John

From candidate to confidence coach.

Not only has John, 43, made a significant career change after severe depression ended his high-pressure banking career, he's now putting his experience to good use as a Remploy development advisor supporting other jobseekers with disabilities and health conditions.

At the end of last year, John's 25-year career as a bank manager ended and he found himself unemployed for the first time in his life. Five months later and his stress, depression and personal problems meant the future looked bleak.

"I hadn't been unemployed before and felt like a fool for not knowing what to do next," explains John. "I was actively looking for jobs but just received rejection after rejection. My confidence hit rock bottom."

A referral to Remploy from Hamilton Jobcentre Plus soon set John back on the road to work. He attended the branch on Quarry Street in Hamilton for advice and support - little did he know that a few short weeks later he would be working there himself.

A position as a development advisor was soon offered and John is now responsible for delivering key skills sessions to candidates, which build confidence, motivation and communication skills and provide practical advice on CV writing and interview techniques. He has already coached over 50 candidates and works closely with the local Jobcentres to encourage more people to attend.

"I can identify with the candidates having experienced all of the confidence issues, financial worries and self-criticism that you go through," said John. "I absolutely love seeing the positive effect that preparing and finding work can have on people. It's so rewarding - I wish I'd moved career years ago!"