Tracy – Returning to Work for the First Time in a Decade
Tracy, aged 46 from Gateshead, was planning on returning to work after 10 years of unemployment. She initially joined the Making a Difference programme after being referred by the National Careers Service.
She felt that she “did not have the skills to apply for work” and wanted to develop her job and application skills. Additionally, Tracy needed an improved CV to stand out to employers.
How Did We Help?
Tracy met with her Employment Coach, Olivia, regularly over the course of five months. She initially thought she did not have the skills to apply for work. However, Olivia quickly identified many transferable skills she had gained from being a parent and sell them on her CV.
Since Tracy felt that she lacked official qualifications, Olivia supported her to enrol in a skills and workplace training programme. There, Tracy completed a Level 1 Customer Service qualification. She later reported that the course had helped her greatly to gain additional knowledge and develop her customer service skills.
Tracy was also keen to develop her digital skills to search for suitable jobs and carry out future work. Once again, she was supported through the Making A Difference programme. Tracy learnt important digital skills such as using Microsoft Teams and emails, which she felt was very beneficial to her development.
Building Confidence and Returning to Work
Following the completion of her Level 1 course, Tracy secured an interview with Euro Cars. Olivia helped Tracy prepare for her interview, coaching her on use of the STAR method. Tracy used this technique successfully at her interview and even gained a new position as a Car Park Assistant.
Tracy said that since joining Making A Difference, she believes in herself, stating:
“I can put my mind to anything. My self-confidence is through the roof! I gained more confidence and more faith in myself. I learnt a lot more than skills.”
We wish Tracy all the best for this new chapter and her future career journey!
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 education by providing tailored one-to-one guidance and support. Whether you are returning to work after a career break, have been experiencing redundancy, 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!
