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Get a Head Start on Your 2019 Job Search

December 31, 2018

The holidays are an important time to rejuvenate while enjoying visiting with family and friends. It’s also a great opportunity to get a head start if you’re in job search mode going into the new year.

While there’s a lull, review what has and hasn’t worked in your pursuit of new employment. Take time to do any outstanding follow ups.

The key is to be ready! Does your resume need a new look for 2019? Have you defined your ideal position and set salary expectations? Do you have an idea of the kinds of companies where you’d like to work?

If you’re unemployed or underemployed, staff at The Work Place in Grande Prairie can assist you with your resume, cover letter and questions about seeking employment (see contact information below).

Here are some other things to consider as you conduct a job search over the holidays.

  • It’s a great time to connect with former colleagues and other contacts to let them know you’re in the hunt for new opportunities. This could be as you reach out making Season’s Greetings or as you attend social and professional gatherings. Remember, many jobs are filled through referrals.
  • While you’re taking time to network, make sure your Linkedin profile is up to date, including your volunteer positions, and you’ve reached out to relevant contacts.
  • Many of your peers will be in holiday mode so there could be less competition for openings early in the year.
  • The first couple of months every year are traditionally peak hiring times.
  • Expand your horizons beyond traditional job boards. Many positions are now advertised on social media.

Here are two articles expand on these tips:

http://careerimpressions.ca/blog/2018/11/7-things-to-get-ready-for-a-job-search-in-2019/#sthash.t42Pp7oa.6ztJpUKW.dpbs

http://careerimpressions.ca/blog/2018/12/kick-start-career-success-in-2019/#sthash.8sEPSjbA.Q6lecMGE.dpbs

 

If you are unemployed or underemployed and want more help with your job search at no cost, contact us at 780-539-5477. You can send enquiries to info@gpworkplace.ca. Our office is located at #105, 9840-97th Ave., Grande Prairie.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

 

The Work Place Holiday Hours

December 21, 2018

The Work Place will be closed for the holidays from 1 p.m. on Dec. 24, re-opening on Jan. 2 at 9 a.m.

We look forward to serving your job search needs in the new year.

Advancing While Succeeding In Your Current Role

December 19, 2018

When you’re unemployed or underemployed, finding that next great job can be frustrating.

If you’re employed in a good, well-paying position,it can also be challenging to advance. Our staff will ensure your resume and cover letter are in top form at no cost so you’re prepared for any situation (see contact information below).

In this fast-paced world, the daily grind and meeting the expectations of your current role can keep you hopping, with little time to plan your next career step.

On top of it, there may be family considerations, the extra courses you’re taking, volunteer activities and, oh yes, your social life.

Even if you’re under challenged and not utilized to your capacity, there can be a tendency to put off thoughts of seeking out that dream job while trying to succeed and remain motivated.

Renowned management consultant Peter Drucker had this advice, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

This article provides some simple considerations on how to keep your career on an upward path: https://bit.ly/2Nq7GJc

And here’s more for you to consider on managing your career: https://bit.ly/2utHy8T

If you are unemployed or underemployed and want more help with your job search, contact us at 780-539-5477. You can send enquiries to info@gpworkplace.ca.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Take Care on Cover Letters

December 17, 2018

They say you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. That certainly applies to cover letters. If you’re unemployed or under employed, staff at The Work Place can help your job search documents shine (see contact information below).

Some managers and recruiters are putting less importance on these career overviews nowadays and going straight to checking out resumes.

However, for many, cover letters remain your ticket to advancing to the rest of the application process.

When you’re into a full-blown job hunt, there’s a tendency to cut and paste details for similar jobs.
That’s okay but don’t be in so much of a hurry you make simple mistakes.

For example, don’t forget to change the job title each time to the position for which you are applying to. If a manager is hiring for position Y, and your cover letter/resume addresses position X, this is confusing and potentially costly.

You can also reduce your work by keeping it simple.
This article demonstrates how you can reduce your cover letter to one to two paragraphs!
https://bit.ly/2NUgrMu

If you are unemployed or underemployed and want more help with your job search, contact us at 780-539-5477. You can send enquiries to info@gpworkplace.ca

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

 

Last 2018 Transition to Employment Services Info Session Tuesday

December 17, 2018

The final Transition to Employment Services Information for 2018 run December 18 at 11 a.m.

Are you:
– Unemployed and looking to gain a competitive edge with your job search?
– Lacking workplace and occupational-related skills to find your next job?
– Thinking about making a change from one occupational field to another?
Transition to Employment Services (TES) offers supports to assist unemployed individuals obtain employment.

Components include:
– Employment and job search support, access to funding for short term training, employment supports and referrals to employers/opportunities

For more information please attend a session at:

The Work Place #105, 9840 97 Avenue, Grande Prairie, Alberta 780-539-5477

The Interview – Your Time to Shine

December 17, 2018

OMG! I’ve got an interview for my dream job!! What do I do?

The first thing to do is relax. You’ve got this!

Remember, the interview is an opportunity to create a fantastic first impression! Go into it well-groomed and dressed appropriately.

Eye contact during an interview is important. Be sure to make appropriate eye contact with all members of an interview panel.

Do your homework on the company and, if possible, anyone on the interview panel. If you’re applying for an internal position, don’t assume the people know you or your work.

Be yourself – the person who they’ll be working with once you’re the successful candidate – but ensure you’re professional.

Bring copies of your resume and be prepared to have your references with you.

Check out this guide for more tips on acing the interview and good luck: https://bit.ly/2Dwf1SH

If you are unemployed or underemployed and want more help with your job search, contact us at 780-539-5477.

You can send enquiries to info@gpworkplace.ca.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

WEEKLY INFORMATION SESSION

June 19, 2018 , , ,

Information Session

Every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:00 a.m.

Transition to Employment

Transition to Employment Services offers supports to assist unemployed individuals obtain employment.

Components include:

  • Employment and job search support, access to funding for short term training and job matching and/or unpaid work experience

For more Transition to Employment Services and WT information and program eligibility please attend an information session at:

THE WORK PLACE

#105, 9840 97 Avenue, Grande Prairie, Alberta

Your next job is out there and we are here to help you find it!

Contracted services delivered by Carlson & Company Inc.

The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the

Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services

Meet The Staff

February 12, 2018

Patti joined our team at The Work Place in October 2017. She brings over 25 years’ experience in the employment field. For the past 15 years, she was employed as a Career and Employment Consultant with the Government of Alberta.  Prior to that, she worked as a Settlement Counselor, ESL and Basic Adult Education instructor, Workshop Facilitator, Coordinator of the Grande Prairie Literacy program and assistant in the Youth Entrepreneur program.  Patti believes that by assisting with each individual’s unique needs, this empowers them to move forward independently and confidently.

Assistance to help you with your job search is available at no cost at The Work Place. Please contact our office for more information at 780-539-5477.

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” … Wayne Gretzky

December 14, 2017

Staying positive while seeking employment is essential though it can be challenging to stay upbeat. A thorough job search takes time, energy and commitment. Even with a well-written resume and cover letter, it may take longer than you’d like to find work.

Having an optimistic outlook is vital to maintaining your self-confidence and making your attitude shine to potential employers.

Keep the following in mind as you job search:

  • Understand that a job search can be a process and, depending on the circumstances surrounding your job loss, may require time to deal with the emotional aftermath.
  • Make every application and interview an opportunity to learn. Asking for feedback on your application or interview, analyzing your job search tools and changing your approach are all ways to keep your job search fresh and move towards your goal.
  • Take the time to update your network of contacts that you’re looking for work. Keep open lines of communication with family and friends about what’s happening in your job hunt.
  • Eliminate words like can’t, never and impossible. You can, you will and, with the right attitude, anything is possible. Surround yourself with positive people.
  • Look for ways to use your skills and abilities such as volunteering or accepting temporary work. Capitalize on opportunities to attend any free or low-cost classes or training that will keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date.
  • Stay active and keep a routine … physical activities will make you feel better. Maintain a regular schedule … staying up late, sleeping in and procrastinating will not move you towards your goal.
  • Every job you apply to moves you closer to success. Concentrate on the positives and look at what you can achieve each day.

The Work Place staff provide individualized job search assistance through an array of job search services available at no cost. Please contact our office for more information at 780-539-5477.

http://bit.ly/2Ant52h

http://bit.ly/2nt35h5

Optimizing Your Linkedin Profile Photo

December 4, 2017

Your profile image should represent you as a professional. People often make their initial judgment based on your visual presentation so ensure your photo portrays you positively.  You never know when a potential employer will check out your profile and you don’t want to miss an opportunity to make a great first impression.

Check out these suggestions for optimizing your professional profile photo:

  • Dress according to your profession and in keeping with what you would wear to an interview.
  • Smile like you mean it and look directly at the camera from eye level, turning your shoulders so they are at an angle. This makes your photo looks less like a “mug shot”.
  • Go solo. This is your professional profile and your online business card. Focus on you. Don’t resort to a selfie in the car or the cute photo with your new puppy or your spouse/mate!
  • Use a recent photo. It’s important to present yourself as you look right now.
  • It’s recommended, if possible, you hire a professional photographer. If taking the photo yourself, make sure it is well-lit and be aware of what is in your background so you stand out. Plain is better than overly busy.
  • Follow the rules. LinkedIn lays out clear directions for profile pictures (http://bit.ly/2kpjYZ7)

Assistance to help you create or update your LinkedIn Profile and an array of job search services are available at no cost at The Work Place. Please contact our office for more information at 780-539-5477.

Additional Information/Resources

http://bit.ly/2jcqpv5

http://bit.ly/2zHxUTA

https://youtu.be/YmNkSiV6AMk

Contact

P: 780-539-5477
E: info@gpworkplace.ca

#206, 9814 – 97 Street
Grande Prairie, Alberta T8V 8H5

Hours of Operation

Monday to Friday:
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday and Statutory Holidays:
Closed

The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services.

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