What to Expect at Your First IEA Appointment with Endeavour Foundation

Starting with a new employment provider can feel daunting, but knowing what to expect at your first appointment means you can step in with confidence.

If you have chosen Endeavour Foundation as your Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) provider, you may be wondering what happens next.

Your first appointment is an opportunity for us to get to know you and understand your goals.

You do not need to arrive with a job already in mind or a detailed plan for your future.

We will talk about your interests, strengths and the support that can help you find a job that is right for you.

As a specialist IEA provider for people with intellectual disability, we understand that everyone communicates, learns and makes decisions differently, so we will work at a pace that suits you.

Here is what your first appointment may include.

What Is the First IEA Appointment For?

The first appointment is designed to help us understand:

• What you enjoy
• What you are good at
• The types of work you may want to explore
• How many hours you would like to work and can comfortably manage
• What experience or skills you have
• What support may help you prepare for and succeed in a job

It is also your chance to ask questions and learn more about how IEA works.

The conversation should not feel like a job interview. You are not being tested, and there are no perfect answers.

What Should I Take With Me?

You may be asked to bring identification, information from Services Australia or documents connected to your Inclusive Employment Australia referral.

Our team will let you know if anything specific is needed before you attend your appointment. It may also be helpful to bring:

• Information about any previous jobs, work experience, volunteering or training
• A résumé, if you have one
• Details about the types of jobs you are interested in
• Questions you want to ask
• Details of any support or workplace adjustments you may need

Can a Family Member or Support Person Come With Me?

Yes, a family member, carer, advocate or trusted support person can accompany you to your appointment. They may help you:

• Understand the information being discussed
• Remember questions you wanted to ask
• Explain your strengths or previous experiences
• Feel more confident during the meeting

Your goals and preferences should remain at the centre of the conversation. Support people can be involved in a way that works for you.

Your IEA provider must also respect your privacy and consent when using or sharing personal information.

How Will Information Be Explained?

As an IEA participant, you have the right to accessible information and genuine choice about the support you receive.

As a specialist IEA provider for people with intellectual disability, we understand the importance of clear and accessible communication. This may include:

• Using plain language
• Explaining one step at a time
• Giving practical examples
• Checking that the information makes sense
• Allowing extra time for questions and decisions
• Repeating or revisiting information where needed

You can tell your employment team how you prefer to receive information. There is nothing wrong with asking someone to slow down, explain something differently or write information on paper.

What Questions Will You Be Asked?

Your employment team may ask you about:

• Your interests and hobbies
• Tasks you enjoy doing
• Jobs you may have considered
• Places or environments where you feel comfortable
• How you travel
• The days and times you may be available
• Skills you would like to build
• Any factors that have made finding or keeping work challenging

These questions help the team understand what a suitable, sustainable job might look like for you.

A good job match is not only about the job title. It also considers the workplace, hours, tasks, travel, support and whether the role matches your abilities and interests.

What Happens After the First Appointment?

After learning more about you, your IEA provider will work with you to plan the next steps. These could include:

• Exploring different jobs and industries
• Identifying your strengths and workplace skills
• Preparing or updating a résumé
• Practising job interviews
• Completing training or work experience
• Meeting inclusive employers
• Applying for suitable roles
• Planning the support you may need once you start work

Not everyone will be ready to apply for jobs immediately. Some people may first want to build confidence, develop skills or better understand their options.

The support you receive should reflect where you are now and where you would like to go.

What if Your Goals Change?

Employment goals often change. You may begin with one type of role in mind and later discover a role that suits you better.

You may also decide that you want to work different hours or in another industry.

If so, let your employment team know. The plan can be reviewed and adjusted as you learn more about what works for you.

Ready for Your First IEA Appointment?

Endeavour Foundation is a specialist IEA provider for people with intellectual disability.

Our team will take the time to understand your strengths, interests, communication preferences and employment goals.

We can support you to prepare for work, explore suitable opportunities and build confidence along the way.

If you have received a Services Australia referral or chosen Endeavour Foundation as your IEA provider, talk to our team about getting started.