"Absolutely thrilled and excited for my future"

I started employment support with talking therapies some months ago and was at a loss as to what was next for me in my career. I felt very overwhelmed and unsure of how to find a job that would work for me. I have struggled in previous jobs due to neurodiversity, and felt that no workplace would ever truly be right for me.

From my first appointment I felt heard and like the advisor understood my struggles. She asked if there was any adjustments she could make for our appointments to be more accessible for me and truly took the time to understand my challenges, in particular with processing information. She then provided clear and consistent written appointment summaries which were instrumental in helping me to manage tasks and track resources, as well as managing my expectations and anxieties by outlining what I could expect from each appointment going forward.

We started to look at my CV and how to write a covering letter with support of resources from the autistic society (which were invaluable) before creating a ‘perfect job description’ to help with pinpointing jobs that I felt would work for me. Looking at pros and cons and having the freedom to express my preferences without fear of judgement was so important to me.

Before long I was offered an interview and immediately went into panic mode. I felt that I couldn’t shine in a formal interview setting and considered withdrawing. Fortunately my advisor was able to calm my nerves and took the time to explain extensively what adjustments would be available to me, as well as running through some skills and research ahead of the interview. I was genuinely astounded by the time and commitment my advisor put into helping me, she provided a document outlining organisational values and possible interview questions, and even provided some example answers and scoring cards so that I could understand the competencies I was aiming to tick off.

To add to this, I think the most important thing that my advisor said to me is that all of the things I had to say about myself were factual. She explained that I am personable, I am competent and all of my key skills are things I have proven I can do. She said these things aren’t lies or exaggerations and recalled aspects of my CV to me so that I could relate my skills to my experience. I think just hearing someone validate your own abilities can do the world of good for your confidence.

I would say that it was the support I received that resulted in me being offered the first job I’d interviewed for in a very long time. I am absolutely thrilled and can say with confidence that I am excited for my future in this role.

I have already thanked Connie profusely for her support, but wanted to further pass on my gratitude to her for being absolutely exemplary in her job.