Building confidence takes time, but for Jordan, taking a single step outside his comfort zone transformed his entire career path.
Jordan initially began his employment journey working in an IGA supermarket, stacking shelves and providing customer service, until it came to an abrupt stop during Covid, when the business closed down.
He described his experience as less than ideal, dealing with impolite people and a lack of support.
After three months of unemployment, his NDIS contact recommended Jigsaw – a decision that would not only rebuild his workplace skills, but completely redefine what he knew he was capable of achieving.
From finding his feet to finding his future
When Jordan first walked through Jigsaw’s doors, his primary goals were straightforward: build confidence, learn to speak to people more easily, and step out of his comfort zone.
Though initially nervous and afraid of failing, he quickly found his stride in digitisation work, mastering document scanning, quality control, and complex file management for major clients. Along the way, he discovered a keen eye for detail, a strong work ethic, and a passion for teamwork.
Now, Jordan is moving on from Jigsaw after reaching a major milestone: securing a public sector role with the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation (DETSI).
In his new position, Jordan is taking on document scanning work that builds directly on the technical skills he mastered at Jigsaw – a transition he describes as being “a little bit more challenging, but in a good way.” He currently commutes independently to work, moving from two to three days a week as he fully steps into mainstream employment.
For Jordan, the transition felt exciting, even if it came with a few natural nerves.
“I remember I was very scared of everything before I did this job… every time I’m doing something new, I’m scared because I feel like I’m afraid of failing,” Jordan shares. “But the more time went past, the more I was like, ‘Yeah, I know I’m going to be fine. I’ve gained confidence enough to do whatever I can.'”
Beyond mastering complex workflows, Jordan takes immense pride in being a reliable teammate who brings a strong work ethic to the office every single day.
“Everyone knows that they can rely on me, you know? And if they rely on me, that’s good enough for me,” he says. “I don’t really care about the achievements or anything, just as long as everyone likes me for me… that’s good enough for me.”
Jordan’s heartfelt message for job seekers and employers
As he graduates from Jigsaw with an entirely new outlook on his own capabilities, Jordan hopes his story encourages other job seekers taking their first steps, while sending a clear message to Australian businesses about the value of inclusive hiring.
“If you feel nervous, that’s okay. It means you’re starting a new step ahead on your journey,” Jordan advises. “Never be afraid to ask for help, and never, ever feel like you have to do things on your own. You have people to help you. You’re not alone.”
His message to Australian employers looking to make their workplaces more inclusive is just as direct:
“Give them a chance. Let them show what they can do. Not everybody’s perfect, but everyone’s got something to offer… We can do anything as long as we can put our heart to it. So give us a shot, 100%.”
Looking back on how far he has come – from lacking confidence in his first retail job to working in the heart of the city with a new sense of self assurance – Jordan feels ready for whatever comes next.
“Every single step of this journey has been a ride,” Jordan reflects. “I don’t regret a single moment of this. Everyone can get what they want, just as long as you put your heart to it and have faith in yourself.”