Bill Claybo dials in new phone business through Malaspina’s Practice Firm

After finishing 34 years with one company, Bill Claybo needed a new direction; something to keep him busy and to make some money along the way. He chose to enrol in the Practice Firm program offered through Malaspina University-College's Centre for Continuing Studies in September 2002.

The Practice Firm for Mature Workers is a program designed for individuals from all walks of life, whether on Employment Insurance, Income Assistance, Self-employed or retiring from a long-term specialized area, to find their place in the new work force. The program offers marketable skills training, builds individual's self-confidence and assists them in finding work.

 <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

Claybo said, "My 16 weeks at the Practice Firm was a very positive and timely experience. After completing 34 years with the same company and I was not quite ready for retirement but I wanted to stay busy. I had not been in the job market for a long time so I was very grateful for the opportunity to be able to attend the Practice Firm at Malaspina."

At the Practice Firm program, Claybo learned valuable computer skills and the Microsoft Office software along with instruction in sales, marketing, accounting, graphic design and human resources.

"I particularly enjoyed the workshops on networking, communication skills, resume and cover letters,” said Claybo. "The resume writing instruction along with the encouragement of instructor Chris Dunn was directly responsible for me securing a long-term service contract with a major Canadian payphone company."

With the knowledge and experience picked up during the 16 weeks of the Practice Firm program, Claybo also gained the confidence to start his own business.

"Midway through the program I came to the decision to start my own business as a telephone contractor and I formed Tellme Communications, said Claybo. "As with every new business it has been slow going but by applying the skills and knowledge acquired through the Practice Firm, in particular the networking skills, I've gradually seen business increase."

"The Practice Firm's instructors gave me excellent instruction support and encouragement through the program and made it a very enjoyable experience. I'd recommend it to anybody looking for a fresh start in the work world."

The Practice Firm is a free program, funded by the Ministry of Human Resources which gives those who are unemployed, and between the ages of 55 and 64, an opportunity to obtain readily marketable skills in a virtual business environment at Malaspina University-College.

For further information, contact Leona Head at 740-6173, local 2264.