Before reaching out to First Steps to Success, what difficulties did you have with employment / job searching?
I always wanted to work for the NHS and a few years ago I was offered an interview for one that I had applied for. But, the day before the interview, I withdrew from the process as I convinced myself I would not be able to do the job anyway. I did regret it but would always feel overwhelmed by the job description and person specification. This happened a few more times with other jobs I applied for but it was always the NHS one I regretted. My severe social anxiety has stopped me from doing so many things in my life. However, everything changed when I became a customer at First Steps to Success.


How did you find out about First Steps to Success, Ipswich and what were your first impressions?
I knew of Papworth Trust and sent a general enquiry email to see what they could offer. I was then contacted by Angela at First Steps to Success, Ipswich and I thought it sounded very person centred and I liked the one to one aspect. The fact that interview skills was something they could help with really interested me as that is what I needed.

What support were you looking for and was it given?
I needed support to get the confidence back to look for and apply for jobs again, learn how to answer interview questions and to try to believe in myself again. Yes, it was given, the first couple of sessions, I had to have my Mum sitting in the room with me as it was the first time I had spoken to someone over Zoom. I couldn’t believe how quickly it felt normal and my Mum said that whenever she could hear me talking to Angela, it was like I was talking to a friend. She has built up my confidence so much and I have realised what my positive qualities are. I think that helped in my interview.
 

Please can you describe how First Steps has made a difference to your life?
With Angela’s support, I was able to: Create a new CV that I am proud of and can update when needed Supported me when I had a very close family member pass away just days before the interview. She listened and that’s what I needed. She helped me learn about STAR technique and although I have learning disabilities, she didn’t treat me any different which I liked. I learned how to use Zoom really well so that when I was offered an interview on Zoom, I knew what to do. Confidence! I feel much more confident knowing that my CV is really good and I can update it at home. I feel more confident talking to new people and it was mentioned that whenever I talk to Angela, it sounds like I am talking to a friend.

Looking back now that you are employed. What was successful, what could have been better? 
By meeting Angela, I feel better about myself, more confident in my abilities. It took a couple of sessions for me to relax but Angela put me at ease very quickly getting to know me and helping me push through the barriers I had built. I’m thankful that I could rely on Angela to help me understand all of the forms that were sent to me when I was offered the job. There were several, the DBS form, Occupational Health and others that with guidance, I was able to complete within the timescale. When I started my new job, I was both excited and anxious. It feels good to know that I have Angela’s ongoing support whilst I learn the ropes and that she is there if I need support or advice with anything.

What has been successful?
The interview process was something I was most worried about because I struggle to talk to new people. Angela taught me the STAR technique and I was able to use this for each question I was asked and not worry too much. I lost a close family member just days before the interview but was still able to go through with it. It was my first ever interview so a huge achievement despite having severe anxiety. I was called at the end of the week and told I had been successful.

How do you feel about life now?
I know that I can learn new things I just might need to do it in a different way. I feel more optimistic.

Would you recommend a friend or family member to First Steps to Success?
Yes definitely!

By meeting Angela I feel better about myself, more confident in my abilities. It took a couple of sessions for me to relax but Angela put me at ease very quickly getting to know me and helping me push through the barriers I had built. ‘I needed support to get the confidence to look for and apply for jobs again, learn how to do an interview and believe in myself. After the first couple of sessions, a comment was made that whenever Angela called it sounded like I was chatting with a friend. With Angela’s support I was able to look at vacancies, set up accounts and apply for jobs, using my new CV that we created together. I am now more confident in my skills despite my dyslexia and anxiety. I also learned how to use Zoom. I was supported to create the best CV and application form that got me an interview, I also learned the STAR technique that really helped me as I didn’t have to think so much, I have gained so much confidence and cannot wait to start my new job.