Tania's Triumphant Return to Work

For many parents, it can be tough to get back into the job market.

Tania devoted the last 10 years to being a stay-at-home mum for two young daughters and wanted to get back into the workforce.

She had started a business making denim bags and selling them at the markets, but since experiencing poor mental health, she was unable to continue this venture.

She came to MAX feeling disheartened after being rejected for a job.

When it came to searching for employment, Job Coach Holly knew it was crucial to find Tania a job that she could succeed in and enjoy.

Holly identified Tania’s skills and worked with her on crafting an updated resume.

Focusing on Tania’s previous retail history and her affinity for sales, Holly secured an interview for Tania with a local clothing store in Gladstone.

Initially, Tania was unsure if she would fit the position.

MAX provided new interview clothes for Tania to boost her confidence and Holly accompanied Tania to the interview to support her.

“She smashed the interview,” Holly says proudly. 

Feeling confident now, Tania handed in her new resume to more places and immediately received two more job interviews. 

And guess what? Tania was offered all three positions!  

Holly advised Tania to carefully consider her decision: “You need to choose the job that you like the best, so that you can stay in it.”

After all, job satisfaction is an integral part of employment sustainability. 

Holly advocated for Tania with the workplace she chose, including negotiating two weekends off a month and working school hours during the week so that Tania could manage parenting responsibilities. 

Although Tania is in employment now, Holly continues to provide support with regular contact.

Holly either visits the workplace to see Tania and the employer, or Tania drops by the MAX office.

Being in employment and receiving this support from MAX has clearly impacted Tania’s confidence and mental health, and this has had a positive impact on her performance at work.

“Her boss has raved about how incredible she is,” Holly says. “She is going well above all the KPIs they’ve set for her!”

So what’s next for Tania? With a better mental health outlook, she is keen to keep working and wants to resume making denim bags to sell at the markets.

Like many parents, Tania is motivated to give her daughters the best opportunities: “The extra income will help me pay for extra gymnastic lessons for the girls!”