Michael Fierstone

Michael has worked for most of his life. His last job was working for a large charity but at the end of the contract, after working for 40 years, he wanted a change.  Realising he needed help and support, the obvious thing to do was to contact Resource, which had helped him get back on his feet in the past.

“The first time I came to Resource was over 30 years ago, in 1994, but I’ve never forgotten the difference they made. I’d worked in menswear for 13 years and they were cutting back so I lost my job. I wasn’t sure what to do.  I’d heard about this new charity so I went along to see if they could help.”

Michael remembers everyone being was so supportive and friendly and the first thing that happened was a meeting with an advisor – David Arnold. In fact, Michael still remembers the advice he received from hm.

“To this day I believe he changed my life. I remember him saying, you’re not just looking for a job, you’re looking for advice. He told me to make a list of all the people I knew, people who I could meet, have a coffee with – and ask for their advice. I started asking around and a friend suggested I meet up with someone she knew at M&S.

“When we met, he asked why, with my experience, I hadn’t applied to the clothes stores. The reason was I’d just assumed that they only took graduates. He told me they take people of all backgrounds, but first I needed to apply… I did and, amazingly, I got a job!”

Michael started as a trainee and remembers it being tough. 

“I worked incredibly hard and ended up as Head of Merchandising in various departments. In the end I was there for 20 years but was made redundant.  The first thing I did when I left was go back to Resource.”

With advice and support, Resource helped Michael find more work, with one job leading to another – even working abroad. Now, though, in his sixties, Michael wants to cut back on his work commitments – and try something different.

“I’m looking at volunteering or trustee roles. When you’re at Resource it gives you support and purpose. If you’re not working, or you’re on your own, it’s a lonely place.” 

Since coming back to Resource a couple of months ago, Michael has had some useful sessions with advisor, Rob. 

“He’s a lawyer and is great at thinking strategically and looking at what you have to offer the market. Resource has really grown since I first came here. There are great advisors and I’ve been on all the courses - there are so many now. I’ve also learnt about new systems and AI.”

Meanwhile, Michael is still meeting up with people for coffee. 

“It gets more important as you get older. If you’re not present or visible people don’t know you. You have to build on your network and use your contacts. 90% of people will happily meet you and want to help.”

 As Michael says, you have nothing to lose, and you might just end up with a job.