In late November, I had the privilege of observing a styling session hosted by Smart Works Birmingham, an organisation dedicated to helping women break down the barriers that prevent them from securing employment in today’s competitive job market.
Whether they have gaps in their CV, no access to professional attire or had to overcome hurdles in their personal lives; Smart Works offers invaluable services to help women navigate the process of finding a job with confidence.
Smart Works Birmingham
The Smart Works Birmingham centre was opened in 2016 to help empower local women back into the workplace and provide them with the vital tools and support they need to succeed in their job search. Smart Works recognises that the search for employment goes far beyond a standard CV and addresses the emotional challenges that can impact unemployed women when it comes to interview situations. This helps them to realise that they already possess the skills to do the job and assists in building their self-confidence, so they stand out to prospective employers, already supporting over 3,000 women before their job interviews.
Smart Works Birmingham is one of Whistle’s chosen charities, and we are providing them with PR on a pro-bono basis to help drive volunteers and raise awareness of their mission.
The styling service
First impressions are important and knowing how to dress for success is half the battle. The styling consultation aims to provide women with an interview outfit that boosts their self-esteem and makes them feel good! It’s important that what they wear is representative of their own personal style and personality.
Smart Works have a team of trusted volunteer stylists who provide a one-to-one consultation and guide the client through the process of cultivating a professional wardrobe that can be repurposed for work once they get the job, or for future interviews. The stylist has a casual conversation with them and gets an understanding for the type of clothes they feel comfortable wearing, what colours they prefer, the type of fit they look for and sizing. The entire process is focused on ensuring that the outfit they walk away with is one that makes them feel empowered.
Smart Works’ support doesn’t stop there, should their client walk away from her interview successful, she will be invited back for a follow-up session where she will receive some extra support to build a professional working wardrobe. Going this extra mile helps to ensure that they’re walking into their new job both physically and mentally prepared, looking and feeling the part so they can truly thrive in their new role.
The impact
During my time observing this styling process, I was able to see the powerful impact this one-hour session has on women. For example, one client arrived very nervous and reserved, but left smiling and laughing with the team following her consultation. 75% of Smart Works Birmingham clients have found work after being supported by the organisation, having been given the tools they need to transition into this new chapter of their lives, and it’s the passionate team in the heart of Birmingham who are making this possible.
The impact of this service extends far beyond finding these women employment; the service helps them discover their self-worth, reaffirming that their contributions to the workplace are valuable and important. It assists in breaking cycles, improving family dynamics, improving mental health and wellbeing as well as turning the women into role models for their family and friends.
Smart Works Birmingham is creating a ripple effect of confidence for women in the West Midlands, and it was truly lovely to witness the beginning of someone’s journey with Smart Works first hand.
Whilst they are changing the lives of these women daily, the team can’t do it alone. Smart Works Birmingham are in desperate need of more volunteers to support in interview coaching and styling initiatives. They are actively seeking HR professionals, senior managers or executive coaches in all professions to guide clients through the interview process, as well as fashion-forward stylists who are committed to helping these women present their best selves on interview day!
If you are eager to volunteer your time, you can visit the Smart Works Birmingham website to download their volunteer form, and email it to the team at birmingham@smartworks.org.uk.
Authored by Emily Pinches, Account Executive
