Now a client of atWork Australia in an ongoing support capacity, Michael has been mentored by his Job Coach so he can sustain long-term employment. Early on in his journey with atWork Australia, Michael disclosed that he has autism which created barriers to finding employment and left him with little experience.
From Wollongong, NSW, Michael, 26, joined atWork Australia and connected with Job Coach, Trevor. Michael gained the skills and motivation from many atWork Australia staff to help reach his goals. As a result of this continual motivation, encouragement and ongoing support, Michael is now more independent and happier to communicate and socialise with others; both personally and professionally.
Trevor supported Michael by taking him through some role-plays and continual practice; giving him the confidence to speak up for himself. Michael was specifically worried about being bullied at work and needed the verbal skills to be able to speak with his manager if there was ever any thing he was not comfortable with. He also feared that speaking up would get him in to trouble.
It was important for Trevor to help Michael find employment in a safe environment where he would feel comfortable and valued as an employee.
Michael’s journey has been tempestuous, however, with the help and support he received from Trevor and the team at atWork Australia, Michael was coached and mentored through the challenges to maintain his employment and continue to reach his goals.
Over time, Michael’s confidence has grown and his professional relationship with his colleagues has become much stronger, thus allowing him to feel more comfortable and enjoy work as a labourer.
Michael’s employer, Leisure Coast Kitchens, are an employer that have assisted a number of locals gain employment on a long-term basis. They are supportive of all their workers, reporting to Trevor that they are “very happy with Michael, he is a valuable employee”.
Michael is excited that atWork Australia have helped him achieve his goals. In addition to reaching his employment goals, Michael is now looking to other areas of his life. In particular, he has appeared on the Netflix reality series, Love on the Spectrum, to help with his search for a partner.
Speaking with journalist Mia Freedman on her podcast, MamaM!a, Michael said he wanted to “meet a woman and settle down”, continuing to explain how atWork Australia and his Job Coach boosted his self-esteem and encouraged him to apply for the show. Trevor said “Michael is a very friendly client and displays a lot of great character”.
Watch Michael’s Love on the Spectrum interview with Mia Freedman here.
Every year, atWork Australia helps thousands of clients like Michael expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals.