“What is your proudest achievement?” – “How would you deal with a customer complaint?” – “Why should I hire you for this job?” These questions and more were posed in an employment version of speed dating last Tuesday night when seven students and six volunteer interviewers participated in the mock interviews for Tomorrow Today’s Great Start to Work Program.
Great Start to Work is designed to help young people aged 14-18 grow their confidence and receive guidance and skills for entering the workforce. The six-week program covers resume writing, learning about what employers expect, perfecting interview techniques and understanding employee rights and responsibilities. Young participants visit local workplaces and have the chance to meet and talk with potential employers.
In the lead up to job interview night, students visited the Salvos Store for a fun evening trying on outfits suitable for an interview. With the help of Salvos Store manager Jenni, and some dedicated volunteer stylists, participants sourced a smart ensemble or two. Deb, a long-time volunteer, describes how having the right outfit is such an important part of feeling confident. “It’s sometimes hard to feel sure of yourself – especially when you are in an unfamiliar situation. If they know they look fine then all they need to do is focus on the interview itself.”
The young people’s thoughtful responses to some curly questions posed by interviewers showed their growing confidence. For ten minutes each teen had the chance to talk about themselves, their hopes, plans for the future and their willingness to work. And by all accounts they passed with flying colours!
“I am so impressed by this group of young people. I would be more than happy to employ every one of them!” said Janelle Dinnie from APM, one of the volunteer interviewers.
“We are really proud of our Great Start to Work program. This year we have 11 students and 10 local businesses and organisations participating. We have capacity for about 12 to 15 students in each of the two programs we run every year”, said Tomorrow Today Executive Officer Rosie Koop. “We want to help our young people develop employability skills and to build their career knowledge and confidence so they can embrace future work opportunities and live happy and productive lives.”
The Great Start to Work program runs two programs each year and is open to all Benalla residents aged between 14 and 18 years old.