James Caan of Dragons Den, Evening Standard 27/01/11
“Lack of interview preparation and poor behaviour in interviews are limiting employment opportunities for young people. We recognise the value Your First Interview has for students.”
Leading National Retailer
Our Consultants
Tee Macpherson:
Tee has worked in a variety of industries over the past 20 years both in the UK and New Zealand. In 2001 she founded Toast Festivals, the largest Antipodean festival in the northern hemisphere. Working with government departments, top London restaurants, wineries, travel companies, airlines and musicians she delivered a three day festival to over 20,000 people. She was responsible for recruiting over 250 people to work alongside her to ensure year on year success. She sold the company in 2005.
Over the last five years Tee has been a marketing consultant to government departments, small and large businesses, and secondary schools. She has also conducted training workshops for a variety of industries.
Nicole Hershon:
Nicole has over 15 years of Human Resource Management experience in the UK, US, Australia and New Zealand. She has worked across a number of industries including Professional Services, Government and Telecommunications and has had extensive experience in interviewing for all levels of positions, from casual work requiring students through to senior management roles.
Nicole has developed and delivered interview training workshops for managers, with students being interviewees. As well as giving managers training on interview technique, Nicole also provided one on one coaching to the students on their own approach to interviews, preparing them for future opportunities.
Having seen thousands of applications Nicole knows exactly what makes a good candidate stand out from the crowd. She also knows that what may be ‘common sense’ to a working adult, may not be obvious to a young person entering the workforce.
Emily Wilkinson:
Emily is YFI’s Devon based consultant and is the youngest member of the team. After graduating from university, Emily experienced first-hand the challenges young people face when looking for work in today’s employment climate and how competitive the job market can be. However, this experience demonstrated to her the clear importance of a winning CV, stand-out covering letter and a positive, enthusiastic and determined attitude. Emily joined YFI in 2011 and is keen to pass on her knowledge and experience to young people facing a similar situation.
Before becoming a consultant Emily had been working in the theatre industry as an actor, writer, director, costume designer and musician. In her role as a director, having sat through many auditions, Emily understands exactly what it is that an employer looks for in a candidate. Also, being on the receiving end as an actor, she knows how people should present themselves in the best light to a potential employer in a concise and clear manner. Other industries Emily has worked in include marketing, social care with the elderly and arts management.