A free online careers coaching guide aimed at helping public sector workers through the daunting prospect of unemployment has been launched by UEL.
Seasons for Change, a new self-help guide written by UEL’s Dr Jonathan Passmore, one of the UK’s leading coaching psychologists, addresses a range of issues including redundancy, job-seeking and re-training.
An estimated 400,000 public sector employees face unemployment after Government cuts to public sector services announced as part of last year’s Comprehensive Spending Review.
Dr Passmore believes that although unemployment can be a demoralising experience, job-seekers can take specific steps to enhance their prospects, while also advocating a systematic and pragmatic approach towards re-entering work.
“Clearly the notion of unemployment is extremely frightening to many people, particularly so in these uncertain times. However, by playing to their strengths, developing certain strategies and putting some thought into the process, individuals can ultimately be in a position to turn adversity into opportunity.
“It is important to remember that the more criteria individuals lay down in terms of seeking their ideal post, the less likely it is to become a reality. It is therefore vital that job-seekers are realistic about their goals, and it is certainly worth taking time out to give these goals a great deal of thought when considering what they really want to do.”
Among the techniques outlined in his book, Dr Passmore identifies ‘Network Mining’ as a pivotal exercise.
“Gaining information from former colleagues, agencies and trades organisations are just some of the ways in which job-seekers can maximise their potential through communication. When that all-important job interview comes around it is also worth preparing 15 questions that applicants think they might be asked – and then attempting to answer them!”
Seasons for Change is the 14th book Dr Passmore has penned. He added: “Our ultimate aim is to help people back into employment, on the basis that they will thoroughly enjoy their new working environment, and also make the best use of their skills.”
The book is priced £15, but UEL is making available e-copies of the book for free. To download your free copy of Seasons for Change click here.
Additional Information:
The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 23,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.
