Changing careers is never easy, especially when you’re stepping into a new industry. For Liam, a former construction worker, the decision to train as a mortgage advisor wasn’t just about changing jobs, it was about building a better life for his family.
“I was at a point in my life where I was not enjoying what I was doing at the time - working in construction and struggling to get ahead in life and I wasn’t where I wanted to be. I also needed to earn more to support my family and that ultimately, is what made me take the jump for them.”
After researching different career paths and speaking with people already in the industry, Liam felt mortgages stood out as both rewarding and stable.
“After researching different careers and job roles and speaking with people in those jobs, I felt that mortgages was the most appealing to me and I thought it could offer me the career and financial stability I needed.”
What was the biggest challenge in switching industries and how did Mortgage Matters support you?
“The first issue I faced when applying for jobs in mortgages was that I wasn’t the usual applicant that companies were used to – no experience, no degree, no family financial background etc. Companies saw me as a risk, and they also struggled to see how a tradesmen could make the change to a mortgage advisor because it is such a different role. I basically had to plead with my recruiter to put me forward for the role and luckily/thankfully, he agreed to give me a chance.
The 2nd issue I experienced was the pay cut, I was earning well while in construction but just not as much as I wanted and when applying for trainee roles the pay offered was substantially less than what I was earning, which made it impossible for me to make the change.
But, Mortgage Matters are different to the other companies I spoke with– not only were they willing to take a chance on me and offer me a fresh start in a new career, but they also proposed a package that was very fair, transparent and offered me the financial stability I needed while I was training and finding my feet. I am so happy and grateful to work at Mortgage Matters, they took a chance on me when others wouldn’t.”
Finding His Feet
“I was very impressed with the recruitment process and everyone I dealt with were lovely and still are! First impressions were good; I didn’t realise the size of the business and the teams that work behind the scenes to support advisors, it made feel straight away that this is where I wanted to be. From day one having my first telephone interview through to meeting Rob on the first day of training everyone was warm, welcoming and supportive."
The training offered by Mortgage Matters is very good. I came from a building site and within a few weeks was writing mortgages with the support of my manager, Rob and other advisors.
"There is a huge amount to learn, and it can be quite overwhelming but everyone in the team is really helpful and if you don’t know the answer, someone will. Progression is encouraged at Mortgage Matters and so you continue learning all the time with refresher courses, meetings with Business Development Managers and the career pathway clearly laid out so you can stay on track.”
Looking Ahead
Now, just a year after making the switch, Liam is thriving in his new career.
“I love working here, the culture, the people, the independence you’re given, and the support. Everyone is really friendly,” he says. “My life has changed so much in the last year, and I only have Mortgage Matters to thank for taking a chance on me.”
And the future?
“I have clear goals laid out. I want to continue developing my skills and knowledge and work towards getting promoted.”
A Message for Anyone Thinking of a Change
Liam’s story is proof that with the right support, it’s never too late to change direction.
“I’m so glad I made the switch, I just wish I’d done it sooner.”
Inspired by this journey?
We’re always excited to meet motivated people from all kinds of backgrounds who want to build a rewarding career in mortgages.
Click here to explore how you can grow with Mortgage Matters.
