Embarking upon a new career despite the challenges

After 10 years away from the workplace to raise her young children, Cheryl Napier felt daunted by the prospect of returning to the working world, especially within a new field.

Having worked within the tourism and hospitality industries in various roles, including kitchen porter, kitchen assistant and waitress, prior to becoming a mum, Cheryl was seeking a new challenge.

Cheryl had already gained a diploma in business management and was continuing to work towards a bachelor’s degree in business management, so she was eager to also gain experience in the workplace. However, she found it difficult to find employment due to childcare commitments, her location in Caithness, and her lack of work experience in this new sector.

In June 2022, aged 30, Cheryl applied for a placement as a trainee clerical assistant within the HR team at The Highland Council. The six-month placement was supported by Work.Life.Highland to enable the right candidate to overcome any hurdles that may prevent them from securing work.

Cheryl was chosen for the placement and given flexible working options and support to help her settle back into a working environment and to ensure work fitted around family life. Cheryl’s employability mentor was on hand to help her adjust to her new position which enabled her to flourish in the role.

Following the six-month placement, Cheryl had grown in confidence, skills and experience, and applied for a permanent role as a clerical assistant with The Highland Council’s Business Support team.

“Being out of the workplace for 10 years made coming back to work in a new sector extremely daunting, despite having gained a diploma,” explains Cheryl. “I was so nervous getting back into the workplace for the first time since 2012 and worried I had lost confidence with my social skills.

“Securing the placement was a gamechanger. I fitted in well with the team and enjoyed the variety of the role – all of which helped boost my confidence. I developed and learned new skills and was delighted to secure a permanent post after my placement.”

When asked what advice she would give others looking to use the services of Work.Life.Highland to develop their careers, Cheryl said: “Don’t be scared to take on a placement. Show your initiative to prospective employers by working on gaining skills within the field you’d like to work in and learning as much as you can.

“Also keep in touch with your Work.Life.Highland mentor and ask if you need any adjustments to help you feel more comfortable within the workplace. It is possible to build the career you want, whatever your circumstances.”

If you would like to find out more about the services available for jobseekers or those looking to develop their careers, click here.