Job Shadow Day leads to jobs

Job Shadow Day is a Work Solutions Gippsland initiative aimed at local employers, providing people with disability and other barriers to employment the practical experience of working life.

“Under the program, employers host a number of participants who shadow employees as they go about their work for the day,” Work Solutions’ Yvonne Fawcett said.

The program allows participants to experience the world of work and different roles first hand, and provides employers and their staff the opportunity to appreciate having a person with a disability, injury or health condition in their workplace. “Over 200 jobseekers enjoyed the opportunity to shadow an employee from one of our amazing Gippsland employers. Small, medium and larger employers all opened their doors,” Ms Fawcett said.

Gippsland Water Managing Director Sarah Cumming said Job Shadow Day helps open up opportunities for the organisation, by shining a light on diversity and equality.

“We are committed to being a high performing, inclusive workplace that reflects the community we serve,” Ms Cumming said.

“The fact that we have since employed two people as a result of Job Shadow Day and ongoing relationship with Work Solutions confirms the value of this wonderful initiative.”

Hayden, a program participant, is now working in Gippsland Water’s Major Systems team, making full use of his tertiary education in engineering.

Employment was also offered to Janet, who is helping to implement a new data system within the organisation’s wastewater group. Janet’s similar experience in volunteer organisations suited the needs for this project.

“Hayden and Janet are providing real value to our business and through our relationship with Work Solutions Gippsland, we now have access to another great source of local talent,” Ms Cumming concluded.