November Programs for Job Seekers at the Greater Portland CareerCenter

November 8, 2018

For Immediate Release: November 8, 2018

Contact: Dawn Self-Cooper, Greater Portland CareerCenter, 822-3372

Media Contact: Laura Hudson, Maine Department of Labor, 626-6232

PORTLAND---The Greater Portland CareerCenter announces November programs for job seekers, those who are considering training for a new career, and employers in need of workers.

"Job seekers that go to a Maine CareerCenter can access information and no-cost services to help them find a new or better job," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Employers need a skilled workforce now and in the future. Our unemployment rate has been historically low for 34 straight months and our employment-to-population ratio is consistently above the national average. This is an opportune time to find a job or develop skills to further your career. Maine CareerCenters will help."

Events are held at the Greater Portland CareerCenter, located at 151 Jetport Boulevard in Portland, unless otherwise noted. Maine veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

Unemployed Professional Group - Tuesday, November 13, 20 and 27, 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon

The Unemployed Professional Group offers real-time networking, professional advice, current information as to what employers are looking for in resumes, invitations to networking events, and contacts for the "hidden job market". This workshop is a great resource for the unemployed, under-employed, and employers seeking individuals looking for work. It is a great tool for career exploration. Join us for the kind of networking where every Tuesday morning brings something special to the group. No registration is required.

Essentials of College Planning for Adults - Tuesdays, November 13, 20, and 27, by Appointment Only

Discuss college and trade schools in our region, entrance requirements, readiness and transitional issues, admission issues and financial aid. Bring your 2017 Federal Tax Return and your High School or GED Transcripts (if available). Contact Randi Paine at 1-800-281-3703 to register.

Resume Information Seminar - Friday, November 16, 9 to 11 a.m.

This not-to-be-missed workshop teaches you how to write a dynamic resume. It provides you with the tools to promote and target your qualifications to directly match the employer's needs. You will learn how to ensure that your resume and cover letter make the best first impression to employers. Registration is required, as the workshops fill quickly. Call the Reception desk at 822-3300 to register.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Orientation - Wednesday, November 28, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

This program assists eligible individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, and maintain viable employment. The orientation provides persons with disabilities information and services to assist them to overcome barriers to employment. Assistance with job search and job placement is also discussed. If interested, please call 822-3300 and ask to speak with the Counselor of the Day to sign up. Alternatively, you can view a video of the orientation online at http://www.maine.gov/rehab/vr_orientation.shtml .

Job Interview Workshop - Friday, November 30, 9 to 11 a.m.

Be prepared to successfully interview with the employer you want to work for and for the job you seek. Explore interview preparation and have an opportunity to practice the most commonly asked questions in an interview setting. Learn how to make that great first impression to employers, emphasizing your strengths and motivating employers to want to hire you, and tips on how to answer employer's tough interview questions.

This workshop is targeted for people just beginning the job search process, or those who have not had success in finding work. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call 822-3300.

Gateways to Employment - Call for schedule and to register

This workshop is an introduction to the job search process covering a variety of topics tailored to entering the job market. Topics may include assessing individual abilities, interests and skills; discovering the "hidden job market"; cover letter tips; job search strategies; and other resources for job seekers. These sessions are targeted to both first time job seekers and those who have not yet been successful in their job search. Contact Senja St. John at 822-3347 or senja.st.john@maine.gov for information and to register.

About the CareerCenter

The Greater Portland CareerCenter is part of a two-story, 75,000 square foot facility, co-located with the Department of Health and Human Services. The new facility offers a high-tech information center and computer lab for job seeking, resume writing, and applying for jobs, and spacious conference rooms and interview rooms to host workshops, job fairs, and individualized employer recruitments.

The CareerCenter is a stop on Portland Metro Route 5 and is located just off Exit 46 of the Maine Turnpike, and offers free parking. The CareerCenter is is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. More information is available on the CareerCenter website, www.mainecareercenter.gov or by calling 822-3300 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711).

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 free of charge.

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

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