaboration. I really value it when people connect over shared visions and passions, and when we work together toward common goals. And of course, a little treat now and then never hurts either! 

Hannah Forbes, Designer 

For me, my office love language is acts of service. I really appreciate it when someone offers to help with a task or simply makes sure not to add unnecessary challenges to my workload. A supportive, helpful team that works together makes all the difference – teamwork truly feels like the ultimate act of care at work. 

Aneeqah Emeran, Digital Editor 

My love language is situational – it changes based on the environment or circumstance. For instance, if I sense the mood is down, and a pick-me-up is needed, I’ll give a little treat or offer words of encouragement. People need to remember their talents and skills. I adore acts of teamwork because it’s something that fosters a sense of togetherness, trust and accomplishment and strengthens the team bond – this makes the next project that much easier to execute. 

Kauthar Adams, Copy Editor 

The way I show love at work would be to gift little treats. Small, unexpected gestures like a sweet treat is thoughtful and showsappreciation. 

Aneliswa Kunene, Editorial Assistant 

My love language is giving and receiving words of affirmation. I really like knowing when I’m doing a good job or my work is being recognised in some way because it makes me feel appreciated and valued. It also motivates me to keep doing my best and gives me confidence in what I’m contributing to the team.  

Photography: Freepik

The post Celebrating love at work: Our team’s office love languages appeared first on TFG Media.