Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Affiliations
References
Timeline
Generic

Catherine Ann McDonald

Airdrie,United Kingdom

Summary

A highly skilled professional with extensive expertise in resourceful networking, implementation of assessment tools, and e-learning platforms. Demonstrates a strong focus on client satisfaction through a client-centred approach and empathetic communication. Proficient in online meeting platforms, Microsoft Office, and safeguarding policy compliance. Adept at mentoring, skills assessment, with a solution-focused approach. Committed to promoting diversity and inclusion while adapting to change effectively. Offering strong communication, empathy, and organisational skills. Knowledgeable about motivational techniques, career planning, and providing constructive feedback. Ready to use and develop coaching, mentoring, and problem-solving skills.

Driven and empathetic professional with talent for active listening and effective communication, combining strong problem-solving abilities with knack for goal-setting. Proficient in guiding individuals through transitions and providing constructive feedback. Committed to fostering personal growth and achieving meaningful outcomes.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Job Coach

North Lanarkshire Council
Airdrie, North Lanarkshire
08.2013 - Current
  • Enhanced knowledge of labour market trends to deliver informed guidance.
  • Collaborated with employers to ascertain specific requirements and preferences.
  • Resolved employment barriers, including lack of confidence and experience.
  • Cultivated rapport with clients through empathy and understanding.
  • Assessed client needs for optimal job placement.
  • Coached clients in developing effective communication skills for interviews.
  • Conducted follow-up meetings post-interviews to review performance and feedback.
  • Provided guidance on professional appearance and etiquette to enhance employability.
  • Identified potential employment opportunities for clients.
  • Maintained accurate records of client progress towards employment goals.
  • Developed individualised action plans to facilitate career progression.
  • Liaised with other support services for holistic approach towards client welfare.
  • Adapted coaching approach based on individual's learning style or preference.
  • Prepared clients for job interviews by conducting mock sessions.
  • Communicated with external agencies and networks to enhance career guidance programmes.
  • Assisted clients in reviewing and revising resumes, cover letters and other job search resources to support employment opportunities.
  • Recommended job fairs and career development workshops to foster access to resources and recruitment events.
  • Delivered effective group and one-to-one advice and guidance sessions to job seekers.
  • Handled customer concerns and queries professionally to enhance support and prospects.
  • Researched careers, progression opportunities and labour market information to deliver accurate and impartial advice and guidance.
  • Ran small group sessions and large presentations to deliver on aspects of career guidance and education.
  • Guided clients through diverse career transitions and assisted with finding professional development opportunities to improve skillsets.
  • Organised and conducted mock interviews to help clients prepare for real-world opportunities.
  • Helped clients to identify and capitalise upon core skills and attributes to showcase value as candidate.
  • Provided tailored career advice and pastoral care based on thorough customer consultation and assessment.
  • Investigated and documented workplace grievances to eliminate future incidents.

Locality Worker

North Lanarkshire Council
Airdrie, North Lanarkshire
05.2004 - 08.2013
  • Fostered positive relationships with clients through professional interactions.
  • Complied with all health and safety regulations for worker welfare.
  • Participated in weekly team meetings to discuss progress and targets.
  • Ensured adherence to safety protocols for a safe working environment.
  • Adhered to company policies, safety procedures and performance standards.
  • Participated in team meetings to discuss goals, challenges, and process improvements
  • Executed tasks with precision and attention to detail in fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement through proactive suggestions.
  • Transported and escorted programme participants to and from activities and on field trips.
  • Factored-in abilities, needs and interests of participants in development of events and programs.

Day Centre Officer

North Lanarkshire Council
Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire
06.1995 - 05.2004
  • Wrote detailed reports, aiding in case documentation.
  • Executed assigned duties responsibly thus meeting departmental expectations consistently.
  • Handled sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
  • Liaised closely with external agencies such as social services and housing departments, providing comprehensive support for individuals in need.
  • Responded promptly and effectively to emergencies using established protocols.
  • Maintained high standards of personal conduct, contributing to a positive work environment.
  • Collaborated with colleagues for effective teamwork.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality through careful and correct storage of case documents, in line with internal policies.

Education

HNC - Social Care

New College Lanarkshire
Motherwell, North Lanarkshire
09.1995 - 06.1996

SVQ Level 3 - Social Care

New College Lanarkshire
Motherwell
09.1996 - 06.1997

HNC - Secretarial Studies

Bell College
Hamilton
09.1983 - 06.1984

Scottish Qualifications Certificate - Secretarial Studies

Coatbridge College
Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire
09.1982 - 06.1983

NVQ Level 1 - Secretarial Studies

Coatbridge College
Coatbridge
09.1981 - 06.1982

Skills

  • Resourceful networking
  • Implementation of assessment tools
  • E-Learning platforms competence
  • Diversity and inclusion awareness
  • Knowledge of labour laws
  • Focus on client satisfaction
  • Online meeting platforms usage
  • Adapting to change
  • Client-Centred approach
  • Cover letter writing
  • Job market understanding
  • Strong verbal communication
  • One-on-one mentoring
  • Empathetic communication
  • Data Entry
  • Microsoft Office
  • Safeguarding policy compliance
  • Job search strategies
  • Goal management
  • Career industry knowledge
  • Solution-focused approach
  • Multi-agency working
  • Skills assessment
  • Positive reinforcement techniques
  • Careers research
  • Disability awareness
  • Mentoring
  • Employability knowledge
  • Goal development planning
  • Client assessments
  • Advocacy
  • IT literate
  • Work experience organising
  • CV writing assistance
  • Person centred action plans
  • Careers advice
  • CV writing
  • Employment guidance
  • Reporting and record keeping

Affiliations

  • I am a member of Ramblers Scotland since last year.
  • I use the gym for Zumba and Aerobics classes

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Job Coach

North Lanarkshire Council
08.2013 - Current

Locality Worker

North Lanarkshire Council
05.2004 - 08.2013

SVQ Level 3 - Social Care

New College Lanarkshire
09.1996 - 06.1997

HNC - Social Care

New College Lanarkshire
09.1995 - 06.1996

Day Centre Officer

North Lanarkshire Council
06.1995 - 05.2004

HNC - Secretarial Studies

Bell College
09.1983 - 06.1984

Scottish Qualifications Certificate - Secretarial Studies

Coatbridge College
09.1982 - 06.1983

NVQ Level 1 - Secretarial Studies

Coatbridge College
09.1981 - 06.1982
Catherine Ann McDonald