First steps into hospitality – Colby’s story

Colby joined the Restart Scheme not knowing what to expect after leaving college. Aged 20, with only two weeks of work experience as a camera operative, Colby was open to exploring different job sectors and was motivated to find suitable employment paths and upskilling opportunities.

During Colby’s initial appointment, he met with Employment Adviser, Andrea, who worked closely together with him to create a CV that reflected all his transferrable skills and attributes. This helped to identify skills gaps that they would later be able to address with in-house courses and workshops.

Like Colby, many participants benefit from in-house courses offered through the Restart Scheme, which focus on developing key employability skills essential for securing and sustaining work.

Andrea told us: “Once we created a CV for Colby, we looked at different job site platforms, registering for few in the process. Looking through the different job specifications together, helped Colby to assess what was involved in each one, and I was there to help explain the responsibilities involved.

“This helped Colby clarify the job sector he wanted to pursue, initially choosing retail and hospitality. He attended interview skills sessions, where he learned the STAR technique and explored different answering styles. A mock interview was arranged to help Colby enter the candidate pool and boost his employment prospects.

“Colby remained highly engaged throughout his appointments, focusing on building his strengths and developing transferable skills.”

Recruitment Manager Mark offered Colby the opportunity to apply for a newly available Linen Porter role with a local employer. Colby submitted his CV, and the employer responded to arrange an interview.

The Restart Scheme provides financial support to participants during their transition into work, helping to ensure that starting employment does not negatively impact their financial stability.

“To ensure Colby looked his best, we provided vouchers so that he could purchase a three-piece suit, shirt, and tie for his interview. Mark and I prepared Colby for the interview questions, specifically tailored to the hotel he was interviewing with. Colby demonstrated strong examples and had done additional research on the company’s values.” Said Andrea.

Out of 10 candidates interviewed, Colby was offered the job and is now working full time hours, whilst enjoying the beginning of his career in hospitality.