From Retail Leadership to Career Development
July 19, 2023
The client, a former department manager at Walmart, had a strong background in retail management and sales. She started as a cashier in 2015 and quickly worked her way up to become the lead of all department managers. Prior to that, she worked in Iran as a Sales Associate in marketing, where she handled project coordination, reconciled bills, created marketing materials, and managed vendor relations in the door industry.
Despite her impressive experience, the client faced several challenges in her job search:
- Employment Gap: A four-year gap in employment made it difficult to re-enter the workforce.
- Work-Life Balance: With a young family, she could no longer work the varied shifts and weekends that were common in her previous retail roles.
- Salary Negotiation: During an interview with Overhead Door Co of Vancouver, she needed assistance in negotiating her salary to ensure it aligned with her experience and needs.
The client turned to the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre for guidance and support. Through personalized services and a dedicated team of Career Counsellors, she was able to navigate her career transition. Services and supports included:
- Case Management & Career Planning: The WorkBC team, including Noor, Ana Liza, Joe, Ralph, Tracy, and Lissette, provided the client with one-on-one career planning and case management. They helped her identify her strengths, set clear career goals, and develop a plan to achieve them.
- Job Search Assistance: The team assisted her with crafting a professional resume and cover letter that highlighted her extensive experience in both retail and sales. They also provided support during her job search, helping her target positions that aligned with her skills and work-life balance needs.
- Accelerated CDP Program (PBLMT): The client participated in the Accelerated Career Development Practitioner (CDP) program, which equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to transition into a new career in career development.
On June 26, 2023, the client successfully secured employment as a Job Developer with PICS at the TriCities WorkBC Centre. This role not only aligned with her career goals but also offered the flexibility she needed to be home with her children.
The client is now thriving in her new role as a Job Developer, where she helps others navigate their own career journeys. She is grateful for the support she received from the Maple Ridge WorkBC team, crediting them with helping her find direction and achieve a position that offers both professional fulfillment and the work-life balance she sought.
