Success story: the career shift of Gabi
Gabi, 48 years old and living in Zaandam, worked for years as a sales assistant at a large retail organization, also known for its smoked sausages and cream puffs. Due to an accident, it was no longer possible for Gabi to stand and walk all days, and the work unfortunately became too heavy. Gabi therefore decided to orient herself to the different types of occupations available. Together with a consultant from Puls, she started a search for the new job.
Gabi: "First of all, I was interested in a position as a nail technician, here I also went for a few days. I am very creative and enjoy working with people. I also like practical jobs. However, I found out pretty quickly that it was very hard work and, unfortunately, also unprofitable for me because I had no place for me at home. Also, soliciting clients was something I was reluctant to do. I did want a social position so then I continued to look for positions such as front desk clerk and receptionist.
Walk-in day
Through a very friendly and small-scale staffing organization, I was allowed to interview at an organization in my area. Here I was allowed to do a trial day as a desk clerk. There was an immediate click! After negotiating salary, I proudly signed the contract. I was even better off financially.
I will be working as a front desk assistant. This involves receiving guests and customers, light administrative tasks, registering visitors and providing coffee and tea for them. Puls coached and guided me to this job. I really liked that I was listened to. I felt like I was given the freedom to choose what I wanted to do. I was also given the space to schedule walk-in days, because that's how I really found out if it was feasible (or not).
Getting started with uncertainty
I was quite uncertain at first, because I had little experience outside my previous employer. In addition, I thought, are they really waiting for someone almost 50? My consultant and I had several conversations to remove this uncertainty. She also encouraged me to visit employers. That way they immediately get a picture of you and you get on their radar. I found out more and more that employers became very enthusiastic about this approach and because of this were also open to walk-in days. This way a good impression can be created for everyone. I also took several tests such as the interest test and personality test. This also really gave more insight into what I wanted!
I super liked that, I don't think I would have ever dared to take the step myself. She was also very knowledgeable about writing resumes, cover letters and things like that. That was really nice because that way I didn't have to do everything on my own. I am very grateful to Puls , because of them I am now back in my place!
