We are delighted to announce that Mitch Meade AIEP, Committed Employment Coach at Workways Traralgon, is the IEP Australia Member of the Month for July 2024!
Mitch has always believed that the path to employment involves more than just resumes and interviews; it is about providing real human support.
For instance, one of Mitch’s participants was facing numerous challenges, including homelessness. Mitch provided him with a sleeping bag, food support, and employment-related tickets to prepare him for work.
Mitch secured an interview in record time, after referring the participant for a role the previous day. The interview was at 8:00am, so without hesitation, Mitch started work at 6:30am and picked the participant up to drive him to the interview.
At 7:15 am, Mitch arrived at the participant’s home. The participant had been anxiously pacing and greeted Mitch with a look of both relief and gratitude. “No problem at all,” Mitch replied calmly. “Let’s get you to that interview.”
As they drove to the interview, Mitch offered encouraging words and last-minute interview tips. Mitch’s demeanour was steady and reassuring, creating an atmosphere of confidence where anxiety had once reigned.
At precisely 8:45 am, the participant emerged from the interview with a look of relief and hope on his face. Mitch greeted him with a warm smile and asked, “How did it go?”
The participant’s face lit up. “It went well, Mitch. I feel good about it. They hired me!”
Turning to his desk at 10:00 AM, Mitch took a moment to reflect on the morning. It had been a busy start – but knowing that he had made a significant difference in someone’s life was worth every bit of the early start and the extra effort.
As Mitch continued with his daily tasks, he reflected on his role as Employment Coach, realising that it involved more than just coaching. It was about supporting his participants, understanding their obstacles, and aiding them in overcoming challenges. Ultimately, it wasn’t just about securing an interview or a job; it was about demonstrating to them that someone saw their potential. For Mitch, this is the most rewarding aspect of his job.
On being awarded Member of the Month, Mitch said “My job is to make a difference to a person’s life by finding them work or bettering their situation. I thank Workways for the recognition and I look forward to bettering the next participant’s life.”
