LOCAL McDonald’s franchisee Paul Booth is helping unemployed young people build on their skills and confidence to get their first career break.

Paul has teamed up with Jobcentre Plus and learndirect to hold a How To Get Hired workshop at his Cockleberry restaurant.

During the workshop, young people heard from a number of staff from McDonald’s in the town, who gave them practical advice on job hunting following their own recent experiences.

They were also given the chance to hear tips on how to write a CV by experts from learndirect, practice interview techniques with experienced McDonald’s managers and get practical advice on job hunting and what employees are looking for from Paul.

“As a local businessman, I’m a great supporter of local initiatives to help reduce youth unemployment in the area and have recently been involved with the Swindon Advertiser’s Get Swindon Working campaign,” he said.

“I employ over 600 people across my restaurants in Swindon, Stroud and Cirencester and we are extremely proud to be one of the first McDonald’s restaurants in the UK to pilot the How To Get Hired workshop sessions.

“We hope that, together with Jobcentre Plus and learndirect, we will be able to help young people in Swindon get the skills and confidence needed to get a foot on the first rung of the career ladder.”

Michael Bingham, 19, who works at McDonald’s, said: “Having been through the job seeking process first-hand, I know how tough it can be for young people to get onto the career ladder.

“It took me a few months after coming out of education to find an opportunity, and I was thrilled when McDonald’s offered me my first job.

“McDonald’s has provided me with a great career path, having already progressed to trainee manager, and I plan to continue climbing the ladder.

“My advice for jobseekers is to try to get as much experience as possible, as this will show they have the skills and the drive needed to work in their chosen field.

“Volunteering is one of many ways that young people can increase their employability.

“I chose to volunteer part time in a number of sectors to try and get a breadth of experience. This not only increased my confidence when it came to the application process but has also helped me in my role now.”

Paul is currently recruiting for 25 new job opportunities spanning all levels from crew through to management positions at his restaurants across Swindon in the coming weeks.

The job opportunities are open to everyone and applicants can apply online at http://jobs.mcdonalds.co.uk/uk/swindon-jobs