There is something about the month of September...warmer clothes, cooler nights, leaves changing and students returning to school. While many parents and students grapple with the challenges of online and in-class learning options, it is inevitable that students of all ages will learn more about both subject material and how to navigate distance education platforms. Yet back to school is not just a term for children, youth, and young adults. Newcomers, career changers, job seekers, and the under-employed can take advantage of numerous online learning experiences as well, some of which may even be free.

Going through the application process to find employment can be stressful; then finally it happens. You get a job offer. No more handing out resumes, completing online applications, or answering tough interview questions. Hurray! Following the excitement and anticipation, comes the reality check. You are starting a brand new job – with people you don’t know, in a business you are unfamiliar with, completing tasks that may be new to you.

As many businesses become closed to the public, we find ourselves in an unfamiliar world. While working from home is not by any means a new concept, mandated business closures create unique challenges. Having solid strategies to deal with confidentiality, client rapport and support, effective communication and time management allows us to maintain business operations during difficult times.

Gearing up for the holiday season often includes enjoying some of our favorite Christmas songs. It is an understatement to say “this has been a very long year”. In the spirit of the season, we are going to pay a light-hearted tribute to the “Twelve Days of Christmas” theme outlining what we have learned in the past nine months. Hope you enjoy!

The job search process is incredibly competitive. With resume submissions, online applications, networking, social media management, and interviews, there are so many opportunities to highlight your value. And then it finally happens…you get a job interview and feel like you nailed it. The employer is talking like you already have the job, you sense rapport, and it appears that only the formalities remain before you land the position.

While many have heard of informational interviews, there are few job seekers that feel comfortable contacting an employer with such a request.
What kind of questions do I ask? Will I be bothering them? How is it going to help me in the long run?
These are common and very legitimate questions that we hear often. This post is designed to help you develop a clearer understanding of the benefits of an informational interview and the process involved.
First, let’s start by making the distinction between a job interview and an informational interview. A job interview is arranged by a potential employer in response to your job application. It indicates that you are seen as a suitable candidate for the position and are moving on to the next step in the recruitment process. On the other hand, an informational interview is arranged by the job seeker, displaced worker, career changer, recent graduate or aspiring student.

While interviews have always been stressful for most job seekers, the COVID-19 pandemic has created some further complications. Our Job Developers have created a list of additional considerations so you can set yourself up for success.

During Career Week 2019, we hosted an Employer Panel comprised of The Kawartha Pineridge District School Board, The Keg Steakhouse, Foodland, Kawartha Guard Service and Comfort Keepers. These employers graciously provided us with the following strategies for success when trying to find and keep a job: