At a Glance
- Tasks: Help individuals with mental health challenges find and maintain employment through tailored support.
- Company: The Growth Company, dedicated to empowering people in their career journeys.
- Benefits: Full training, supervision, and a supportive work environment focused on personal growth.
- Other info: Join a community outreach programme with excellent opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Experience in employability or health sectors, strong communication and negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Growth Company (GC) Employment team has a vacancy for an Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Employment Specialist to help participants gain employment. IPS is recognised as the most effective way to support people with mental health problems in finding and keeping paid work. If you’re motivated to make a difference, this job offers full support, supervision, and training to develop your IPS practice. We are continuing to expand our services that support people with health and mental health conditions. We are therefore particularly keen to hear from you if you have experience of working in either employability, employer engagement, the health or mental health sectors. This position is part of a community outreach programme delivered in partnership with Manchester City Council.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of around 24 clients motivated to start or return to work, using the IPS approach to help overcome barriers related to work, skills, health, and personal circumstances, leading to sustainable employment.
- Build relationships with local employers to negotiate job opportunities that align with clients’ strengths, needs, and preferences.
- Develop partnerships with external agencies, including colleges and training providers, to support clients’ employment goals.
- Engage in ongoing learning about disability and mental health, including mandatory training.
- Support clients in identifying skills and aspirations through Vocational Profiles and Action Plans, offering help with job searches, CVs, applications, interviews, and career development.
- Assess and address work‑related support needs, such as benefits advice or mental health disclosures.
- Proactively source job opportunities through tailored searches and employer outreach, including hidden vacancies.
- Provide education and support to employers, including negotiating adjustments, return‑to‑work strategies, and ongoing contact to ensure job retention.
About you
- Experience talking to employers and helping people into work.
- Great communication skills and the ability to build relationships with everyone from the frontline up to CEO level.
- Negotiation skills and commercial acumen.
- Drive, passion, and commitment.
- Proven ability to build rapport with people and especially understanding issues for people with barriers to employment.
- Strong written skills, verbal and organisational skills.
Skills Required
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiating skills.
- Ability to work in a target‑driven environment, with a focus on the successful achievement of job outcomes and sustained outcomes.
- High‑level guidance skills, with the ability to deliver one‑to‑one and group sessions to at least Grade 2 standard.
- Previous experience working on outreach and lone working.
- Experience in guidance, advice & counselling environments.
- An understanding of working with disabled people, or a similar client group within health, social services, or the voluntary sector is desirable.
Employment Specialist in Trafford employer: The Growth Company
The Growth Company is an exceptional employer, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community by supporting individuals with mental health challenges in their journey towards sustainable employment. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from comprehensive training and supervision, fostering a collaborative work culture that values innovation and compassion. Located in Manchester, this role offers unique opportunities to engage with local employers and external agencies, ensuring that you play a vital part in transforming lives while advancing your own career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Specialist in Trafford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local job fairs, workshops, or community events where you can meet potential employers and other professionals. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! You never know when you’ll bump into someone who could help you land that dream job. Prepare a short, engaging summary of your skills and what you’re looking for, so you can impress them on the spot.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply online; reach out directly! If you see a job that excites you, find the hiring manager's contact info and send them a message. A personal touch can make all the difference and show your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! Send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Specialist in Trafford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employment Specialist role. Highlight your experience in employability, employer engagement, and any relevant work in health or mental health sectors. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about helping people with mental health issues find work. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves building relationships with clients and employers, make sure your written application reflects your strong communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and engaging. We want to see your personality come through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and submit your documents!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Growth Company
✨Know Your IPS Inside Out
Make sure you understand the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model thoroughly. Be ready to discuss how it helps people with mental health issues find and maintain employment. We suggest preparing examples of how you've applied similar approaches in your past roles.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
This role requires strong interpersonal skills, so think about times when you've successfully built relationships with clients or employers. We recommend preparing a couple of anecdotes that highlight your ability to connect with diverse individuals and negotiate effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the Sector
Familiarise yourself with current trends in employability and mental health support. We encourage you to read up on local initiatives or partnerships, especially those involving Manchester City Council, as this will show your commitment and understanding of the community you’ll be working in.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations related to client support and employer engagement. We suggest practising responses to common scenarios, such as overcoming barriers to employment or negotiating job opportunities, to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
