‘I’ll use what I learned for the rest of my life’

Through its Skills for Tomorrow programme, BT is helping 10 million people make the most of life in the digital world. It’s free and designed to help everyone – from schoolkids to small business owners. Through it, BT has helped thousands of people to get into work – like 24-year-old Michael. Here he explains how…

“When I graduated three years ago with an electronics degree, it dawned on me my qualifications alone weren’t enough – I needed experience and key employability skills.

I’d applied for placements in the past and not got through, so I felt the BT Work Ready programme – part of the Skills for Tomorrow initiative – was the opportunity for me.

“I’ve been to many interviews and the same thing always came up: what makes you stand out? The Work Ready programme shows you’re ready to go that extra mile to develop yourself and your skills.

“I enjoyed everything about the programme. The vibe was great and the advice and support were really practical. I learnt a lot from the trainers and the other people on the programme. We’d present to each other and give feedback. It also gave me an insight into different career options, such as what it’s like to work as a telephone engineer.

“I found out more about myself too. I went back through unsuccessful interviews so I could learn from them. I even learned the value of LinkedIn. The placement helped me land my first job in the automotive industry, and I was able to use LinkedIn to connect with and meet the MD of the company.

“Every interview you go to, they tell you they want someone with experience. BT gave me that – and the skills I needed. I’ll use the lessons I learned for the rest of my life.”