Tia’s tech skills and new connections help her land job
After two years of being unemployed, young Redcliffe job seeker Tia has secured a job she loves at Officeworks, North Lakes with the help of a MatchWorks online Indigenous pre-employment program.
Tia came to MatchWorks in 2020 with limited work experience after finishing her Audio-Engineering degree. The specialist industry is difficult to get into, so the Redcliffe job seeker volunteered at The Salvos a couple of days a week to gain retail experience.
“I had been unemployed for a couple of years as things had slowed down with COVID,” Tia said.
Making important connections to employers
With the Deadly Yakka program on hold due to restrictions, Tia joined the equivalent online version of the program, ‘Burngamon’ where she:
- Participated in resume, cover letter and interview workshops.
- Set goals.
- Made important connections to employers with current vacancies.
“It teaches you how to really market yourself,” Tia said. “The best part of the program was the last couple of days when we got to speak to employers. It was a much more casual way to interact with them.”
It was here she met Officeworks North Lakes Store Manager, Ann-Marie Moss and was offered a full-time role.
“Tia interviewed and presented really well,” Ann-Marie said. “She was really enthusiastic and gave me everything I needed.
“As a sound engineer, Tia had a lot of tech knowledge and we needed someone in the print and copy department. She was very computer savvy and I knew we could train her in every other aspect of the role.”
A valued member of the team
Ann-Marie said Tia grabbed the opportunity with both hands and has become a really valuable member of the Officeworks team.
“She picked it up very quickly and does an exceptional job,” she said.
“I have seen more self-confidence in her as she is feeling accomplished and part of team…customers really love her.”
“I feel lots better mentally and physically,” Tia said. “I am now saving for a car and want to get my licence. I’m also freelancing as an audio-engineer to get more experience.”
Today, MatchWorks launched its 52nd Deadly Yakka program for 20+ Indigenous job seekers in the Somerset region. We look forward to sharing more participant success stories soon.
Gibba Gunyah dance group and smoking ceremony at the launch of the 52nd Deadly Yakka in the Somerset region, Queensland.