“Your advice to be open and honest from the start helped a lot” – Siraje’s Story

Siraje, an attendee at the Stockport Social Supermarket, was a newly qualified nurse navigating the early stages of his career. After several unsuccessful interviews, he recognised he needed support to build confidence and communicate his strengths more effectively.

Although he had a wealth of valuable personal and professional experience, including work in refugee camps supporting people with diverse and complex needs, he struggled to express how this would benefit a Community Nursing Team. His passion for caring for others and natural ability to connect with people were clear but his confidence held him back. 

In a 1-2-1 meeting, Groundwork’s Employment Advisor Karina went through Siraje’s previous interviews with him, including how he felt, what feedback he received, and what could be improved, helping him identify the barriers affecting his performance. Siraje shared concerns about speaking too fast and not being clearly understood, especially when nervous. They worked on simple techniques to help him feel more in control, including opening the interview with a light, honest acknowledgement of his communication style to put both him and the panel at ease. 

Karina and Siraje then reviewed the job description of his upcoming job and translated his personal and professional experience into clear, relevant examples. His background supporting people in refugee camps became a powerful demonstration of his ability to work with diverse communities, a key strength for a Community Nursing role. 

A week later Karina heard back from Siraje about his interview. He has performed brilliantly at his NHS interview and secured a Band 5 Community Nurse role with Stockport’s NHS Foundation Trust. His confidence, honesty and ability to articulate his transferable skills made a strong impression on the panel. 

Siraje reflected: 

“It was fantastic, a miracle. I approached the interview with my eyes open and was honest from the beginning. I talked about my experience in the refugee camps to show my relevant and transferable skills. I also spoke about why I want to do this job, it is in my nature to help people. 

I’ve always been nervous about the language barrier and talking too fast. Your advice to be open and honest from the start helped a lot. They said not to worry and that it would be fine.” 

After receiving his job offer, Siraje met with Karina again for a job start clothing appointment with Working Wardrobe, selecting smart outfits for work meetings and training, helping him feel confident and prepared as he begins his nursing career.