Laura’s Story: Job Search to Employment
Laura working at NZDSN
Laura Jean Baine is a part-time administration assistant at the New Zealand Disability support network (NZDSN). Her work duties include: admin, banking, mail, cleaning and helping out at forums and conferences. The road to employment has not always been smooth but Laura has arrived at her desired destination. Below Laura answers some questions about the process of job searching and her role at NZDSN
Laura, how did you feel during job search?
I was hard and I often felt confused about which jobs I could apply for and how to make those applications. I was job searching for an extended period of time (two years) and I had one really bad week where I just wanted to give up.
What kept you going?
The support of my family and Emerge.
Any advice for other job seekers?
Keep going, be creative and try different ways of searching for work – don’t just go online. Get out there and go cold calling. Look in shop windows for job ads.
Any work goals?
To learn MYOB and start helping of more with the accounts.
What do you like about your Job?
I like the people, the work which NZDSN does, and my personal role/duties.
Has having a job increased your confidence?
Yes, I feel more confident about speaking to people I don’t know and also in my own abilities.
What do you want to do next?
I want to reach the point that I am working enough hours that I don’t need any further government assistance i.e. my current benefit. I want all my money to be money that I have earned for myself.
Laura and the NZDSN team
Background on NZDSN
NZDSN it is a network of NGOs that provide support services to disabled people through contracts with Government. It was formed in 2010 and currently has about 100 member organisations and individuals have joined so far.
The vision of NZDSN is “An Inclusive New Zealand” and its purpose is “to lead and influence change that supports inclusive lives.”
NZDSN’s objectives include:
Providing a strong voice to Government on matters of common interest to the sector;
Providing opportunities to promote best practice in the sector through the development of networks among members.
Desired outcomes:
Disability issues are a priority for Government;
Support providers are a valued partner in the delivery of services;
Workers in the sector are valued for the work they do.
NZDSN is governed by a Board elected from the wider membership and serviced by a full time Chief Executive and a small (mainly part time) including Laura.
NZDSN operates to improve government policy decision making by connecting experts from the practical side of service delivery with policy development. NZDSN also facilitates information flows between members and government, to ensure accurate and shared understanding across the system.
NZDSN’s annual Conference will be held in Wellington on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 of August 2013 at Te Papa. This is a great opportunity to hear about successful practices and networking with others with similar interests. The conference hosts an array of key-note speakers and a variety of workshop/discussions relevant to providers and others in the sector.
For further information please visit the NZDSN website: www.nzdsn.org.nz
