This week we spoke to one of our top Recruitment Consultants Leanne Wilkinson about what makes her most passionate at work and at play
1. Tell me how you first got involved with STEPS?
A former colleague of mine was working with STEPS at the Bundaberg office. There was a position available with STEPS for an Employment Consultant, she encouraged me to apply, which I did. I met with Glynn and the then Team Leader and from there it all began.
2. What have you found most challenging about supporting people with a disability to find work?
I think the most challenging thing is to change the perception of who a person with a disability is in 2015 and beyond, it’s trying to get business to see the diversity in their workplace as a better way to move forward.
3. What’s the best thing to happen since you started working with STEPS?
The best this to happen is working with a wonderful team of people who genuinely care about what they do. It’s a privilege to call my workmates friends and to work with people who support and help each other so much.
4. What do you wish other people knew about STEPS?
The passion and work that goes in behind the scenes to support our clients and work with them to achieve goals that they may have thought weren’t achievable.
5. Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to do the kind of work you do?
I’ve been working in the employment industry for a very long time, so there has been many mentors etc. I think the biggest influence or motivator is when you see the pleasure that a client/candidate shows when they have found a job that gives them self esteem and confidence. There have been many of these so I can’t really name anyone.
6. What would you tell someone who is thinking about employing a person with a disability?
I would tell them that they will get an employee who will be dedicated and who will appreciate the opportunity. I would also be honest and make sure they were aware that there maybe some hiccups along the way but overall these will be outweighed by the positive impact their new employee will have on the workplace.
7. What might your colleagues or clients be surprised to know about you?
Most of my colleagues know most about me, I’m not one to hide too much. Mmmm, maybe that I…
8. What do you do when you aren’t working?
I try to relax and enjoy our property. I look forward to social activities and watching my daughter ride her quarter horse at different events.
9. What else can you tell me about STEPS?
STEPS is a very dedicated organisation who maintains it’s belief that all people are entitled to opportunities and that change in attitude is paramount to creating these opportunities. We all work hard to achieve this and will continue to do so.
Leanne works directly with businesses in the Bundaberg area matching skilled and experienced candidates to meet employer’s recruitment needs.
To find out how STEPS can help provide you with quality employment solutions call us on 1300 078 377
