Claire Hogg joined the graduate scheme in
September 2010. Previously, she worked for Jobcentre Plus in their
Middlesbrough contact centre, taking calls from customers on
queries ranging from crisis loans, to benefits, to job searching. A
year before she joined the scheme, she was promoted to team leader
but felt she had become ‘stuck’ and wanted to explore other ways of
making a difference to people’s lives.
How did you find out about the
scheme?
A friend mentioned Working Links in passing
and, through research on the internet, I found the Graduate
Development Scheme. It sounded perfect for me. I particularly loved
the Working Links culture and values; it was exactly what I was
looking for in a company.
So, where have been and what have
you been up to?
The better question would probably be,
where haven’t I been and what haven’t I been up to! I have visited
all the offices in the Tees Valley area, along with some in the
other areas so far. I have completed the host role and Business
Support role so far. I have complete admiration for all the hosts -
I was run off my feet! But it really helped me to get to know
everyone in the office and what they do.
Alongside the official Graduate Development
Scheme I have also been involved in Health and Safety, management
meetings, HR meetings, the leadership conference, coordinating the
Value Stars scheme, the Teesside Recruitment Fair, team meetings…
the list is endless! I am due to start the Personal Consultant role
within the next few weeks, and am looking forward to getting more
involved with the customers and helping them into work.
I have to say, I have enjoyed every minute of
the scheme so far! I have been involved in so much and no single
day is ever the same.
What has been your best bit so
far?
Interacting with customers, getting
involved in the Work Programme and the leadership meeting in
Birmingham; it was great to get involved in the workshops and get a
deeper understand of the challenges Working Links is currently
facing. But overall, the best bit has been getting involved in
Value Stars – getting to hear about, and be inspired by, the hard
work our people are doing across Tees Valley.
Have you worked with anyone or a
particular team that has inspired you?
I am going to sound really cheesy but
everyone I meet in Working Links inspires me. I was really lucky to
be invited to the Tees Valley awards for our customers and the
employers who work with us. It was really inspirational to meet the
winners, hear their stories about how Working Links has helped
them, and see how far they had come.
What qualities do people need to do
well in the job?
The values of Working Links really give you
an idea as to the qualities you would need to do well: add value,
aim high, work in partnership, show respect and accept
accountability. You will also need to be enthusiastic, driven, and
happy with a busy diary!