Nicholas – Making a Career Comeback After Professional Hardship
44-year-old Nicholas from West Sussex wanted to return to work after being unemployed for 4 years when he joined the Making a Difference programme. He had encountered many professional and personal hardships while unemployed and wanted a complete restart of his career.
After speaking to an Employment Coach at a local job fair, Nicholas was keen to learn more about the programme. In his initial appointment, he reported struggling with a lack of confidence. However, he was very interested in revamping his CV, learning how to write a personal statement and preparing for interviews over the next four months.
How Did We Help?
When Nicholas joined Making a Difference, he was unsure of “how to get his name out there” in the most effective way. Together with his Employment Coach Kirsty, he completely revamped his 10-year-old CV and replaced it with a more up-to-date, professional version.
Nicholas also learned how to navigate different job sites on the internet. When looking for jobs, it can be useful to filter the search results as much as possible to find the best one for your needs. As a result of his coaching sessions with Kirsty, Nicholas became more confident in using strategic search terms, otherwise known as Keywords, to refine his search for a new position.
In addition, Nicholas uploaded his CV to several job sites, where employers and recruiters can find and access it easily. Over the next couple of months, he worked hard on developing his confidence, as well as his CV and reputation. Organising his documents has been a massive help to his job search. He can refer to all the relevant paperwork instantly after finding an advertisement he likes.
What’s more, Nicholas says that instead of having a vague idea of “just wanting a job” when returning to work. He is now focusing on positions that suit his exact needs. Ideally, he is looking for a role in either marketing or communications with options for remote working.
How To Return to Work After a Career Break?
One example of how Nicholas has been boosting his new and improved CV is in the form of a Skills Bootcamp for computer training and digital marketing. This would grant him a Level 2 Qualification, which he will earn in March. Also, Nicholas states that he would like to continue his volunteer work and build his professional references.
Come spring of this year, Nicholas is ready to kickstart his search for a full-time position!
Employment Coach Kirsty is delighted with his progress:
“From our initial conversation to date, Nick has been on a remarkable journey. He developed his employability toolkit, including his CV and cover letters. He also started volunteering in his area of expertise to refresh his skills. But more so, I have witnessed Nick grow in confidence which has been great to see.”
To anyone wanting to restart their career journey, Nicholas says:
“Making a Difference is a fantastic opportunity to get coaching from an expert in recruitment. Especially since there are fully funded options available. You have nothing to lose and much to gain from a professional’s advice and guidance.
I feel more confident that I have a better chance of getting my foot in the door and obtaining at least an interview.”
Career Guidance To Get You Where You Want To Be
Making a Difference is an initiative match-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF). We help people of all ages find their way into work or training by providing tailored one-to-one guidance and support. Whether you want to return to work after a career break, considering working for the first time or simply want to try something new. We can help you figure out the next step for you.
Contact our friendly team to learn more and start your journey today!
