Katie, home help - SS14 Basildon

Although I am 21 years old, I believe I have the maturity of someone much older. I was a young carer for my father before he died so had to grow up fast. Also dealing with sensitive issues at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau has to be handled with maturity and understanding, as the advice I give can seriously effect that customers life. My undergraduate Law degree has expanded my understanding and social awareness by having to have knowledge of new laws and judgements, and having to apply these changes to situations.

I am a confident communicator which I am able to demonstrate through volunteering role at my local Citizen’s Advice Bureau. Becoming an advisor, I have gained invaluable knowledge of handling clients, thinking on my feet with a little taster of the industry. I am able to explain clearly the law to clients. Volunteering at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, one of the key skills I have to use on a case by case basis is sound temperate. Every customer is different, but all want the same outcome, to get advice and to not be judged for who they are. It can be challenging at times, especially when dealing with someone where English is not their first language, however, it is really rewarding. There are times in particular circumstances of a sensitive nature, where I have to make a sound judgement if the issue needs to be escalated to the appropriate authorities.

I pride myself on being reliable, which is proved by my volunteer work, showing up and completing my duties to the best of my abilities. Also in my most recent part time position I am relied upon to complete the figure spreadsheet to keep track of the work load. I have demonstrated excellent attention to detail through my role at CAB is essential to this profession. My part time role as a Processing Specialist required an extremely high standard of attention to detail when inputting Merchant’s chargeback details, and making sure all the information provided is correct and present. Whilst doing this I also had to ensure I complied with Data Protection laws and company regulations.

I am currently broadening my communication skills by learning British Sign Language in order to be able to communicate with as many people as I can. My dedication to further my skills are proved by this, as I am having to completely support myself with the course fees transport, and it is in my own personal time, not going towards any of my grades. My dancing in 5 different dance disciplines shows my commitment. I have also completed and working towards grades and models in the different dance disciplines, whilst also maintaining my undergraduate studies, having a part time job, and running my ItWorks business.

For the past year I have been running my own business as an independent distributor branching off the company ItWorks. I have learnt many skills through the process especially the ability to speak to people from different backgrounds, ranging from CEO’s to the lay person. I am very comfortable with working on my own and equally as comfortable as part of a team; although I am my own boss, I liaise with my down line (my personal team) and my upline. The more time and effort I put into the business, the more I get out of it. My financial security fluctuates due to being self employed, however, I have learnt to adapt and live by my means. Being your own boss is amazing, however, I do not have any qualms owing a duty to anyone who I work for or with.