Youth: a fresh perspective

We take five minutes to chat with Employment Plus Program Managers for Youth Services, Ree Paduano and Kylie Hawker, about young workers and how they can contribute to your business.

What are some of the myths about employing young people?

Ree: Some employers believe they’re lazy, don’t want to learn or are unreliable. These myths can be true of any generation. Young people just want an opportunity to work in a supportive environment, to be valued for their contributions to their employer.

Kylie: Some employers believe young people are lazy and do not want to work. The 1,500 plus young people that participate in the Transition to Work and Smart, Skilled and Hired voluntary employment programs at Employment Plus want to work. They simply need support in how to find a job.

What skills can a young person bring to a business?

Kylie: Young people bring a range of skills to a business. A young person can show a willingness to learn and can be trained in the operations of the business without bringing any prior behaviours to the workplace. Depending on the workplace, employing a young person can potentially bring diversity to the workplace and can result in an open and straightforward view of the business. Young people are also willing to listen and follow instructions when they are learning.

Ree: Young people bring enthusiasm, fresh eyes and social media knowledge.

What are the benefits to a business that come from hiring a young person?

Ree: A young person hasn’t been tainted by past experiences. They don’t come with bad habits and are open to learning new skills.

Why do you love your job?

Kylie: When I see a young vulnerable person accessing our services and being supported to become the best versions of themselves, I feel a great sense of pride and achievement. I work with a team of awesome, talented and dedicated staff that can make this happen. On a day-to-day basis there is a sense that we are working towards a grand, achievable vision and I proudly see us making strides towards it every day. I firmly believe in employment for all.

Ree: Working in Youth Services is about empowering a young person to reach their full potential. We have the privilege of seeing how the assistance we provide can change a young person’s attitude and life.