10 Industries most in need of skills workers

A great link to see where skilled workers are needed!

http://blog.resumebear.com/changing-careers/resumebear-10-industries-most-in-need-of-skilled-workers/

Tell me about yourself?

"Tell me about yourself." This is one of the most common interview questions. Do you know how to answer it? Visit VCCS employment services today to learn some of our top interview tips!

What Really Happens to Online Applications?

After reading an article lately on recruitingblogs.com titled “what really happens to online applications” I started to ponder how job seekers view these on-line applications. I have heard from job seekers in the past that they feel as though when they submit an online application it goes into cyber space and the employer never actually reads what skills and qualifications the job seeker has! Other opinions are that the online application, being as long as it sometimes can be, may scare away job seekers. I am sure that there are many other opinions not yet brought to my attention… What I can speak to in regards to on-line job applications is that there are some benefits to both the job seeker and the employer.

The first benefit is that it allows employers to easily compare the knowledge, skills and abilities of the candidates who apply for a specific position. When the application is received all of the information processed is in the exact same order, format and structure so every application, by every candidate, looks the same and therefore it is easier to compare what the candidate can provide to the employer.

A benefit to the job seeker is that online applications may be set up by the employer so that information about candidate qualifications is inputted into a database for easy referral. This means that while some candidates may not meet the qualifications required for a specific position, the employer may need to search the online application database if they are required to fill another position within their organization. As a job seeker, if your name, skills and qualifications are already inputted into that database from prior job application this could mean that there may be a chance the employer reviews what you have to offer again.

 As a job seeker you may also wish to note that on some online applications you can sign up to receive job alerts. This is an alert to you when a new position becomes available within the field of work that you are looking for. These job alerts may become a nice surprise in your e-mail inbox during your search for employment.

If you have any further questions about online applications or if you wish to speak to an Employment Counsellor please feel free to e-mail me at amiddleton@careerservices.org or call me at 705-328-0180 ext. 256

Good luck with your job search!

Amanda Middleton, Resources and Information Counsellor
VCCS Employment Services

Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW)

Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW)

The next Targeted Initiative for Older Works (TIOW) program will begin on May 14^th! This program is for individuals over the age of 50 who are unemployed, and lack the skills necessary to integrate into new employment. Visit VCCS Employment Services today and speak to an Employment Counsellor about this rewarding program!

370 Kent Street West, Lindsay Ontario K9V 6G8 (705)328-0180

Hear what others had to say about the TIOW Program:

“Insightful, Rewarding and full of clues.”  G.W.

“Comfortable setting, real confidence booster.”  W.B.

“Well worth the time.”  H.L.

“Very organized.  A pleasure to be here.”  N.V.

                   

What are your salary expectations?

Most candidates are nervous in an interview to begin with but nerves can rise when a potential employer asks “What are your salary expectations?” Here are a few tips to consider when answering this question:

1. Be prepared! Go into an interview with an understanding of a low and high pay range for the position. Keep in mind that the employer’s location will play a factor in what the average pay of the occupation will be.

2. Do your research! This is all part of having a plan. It is best to research average salary expectations for the position so you are prepared for the interview. Once researched you can state “Research shows that the low and high pay rate for this position within our area is $12.00-$17.00 per hour. With the experience that I have to offer I believe that an appropriate pay rate would be $14.00 per hour. Could we discuss this more together?

To do your research there are many online tools you could use. A user friendly tool is the Workopolis salary calculator

http://www.workopolis.com/work.aspx?action=Transfer&View=Content/Common/ResourceCentre/RCSalaryGuideView&lang=EN
3. Don’t state what your salary expectations are in the interview, unless you are asked the question! Stating your salary expectations in the interview without being asked the question by employers can come off as demanding. It is best to wait until an offer of employment is provided or, until the employer asks you what you salary expectations are.

Visit VCCS Employment Services today for more interview tips!

One of our Employment Counsellors would be happy to help you!

VCCS Can Help With That!

Workopolis posted a new article titled "Having a successful career without a Bachelors Degree." The second point is "Ask for Help." VCCS can help to review your resume and interview skills! Visit us today at 370 Kent Street West, Lindsay ON, K9V 6G8 (In the Whitney Town Centre, beside Wild Wings)

http://www.workopolis.com/content/advice/article/2109-having-a-successful-career-without-a-bachelor-s-degree

Using LinkedIn for your Job Search



LinkedIn can be a useful tool for a job seeker. It can help to build and maintain professional networks and it’s a great self-marketing tool! If you are going to use LinkedIn for your job search here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use your profile like a professional resume. Make sure your profile is professional in nature while highlighting a summary of yourself, past employment and education and a sample of your skills and expertise.

• Make sure you keep your information up to date and that you are logging into LinkedIn on a regular basis. Social media is only effective if it is used regularly. You need to use LinkedIn at least a few times a week, if not every day.

• Keep track of who is viewing your profile. You can see who has viewed your profile on the LinkedIn homepage. It’s a great way to see if any possible employers have looked at your profile and could lead to further networking opportunities.

• Keep track of your contacts and other contacts that you may know. Send a personal message to say “hi” to those you haven’t talked to in a while.

Keep your profile active, up to date and keep in touch with your contacts!

Have fun on LinkedIn!