Nour is a numbers queen - with almost 20 years working in the finance industry. As an Accountant for the leading shopping mall, retail and leisure group in the Middle East, and at the American University of Sharjah, Nour is an experienced professional with a deep understanding of accounting processes. Completing a Masters at Adelaide University in 2013, Nour uses the Weploy app to continue building her local experience and has been highly rated, and rebooked by the team at O’Brien Glass. Nour Abuqasem is our Weployee of the Week!
What was your first job:
I spent four years at a United Nations development programme, initially as Programme Assistant and then Reporting Officer.
What is your dream job?
Anything that challenges me, or helps me build on my skills is ideal. As an accountant, I love any job that deals with numbers!
In addition to being paid, how else has your career created value in your life?
Working makes me feel as though I am a contributing member of the community and most importantly, gives me the power and confidence that I can rely on myself to achieve anything I desire.
If you could have one super-human power what would it be?
Telepathy!
Do you have any other skills or talents others don’t really know about?
I have worked as a tutor for many years and I just love to teach. The best part is motivating young people to achieve their dreams and show them that life has unlimited choices.
What is a typical day like for you?
I wake up at 6am every day and make myself a coffee in my favourite mug. After preparing my girls for school, I’ll usually hit the road by 7:30 to head into work (Obviously I am working from home at the moment whilst in lockdown however!) By 5:30pm I’m back in the kitchen cooking some dinner for the family and checking on homework. Weekends are all about family time and spending precious time outdoors where possible.
What do you love most about working as a Weployee?
Dealing with different people from different backgrounds and seeing clients happy is a big reward each day.
What does Customer-Centricity mean to you?
Building a positive customer experience is essential in all areas of business. It helps to build trust and foster loyalty which is the main goal of any successful company.
Can you tell me a little bit about the challenges you’ve faced trying to find employment?
Coming to Australia from Dubai nearly 7 years ago - it was very hard to find a job. I did many interviews and each time, I had one answer, “You did really well but we’ve chosen a candidate with local experience”.
I tried to do voluntary work but even that was challenging. I ended up taking every opportunity I could, carried on looking for roles and kept on applying. I was working two voluntary roles simultaneously for a Community Centre and the ATO. It was very challenging but I didn’t give-up. I always thought there should be a door open somewhere.
I applied at Weploy and by the second day I received an email with a request for an interview. I’ve gained lots more local experience using the app, so I feel it has enabled me to build my reputation in the market.
Do you feel that the current structure of hiring really allows you to showcase your skills? Why or why not?
No - I was actively disadvantaged by the hiring processes. Hirers simply bypass my skills and focus on my name, and my background. I thought that undertaking my Masters at an Australian Uni would help, but even that didn’t seem to change perspectives at all.
Do you feel that opportunities through Weploy changed your perspective on employment?
Yes, Weploy broke down the barriers preventing me from getting into the local market and gave me the opportunity to prove my skills and abilities. On the other hand, Weploy also gives me the power to try the company before undergoing any commitment.
What made you try Weploy?
I liked the concept of hiring candidates without any bias or discrimination, regardless of who they are and how they look. Their selection criteria is purely and fairly based on the candidate’s skills.
What was the biggest surprise using Weploy?
The simplicity of the process, the quick responses and support I received
Has Weploy helped your work-life balance?
Yes absolutely. Knowing that I have the flexibility to accept or reject the job means I can select which assignments work for my and my other family and tutoring commitments. Also it makes me feel more in control of my career knowing that I can have a break in between jobs and re-join with full confidence that another assignment will be there for me.
