Lee had been unemployed for a few months when he discovered the course via his Work Coach during an appointment one day. Thinking that the topics that would be covered in the course woud be interesting and potentially helpful with progressing with Civil Service applications he had already made, Lee decided to join the course. Thanks to his time on the course, Lee went from not being progressed in any Civil Service applications to being invited for interviews in 75% of the applications he was now making! Read on to find out more about Lee’s time with Release Potential!
What were you doing before you started the programme?
I was unemployed for almost 6 months before embarking on the Release Potential course.
How did you find out about the training?
My Work Coach Caroline from Wulfrun Centre, Job Centre advised me about the training available when I was in seeing her for an appointment.
Why did you decide to join?
My previous roles I’d done before becoming unemployed had aligned with some of the course content. I thought the things that would be covered were interesting and I hadn’t been progressed for previous Civil Service applications I’d made. I felt it would give further insight into how I could be successful. I was supported with accessing the equipment needed to support my learning whilst on the programme.
What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The training was brilliant and led to being more prepared for interviews in particular. I was progressed to interview stage for 3 out of 4 Civil Service applications I made. The training helped me understand Situational Judgement Tests and how to deal with a pre recorded interview session amongst other things. The structure of doing the course was great, getting you back into a routine, mixing with others in the same situation and learning from Tutors who really know the course content and are able to deliver it well, and in an informative and structured way.
Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
I had a few initial challenges navigating an online course based on my limited experience of using Zoom. I was taught how to use this effectively using different methods to source information and access the sessions/upload my coursework. I enjoyed the pace of the course and felt it was just right.
What are you doing now?
I’m working as an Executive Officer for DWP.
What impact has the training had on your life?
It’s definitely helped me get a job. I wasn’t initially sure what I wanted to do, but this gave me clarity around where I wanted to be and who with. My confidence was dramatically increased from doing the course. I was notified of some of the job opportunities I applied for via a text from one of the Release Potential team, but also got Zoom notifications from their dedicated job channel where jobs are shared with the learners.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to get settled into my job and enjoy the process of learning.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
I’d definitely recommend it. It provides some great opportunities and whilst the onus is on you, the course will really help you with applying for jobs in Civil Service as well as jobs outside this sector that cover a broad range.