Helping Australians land real jobs, the realistic way.
Join recruiter and career consultant Tammie Ballis, the voice behind Realistic Careers, as she breaks down what it really takes to get hired in today’s job market. With experience across the private, government, not-for-profit and small business sectors, Tammie shares straight-talking advice on resumes, interviews, job applications, and career growth which is all tailored for Australian job seekers.
After building a successful consulting business and growing a large following on TikTok, Tammie’s been featured on 2GB, News.com.au, and 7 News for her honest and practical approach to career advice.
Each episode dives into practical tips, recruiter insights, and opinion pieces on the latest job and employment news, helping you stay informed and ahead of the curve. Expect real talk, real strategies, and realistic results. No corporate jargon, just career truth from someone who’s been on both sides of the hiring desk.
Disclaimer: The content shared on Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis is for general information and discussion purposes only. It reflects Tammie’s personal views and experiences and should not be taken as professional, legal, or financial advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals regarding your specific situation.
In this episode, Tammie talks about what makes a good resume to make you stand out in the Australian job market. Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs in the Australian Job Market.
15 Mar 2026
The truth about working in Disablity/Aged Care and the NDIS.
In this weeks episode, Tammie chats with Julie @julieunruly who is a Disablity Support worker and Tiktoker. They discuss Disability Support jobs and the NDIS. Want to get a job in Disability? Go to www.realisticcareers.com.au for help! Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs in the Australian Job Market.
15 Feb 2026
The TRUTH about how to get into Disability Support
In this episode, Tammie helps out an Instagram follower who is having trouble getting a job in disability support, even though they have a Certificate III. For career consulting and resumes, go to www.realisticcareers.com.au Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs in the Australian Job Market.
11 Feb 2026
Why I've rejected Candidates
In this episode, Tammie talks about the reasons why she's rejected candidate in the recruitment process. For resumé help and career consulting, visit www.realisticcareers.com.au (http://www.realisticcareers.com.au) Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs in the Australian Job Market. Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs in the Australian Job Market.
23 Nov 2025
Career Gap Mum's returning to work
In this episode, we talk about something so many women struggle with but rarely get honest guidance on: returning to the workforce after taking time off to raise kids. I break down what employers are really thinking when they see a career gap, why it’s not the red flag people assume it is, and how to reframe your time away so it actually strengthens your application rather than weakens it. If you’re a mum preparing to return to work, this episode will give you the clarity, direction, and conf...
23 Nov 2025
Pre-recorded video interviews and how to prepare for them
In this episode, we break down one of the most important parts of the modern hiring process: the video interview. I walk you through what a video interview actually is, why employers use them, and how you can prepare so you show up confident, calm, and ready to impress. We also talk about how my experience as a recruiter and career coach can help you avoid the common traps candidates fall into. You’ll hear practical tips on setting up your space, managing nerves, answering questions clearly, ...
16 Nov 2025
How to deal with BULLYING in the workplace
In this episode, we dive into one of the most common issues people face at work: workplace bullying. I break down what is and isn’t considered bullying, the signs to look out for, and why understanding the difference matters for both employees and employers. You’ll hear practical strategies on what you can do if you believe you’re being bullied, including how to approach the situation, and what steps to take to protect yourself. I also cover the key organisations and contacts you can re...
10 Nov 2025
What NOT to do in a job interview
In this episode, Tammie pulls back the curtain on the biggest mistakes candidates make during the recruitment process. Learn what instantly turns recruiters off, what actually matters behind the scenes, and how to avoid sabotaging your own chances. These are Tammie’s personal opinions and experiences, not formal advice or guidance. For interview prep, you can book an appointment with Tammie at www.realisticcareers.com.au Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis Helping you get jobs in...
10 Nov 2025
Get micro credits off your degree if you work at Maccas!
In this episode, Tammie dives into McDonald’s Archways to Opportunities program is a global education initiative designed to support employees with career development, study assistance, and training opportunities. Tammie also shares her personal take on whether initiatives like this genuinely open doors for long-term career growth. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are Tammie’s personal opinions only and are not professional advice. This episode is not sponsored, endorsed,...
4 Nov 2025
How Police Records Affect Your Job Prospects
How Police Records Affect Your Job Prospects In this episode, Tammie breaks down how police checks can impact your chances of getting hired from a recruiter’s perspective. With crime rates making headlines across Australia, more employers than ever are conducting background checks, especially in industries like health, disability, childcare, finance, and government. Tammie explains why these checks matter, how they’re processed, what shows up, and how the severity of an offence can affect you...
4 Nov 2025
The easiest way to get into HR (with no experience)
In this episode, Tammie breaks down the simplest, most realistic pathway to start a career in HR, even if you have zero experience. Perfect for career changers, admin professionals, or anyone curious about human resources, this episode maps out a clear three-to-four-year pathway to HR. You’ll learn how to build experience strategically, use your existing skills to your advantage, and make the move to HR professional with confidence. Disclaimer: This episode contains general opinions and...
4 Nov 2025
How to answer "Why did you apply to this job??"
In this episode, Tammie shares a practical, step-by-step guide on how to answer one of the most important interview questions in the recruitment process: “Why did you apply to this job?” You’ll learn how to break down the job ad, research the company, and bring it all together into a genuine, professional response that sets you apart from other candidates. Plus, Tammie shares a real example showing you how to personalise your answer and impress any recruiter. Disclaimer: This episode co...
4 Nov 2025
Signs your job interview went well.
In this episode, Tammie shares the telltale signs that your interview actually went better than you think. From building instant rapport with the interviewer to conversations that flow naturally, this episode helps you recognise when you’ve truly made a great impression. Perfect for job seekers who leave interviews overthinking every detail, Tammie explains what hiring managers look for, what those “green flags” mean, and why good interviews often feel more like conversations than assessments...
3 Nov 2025
How to apply for jobs in person (The old school way that still works!)
In this episode, Tammie shares a practical, step-by-step guide on how to apply for jobs in person. An old-school approach that still works today! Perfect for hospitality and retail jobs, this episode is especially helpful for parents wanting to support their teens in finding their first job (not doing it for them), but guiding them through the process. Tammie explains how to prepare, what to wear, what to say when speaking to a manager, and how persistence pays off when job hunting in person....
3 Nov 2025
Do employees have the right to work from home? The Wesptac FairWork Case
In this episode, we unpack the Westpac Fair Work case and explore its impact on the Australian workforce. Was it the right decision? What are the lessons for employees, employers, and HR professionals? If you’re an HR professional, business owner, or employee wanting to understand how this case affects you, this episode offers grounded commentary from an industry expert. Tammie is the owner of Realistic Careers, a leading career consultancy in Australia. With a strong background in rec...
1 Nov 2025
Prison officers walk off the job in NSW - What's really going on?
In this episode of Realistic Careers with Tammie Ballis, we unpack the growing unrest in New South Wales correctional facilities after prison officers staged walkouts across the state. Tammie explores what’s driving the industrial action - from staffing shortages and safety concerns to workplace morale and government negotiations. She discusses why safety concerns are at the centre of the unrest and why, no matter what job you do, everyone deserves to come home safe and sound at the end of th...
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