NQSW Q&A Case study - Kay Hughes
How easy have you found securing your first job in social work?
I applied for two posts – one prior to receiving my qualification and the other after receiving a first degree. I was interviewed and got the job in the field I really wanted on the same day. You could say that this sounds easy, but I hate interviews so my advice would be to research the area generally and think about it but do not take in too much information, otherwise you are likely to wobble. Try to appear as confident as possible.
What practice area are you working in?
I now work within secondary mental health services (CMHT).
How well had your training prepared you for securing employment?
This is a difficult one to answer for me – possibly not that well, though I have had 15 years mental health support work experience so I did feel that I had enhanced my skills on the social work degree course. However, what everyone needs to remember is that you are generically social work trained and that should remain as the one thing that unites the profession and ensures a strong professional identity. Forms of social work practice differ, individual styles differ and always remember that there is never one way to do things. Everything you do is always a continual learning process.
Have you had any issues with application forms and do you have any advice for those facing them for the first time?
I find these rather easy compared to interviews. Make sure you discuss what skills and experience you can bring from different roles, including work, study and home life.
Have you had any disappointments or embarrassing interview moments?
Yes. On the first interview prior to qualification, I remember being told I had done really well but there was a question they asked and I panicked, thinking I did not have a clue of the answer. This was because I was nervous and I was over complicating the question. However, I was also in the smallest room I have ever been in and as a female being interviewed by three males I felt this was probably more the panel’s problem as they had failed to address any power imbalances.
Have you received any useful feedback from employers after interviews or applications?
I was praised for being able to think of examples of research and apply them to my area of practice during interview.
What advice would you give to people looking for jobs at the moment?
Keep looking, don’t give up, even in difficult climates there will always be jobs. Sign up to agencies, NHS trust websites as well as council alerts.
Published : 25th October 2011
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