14/04/2025
In our Learner Talk series, we interview graduates of our IEP Learning programs from across the globe about their learning experience, how it feeds into their work as Employability Professionals – and more. In our Learner Talk series, we interview graduates of our IEP Learning programs from across the globe about their learning experience, how it feeds into their work as Employability Professionals – and more.
This week we are delighted to share the story of Aarti Chhatwal MIEP, Senior Resident Engagement Advisor at Haringey Works Temporary Recruitment Service, who completed the IEP Over 50s Employability Support Accredited Learning, in association with Centre for Ageing Better.
What motivated you to enrol in the IEP Over 50s program?
I enrolled in the IEP Over 50s program because I saw the significant barriers faced by older jobseekers, particularly in terms of confidence, qualifications, and accessing suitable training. Many of our clients at Haringey Works struggle with finding work after redundancy or job loss, struggling with confidence, outdated skills, health barriers and age-related biases. I wanted to gain specialised knowledge and tools to better support them in overcoming these barriers and to help them find meaningful employment and I wanted to gain more knowledge and practical tools to support them better. The program provided me with valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by over 50s and how I can help them overcome these hurdles.
Can you share some examples of how the skills you’ve gained from the program have been valuable in your work?
The program has taught me the crucial importance of identifying transferable skills, particularly for older workers who often have difficulty seeing how their previous experience can apply to new roles. It has also equipped me with the tools to effectively address misconceptions surrounding IT skills and confidence, which are common challenges faced by many individuals over 50. With this knowledge, I’ve been able to help our clients recognise and utilise their soft skills, such as communication and empathy, which are highly valued by employers.
As a practitioner, I now have access to advice from a variety of trusted sources, including the IEP and their LiveLearnLunch webinar series, as well as insights from the resources from the IEP’s Digital Technology Conference, which featured recruitment experts discussing how to build an effective online presence.
Additionally, I have learned the value of creating informal networks or support groups for older workers within our service provision. Expanding their opportunities to connect with others in their age group offers a sense of reassurance, showing that they are not alone in their journey. It also encourages individuals by showcasing others’ successes and provides a platform for sharing innovative ideas and strategies.
Has your journey on the program helped you learn things about yourself? If so, how?
My journey on the program has definitely been a learning experience for me as well. I discovered that I had some unconscious biases about older workers that I needed to address. The program helped me become more empathetic and patient, understanding the unique perspectives and strengths that over 50s bring to the workforce. It also reinforced the importance of continuous learning and adaptability, which are qualities I strive to embody in my professional life.
What would you say to someone considering enrolling in the IEP Over 50s Program to encourage them to do so?
I would strongly encourage anyone considering the IEP Over 50s Program to take the leap. The program offers comprehensive support tailored to the specific needs of older jobseekers. It provides valuable resources, practical skills training, and a supportive community. Enrolling in the program can make a significant difference in your confidence and employability, and it equips you with the tools to navigate the job market successfully.
What were the Learning Academy team able to give you as a learner?
The Learning Academy team provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges faced by over 50s in the labour market. They offered practical tools, case studies, and research that I could apply directly to my practice. What stood out was their focus on confidence-building and soft skills, which are essential in empowering older jobseekers to take action. The team’s support also gave me the confidence to address some of the misconceptions that older workers have about their own abilities.
What other IEP Learning have you undertaken/are currently undertaking? How has your experience been?
In addition to Over 50s Employability Support – UK, I have also undertaken Employability Essentials – UK and Award in Mental Health in Employability.
The Employability Essentials – UK program was incredibly insightful and provided a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of employability in the UK. It covered a wide range of essential topics, making it an invaluable resource for anyone working with jobseekers, particularly those facing additional barriers to employment.
Starting with the History of Employment in the UK, the course offered a solid foundation for understanding how the job market has evolved over time. It provided context for current employment trends and the challenges that specific groups, such as older workers and those with disabilities, face today. This historical perspective was crucial in understanding why certain barriers exist and how we, as practitioners, can work towards addressing them.
The program then moved into the core aspects of employability, touching on essential elements such as the Role of a Practitioner and the Participant’s Journey. This was particularly helpful in emphasising the importance of a holistic approach to supporting jobseekers. We were introduced to the various stages of a participant’s journey, from initial engagement to post-placement support, and how we can better guide them through each phase with empathy and practical advice.
A significant portion of the course was dedicated to understanding the barriers that participants often face, especially those with sensory impairments or learning disabilities and difficulties. It was empowering to gain a deeper insight into how these challenges impact their ability to navigate the job market. The course offered clear guidance on how to identify these barriers early on and suggested ways to mitigate their effects, ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities.
Equally important was the exploration of emotional intelligence in the employability context. Understanding how to assess and build emotional intelligence in jobseekers was essential for me as a practitioner, as it directly impacts their ability to manage stress, build relationships, and respond to challenges during their job search. Coupled with this, the module on reasonable adjustments and being Disability Confident provided practical strategies on how to make workplaces more inclusive and supportive of individuals with disabilities.
Another key area of the program focused on employer engagement. The course delved into strategies for building strong, sustainable relationships with employers, making sure that we not only help jobseekers find opportunities but also equip employers with the tools to hire inclusively. This two-pronged approach – working with both participants and employers – is crucial for creating a more equitable employment environment.
The program also covered vital areas like self and time management, helping jobseekers develop the organisational skills necessary for successfully navigating their careers. This section was especially relevant for older jobseekers, who may struggle with time management due to the gaps in their employment history or personal commitments.
Finally, one of the most impactful topics was understanding neurodiversity. The insights gained from this module helped me appreciate the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. It highlighted the importance of creating supportive environments that allow neurodiverse jobseekers to excel. Case studies in this area provided real-world examples of how reasonable adjustments and supportive practices can make a tangible difference in a person’s job search success.
Throughout the course, the inclusion of case studies really brought the theory to life. These real-life examples not only illustrated the challenges faced by different groups of jobseekers but also highlighted best practices for overcoming these challenges. It gave me practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to work with diverse caseloads, ensuring that every participant is supported in a way that aligns with their individual needs.
Overall, the Employability Essentials – UK program was an empowering experience. It has equipped me with a more comprehensive toolkit for addressing the barriers jobseekers face, whether it’s due to age, disability, or other personal circumstances. The insights into neurodiversity, reasonable adjustments, and employer engagement have significantly enhanced my ability to support individuals in their journey back into work. The focus on emotional intelligence, self-management, and time management was particularly useful in helping jobseekers build the confidence and skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
Anything else you would like to add?
I would like to emphasise the importance of offering personalised support to over 50s jobseekers. It’s not just about helping them identify new skills or qualifications; it’s also about restoring their confidence and showing them how their experiences and soft skills can be incredibly valuable in today’s job market. Through this program, I have learned to approach each individual with empathy and patience, understanding that their journey is unique. With the right guidance, older workers can thrive in new roles and sectors.
