Mature Job Seekers

Samantha Lawrence, Program Coordinator

The following article from Tasmanian Times.com 

A Tasmanian employment program for mature job seekers who are at risk of long-term unemployment is making an impact, its trials have shown.

The program was based on intensive coaching and peer support approach, using the Coaching You For Success (CYFS) model. The Workskills initiative Advanced Job Reach is aimed at 45-65 year olds. Impact Communities, a social impact initiative of the Tasmanian not-for-profit organisation, Workskills Inc. delivered the program.

Samantha Lawrence, the Program Coordinator, stated that:

“A lot of research and planning went into the AJR program before I came on board as the pilot coordinator. Workskills supported me to draw upon my own life experiences and previous coaching to develop something as holistic as possible.”

The CYFS model incorporates both one on one and group coaching sessions and utilises self-assessment, goal setting and action commitments. Participants focus on ‘Life Goals’ and ‘Career Goals’. The AJR trial program also included skills-building sessions matched to the barriers identified by participants in the CYFS process, including digital literacy exercises and tailored job application preparation.

“It was evident after the very first session that AJR approach and coaching methodology resonated with mature jobseekers as the weeks and sessions rolled on the groups naturally formed bonds, with me and each other,” said Lawrence. “Everyone was incredibly supportive of each other and often referred to it as their ‘club’.

A report on the trials highlighted how participants and stakeholders highly valued the program. Participants embraced CYFS coaching methodology and peer support strategies and that the program had positive impacts on their life, according to Lawrence, with some participants viewing these effects as ‘life-changing.’

For the full article, click here https://tasmaniantimes.com/2020/08/advanced-job-reach-seniors/