TERRI Pollack was devastated when the news was delivered the Electrolux plant would close and she would lose her job.
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However, her work life has taken a new direction since she switched to a role in aged care, as an administration officer at the new Gosling Creek Aged Care facilty on Forest Road.
“I just love my new job,” she said.
“I understand how hard it is to take a new direction in your life, but it was absolutely the best decision for me.”
Mrs Pollack said leaving a workplace could be a stressful experience and she wanted to encourage others through her positive experience.
“For some of the workers, particularly those who have been at Electrolux for 40 years, they haven’t had any experience in looking for another job,” she said.
“Many of them went straight from school to the factory.”
However, she says workers should look for opportunities now, as it is not as daunting as it appears at first.
“Of course it can be scary, but get your foot in the door by keeping your options open,” she said.
“Casual or part-time work can always turn into a full-time position.”
Mrs Pollack, who worked in human resources at the plant for 12 years, said it was hard leaving the Electrolux “community.”
“But I love my [new] work environment. Everyone I have come in contact with has been absolutely wonderful, and there is a real sense of community here [too].”
janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au