One of the great myths of business (and cheesy old game shows) is that opportunity knocks. Opportunity does not knock on your door, you have to bang on the door yourself and keep knocking until you get in.

Why is there always this assumption that young people are so enthralled by the razzle-dazzle of celebrity, and that they are unable to find their own role models?

Helping young people to gain the skills, experience and qualifications needed for employment has always been a priority for Barnardo's.

With forecasts of the UK's economic prospects for 2012 remaining gloomy, the chances are that many more people will be seeking new employment over the course of this year. With more well-qualified people seeking fewer jobs, strong networks will become ever-more relevant, as will a proactive approach.