I applied to the pilot because I wanted to explore the charity sector in terms of new work opportunities. I had worked in both Advertising and Broadcast Media for over 20 years and fancied branching out. Without ‘insider knowledge’ and charity experience I know that it can be hard to be taken seriously for advertised roles. I had previously tried and always lost out to someone who had charity experience. I also wanted to restore my confidence in being an “older” employee after a brief career break and prove to myself and others that I am able and employable and my skills are still relevant in the workplace. LinkedIn never seems kind to me.
My 6-month placement was as a Communications Intern within the Volunteering Team at Age UK. This was mostly a remote working role with opportunities to go into the office and visit Age UK locations around the UK. I joined a newly formed team of 6 delightful individuals who made me feel part of the team from day one. The placement worked in a very reciprocal fashion. Whilst I was learning about how to operate within a complex, structured organisation and how departments inter-related, the volunteering team benefited from my commercial skills, creating cross departmental communications and a highlight was re-writing the Volunteering customer journey on the Age UK website.
What did I get out of the placement. Firstly I think just being in work after a career break has done wonders for my confidence. I know I am very capable, but sometimes I need reminding. Secondly I was given an opportunity for a placement with Age UK, that I can say ‘hand on heart’ I would not have got without The Well Placed and that has given me the ‘insider knowledge’ I needed.
Unfortunately there was no job opportunity at the end of my placement, but I knew that might be a possibility. I have started job hunting. I know it won’t be easy, but I feel that I have more opportunity now through the knowledge gained via my placement and my increased confidence. If you are reading this and wondering if you should apply or not. Go for it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.