Background
Andy was referred to the Bee Work Ready programme as an emergency case, having been out of work for over a year following an industrial eye injury. The injury had taken a toll on his general health and confidence, and he had not faced a job interview in several years. Despite this, Andy had started applying for roles that aligned with his physical abilities and interests. The urgency of his case arose when he received an interview invitation for the very next afternoon, requiring immediate support.
Planning a Response
Given the tight timeframe, it was critical to quickly assess Andy’s interview readiness and address any concerns. During initial discussions, Andy expressed anxiety about the interview process, particularly around competency-based questions. He was also uncertain about how to disclose his eye injury, if necessary, and how to reassure the employer about his capabilities and upcoming medical appointments.
Focused Support
To ensure Andy was well-prepared, we arranged an evening video call to review the job description and identify likely interview questions. During this session, we introduced the STAR method for structuring answers to competency-based questions and encouraged Andy to use this framework in his preparation. We also explored Andy’s rights and responsibilities regarding the disclosure of his injury, equipping him with the language and confidence to address the topic professionally. The following morning, a second video call was conducted to refine his answers using the STAR method. Together, we practiced his self-introduction, focusing on articulating his experience, skills, and potential beyond what was detailed in his CV. Andy also prepared thoughtful questions to ask during the interview, demonstrating his interest and engagement with the role.
Outcome
Andy’s preparation paid off, and he was offered the role. The job was a short-term contract, lasting up to six months, which suited his circumstances as he had upcoming medical treatments. The position not only rebuilt Andy’s confidence but also allowed him to better understand his physical capabilities and refresh his CV. Following his medical treatments, we resumed his employability support, shifting the focus to identifying longer-term opportunities that aligned with his goals and aspirations.
Conclusion
Andy’s story highlights the power of timely, tailored support in overcoming barriers to employment. Through the Bee Work Ready programme, he was able to regain confidence, re-enter the workforce, and take meaningful steps toward a brighter future.
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