Turning a negative into a positive – Darren’s story

Darren was referred to the Restart Scheme by Jobcentre Plus for support with employability and job applications.

Here is Darren’s story in his own words:

“A month before the first lockdown, I left my job to start my own marketing consultancy business. Six months later, I had only picked up two clients, I began falling behind with my bills and started facing financial difficulties.

"I once again started looking for a job, but very few companies were hiring at the height of lockdown. I unsuccessfully applied for over 100 roles and started losing heart and confidence in my ability to get back into work. Shortly after, I began my journey with the Restart Scheme.

“The Restart Scheme set up fortnightly review meetings and helped me identify suitable roles, tailoring my CV for each application, reducing unnecessary information. Instead of applying with my generic four-page CV, I would send a concise and relevant two-page version. Within three months, I had received five interview requests.

“The Restart Scheme assisted me in other ways, including financially. They refunded the transport costs to and from the interviews and helped me purchase appropriate interview attire. I participated in four stages of interviews; thankfully, I was successful and landed my dream job. I am forever indebted to the Restart Scheme and the exceptional people I dealt with - Andzelika, Graham and Martin. I fully recommend the Restart Scheme to all senior-level job seekers.”

Darren is now in full time employment as a Senior Manager in the motor manufacturing sector and keeps in touch with his Employment Adviser Graham for fortnightly in-work support calls.