One thing I have learned over the years is life is full of ups & downs. In my position as a recruiter, adviser and consultant I have shared in some great moments with candidates. One of the highs is telling a candidate that they have been offered that position that they had their heart set on. The flip side is being there for candidates when they are going through testing periods.

As we are aware the oil and gas capital of Aberdeen is presently going through a downturn and I have seen so many families affected by this. Each time I hear of someone telling me that their position has been put at risk or they have been released, it strikes a personal note with me.

My period in Aberdeen started as an offshore commercial helicopter pilot. Back In 2009 we saw the last cyclical downturn and as a result, I was out of work. I will always remember it, released on the Monday in a city I was relatively new to and my son was born on the Friday. That period taught me and my family a number of things which included adapting, getting a plan in place and enjoying the important things in life.

It is essential to talk when faced with challenges and ironically this may be a time when the phone goes quiet. I would encourage those unaffected to check on colleagues , friends and neighbours.