IMI launches Employability Week for workers facing COVID-19 job losses

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) is set to help employees facing potential job losses as a result of the COVID-19 crisis with the launch of its first Employability Week.

The event will run from from October 12 to 16 and comprise of a series of online resources focused on providing individuals facing unemployment with the tools to put them in the best position for their next job, the IMI said.

From refreshing a CV and building an online profile to interview and communication techniques in the virtual world, the IMI Employability Week web page will also include resource packs, ‘how to guides’, tips and advice, short videos, talks and presentations.

Job stability has been cited as the overwhelming factor for young recruits considering joining the automotive industry, according to Drive My Career.

Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, the IMI has provided free learning resources to automotive sector apprentices to ensure they continue learning even when furloughed.

Apprenticeship recruitment in the automotive sector fell by 75% in June 2020, new data from the Department for Education (DoE) has revealed.

Steve Nash, CEO of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), said: “There is no doubt that the pandemic has seriously affected the UK’s workforce in many ways.

“Now, with the furlough scheme coming to an end, there is a lot of employment uncertainty and for those who have been in a particular role for several years there could be considerable fear about getting back into the job market, from writing a CV and submitting impactful job applications to networking and undertaking interviews online.

“Some may not even consider a career change or looking beyond the specialism in which, they currently work because they don’t realise, they have transferable skills and knowledge.

“However, with the right guidance and support and, in some cases, some additional training, people will find there are genuine employment opportunities, and alternative career pathways within the automotive sector.”

You can download content from the IMI Employability Week here.