What’s New

The Changing Job Search Landscape

January 18, 2019

Seeking employment is just like anything else in our fast-paced world – you need to keep abreast of the trends and tools. If you haven’t looked for a job recently – whether because of circumstances or choice – relying on methods you used to find positions in the past, may leave you frustrated.

If you’re unemployed or underemployed, staff at The Work Place in Grande Prairie will help you fine tune your resume and ensure you’re using all the tools available to you, including accessing potential training opportunities (see contact details below). Your tactics may include updating or acquiring new skills.

Unless you have just had your resume professionally prepared, yours will likely need a refresh. The one you’re using may have outmoded phrases like “references available upon request” or “a strong leader” and be chock-full of dated, irrelevant information.

In the past, people used vague details to demonstrate a fit to the job. Employers and human resources professionals now look for examples of how you put your skills to work to assist the employer – how you made a difference in the workplace through tangible results or process improvements to create efficiencies.

With the evolution of Applicant Tracking Systems, you need to ensure your resume contains key words in the job description.

You may also not be using LinkedIn effectively as a networking, job search and portal for relevant articles in your field.

When some people begin pursuing a new job, they turn to their stack of business cards. While you want to stay connected with contacts new and old, LinkedIn is there to find potential new colleagues and will ensure you have the latest details on your current network.

This article provides some ideas on how to invest your job search time effectively: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/job-hunting-first-time-years-how-spend-your-wisely-virginia-1f/

Find that next job can be frustrating. If your search for new employment is taking longer than anticipated, check out this article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/reasons-why-your-job-search-taking-longer-than-erin-kennedy/

Here’s an article with tips on how to avoid recruiters from ignoring you: https://www.fastcompany.com/40489349/7-things-that-will-drive-recruiters-away-from-you

If you 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, 9840-97^th Ave., Grande Prairie.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

Job Alert – Business Services Coordinator

January 17, 2019

Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region is seeking to hire a full-time, permanent Business Services Coordinator for its operations located in 214 Place, downtown City of Grande Prairie, Alberta.

The successful applicant will:

Be currently unemployed
Be confident working with computers and other electronics
Provide enhanced administration support to Community Futures staff and Incubator Business owners and staff members
Effectively greet and assist Community Futures and Incubator Business clients
Provide excellent customer service assistance both in person, by telephone and email
Assess and provide solutions to office challenges and problems
Use software such as Microsoft 365 to effectively manage document, spreadsheet and client management
Arrange meetings, take minutes and book rooms
Cross train with CF staff to become familiar with all services to ensure clients are referred to correct service provider
Maintain all aspects of office coordination from scheduling to supply orders

Skills & Attributes:

People focused
Enjoy working with the public
Able to organize, prioritize, create and follow procedures or processes
Strong work ethic, dependable
Confidence to communicate and problem solve
Flexible and adaptable to a changing work environment

This position is full time and you must be UNEMPLOYED. The hours will be Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

To apply, please submit a Cover Letter, Resume and 3 Employment References via email to: gpinfo@albertacf.com by January 25, 2019, Attention: Holly Sorgen, Executive Director.

Job Search Requires a Multi-pronged Approach

January 14, 2019

Whether you’re unemployed or under-employed, getting that next job may be as easy as applying for the first opening you see. However, it’s more likely a full-fledged job search is required to find the right fit.

That means employing several tactics in your job search toolbox.

Staff at The Work Place in Grande Prairie can assist you with your job search tools and advise you on tactics to be most successful in your job hunt, including possible referrals to low- or no cost ways to improve your skills (see contact information below).

With the unemployment rate in Canada hitting an all-time low in late 2018, it’s more important than ever that you’re doing more than churning out resumes and hoping for the best. Applying to specific opportunities with relevant and detailed information on your resume is just a start.

While most vacancies are widely advertised, often on popular job sites, many are found in the hidden job market or are advertised in limited forums such as social media – Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter.

Many employers continue to rely on employee referrals. Have you cultivated your network within companies where you’d like to work? Have you discussed your employment situation with colleagues and contacts, in general? Professional and social gatherings are great opportunities to promote yourself.

Is your LinkedIn profile up to date, including your volunteer experience and testimonials? Are you continuing to upgrade your skills in key areas while conducting your job search?

The start of a new year is an excellent time to review your tactics and focus your priorities for the year. Ensure that you have paper resumes ready for an interview and that you have references who can speak to specific accomplishments and outcomes.

This article provides an array of job search tips to consider: https://www.hiretheyouth.org/job-search-tips/

If you 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, 9840-97^th Ave., Grande Prairie.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

Tips for Applying For Jobs Online

January 9, 2019

Employment counsellors constantly encourage job seekers to have an updated resume that’s detail oriented with relevant information. Applying for openings at most larger employers now also involves being ready to apply online.

This means submissions must be compatible with an Application Tracking System (ATS). While these systems enable you to upload your resume and cover letters, there are some steps to keep in mind to ensure your documents are received effectively.

This includes being aware of the required file format and potential issues with fonts and images. Follow directions carefully.

As well, it’s more important than ever to tailor your resume to a specific opening. The ATS will be scanning your documents for key words found in the job description.

If you’re unemployed or underemployed, staff at The Work Place in Grande Prairie can assist you with your job search and provide you with advice on applying for openings online.

This article provide help guidance to ensure your online job application experience goes smoothly. http://careerimpressions.ca/blog/2018/05/simple-dos-and-donts-of-applying-to-jobs-online/#sthash.JFkwt08A.Xf1P9pQz.dpbs

Be sure to click on links within. You’ll find a checklist to support your application tracking system success.

Remember to have paper copies available to hand out at interviews.

If you 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, 9840-97^th Ave., Grande Prairie.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

Transition to Employment Services Information Sessions Underway

January 2, 2019

The start of a new year is an excellent time to bolster your job search skills. If you’re unemployed, check out an upcoming Transition to Employment Services information session at The Work Place in Grande Prairie as part of your plans.

Transition to Employment Services offers supports to assist unemployed individuals gain employment. Information sessions are every Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m., resuming Thursday, Jan. 3 at #105, 9840 97 Avenue, Grande Prairie, Alberta.

The service is focused on those who are:

Unemployed and looking to gain a competitive edge with their job search;
Lacking workplace and occupational-related skills to find their next job; and
Thinking about making a change from one occupational field to another.

Components include

Employment and job search support, access to funding for short-term training, employment supports and referrals to employers/opportunities.

For more information, contact The Work Place at 780-539-5477. You can send enquiries to info@gpworkplace.ca

New Year Great Time To Review Resume

January 2, 2019

“If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always gotten.”

This quote attributed to Tony Robbins speaks to everyday life and it certainly applies to your job search tools.

Is your resume multiple pages long? Does it look like it was composed on a typewriter? Is it chock-full of irrelevant personal information? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, you should be heading into 2019 with an upgraded document.

If you’re unemployed or underemployed, staff at The Work Place in Grande Prairie can help you modernize your resume and cover letters and coach you in contemporary job search skills (see contact information below).

When you’re crafting your resume, consider that most job openings result in hundreds of responses. As well, remember that many companies now use application tracking systems to assist recruiters and hiring managers sort through applications. Therefore, it’s more important than ever that key, relevant information stands out.

Help the reader hone in on key details with examples that illustrate your accomplishments.
Above all, remember that your resume is your professional brand statement to help sell you to prospective employers. If you think of yourself as a product that you’re promoting, what are your selling points?

Here are some things to consider with these points in mind:
• What distinguishes you from other applicants with the similar experience?
• What is the greatest value an employer can gain from you?
• What have you consistently achieved during your career?
• What initiatives have you developed and implemented that helped companies increase revenue, profitability, sales, safety, performance levels, productivity or satisfaction?
• Did you generate new business, bring in new clients, or forge profitable partnerships?
• Did you save companies money or increase competitive edge?

This article will help you with other tips to update your resume: http://careerimpressions.ca/blog/2018/10/outdated-resume-tactics/#sthash.s6R4whlP.qzh5CfqX.dpbs

This post provides some insights on preparing your overall job search game plan for 2019: http://careerimpressions.ca/blog/2018/12/kick-start-career-success-in-2019/#sthash.8sEPSjbA.9CGmlpcv.dpbs
You’ll also find this chart useful:

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

We’re located at #105, 9840 97 Avenue, Grande Prairie, Alberta.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

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, 9840-97^th 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.

Make Words In Your Resume Count

December 21, 2018

It’s more important than ever that your resume stands out from the rest.

In a competitive marketplace with hundreds of applicants to screen, employers want to hone in quickly to the information they’re seeking. They want to see which candidates’ resumes best fit their criteria.

Therefore, the content of your job search documents needs to jump out to them. Help them get there by illustrating you’re capable of what they’re asking their new recruit to do.

If you’re unemployed or unemployed, staff at The Work Place in Grande Prairie can help you choose the right words and phrases to make your resume and cover letter shine. (see contact information below).

The featured chart shows how building on some common resume phrases can make a huge difference on whether an employer takes interest in your application.

Hiring managers and recruiters want to see concrete examples that demonstrate you can perform the tasks outlined in the job ad – and how well.

Details, particularly those that contribute to the bottom line, are extremely helpful. If you’re seeking a supervisory position, being able to cite how many staff you’ve managed and the level of budget responsibility you’ve had are key pieces of information to include in your resume.

It’s also a significant inclusion if you can demonstrate how you’ve made a difference in a workplace. For example, have you initiated a new process or program that’s created efficiencies or made an impact to your organization in another way?

Every time you add an accomplishment to your resume, consider that the person who reads it will ask, “how?” You can make it easy for them by detailing the achievement.

Here’s an article that will help you select action words that will also help your resume and cover letter be more compelling: https://www.themuse.com/advice/185-powerful-verbs-that-will-make-your-resume-awesome

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.

We also help employers find qualified candidates.

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.

The Changing Job Search Landscape

Job Alert – Business Services Coordinator

Job Search Requires a Multi-pronged Approach

Tips for Applying For Jobs Online

Transition to Employment Services Information Sessions Underway

New Year Great Time To Review Resume

Get a Head Start on Your 2019 Job Search

The Work Place Holiday Hours

Make Words In Your Resume Count

Advancing While Succeeding In Your Current Role

Contact

Hours of Operation