Zara had been unemployed for a period of time before her Work Coach informed her of Release Potential and the paths it could open up for her. Hoping to improve her chances of being successful within the Civil Service, Zara knew that the training at Release Potential was the right thing to do! Finding that the course helped her to understand more about the application process and how to successfully sell herself, Zara has now gone on to join the DWP as a Case Worker! Congratulations, Zara!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I had graduated and was unemployed for around a year or so before joining the Graduate Startship programme with Release Potential. During this peiod, I was passing some time doing some volunteering work with Age UK.

How did you find out about the training?
I was claiming Universal Credit and my Work Coach Uwais told me about the training available and I liked the sound of it.

Why did you decide to join?
The idea of the training made me think that by attending, I’d stand a better of chance of being successful with Civil Service. I hadn’t been progressed when making previous applications for jobs with them. My Work Coach indicated the content of what would be covered would be really useful in helping me understand the full application process and all of the various steps associated with it.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
I think the training really helped me understand the specifics of the Civil Service and the application process. The success profile behaviours were made really clear with descriptors around what approach to take, with a focus on each one.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
I felt quite unconfident when starting, in particular in interview settings. During the course, I talked through my insecurities with the tutors who were really supportive and gave some methods of how to prepare well, feel more confident and use a broken down structure to feel more prepared for the interview.

What are you doing now?
I’m working as an AO with DWP – Selly Oak Job Centre.

What impact has the training had on your life?
I really feel getting the job on the back of the training has been the main thing. Release Potential notified the learners during and after the course about jobs when they were available and this wouldn’t have been possible without their support.

What are your plans for the future?
I’m sticking with my current role for the 12 month duration it is. I now have the skills and experience to consider other options for when this may end and feel optimistic about success.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
The course is really worth doing. I would definitely recommend it. It’s such a good course to break down the methods of applications and also hear about opportunities you may not otherwise know about. I currently share the positives of the course with my colleagues in the Job Centre to encourage them to share with other potential learners.