Finding Solid Ground: Martin’s Journey Back to the Kitchen
Martin spent over a decade as a head chef. Originally from Ukrainian, and fluent in four languages, Martin spent much of his career building a strong professional reputation in both Ukraine and United States. It was more than a job—it was his craft, his leadership role, his stability. But when that position ended unexpectedly, his life entered a period of profound change. He became a live-in caregiver for an elderly woman, offering companionship and support for two years. After she passed away, Martin faced a harsh new reality: he was without a home, without a job, and without a clear next step.
Seeking a Partner, Not Just a Service
Unsure where to turn after his own job applications went unanswered, Martin visited the Goodwill Job Connection at Turning Points. He wasn’t looking for a handout; he was looking for a path forward. What he found was a partnership.
The first task was to reframe his story. His résumé listed duties, but it didn’t capture his thirteen years of kitchen leadership or the resilience he’d honed as a caregiver. Together with his career coach, Kathy, they rebuilt it to highlight his quantifiable impact and adaptable skills. It was the first concrete step in turning his experience into opportunity.
The Right Support at the Right Time
With a stronger résumé, Kathy referred Martin to several openings at the Marriott Resort in Palmetto. She saw a match for his skills and followed up directly with the hiring manager, who, in a meaningful coincidence, was also from Ukraine. This connection helped secure an immediate interview.
Before the interview, Martin took simple, proactive steps. He got a haircut, made sure his clothes were sharp, and stopped by Job Connection for a final confidence boost. He walked into the interview prepared, and it showed. The hiring manager was impressed and offered him a position on the spot.
When a Pause Led to a Promotion
After the offer, there was an unexpected delay. Instead of worrying alone, Martin returned to Job Connection. Kathy followed up and discovered the reason: the kitchen was restructuring. The Marriott wasn’t reconsidering—they were reconsidering him for a better role.
A week later, Martin shared his news: he was hired as a Sous Chef, a higher position with more responsibility and pay than originally discussed. The partnership had helped him not just reclaim his career, but advance it.
A Testament to Partnership
Martin’s journey highlights an important truth: a career setback doesn’t have to be a full stop. With focused support and personal determination, it can be a comma—a pause before a new chapter.
“Martin had everything an employer would want: skill, dedication, and professionalism,” said Kathy, his Goodwill career coach. “Our role was to help him present that story clearly and to stand alongside him during the process. That’s what partnership does.”
Could You or Someone You Know Use a Partner?
If you’re navigating a career transition, you don’t have to do it alone. Goodwill provides:
- Personalized career coaching and job search strategy
- Expert résumé and interview preparation
- Direct referrals and connections to local employers
- Partnership through the whole process
Ready to take the next step? Connect with a Goodwill career specialist today.
