September Programs for Job Seekers at the Skowhegan CareerCenter

September 7, 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 7, 2017

Contact: Peter Diplock, Skowhegan CareerCenter, (207) 474-4950

Media Contact: Laura Hudson, Department of Labor, (207) 621-5009

SKOWHEGAN? Maine CareerCenters bring job seekers and employers together. For those who are looking to make a change in careers or get a new job, the Skowhegan CareerCenter will be offering a variety of programs for job seekers in September.

?Maine reached an all-time high in payroll jobs this year, and our unemployment rate has been under 4.0 percent for 22 consecutive months,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?There is no better time to find work than now, especially as we head into the fall hiring season. Maine CareerCenters can help you update your resume, practice interview skills, or connect you with education or training, and you may qualify for free tuition. Our employers need you. Make yourself standout from other applicants?take the first step and contact your closest CareerCenter.?

All workshops and events are held at the CareerCenter unless otherwise noted. To register for sessions held at the CareerCenter, call 474-4950.

GATEway to Employment - Wednesdays, September, 13, 20 and 27, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

This workshop will provide you more information about the resources that the CareerCenter has to offer, including the newest tools to assist you in conducting an efficient and productive job search. Topics covered include: how to tap into the ?hidden job market,? identifying the skills you have to offer employers, tips on successfully completing applications, resumes and cover letters and how to register and apply for jobs posted through the CareerCenter.

Essentials of College Planning for Adults?Wednesday, September 20, 10 a.m.

This workshop introduces people to educational opportunities in general and MEOC services in particular. This interactive workshop touches on the four steps in the college process: admissions, financial aid, career and study skills. The Financial Aid portion of this workshop will provide an overview of financial basics and the completion of the Free Application of Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

This session is held at the DHHS offices located next door to the CareerCenter. It is the same building but go through the DHHS entrance doors. Please call to pre-register: 1-800-281-3703.

Computer Skill Basics: Start at the Beginning - Wednesday, September 20, 1 to 3 p.m.

This course is designed for the novice user to learn the basics of the computer components:

• Understanding the mouse & Keyboard.

• Cover the ?basics? of typing a document using Microsoft Word.

• Learn to get you ?up and running? with your job search.

Job Search Tips for People with a Criminal History - Monday, September 11, 1 to 2 p.m.

Do you have a criminal background? Are you having trouble finding work? Looking for tips on how to respond to those hard-to-answer questions? This workshop will help you become a successful job seeker. Register in advance as space may be limited.

Successful Interviewing Skills - Tuesday, September 12, 1 to 3 p.m.

Gain the confidence needed to ace that interview and get the job! Go in thoroughly prepared and positive you are the applicant the employer needs! Successful Interviewing Skills Workshop covers communication techniques, before-the-interview research, attitude and appearance, examples of questions you may be asked, what you can ask the employer, post interview follow-up, and more. Discuss all the "DO'S and DO NOT?S" and what to expect during the process.

It All Starts Here - Monday, September 18, 1 to 3 p.m.

Take the first step towards a great career! In this valuable session you can pinpoint your interests and strengths and find career options that have real potential. This highly validated and reliable vocational assessment is the start in determining your future path or career. This self-directed assessment test will assist in determining a career or vocation choice based upon your personality traits.

Resume and Cover Letter Writing - Tuesdays, September 19, 1 to 3 p.m.

This workshop provides valuable tips on completing job applications, the importance of cover letters, resume content and formatting, resume writing using computer software programs and much more. Learn why having a great resume is so important in today's job market. A well written resume can get your foot in the door, and the interview - the next step to employment.

Training Program Orientation - Monday, September 25, 1 to 3 p.m.

Do you have the skills you need to advance in your career or get a new job? Thinking about education or training options that will help you get ahead? If you qualify, CareerCenters can work with you to set goals, find training and identify financial resources to make your plan possible. CareerCenters are the providers of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services in Maine. If you live in Somerset County, the Skowhegan CareerCenter may be able to help.

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O*Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are at no cost to participants.

Call 474-4950 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) for additional information and to register for workshops held at the CareerCenter. The CareerCenter, located at 98 North Avenue, Suite 20, Skowhegan, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. More information is available on the CareerCenter website, www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

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