After 36 years, I had to
apply for jobs again
Gerard worked at Sensata, where he was informed that there was no longer a place for him after a reorganization. Back on the job market after 36 years—Gerard could definitely use some help with that. He could choose between two agencies for an outplacement program. After a conversation with Carla, he decided to go with MEPD: close by, accessible, and personal—just what he was looking for. It was a good choice: just a month after posting his CV, he already had prospects for a new job. Gerard shares his experience.
No pushing, but at my own pace
‘Yes, I was disappointed,’ Gerard admits honestly. ‘And I actually found it quite hard to comprehend that I was let go; it was so busy. I needed some time to come to terms with the fact that I no longer had a job. At MEPD, there was room for that; you close one chapter and have to start again. The good conversations I had with Carla and my coach Daniëlle really helped me with that. Moreover, I felt like I could take things at my own pace. No pushing, and there was space for things other than just job searching. I really didn’t expect that. It was so human, while at the same time they gave me the necessary nudges to take steps forward. For example, getting started on my CV.
Will I be able to find a job again?
I had a CV that was exactly three lines long. After discussing in detail all the work I had done over those 36 years, it became quite an impressive CV. I uploaded it again to the UWV, and within 15 minutes I had already received five responses. My confidence in finding a new job started to grow. Of course, I did wonder: Will I be able to find a job again? Through MEPD’s network, I chose to have an interview at a company in Almelo. Turns out, I had an interview with an old acquaintance from Sensata. That made it more relaxed, and we had a pleasant chat about the available positions. One in particular really caught my attention. During a tour, I ran into another familiar face; it just felt good and comfortable. Since then, I’ve done a trial day and signed my contract. I start on July 1. First I get to enjoy a holiday before I get started.
I look back on the process with great pleasure
I look back on the process with great pleasure, and that’s actually a strange thing to say. Of course you’d rather not experience being laid off. But the way I was supported will stay with me for a long time. The human touch, the personal approach, the pleasant manner. I’ve found a well-fitting new job and had a wonderful experience working with MEPD. I’ve decided to keep in touch,’ says Gerard.
Carla Marcelis
Account manager
I find fulfillment in supporting employees when they hear that there is no longer a place for them—for example, during a reorganization. A listening ear and encouraging words are exactly what they need at that moment.
