March 18, 2014
Jobfind job seeker Richard has found paid employment as a result of his activities on a Work for the Dole (WFD) Project in Wollongong.
When Richard first came to Jobfind Wollongong over two years ago, he was struggling to get interviews with employers because of his limited work history, lack of job skills and long-term unemployment, which were a result of his personal commitments. Despite these challenges, Richard had a positive attitude and was keen to undertake work experience to gain skills and improve his prospects for employment in the hospitality industry.
Five months ago Richard was referred to a Work for the Dole (WFD) Project at the Salvos Café Essay Function centre by Jobfind’s Work Experience Team Leader Gary Hanes, as part of a compulsory activity phase for Stream 2 clients. He was initially offered work as a kitchen hand one day a week at the centre, responsible for frequently and meticulously cleaning food preparation surfaces and the kitchen floors, as well as dishwashing.
After a couple of weeks, Richard requested if he could volunteer for three to four days a week at the centre, with the Salvos delighted and more than willing to offer Richard more work. Along with increased work hours, Richard was also given further responsibilities in preparing the function room for events such as the University of Wollongong’s end of semester examinations.
His newly gained confidence and work experience from his time at the centre over the past five months, encouraged Richard to apply for a paid position as a room cleaner with The Belmore All-Suite Hotel recently. At the interview Richard was confident and able to explain to the interviewers his skills and proficiency in cleaning and following strict instructions for room preparation, making him a good fit for the position. As a result, he was offered a paid position at The Belmore All-Suite Hotel working eight to thirteen hours a week, with prospects of moving on to full-time employment and earning a full-time wage.
The WFD activity at the Salvos function centre has also motivated two other job seekers to undertake further study in hospitality industry. The job seekers will now embark on their next career move, working two days at the function centre and attending TAFE twice a week for their Certificate II in Kitchen Operations course.