TNG, a national welfare to work training provider, in King Street, Luton, is taking inspiration from speed dating to help match-make jobseekers with potential employers.

The recent speed-dating session followed a motivational speech by Billy Schwer, former world champion welter weight boxer.

The ‘speed recruitment’ sessions centred on the warehouse and retail sectors, with employers hoping to find a match made in heaven. Around 40 TNG customers heard Billy Schwer deliver a motivational speech on thinking positively and staying focused before they got to hold his world title belt.

Harnessing their renewed enthusiasm, Employer Engagement Account Manager Neil Gothard held five minute back-to-back mini employment sessions. Around 20 customers went through applications with Neil, and so far nearly half have already been invited for an interview with prospective employers.

Each applicant is enrolled on programmes such as New Deal and Skills for Life, being delivered by TNG in Luton. The programmes aim to help some of the hardest to reach people overcome their barriers to find employment.

Neil Gothard said, “Being unemployed for any length of time can seriously affect your confidence and motivation. Billy Schwer’s speech had a real impact on all of our customers. There is a real buzz of renewed optimism, self confidence and motivation around the centre. This, added to the tailored, structured support provided by TNG ensures our customers are in the best possible position to find employment.”