Two job seekers connected with EPIC Assist’s Cairns Service Centre, Edward and Samuel, have discovered that it’s good to be open to opportunities that may turn into stepping stones to employment success.
Both job seekers have recently started temporary roles with a Queensland Government department and say the experience is helping them learn a lot about themselves and what their next career steps will be.
Edward, who is working in a general admin and clerical role said that he’s already learned a lot about paperwork and how to work in an office.
After deciding to change careers – away from hospitality – Edward has been jumping at opportunities to build his office and administration skills.
“Last year I decided to volunteer with the local museum to get some experience,” Edward explained.
“Volunteering can be a great way to learn new skills, and I think it really helped me to get this job” he said.
“One of my goals is to secure a job in government. There are lots of opportunities to grow and learn new skills in government.”
“The other thing I like about working in a government department is that you meet a lot of different people,” he said.
“The team I’m working with are really welcoming.”
One of the people Edward has connected with is fellow EPIC job seeker, Samuel, who started work with the same department, although a different team, on the same day.
Samuel explained that he’s happy that he has picked up work with the department.
“I work eight hours a week, and that’s split over two days,” Samuel said.
“This is my first paid job since if finished school 14 years ago.”
“It feels really good to be working. Having money is wonderful, but I’m not sure what I’ll start saving up for yet.
“What I like most though is that people see me for what I can do, rather than what I can’t do,” he said.
Samuel lost his arm to cancer 14 years ago and explains that it doesn’t stop him from being able to work in a data entry role.
“My job involves adding topographical maps into the department’s database.”
“When I came for the interview here it was more of a chat about my skills and how I’d do the job. It can sometimes be hard to be confident and to get around people’s biased attitudes. It felt great that people were focusing on what I could do,” Samuel said.
Edward and Samuel both agreed that the support they received from EPIC’s Cairns service centre made all the difference to their job search.
“EPIC made sure I had interview clothes and helped me feel confident about having interviews,” Samuel said.
EPIC also made enquiries on Samuel’s behalf regarding workplace modifications. The department offered to allocate an appropriate swivel chair an adjustable workbench.
Edward explained that although he’d only been connected with EPIC for two months, the Cairns team had spent the time getting to know him and found a job that was a perfect fit.
“Although this is a temporary role, I’m getting some excellent experience,” Edward said.
We look forward to seeing what’s next for Edward and Samuel on their employment journey.