Overview:

OnTalent has demonstrated a profound commitment to diversity and inclusion by successfully supporting immigrants as they navigate the complexities of relocating, securing employment, and building careers in new countries. A key example of this success story involves Pieter and Dee, a South African couple who moved from New Zealand to Australia, with OnTalent playing a crucial role in helping them overcome the barriers many immigrants face.

Challenge:

Pieter and Dee were on their second international move—this time from New Zealand to Australia. They were part of a growing trend where skilled immigrants, particularly those with non-traditional backgrounds, struggle to be considered for roles in their new countries due to assumptions or variances in their qualifications and experience.

Pieter, a talented individual with a diverse skillset, had worked in the agricultural sector in both South Africa and New Zealand, setting up distribution networks and working in sales for niche markets. Despite his extensive experience and commercial acumen, Pieter faced challenges when job opportunities in Australia seemed elusive with his current employer. His story is a reflection of the barriers many face in the workforce, especially when it comes to being recognised for their transferable skills across industries and borders.

Meanwhile, Dee had moved to New Zealand from South Africa and had embedded herself in local services. She was highly qualified, holding certifications in both New Zealand and Australia. However, when their planned move to Australia was interrupted by setbacks, such as one of their jobs falling through, Dee and Pieter began questioning their future plans for a better quality of life.

Solution:

OnTalent stepped in as a trusted partner, providing a clear path forward during a period of uncertainty. Rather than relying on traditional recruitment methods, OnTalent embraced a comprehensive, integrated model approach that focused on both Pieter and Dee’s individual strengths and the long-term benefits of their potential move to Australia.

The process began with OnTalent’s expert consultant, Ash, who was tasked with delivering on Australian Government initiatives to grow domestic trauma counselors and practitioners throughout the State. Due to huge shortages in Australia, Ash focused her search far and wide for the right people, rather than relocating Australian professionals and creating shortfalls in that location. New Zealand-based Dee, was successful in acquiring a trauma counselor role, but within a few weeks Dee’s Partner, Pieter had an opportunity in Australia that fell through.

The OnTalent team stepped it up a notch, with Ash turning to fellow team member Mark, a professional recruitment specialist in commercial and technical, about Pieter’s skills and background.

Although Peter had a varied career, his skills in agriculture, sales, and managing his own business made him a strong fit for a role with Auspac, a prominent player in the chemical ingredients industry for animal feed. OnTalent’s Mark, was able to connect Pieter to an opportunity that many might have dismissed due to his non-linear career path, showcasing the benefits of thinking outside the box when it comes to diversity and inclusion.

Mark, with his deep knowledge of the Australian market, worked closely with Pieter to ensure he was well-prepared for the job interview process. He took the time to understand Pieter’s strengths, the challenges he faced, and how he could present himself effectively. Pieter’s first interview went exceedingly well, which led to a second round of interviews, even though he was at an airport in New Zealand, dealing with the stress of his family’s impending relocation and missing passports. Mark helped Pieter prepare for this second interview, ensuring he was ready despite the chaos surrounding him.

The positive feedback from the interview was a testament to Pieter’s resilience and abilities, but also to OnTalent’s support throughout the process. By offering tailored interview preparation, logistical support, and a genuine understanding of the challenges faced by many, OnTalent not only helped Pieter secure the role but also provided Dee with a sense of security about their move to Australia and her new role OnTalent had secured just weeks earlier.

Outcome:

The result was a resounding success for Pieter, Dee, and OnTalent. Upon landing in Australia, Peter had a job offer waiting for him, with a role that not only aligned with his skills but also offered long-term career growth. Dee had secured a position in mid-December, ensuring that the couple’s transition was smooth and stable. This stability was crucial for their family as they settled into their new life in Brisbane, Australia.

Pieter and Dee’s story is a powerful example of how OnTalent’s commitment to diversity and inclusion directly impacts the lives of immigrants, helping them overcome systemic barriers and achieve success in their new country. They were able to rely on OnTalent’s deep industry knowledge, recruitment expertise, and unwavering support throughout their journey, resulting in positive outcomes both professionally and personally.

In Pieter’s own words, “It’s hard for immigrants, especially when you’re making a second move. But OnTalent understood our situation, worked with us, and delivered in multiple ways. We reached out to other recruitment firms with no response, but OnTalent provided the support we needed, from securing two jobs to making the transition feel seamless.”

Dee even took to Google Reviews to praise OnTalent’s efforts, highlighting the exceptional service they received and how it made a significant difference in their lives.