Laura, 38, was unemployed for 14 years and was left lacking any confidence that she could get a job in administration. Previously she had worked as a retail assistant but wanted to steer her career in another direction.
Along with long-term unemployment, Laura faced a number of other challenges in life. She was living with depression and anxiety, and had bursitis in her shoulder – a painful condition that causes swelling and redness around the area. She also has two children, so she wanted a role that could fit her need for flexibility in the hours worked and with her work days.
Laura sought the support of atWork Australia’s Eureka Disability Employment Services office, where she was connected to Job Coach, Chanel. Laura and Chanel instantly hit it off, and the pair worked hard to start Laura’s journey back to employment. This included updating her resumé and cover letter, extensive interview preparation, reverse marketing, police checks and purchasing office attire, including interview clothes.
Laura felt like she wouldn’t be able to obtain a role in anything other than retail, given how long she had been unemployed. Chanel set out to change that by tailoring Laura’s retail resumé to allow for the admin tasks that Laura had been performing in those roles without realising.
Chanel also worked with Laura on her cover letter, linking the skills gained from tasks in her previous roles to the requirements of the roles she was applying for. Laura soon realised she had plenty of transferable skills, something that changed her mind set and helped her feel more confident.
As Laura started to attend interviews, Chanel helped her improve her interview performance and she soon had the confidence and skills to give it her best shot. She was over the moon when, after attending an interview for an admin role, the interviewer called her up and informed her was the successful applicant and offered her the permanent position.
Laura was so excited to tell Chanel that she was offered the job. She thanked Chanel for the part she played in getting her administrative career on track, finally being able to transition from retail. She was especially pleased that the employer was large and well-known, something she hopes will help her with progression opportunities in the future.
Laura says, “Since being with atWork Australia, I had the support and encouragement to come out of my shell and gain confidence. After 14 years out of the workforce, I have been able to gain employment with the help of Chanel who is an amazing Job Coach and has gone above and beyond to cater to my needs.”
Every year, atWork Australia helps thousands of clients like Laura expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals.
