Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today Eloise. Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you transitioned from being a sex worker to an office manager at a prawn factory?
Eloise: Of course. I started working as a sex worker when I was in my early twenties, as it was an easy way I could support myself financially. But after a few years, I realised that it wasn't the life I wanted to lead anymore. I decided to pursue an education, and eventually landed a job as an office assistant at a factory. Through hard work, I was able to work my way up to my current position as an office manager.
Interviewer: That's quite a journey. What challenges did you face during your transition from sex work to your current job?
Eloise: Oh, there were many challenges. Firstly, there was the stigma attached to my previous profession. I felt ashamed and judged by some of my colleagues, and it was difficult to shake off that label. Additionally, I had to learn new skills and adjust to the norms and expectations of a professional workplace. It was a steep learning curve, but I was determined to succeed.
Interviewer: How has your experience as a sex worker influenced your approach to your current job?
Eloise: Well, working as a sex worker taught me a lot about customer service and the importance of building relationships with clients. I carry those skills with me into my current job, where I aim to build strong relationships with the customers and suppliers we work with. Additionally, my past experiences have given me a unique perspective on life, which I believe has helped me to empathise with people from different backgrounds and experiences.
Interviewer: That's a great perspective to have. What advice would you give to someone who is looking to make a similar transition to a new career?
Eloise: My advice would be to believe in yourself and your abilities. Don't let your past define you or limit your potential. It's important to seek out education and training opportunities to help you develop new skills, and to network with people in the industry you want to move into. Most importantly, be patient and persistent. Change takes time, but with hard work and dedication, it is possible to achieve your goals.
Interviewer: What was the biggest challenge you faced during your transition from sex work to your current role as an office manager?
Eloise: I think the biggest challenge was dealing with the stigma and judgment from others. There is still a lot of negative stereotypes and discrimination towards sex workers, and it was hard to overcome that when trying to find a new job. I had to be very selective about where I applied and make sure that the workplace culture was accepting and non-judgmental.
Interviewer: What skills did you learn as a sex worker that you were able to apply to your new role as an office manager?
Eloise: Actually, I learned a lot of valuable skills that have helped me in my current job. As a sex worker, I had to be very organised and manage my time effectively. I also had to be a good communicator and be able to read people's body language and nonverbal cues. These skills have definitely come in handy in my current role, especially when managing a team and working with clients.
Interviewer: How did you deal with any negative reactions from colleagues or clients when they found out about your previous job as a sex worker?
Eloise: Honestly, it was tough at first. There were definitely some people who judged me and treated me differently when they found out about my past. But I learned to be confident and stand up for myself. I also made a point to educate people about the realities of sex work and challenge their preconceived notions. Over time, I think I was able to earn their respect and show them that I was a capable and valuable member of the team.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to other women who are considering leaving sex work and transitioning to a new career?
Eloise: My advice would be to be patient and kind to yourself. It can be a difficult and emotional process, and it's important to take the time to heal and rebuild your confidence. It's also important to surround yourself with supportive people who will lift you up and encourage you. And don't be afraid to reach out for help or seek out resources - there are a lot of organisations out there that can assist with the transition from sex work to a new career.
Interviewer: What do you hope people will learn from your story?
Eloise: I hope that people will learn to be more compassionate and understanding towards sex workers. We are just like anyone else, with our own dreams, aspirations, and struggles. I also hope to inspire other women who may be in a similar situation, to show them that there is a way out and a path to a better future.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for sharing your story with us today.
Eloise: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure to share my journey with your audience.