From single mum to successful career woman: how Florence did it

Parramatta March 10, 2004 - Dissatisfied with relying on her sole parent pension to pay the bills, single mother and proud parent of three, 46 year old Florence Ho took control of her life and now boasts a successful career on top of her full-time role as a mum.

"If you don't go and do it, you'll never be rewarded", says Carlingford local, Florence, who hopes her practical and to-the-point philosophy will inspire other single mothers to get back into the workforce. "So when my youngest son turned 16, I decided that I should find a full-time job that would give something back to the community".

Now working as a full-time secretary to the estimation department with Huxley Homes, Florence never dreamed when she first embarked on her mission to find a career that she would be so successful.

"One of the first things I did was enroll in a business administration certificate III course to get myself in a better position to find work", says Florence.

"It turned out to be a very smart decision, because it gave me a qualification, and I was awarded overall best performing student, fastest typist and invited to be a speaker at our graduation ceremony. It was a very proud and satisfying moment for me".

Not one to procrastinate, Florence then immediately applied for numerous roles advertised through the newspaper and the internet.

"It was tough going, but after two months I had an interview scheduled with Huxley Homes as a Clerk. While I was elated to find they'd selected me, I suddenly realised I hadn't been to a job interview in 12 to 13 years!" says Florence.

"I immediately sought professional help from Jobfind Centres in Parramatta where they gave me advice on everything from how to dress, notes on interview techniques and typical questions an employer could ask during an interview".

As part of the Federal Government's Job Network, Jobfind Centres can provide job seekers like Florence with resume and interview help, while under customised assistance Jobfind can also provide job seekers with access to vocational education and wage subsidy programs.

Armed and ready to face her future employers, Florence made it to a grueling second round interview, where she finally received a permanent full-time position and her employers are delighted to have found such a competent, hard worker.

According to Parramatta Jobfind Centre manager Ro Sheardown , the hardest aspect for job seekers returning to the work force after a long absence, is overcoming low self esteem and regaining confidence levels.

"Florence is a great example of how other mature-age job seekers in similar circumstances should approach finding work. While it can be intimidating for some, it's important to remember that a positive attitude and willingness to work makes you more attractive to employers", says Ro.

"It's also encouraging to see large businesses giving mature-age job seekers a chance to re-enter the workforce. Mature-age workers are some of the most reliable, patient and best communicators around. Dollar values can't be placed on life skills, but in a work environment, these qualities make a genuine difference in the way businesses are run", says Ro.

Contact information:
info@jobfindcentre.com.au