A New Beginning
When Alexander McBrien first walked through the doors of the Jobfind Craigieburn site, he was filled with apprehension. The process seemed daunting and he wasn’t sure how he would succeed. However, his first meeting with Employment Consultant Sumandeep Kaur made a significant difference. The two quickly built a strong rapport, and Alexander openly shared his concerns with Sumandeep. He expressed his desire to secure lasting employment and financial stability, but he feared his lack of formal education would be a barrier. He also confided that his limited work experience, health challenges, and low literacy and numeracy skills had made it difficult for him to navigate traditional job applications.
Sumandeep reassured Alexander that Jobfind would be there to support him every step of the way. She committed to helping him overcome these challenges and achieve his goal of finding stable employment.
Tailored Support for Success
Determined to make a real difference in Alexander’s life, Sumandeep worked closely with him and the Jobfind team to provide personalised support throughout his employment journey.
- Interview Techniques and Resume Support: Sumandeep recognised that Alexander lacked confidence, so he focused on building his self-belief. She worked with him to improve his interview skills and develop a professional resume, helping him present himself confidently to potential employers. To further boost his confidence, she organised mock interview training, ensuring Alexander was fully prepared for job interviews.
- Job Applications and Interview Referrals: Sumandeep didn’t just assist with paperwork—she took a hands-on approach. She filled out job applications on Alexander’s behalf, teaching him how to use job portals and apply for roles on his own. But she didn’t stop there. Sumandeep arranged weekly interviews with various employers, giving Alexander the consistent support he needed to build his confidence and continue pursuing his employment goals.
- Vocational Training and Health Support: Understanding that career success involves more than just skills, Sumandeep partnered with Foresite Training Group to enroll Alexander in a Forklift and Warehousing course. This vocational training equipped him with the practical skills needed for the next step in his career. In addition, Sumandeep referred Alexander to Jobfind’s Healthfind service, which helped address non-vocational barriers like low self-esteem, anxiety, and lack of motivation. This holistic approach ensured Alexander was mentally and emotionally prepared for the challenges ahead.
A Bright Future
Thanks to Jobfind’s support and Sumandeep’s dedication, Alexander secured a full-time position with Airline Cleaning Services as a Cabin Cleaner in Melbourne Airport. Jobfind arranged an interview for the role on January 16, 2025, and by January 20, 2025, Alexander was employed full-time.
Sumandeep continued to provide valuable support during this transition. She helped Alexander with his pre-employment requirements, including securing safety boots and assisting with fuel costs for his commute to work. This helped remove any unnecessary stress and made the transition back into employment easier for Alexander.
Looking Ahead
Jobfind’s commitment to Alexander didn’t stop at securing the job. Alexander is now receiving Post Placement Support to help him sustain his employment. Sumandeep continues to check in regularly with Alexander, assisting with work-related expenses and ensuring he has the resources to stay on track as he settles into his new role. During his most recent check in, Alexander expressed that he is delighted to have secured employment. His story of success is a testament to the power of tailored support, the dedication of Jobfind staff and the collaborative efforts of partner organisations. With continued support, Alexander is well on his way to achieving long-term career success and financial independence.
