A NEW MINDSET AND A NEW JOB IN A MATTER OF DAYS
When Jobs 22 Employer Services Consultant Michael Neofitos and Employment Coach Ibrar Qureshi teamed up, their participant secured a new job in just a matter of days.
Ibrar's story:
When I first met the participant, we talked about their aspirations and concerns. They needed a well-paid job to support their family adequately and were keen to pursue a career in customer service. The participant was concerned about their lack of secondary education and strongly felt this was holding them back, despite the fact they came over very well in person and had a decade of experience as a Community Support Officer. Much of our work together centered around confidence building and supporting the participant to feel more comfortable in interview scenarios. As part of their action plan, we decided to focus on work-based skills rather than qualifications. Through the Jobs 22 app, the participant could access beginner-level excel training resources, work on interview questions, and complete work-based assessments to help them find the careers they'd be best suited for based on their skills and personality. They could also get support on how best to structure their CV and highlight relevant skills and experience. The participant needed help adjusting their mindset; I understand how hard it is for people looking to get back into work; interviews make even the most experienced and confident among us nervous. But with some practice interview techniques, our participant felt more confident about presenting their value to the employer. Within just a few days, Michael and I managed to support the participant into a new job, working as a Covid Marshall. The 52-hour workweek meant the salary exceeded the participant's expectations, and they're pleased to be working in a meaningful role that has the potential to make a difference to the local community and could be a brilliant next step in their customer service career. I'm in regular contact with the participant and feel highly invested in their success, so I'll be on hand to support their needs.
Michael's story:
It's my job to match candidates’ skills, experience and ambitions with suitable roles and employers. I look at culture fit, training needs and any barriers to success, so all parties receive a brilliant service. When Ibrar brought me into one of his sessions with the participant, I noticed they had lots of relevant skills and experience, but they lacked confidence in interview situations. They were looking for a well-paid job, ideally in their local area so it was important for me to manage expectations too. When the opportunity to be a Covid Marshall came up, at first glance it seemed an unlikely route into customer service. However, a deep dive into the role revealed that the participant would be honing their skills with the public in this role, whilst delivering a vital service. Fortunately, there was an available position in the participant’s desired location, saving them a lengthy commute. I highlighted their relevant experience and transferable skills to the employer, and they ultimately beat two other candidates to the role, which was a fantastic confidence boost for the participant. This experience shows how our processes and support can significantly benefit our participants and are of real value to employers. When we work together and dig a little deeper to understand our participants' needs and the roles available, we can find opportunities that are a great match.