What prompted you to apply to Motability Operations?
I was at a stage in my career where I knew exactly the area of IT I wanted to pursue and develop myself in. As a result, the company I would choose to work for would be vital in achieving my career aspirations. After seeing the role advertised I read up about Motability Operations, it was a breath of fresh air to see a profitable organisation doing something that was worthwhile and something very close to my heart. The fact that a company can be diverse, inclusive and successful was something I wanted to be part of.
What role do you have at Motability Operations?
I am the Incident Coordinator. One of my roles involves ensuring that all incidents logged by our users are professionally and efficiently managed through the incident management process. From the point of it being raised to the end where the problem is resolved. I am the escalation point for major issues, it is my job to ensure that the right teams are working on the task at all times. Whilst keeping the user and all relevant parties updated on how the investigation is progressing.
What do you enjoy most about working here?
I love the fact that Motability Operations is a vibrant and dynamic company. There is a lot going on and things can move at a fast pace. In the midst of all projects and deadlines that I am faced with, people are a pleasure to work with. I hear a lot about how organisations encourage people to be approachable and welcoming. Here at Motability Operations, they practice what they preach. Even when deadlines draw near and the work gets challenging, people still have time to sit down with you for a coffee and give you the support that you need. This has allowed even the challenging times to be fun and enjoyable.
How do you manage your disability at work?
I have a stammer/stutter and this was something I had since my childhood. In 2011 I enrolled in a speech therapy programme, called The McGuire Programme. It is a programme that is run by people who stammer for people that stammer, which tackles both the psychological and the physical aspects of stammering. With the techniques learnt from The McGuire Programme I am now able to be in control of my speech much more than I was in the past. It has now become part of my fabric so whenever I chair meetings, talk on the phone or carry out presentations I am using these techniques that help me to speak confidently and eloquently.
How has Motability Operations helped you to do well at your workplace?
Motability Operations has helped by allowing me the time off to attend refresher courses for my speech therapy. By not having to use my annual leave, this tells me Motability Operations want to see me achieve my goals and are willing to do what is appropriate.
I also inform and disclose to people about my stammer when being introduced to people and at meetings. By being open and honest with who I am, people appreciated that and in turn were supportive.
Have you acquired any additional qualities or skills as a result of having a disability and how have these helped you in your career?
Public speaking was something I would never have dreamt of doing; in fact, I would make excuses not to. However, this is something I now enjoy. By working hard on my speech and tackling my own fears I came from a place where I avoided saying my own name just to save myself the embarrassment in struggling to get the words out. To now, where I am instructing four-day courses to over 80 people, in order to help them overcome their stammers.
Being able to speak with control has allowed me to be myself and show people what I can do. It has helped me to make a good start with my career in Motability Operations, and with this, I aim to do better.
What advice would you give someone who is thinking of applying to work at Motability Operations?
Go for it!! It is a great company to work for. If you have any form of disability, be honest and open about it. Motability Operations will make reasonable adjustments in order to facilitate interviews and create a work environment to help you succeed.