Dressed with confidence to return to work – South East Advertiser

 

Christine Haines didn’t lack the skills or ability to re-enter the workforce after a 12 month lay-off due to injury, just the confidence.

 

She rediscovered this with the help of the Brisbane arm of the international Dress For Success charity.

 

The organisation outfits women trying to re-enter the workforce in suits, shoes and accessories donated by the public.

 

‘‘The volunteers were so lovely, they helped me get an interview outfit and it was a real boost to my confidence,’’ Ms Haines said.

 

‘‘I felt like Pretty Woman walking out the front door.’’

 

The Camp Hill mother of three daughters said her retail experience, coupled with extra study, helped her into a job as a trainer at Sarina Russo Job Access Mt Gravatt, where she’s been for about four months.

 

‘‘I’m helping people now who were in the same situation I was in,’’ the 55-year old said. ‘‘I know how easy it is to lose confidence when you’re at home for a long time and there’s no one there to give you a boost.’’

 

Ms Haines was one of four women awarded by Dress For Success Brisbane for ‘‘outstanding success in the workforce’’ in March.