To write an effective success story you should include your:
- Situation and/or background
- Employment and/or training program offered by your Illinois workNet Center or service provider?
- What is your background?
- What were you trying to achieve?
- Why is this program important to the people of Illinois?
- Training activities that led to your success, and
- What action(s) did you take?
- What positive change occurred?
- Results
- How do you measure your success?
What is a success story?
A success story shows how Local Workforce Investment Area (LWIA) programs are making a difference in people’s lives. More than a list of events or activities, it describes a positive change and shows how that change benefits you and the people of Illinois. A good success story uses evidence to show the value of programs.
You can write a success story about a program, workshop or training opportunity that is particularly noteworthy and significant. It may be about how an employer worked with an employment program or about how a person gained personal employment.
Whatever you choose to write about, your story should show how participating with the LWIA progam is making Illinois a better place to live – for individuals, families, organizations, businesses, local governments and communities.
Consider these factors when you write a success story:
- Pretend the reader knows nothing whatsoever about the program. Don’t assume anything!
- Remember… You are telling a short story about what you have achieved or want to achieve as a result of a program.
Last June, I was laid off from my job. I knew I had to find employment because unemployment benefits would not last forever. I went to Career Link, an Illinois workNet Center, in Mason County where I was accepted into the Dislocated Worker Program. Julie Smith, a career counselor, helped me apply for retraining to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. I was able to choose the training provider that I felt was best for me and am now finishing up the program.
My dream of working in the health care industry would not be realized without the financial assistance of the Workforce Investment Act and the compassionate counselors that work hard to help each person enrolled in the WIA program. I don't know where I would be without this program and all the help and resources that have been available to me. Thank you to the WIA program and to everyone involved in my success.
- Include a picture
- Proofread your success story before hitting the submit button
- Use active vs. passive voice
- Be clear
- Read it aloud
References
Return to the Share your Success Story Form