Detailed Case Study

Can you describe what kind of job you were offered?
I’m going to work in Sheffield in the North of England and will be employed by one of the leading call handling centres in the UK.

What exactly will you do?
I’m going to answer phone calls from customers giving them information and advice of the services my company offers.

What job experience have you had in Poland?
I’m Bachelor of Administration and Master of Politology. During my studies I worked in Public Administration for governmental organisations. I carried out research for the editorial office of one of the biggest weekly newspapers. When I finished my studies I worked for seven months for the European Parliament in Brussels as a telephone operator, before returning back to Poland to work in a call centre in Warsaw.

Why have you decided to leave Poland?
When I came back from Brussels I couldn’t find any professional jobs which used my qualifications. I had to accept the reality of the labour market in Poland and I ended up taking what was a stressful job which paid an unsatisfactory salary without any prospects for promotion or development. I thought ‘’If I have to do something that is not connected with my qualifications then it’s better to do that abroad where I have a chance of earning more money.’’ There are many well educated people in Poland without the opportunity to develop their careers. The UK provides opportunities for you if you are prepared to work hard.

How did you find this job?
I had been looking for a job for a while, the recruitment process was slow and I was not getting any suitable offers coming through. I replied to Horizon European when I saw the advert in the Gazeta Wyborcza. Horizon European specialises in recruitment and relocation to the UK, providing support with accommodation and travel to the UK. Depending on the location of the contract they also assist with travel to and from work and provide ongoing support whilst you are in the UK. This is very important when you are moving to a new country and a new environment.

What can you say about the recruitment process?
I sent my CV in English and I received a phone call from Horizon European. They asked me questions in English and invited me to their office in Warsaw. The interview was quite long with 20 -30 questions, it was quite exhausting. I was asked in English about my work experience in call centres and how I react and behave in different situations. I then took a typing test. The day after, they called me and I was offered the position.

When are you leaving?
I’m flying on the 29th Sept. and will start work two days later. If I am happy there and the company is satisfied with my work then I might stay there longer.