Never Give Up: A Job Seekers Journey
15 February 2007
(L-R) Auspoly owner Val, Employee Paul and Employment Consultant Boyce Nikora.
“Do you want to work?” These five words changed the life of MatchWorks job seeker, Paul. Paul had many barriers to finding employment, including a hearing impairment, and found it increasingly difficult to find a job that he could enjoy, fit into and do well, the longer he was out of work.
While it would have been easy for Paul to throw in the towel, with the help of MatchWorks Brunswick staff Eliana Efthymiou and Boyce Nikora, Paul is now in full time work at Melbourne Company, Auspoly.
“We really understood that returning to work would be a great challenge for Paul personally,” said Eliana.
“I have known the employer for 5 years and had in mind certain tasks that the job seeker was capable of completing before we went on site.”
Eliana and Boyce introduced Paul to Auspoly owner, Val. Both the job seeker and employer were a little nervous upon introduction, as Val had little experience speaking to a person with a hearing impairment and Paul had been out of the workforce for nearly 7 years.
The employer and Paul went for a walk around the factory, where the employer explained their business, the shifts they work and the product they produce.
“The employer then asked Paul straight out “Do you want to work?” Paul answered, “Yes of course.”
Although Paul was only expected to work part time, Val employed him as a full time member of staff. Since beginning his employment, Eliana and Boyce have been in constant contact, to ensure that everything is going well.
“The key to maintaining this placement has been the Post Placement Support, because often when a job seeker is returning to the workforce after such a long time, they need extra encouragement and support,” said Eliana.
“Both the employer and job seeker have expressed their appreciation to MatchWorks for being so involved and caring so much.”
The match has been a success for not only the employer and the job seeker, but has instilled great pride in Eliana and Boyce.
“In nearly five years in recruitment, this has definitely been my most rewarding placement.”