february 2013-MARCH 2013 Career Northwest Indiana Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs for 2013 and beyond What not to do after being laid off

Transcription

1 february 2013-MARCH 2013 Career Northwest Indiana Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs for 2013 and beyond What not to do after being laid off LOOKING YOUR BEST FOR THE INTERVIEW programs to help workers with job dislocation

2

3 n Skills evaluation n Resume development and cover letter assistance n Career planning n Training dollars and scholarship/grant information n Job search assistance n preparation n Youth career and work information Job Search Tools Available You ll gain the competitive edge you need to be successful in your job search by using (for free) the following WorkOne tools and information: n Computer Lab n Internet Access n Fax Machine and Copier n Telephone n Information/Resource Center FREE Workshops Get valuable tips on how to get noticed by employers and land the job you really want! Offering You NO-COST Individual Services insidefebruary/march 2013 CareerConnect 4 Hoosier 6 What Hot 50 Jobs Northwest Indiana not to do after being laid off WorkOne no-cost workshops 8 for February and March 12 Looking your best for the interview WorkReady workshop topics include: n n Customer Service Skills n Preparing for your Job n Communicating Effectively n Microsoft Office: Word, Excel & Outlook n Getting the Most Out of ICC A WorkReady Completion Certificate will be presented to participants, based on completion requirements of workshops WorkOne has programs to help those suffering from job dislocation Northwest Indiana has over 30 adult education and learning sites If you are a veteran you ll receive priority service! Ask to speak to a WorkOne Veteran Representative for job search assistance, veteran specific training opportunities, and more. If you are the spouse of a veteran you may also qualify for training and scholarship opportunities. Need general information about Unemployment Insurance (UI)? Let us help. or visit to file for unemployment and gather more information. WorkOne Northwest Indiana Career Connect is an initiative of the Northwest Indiana Workforce Board. Serving Jasper, Lake, La Porte, Newton, Porter, Pulaski and Starke Counties. The WorkOne system is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in the programs and services offered. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Call (800) (TDD/TTY relay services). Editorial for Career Connect provided by Barbara Grimsgard, Communications Manager, Center of Workforce Innovations, Regional Operator-WorkOne Region Boilermaker Court, Ste. E, Valparaiso, IN To advertise in Career Connect: WorkOne Career Connect is published in partnership with The Times Media Co. For advertising opportunities call your Times Recruitment Specialist today. Sales: Barb Carlson and Leslie Bryan WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 3

4 Hoosier Hot 50 ONovember 27, 2012, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development released the latest revision of the Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs list. The list aims to rank the fastest growing, highest wage occupations by weighing short and long term projections, median wage, and number of job postings to recruitment websites to produce a list that can point Hoosier job seekers in the right direction. As with the last revision in 2010, the effect of an aging workforce and the transformation into a knowledge economy continues to significantly shape the careers on the list. The new top Hot Job, Physician and Surgeon, sets the tone for the entire list: the highest growth, highest wage occupations require additional education and are often in the Health Science cluster. Health Science careers are so important, in fact, that they account for 30 percent (15) of the top 50 jobs. In addition, the almost 20 percent (9) of the list is composed of manufacturing, architecture, and construction occupations, like plumbers, electricians, and boilermakers. Both of these trends can be attributed to the wave of retiring Baby Boomers (adults born between 1946 and 1964): retirees need health care and employers require new workers to replace retirees. One result of a growing knowledge economy is a demand for careers in the Information Technology cluster. Careers such as Computer Software Engineer, Computer Systems Analyst, and Information Security Analyst and Computer Network Architect are essential to nearly every cluster information technology is revolutionizing virtually every industry and the importance of these jobs emphasizes the necessity of computer literacy in today s workforce. Hot Jobs in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) field push the economy forward with technological innovations. Civil engineers develop advanced materials and safer cars, medical scientists research diseases and create cures, and biomedical engineers synthesize tissue for organ transplants and design better medical equipment. All of these in-demand occupations have median salaries above $80,000 per year in Northwest Indiana, and all require a graduate degree to advance in the field. A subtle effect of more retirees is the need for financial services. As many people do not personally manage their retirement fund, the need for financial advisors and accountants is rising to meet the demand. Despite all the undeniable impact of the Baby Boomers, the economy is being shaped by young and old alike. The demand for postsecondary teachers (more colloquially called professors) and K-12 teachers is on the rise, and each career has a regional median annual salary above $50,000. The Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs list, complete with projections, estimated annual openings, interviews and videos with Hoosiers currently in each job, is available online at An abridged version is also available on the next page for your convenience. (By Erik Dombrowski, Workforce Associate- Research, Center of Workforce Innovations) page 4 WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013

5 Top Jobs in Indiana REGIONAL MEDIAN ANNUAL ANNUAL SALARY RANK HOT JOB CLUSTER OPENINGS Physician and Surgeon Health Science 343 $199,118 2 Registered Nurse Health Science 1,660 $61,526 3 Physical Therapist Health Science 167 $80,288 4 Dental Hygienist Health Science 158 $68,474 5 Computer Software Information 274 $54,392 Engineer technology 6 Postsecondary Teacher Education & 583 $61,526 training 7 Plumber Architecture 295 $68,286 & Construction 8 Pharmacist Health Science 163 $114,088 9 Operating Engineer Architecture & 262 $69,909 Construction 10 Medical Services Health Science 174 $77,480 Manager 11 Cost Estimator Architecture & 174 $69,347 Construction 12 Construction Supervisor Architecture & 248 $56,451 Construction 13 Social Worker Human Services 263 $37, Marketing Specialist Arts, A/V 172 $43,181 technology & 15 Graphic Designer Arts, A/V 124 $35,110 technology & Communications 16 Management Analyst Business, 194 $58,906 Management & Administration 17 Truck Driver transportation, 1,076 $41,725 Distribution & Logistics 18 K-12 Teacher Education & 1,050 $51,563 training 19 Sales Representative, Marketing, Sales 462 $76,710 Wholesale and & Service Manufacturing 20 Occupational Therapist Health Science 84 $77, Heating, Air Conditioning Architecture 197 $40,872 and Refrigeration & Construction Mechanic 22 Electrician Architecture & 250 $64,730 Construction 23 Construction Architecture & 196 $63,315 Superintendent REGIONAL MEDIAN ANNUAL ANNUAL SALARY RANK HOT JOB CLUSTER OPENINGS Licensed Practical Nurse Health Science 472 $41,808 technology 25 Occupational/Physical Health Science 155 $28,371 therapist Aide 26 Accountant Finance 248 $53, Sales Representative, Marketing, Sales 506 $43,014 Services & Service 28 Computer Systems Analyst Information 163 $71, Network Systems and Data Information 164 $56,867 Communication Technology Administrator 30 Personal Financial Advisor Finance 96 $50, Dental Assistant Health Science 188 $33, Veterinarian Health Science 47 $84, Optometrist Health Science 34 $110, Counselor Human Services 214 $33, Information Security Information 123 $49,774 Analyst and Computer Technology network Architect 36 Training and Development Architecture & 146 $43,534 Specialists Construction 37 Industrial Machinery Manufacturing 215 $51,064 Mechanic 38 Radiologic Technologists Health Science 136 $52,936 and Technicians 39 Physician Assistants Health Science 29 $77, Actuary Finance 17 $90, School Administrator Education & Training 117 $83, Database Administrator Information Technology 58 $46, Civil Engineer Science, Technology, 80 $81,307 Engineering & Mathematics 44 Medical Scientist Science, Technology, 42 $89,898 Engineering & Mathematics 45 School Psychologist Human Services 66 $59, Cement Mason/ Architecture & 124 $55,162 Concrete Finisher Construction 47 Boilermaker Manufacturing 54 $66, Brick Mason/Block Mason Architecture & 92 $42,307 Construction 49 Biomedical Engineer Science, Technology, 38 $85,342 Engineering & Mathematics 50 Dentist Health Science 50 $181,189 (Sources: Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs List; EMSI Complete Employment ) WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 5

6 What NOT to do after being Laid Off According to journalist Katherine Reynolds Lewis, it s important to take your next steps after being laid off based on rational thought, not emotions. Lewis suggests avoiding the following five mistakes as you head onto the path of career recovery. Badmouthing the Employer Who Laid You Off You worked hard for the company, often sacrificing family time. Being laid off can feel like a denial or rejection of all that honest effort. Don t let your hurt feelings goad you into talking badly about your employer. Remember that everyone you speak with is a potential networking contact. You don t know what opportunities your neighbor or fellow carpool parent might open to you -- and you won t find out if they think you re a loose cannon or disgruntled employee. Try to remain respectful when asked about the layoff and your past employer, or just stay quiet. Remember what mama said, if you can t say something nice, say nothing at all. Hiding the Layoff from Family Losing your job can be traumatic. For many of us, our identity is tied into our work. We may not feel that we know who we are without our position. As hard as it may be to talk about the layoff, you must do so with your spouse and close family. Don t try to hide it. You ll need their love and support to get you back on your feet. Don t feel rushed to explain the situation to your children, though. It s okay to take some time for the feelings to be less raw. You may want to figure out your next move first, whether it s quitting work or looking for a new position. That s probably the first question the kids will ask. Jumping Into a Job Search Believe it or not, some people go straight from the layoff announcement to their computer to post a resume on Monster.com or a job board for contract work. Try to look at being laid off as an opportunity to rethink your career path. Use some quiet time to list all your accomplishments and highlight those that meant the most to you. What tasks did you enjoy? Which projects inspired and stimulated you? You may find that you would be happier in a slightly different role or job. You ll certainly come up with concrete achievements to put on your resume and cover letters. Once you ve thought through your next steps and goals, you will be more targeted -- and effective -- in your networking. Dwelling on the Negative Just as you shouldn t badmouth your employer, don t talk negatively about yourself! Without thinking, many working women downplay their career contributions or prospects, especially in social conversations. Your acquaintances will be uncomfortable hearing about layoffs, because it reminds them they, too, are vulnerable. Make it easier for them by quickly turning the conversation to the positive career steps you want to take. That gives them an opportunity to help you. When you re at a kid s soccer game and a fellow parent asks what you re doing, make sure you have a ready explanation of your layoff and the next steps you want to take. For instance: n Because of a recent merger, my employer eliminated a number of duplicative positions, including mine. I m taking the opportunity to make a career move from marketing to strategic communications. I m a marketing and communications manager with over 10 years of experience working for private companies and nonprofit organizations. n The recent reorganization of ABC company led to 120 job cuts, including mine. I m a human resources executive with 15 years of experience working closely with corporate leadership and implementing new systems. My objective is to find a position where I can continue to serve as a catalyst for orderly and profitable workforce change. n Due to the struggling economy, XYZ company let go a dozen employees, including me. I am currently exploring opportunities that would take advantage of my engineering and manufacturing background, and my successful record of boosting sales. Becoming Isolated or Web-Bound You discovered this site. You know there s lots of great information on the Internet. Certainly, you can spend 24 hours a day submitting your resume online. But Web surfing will only take you so far. To land a new job, you must meet people in person and get out of your home. The vast majority of open positions are never even posted publicly. Here s a handy rule of thumb -- if you talk to 25 hiring managers, you will most likely get a job offer. These conversations don t need to be job interviews. If you line up informational interviews at organizations you admire, the next time a position becomes available the hiring manager will think of you. You also need the support and positive feedback that comes from having coffee or lunch with former colleagues familiar with your best work. Set a goal, such as having 2 networking calls a day and 2 or 3 in-person meetings a week. When you talk to people you ve worked with in the past, they ll learn what you accomplished recently and where you want to go next. Now go! Pick up the phone or send an . Reach out to the people who will lead you to your next, better job. If you ve been laid off, visit a WorkOne for job search assistance and unemployment insurance benefits. (Source: About.com) page 6 WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013

7 workshop offerings See the full calendar of WorkOne workshops on pages 8-11 Orientation This workshop will provide you with an overview of the services available at WorkOne. This workshop can be directly accessed at a WorkOne computer station. Unemployment Insurance This workshop will provide you with the information you need to navigate the Unemployment Insurance process. Topics include the initial claim, eligibility, and work search requirements. Coping with Job Loss Provides information to help you understand the emotional stress of losing your job. Getting through the initial shock of job loss is the first step in preparing for new employment. Topics include: understanding the grieving process with job loss, steps in staying focused and positive, and considerations of career changing. I ve Got Skills Serves as an introduction to the job search process. You will learn how to identify your skills and what information is essential when building an effective resume and completing job applications. Getting More Out of Indiana Career Connect (ICC) This interactive, hands-on workshop will introduce you to Indiana Career Connect (ICC). It will cover the process of creating a profile properly and the importance of completing the personal assessments, while allowing you to complete your personal ICC profile. Building Your Resume in Indiana Career Connect (ICC) This interactive workshop guides you through the Resume Builder on ICC. You will learn how to use data from your background and profile to create a resume. You will also learn how to copy and paste, download, and save resumes as a Word Document. Upon completion of this workshop you will have an ICC resume on line. An introductory overview of the resume development process. Attendees are guided through the different types of resumes and the advantages and drawbacks of each format. Additional features of the workshop include guidance on resume length and prioritizing information. How to Job Search on the Web This hands-on workshop covers internet job searching techniques. Actual job searches will be performed based upon your employment interests. ing Basics This workshop will serve to introduce you to the interviewing process and will help eliminate the mystery and fear of interviews. Topics will cover: The purpose of the interview (not to get hired, but to establish yourself as the best candidate) Types of interviews commonly used Qualities employers seeking out in applicant responses Questions you must be able to answer if prompted Dealing with difficult questions Successful Learn the importance of communicating effectively with customers and coworkers. Topics include: speaking, listening, presenting to large groups, handling criticism, and and telephone etiquette. You ll also gain insight on work readiness, effective communication, and healthy living. Providing Excellent Customer Service Provides you with strategies and approaches to providing excellent customer service and maximizing customer satisfaction. Topics include: dealing with difficult people, preventive maintenance, effective listening, and constructive confrontation. Microsoft Word and Excel Coming in March to Gary, Hammond, LaPorte and Portage Northwest Indiana Professional Network (NIPN) This networking group is a vehicle for improving job search skills while networking with others who have similar experiences. It is offered in an 8 session series format. Customers can enter the group at anytime in the series. Only currently enrolled (intensive level) WorkOne customers with a minimum of an Associate s Degree or higher are the target audience. A non-enrolled individual may attend one session of NIPN as a guest. Customers must be scheduled for this session by a Career Advisor. WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 7

8 no-cost workshop calendar To sign up for a FREE seminar, call a WorkOne office or visit Gary Office February 2013 Monday TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 10 AM-12 PM AM Coping with Job Loss I ve Got Skills 1-2 PM Customer Service 1-2 PM 2-3:30 PM Preparing for Your AM-12 PM Preparing for Your Customer Service I ve Got Skills 2:30-4 PM AM-12 PM Customer Service 1-2 PM Coping with Job Loss Building a Resume in ICC 2:30-4 PM I ve Got Skills AM-12 PM I ve Got Skills 3522 Village Circle, Gary, IN (219) Open M,T,W,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; TH 10 AM - 4:30 PM 2:30-4 PM Preparing for Your Hammond Office February 2013 Monday TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY AM Coping with Job Loss 8:30-10 PM I ve Got Skills 1-2 PM Preparing for Your Customer Service I ve Got Skills Customer Service 1-2 PM Coping with Job Loss PM Customer Service 2-3:30 PM Preparing for Your AM 13 8:30-10 PM :30-4 PM Building an Effective Resume :30-10 PM How to Job Search on the Web 2:30-4 PM I ve Got Skills 5265 Hohman Avenue, Hammond, IN (219) Open M,T,TH,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; W 10 AM - 4:30 PM I ve Got Skills 1-2 : :30-10 PM :30-4 PM Preparing for Your page 8 WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013

9 no-cost workshop calendar To sign up for a FREE seminar, call a WorkOne office or visit Portage Office February 2013 Monday TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Preparing for Your I ve Got Skills Coping with Job Loss Successful 1-2 PM 2-3 PM 8:30-9:30 AM 9:30-11 AM Successful Customer Service Ameriplex Commercial Park Adler Circle, Ste. A, Portage, IN (219) Open M,T,TH,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; W 10 AM - 4:30 PM :30 PM :30-10 Customer Service PM 2-3:30 PM Preparing for Your :30-10 I ve Got Skills Coping with Job Loss 1-2 PM 2-3 PM :30-10 Building an Effective Resume Preparing for Your 1-2 PM LaPorte Office February Legacy Plaza West - Sagamore Center, LaPorte, IN (219) Open M,T,W,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; TH 10 AM - 4:30 PM tuesday 8:30-10:00 AM I ve Got Skills 9:30-11 AM Preparing for your JOB 1-3 PM NIPN 8:30-9:30 AM 9:30-10:30 AM 10:30-11:30 AM 1-3 PM NIPN I ve Got Skills Coping with Job Less 1-3 PM NIPN 8:30-9:30 AM 9:30-10:30 AM 1-3 PM NIPN wednesday 10-11: Successful Customer Service 1-2 PM Preparing for Your Job How to Build an Effective Resume 10-11:30 PM TBD 1-2 PM 2-3 PM Coping with Job Loss AM TBD How to Build an Effective Resume Southern Counties February 2013 Knox Monday AM Preparing for Your Job Building a Resume in ICC Morocco 11 I ve Got Skills Getting More Out of ICC Customer Service Building a Resume in ICC Rensselaer AM Coping with Job Loss Build Effective Resume 2:30-4 PM Preparing for Your Job 4 18 Winamac 25 Customer Service AM Coping with Job Loss Building a Resume in ICC Jasper County 116 N. Van Rensselaer Street Rensselaer, IN Fax: Newton County 4117 S. 240 West, Ste. 400 Morocco, IN Fax: Mon, Tues & Wed - 8:00am 4:30pm Starke County 53 W. Lake Street Knox, IN Fax: Pulaski County 123 N. Market Street, Ste. 2 Winamac, IN Fax: Tues & Wed - 8:00am 4:30pm WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 9

10 no-cost workshop calendar To sign up for a FREE seminar, call a WorkOne office or visit Gary Office March 2013 Monday TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY I ve Got Skills 10 AM-12 PM Preparing for Your Coping with Job Loss Customer Service How to Job Search Communication on the Web Skills Customer Service AM-12 PM Preparing for Your Building Your Resume in ICC I ve Got Skills 18 Coping w/ Job Loss AM-12 PM Preparing for Your Customer Service Building a Resume in ICC Building an Effective Resume 2:30-4 PM How to Job Search on the Web 25 I ve Got Skills AM-12 PM Preparing for Your Coommunication Skills 3522 Village Circle, Gary, IN (219) Open M,T,W,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; TH 10 AM - 4:30 PM Customer Service Hammond Office March 2013 Monday TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY I ve Got Skills Building an 8:30-10 PM Preparing for Your Customer Service Communication Skills Customer Service Preparing for Your Coping w/ Job Loss Preparing for Your Customer Service I ve Got Skills Preparing for Your Effective Resume Coping with Job Loss How to Job Search on the Web :30-10 PM I ve Got Skills Getting More Out of ICC :30-10 PM Building an Effective Resume How to Job Search on the Web Building an 27 8:30-10 PM Effective Resume Customer Service Getting More Out of ICC 5265 Hohman Avenue, Hammond, IN (219) Open M,T,TH,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; W 10 AM - 4:30 PM page 10 WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013

11 no-cost workshop calendar To sign up for a FREE seminar, call a WorkOne office or visit Portage Office March 2013 Monday TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Preparing for Your I ve Got Skills Coping with Job Loss Successful 1-2 PM 2-3 PM 8:30-9:30 AM 9:30-11 AM Successful Customer Service Ameriplex Commercial Park Adler Circle, Ste. A, Portage, IN (219) Open M,T,TH,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; W 10 AM - 4:30 PM :30 PM :30-10 Customer Service PM 2-3:30 PM Preparing for Your :30-10 I ve Got Skills Coping with Job Loss 1-2 PM 2-3 PM :30-10 Building an Effective Resume Preparing for Your 1-2 PM 2-3 PM I ve Got Skills LaPorte Office March Legacy Plaza West - Sagamore Center, LaPorte, IN (219) Open M,T,W,F 8 AM-4:30 PM; TH 10 AM - 4:30 PM tuesday 8:30-9:30 AM I ve Got Skills 9:30-10:30 AM 10:30-11:30 PM Building a Resume in ICC 1-3 PM NIPN Customer Service 1-3 PM NIPN Preparing for Your Job 1-3 PM NIPN Coping with Job Less 1-3 PM NIPN wednesday 8:30-9:30 AM How to Job Search on the Web 9:30-11 AM Preparing for Your Job Coping with Job Loss I ve Got Skills AM How to Job Search on the Web Building an Effective Resume Customer Service Preparing for Your Building a Resume in ICC Southern Counties March 2013 Monday Knox Customer Service AM Coping with Job Loss I ve Got Skills How to Job Search on the Web Morocco Building an Effective Resume 10-11:30AM Coping with Job Loss How to Job Search on the Web Rensselaer 18 I ve Got Skills AM How to Job Seach on the Web Building a Resume in ICC Customer Service Winamac Building an Effective Resume 10-11:30AM I ve Got Skills How to Job Search on the Web Jasper County 116 N. Van Rensselaer Street Rensselaer, IN Fax: Newton County 4117 S. 240 West, Ste. 400 Morocco, IN Fax: Mon, Tues & Wed - 8:00am 4:30pm Starke County 53 W. Lake Street Knox, IN Fax: Pulaski County 123 N. Market Street, Ste. 2 Winamac, IN Fax: Tues & Wed - 8:00am 4:30pm WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 11

12 Looking your best for the interview Whenever you meet someone new, you size them up. In about a minute, you can decide whether or not you like them. Hiring managers are good at sizing people up too. They see lots of job applicants and they can tell in a flash who ll fit tin and who won t. In a job interview, the goal is to show that you fit in. Get a good night s sleep. Someone who looks tired might also look sickly. Nobody wants to be around someone with a cold or flu. Take a shower. It will help you look sharp, alert, and healthy. Shampoo you re hair. One of the first things the manager will look at is your hair. It makes a huge statement about your overall hygiene and cleanliness. Brush your teeth. Get the manager to remember your ideas, your skills, your personality not what you had for breakfast. Brush, floss, and use a mouthwash. Use deodorant and antiperspirant. The manager will think that you re as cool as a cucumber. Rub a little on your hands and you ll have a smooth dry handshake too. Use eye drops. Get the red out and let your eyes twinkle. Trim your nails. Guys, long fingernails are a turn off. Most hiring managers will notice when they reach to shake your hand. Ladies, hiring managers won t be impressed if long nails prevent you from the doing the work. Hair styles. Choose a simple style that makes you look good. Get the manager to focus on your face, your expressions, your eyes not your hair style. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes. It says that you need lots of attention. Makeup. In business, less is more. The idea is to look professional so you ll be taken seriously. Shave. Guys, a two-day stubble looks great on the weekends, but not in a job interview. Showing up with a stubble means you didn t shave. Body piercings. One or two piercings are fine. A half dozen or more becomes a distraction. Tongue jewelry can also be a distraction. Avoid trendy fashions. It s been said that fashion gets attention but it doesn t convey power. Classic clothing conveys power. Conduct your job interview from a point of strength, not novelty Dress in clothes that you would wear on the job. Executives should wear business suits. Office people should wear dress clothes. Workers should wear work clothes. If you re not sure what to wear to the interview, call the company and ask someone in their human resources office. They ll be glad to help you. Can t go wrong with the classic white-collar outfit. For men navy blue or black blazer, gray slacks, white shirt, striped tie, black lace-up shoes, black socks, and black dress belt. For women charcoal gray or navy skirt or pantsuit, white blouse, scarf or necklace, with black pumps, black hose, black belt, and a simple black bag. Check your clothes. Make sure they fit properly and feel comfortable. Check for holes, tears, splits, stains, missing buttons, runs, frayed hems, worn cuffs, puckers, pulls or wrinkles. Wear clean, freshly-pressed clothes. Send your jacket and pants/ skirt off to be dry-cleaned and pressed. Have your shirt or blouse laundered, starched, and pressed. Looking sharp shows respect for the manager and the job. Avoid excessive jewelry. For men, a wristwatch and a ring are plenty. For women, a watch, a ring, a necklace, and a pair of earring are ideal. Avoid bright colors, loud fashions, and patterns that clash. It s a sign that you need lots of attention. Empty your pockets. No bulges to ruin your profile and no jingling change to fall out of your pocket when you sit down for the interview. Smile. Smile big. You re beautiful. Take a picture! (Source: Job Hunting Handbook Dahlstrom+Company, Inc.) page 12 WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013

13 WorkOne has helpful programs for job dislocation, displaced homemakers, and returning military personnel Have you been separated from your employment through no fault of your own because of a company or facility closing or relocating, reduction in workforce, job elimination, or downsizing? Well, you may qualify for special assistance through the Dislocated Workers Program. Services are available at WorkOne for all levels of dislocated workers from salaried managers through entry-level hourly workers and may include: n Job leads and referrals; n Job search assistance and workshops; n Resume and cover letter assistance; n Computer training; n Occupational skills training/retraining; and n Career assessment and counseling. Job Separation Scenarios In addition, you may qualify for special assistance if a job separation was caused by any of the following scenarios: n Increased imports n Production shifting to certain countries; n International trade agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement; and n Company closure or layoff Are you a Displaced Homemaker or Returning Military Personnel? WorkOne offers assistance tailored to help displaced homemakers individuals who depended on another family member for at least 51 percent of household income but lost these funds through either of two scenarios: n divorce; or n the wage-earner was separated from his or her employment through no fault of their own. Visit a Career Advisor at WorkOne for assistance. See back side of this Career Connect publication for a location near you! Looking to earn more but need to upgrade your skills? You may qualify for up to $2000 to complete your education or short-term training certification. Visit a WorkOne near you and speak with a Career Advisor to see if you qualify for this funding! WorkOne will assist you through the application process and provide support and mentoring as you complete your education and training. Limited dollars are still available for a limited time. See the WorkOne listing on the back of this publication for a location near you. WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 13

14 Northwest Indiana is home to over 30 adult education and learning sites Providing FREE classes! Many area adult education programs can help you: n Brush up on basic math, reading and writing skills before registering for college n Prepare you for the G.E.D. exam n Strengthen your English language skills and adapt to practical everyday situation in the U.S. Adult Basic Education (ABE) Addresses basic skill needs; e.g., reading, writing, language and math. Adult Secondary Credit (ASC) Provides the opportunity for those who didn t finish high school to return as adults and complete credits toward a regular high school diploma. General Educational Development (GED) Preparation Prepares the student to pass the exam for the GED diploma the equivalent to a credential for high school completion. The actual GED testing is only offered at a few sites. English as a Second Language (ESL) Provides English language instruction to non-english speaking adults along with practical skills for everyday personal, social, and working situations. *Note: Many adult education locations may require an annual $20.00 administrative fee to cover books, materials, and/or supplies, however instruction is free. Northwest Indiana Adult Learning Sites Jasper County Jasper County Adult Learning Center First Reformed Church 9991 W N., Demotte, IN (219) Tues., Thurs. and Fri. - 8:40 am to 11:45 am Jasper County Adult Learning Center Drexel Hall 1027 S. College Ave., Rensselaer, IN (219) Mon. & Wed. - 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Tues.,Thurs., Fri. - 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm Lake County Crown Point Adult Learning Center Lakeview Square, 928 B S. Court St. Crown Point, IN (219) Mon. & Wed. - 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Tues. & Thurs. - 9:00 am to 3:30 pm Lowell Adult Learning Center Cedar Creek Community Center 151 N. Fremont, Lowell, IN (219) Mon/Wed - 9:00 am to 2:00 pm Tues. & Thurs. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm School City of Whiting Adult ESL Program Nathan Hale Elementary 1831 Oliver St., Whiting, IN Contact: Dr. Sandra Martinez at smartinez@ns.whiting.k12.in.us Tues. and Thurs. - 5:00 to 7:00 pm Hobart Adult Learning Center Hobart Public Library 100 Main St., Hobart, IN (219) ext.317 Tues. - 12:00 to 4:00 pm Mon. & Wed. - 12:00 to 8:00 pm ESL Tues. & Thurs. - 12:00 to 4:00 pm Tri-Town Adult Learning Center 1515 Lincoln Hwy., Schererville, IN (219) Tues/Thurs - 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm Wed. - 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm page 14 WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013

15 Hammond Area Career Center 5727 Sohl Ave., Hammond, IN (219) Mon thru Thurs. ESL - 9:00 am to 12:30 pm Mon. thru Thurs. GED - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Mon. thru Thurs. ESL/GED - 6:00 to 8:30 pm ESL/Citizenship Class - Sat. 9:00 am to Noon and Tues. and Thurs. 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Greater Hammond Community Center) Lake Ridge Schools 6111 W. Ridge Rd., Gary, IN (219) or (219) Mon. thru Fri. - 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm GED, ABE, ASC, ESL Merrillville Adult Education 6701 Delaware St., Merrillville, IN (219) GED Prep. Program (ABE) Mon. thru Thurs. - 6 to 8:30 pm Jan. thru March Apr. thru June July thru Sept. Oct. thru Dec. GED Testing Twice Monthly - Mon. & Tues. 4:45 pm to 9:00 pm Dates and registration available at High School Diploma Competion Mon. thru Thurs. - 3:45 to 9:10 pm Aug. 30 thru Dec. 21, 2011 To be Determined Whiting Public Library 1735 Oliver Avenue Whiting, IN ciwarner@hammond.k12.in.us ESL: Tues. & Thurs. from 2:30 to 4:30 pm Gary City-Wide GED Sites Gary Area Career Center 1800 East 35th Ave. (219) Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs - 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm Also offers Adult Secondary Credit (ASC) classes Mon. thru Fri. - 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm Carter G. Woodson Library 501 S. Lake St. (219) Mon. & Wed. - Noon to 3:00 pm Salvation Army 1351 West 11th Ave. (219) Tues/Thurs - 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Cisco Academy (Delaney Community) West 21st Ave. Mon., Tues., Wed. - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Thurs. 10:00 am to Noon Ivy Tech Community College 1440 East 35th Ave., Room C207 (219) Tues. & Thurs. - 9:00 am to Noon (offers ESL also) WorkOne (Village Shopping Ctr) 3522 Village Court (219) Tues., Wed., Thurs. 9:00 a.m. - Noon Calumet Twp. Trustee 485 Broadway (219) Tues., Wed., Thurs. - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm La Porte County LaPorte High School 602 F Street, LaPorte, IN Max Miller (mmiller@lpcsc.k12.in.us) Paul Lindeman (plindeman@lpcsc.k12.in.us) (219) Adult Secondary Credit Classes (ASC) Mon. thru Thurs. - 4 to 7:00 pm Michigan City Public Library 100 E. 4th Street, Michigan City, IN (219) Call for specific days and hours) Individualized tutoring services include GED preparation, Adult Basic Education (ABE), and English as a Second Language (ESL) A.K. Smith Career Center 817 Lafayette St., Michigan City, IN & 17 year olds, Mon. thru Fri. - 9 to 11 am and Noon to 3:00 pm 18+ year olds, Mon/Tues/Wed - 3:30 to 7:00 pm LaPorte WorkOne 300 Legacy Plaza West, LaPorte, IN (219) Mon/Tues - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Wed/Thurs - Noon to 8:00 pm Friday - 9:00 am to Noon NEWTON County Newton County Government Ctr. Suite 300, Morocco, IN Mon thru Thurs. 9:00 am-3:00 pm Tues & Thurs. 4:00 pm-8:00 pm PORTER County Chesterton Adult Learning Center Westchester Library 100 West Indiana St., Chesterton, IN (219) Mon. & Wed. - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Tues/Wed/Thurs - 9:00 am to 2:00 pm Valparaiso Adult Learning Center St. Andrew s Episcopal Church 505 Bullseye Lake Road, Valparaiso, IN (219) Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs - 8:30 am to 2:30 pm GED, ESL Valparaiso Adult Learning Center Walt s Place - Hilltop Too 554 Locust Street - Valparaiso, IN (219) Mon. & Wed. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Portage Adult Learning Center/NEO 5391 Central Ave., Portage, IN (219) Adult ABE & GED (18 yrs and older) Mon. thru Thurs. 8:30 am - 2:30 pm and 5:30-8:30 pm Teen ABE & GED (16 & 17 years old) Mon. thru Thurs. - 9:00 am - 1:00 pm ESL: Mon. & Thurs - 9:00 am - 1:00 pm and Mon. & Wed. 6:30-8:30 pm ASC (High School Diploma Completion): Mon. & Thurs. 5:30-8:30 pm Official GED Testing Center 5391 Central Ave., Portage, IN Twice monthly on Wednesday & Thursday Exact test dates available at Daytime testing: 8:00 am - Noon Evening testing: 5:00-9:00 pm Pulaski County Pulaski Co. Adult Learning Center-Winamac Pulaski Co. Public Library 121 S. Riverside Dr., Winamac, IN (574) Tues. & Thurs. - 9:00 am to Noon Pulaski Co. Adult Learning Center Center Pulaski Co. Annex 125 S. Riverside Dr., Winamac, IN (574) Mon. & Wed. - 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Starke County Starke County. Adult Learning Center WorkOne 6 North Shield St., Knox, IN (574) Mon. & Wed. 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm Tues. & Thurs. 8:30 am to 1:30 pm North Starke Adult/Alternative Education Oregon Davis High School 5998 S. 750 E., Hamlet, IN (574) or (574) wfrazier@od.k12.in.us Mon. thru Fri. 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm ASC, GED, ABE and Skill Brush-up North Judson Adult Learning Center North Judson Wayne Township Public Library 208 Keller Avenue North Judson, IN (574) Mon. and Wed. - 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Thurs. - 5:00 to 8:00 pm WorkOne CareerConnect. February 2013/March 2013 page 15

16 Where Job Seekers & Employers Meet For all your employment or training needs contact one of the WorkOne centers now! WorkOne Gary 3522 Village Circle Gary, IN or Fax: WorkOne Hammond 5265 Hohman Avenue Hammond, IN Fax: Mon, Tue, Thurs & Fri - 8:00am 4:30pm Wed - 10:00am 4:30pm WorkOne Knox 53 W. Lake Street Knox, IN Fax: WorkOne LaPorte Sagamore Center 300 Legacy Plaza West LaPorte, Indiana Fax: FREE CAREER ASSISTANCE! WorkOne Morocco 4117 S. 240 West, Ste. 400 Morocco, IN Fax: Mon, Tues & Wed - 8:00am 4:30pm WorkOne Portage Ameriplex Commercial Park 1575 Adler Circle, Ste. A Portage, IN Fax: WorkOne Rensselaer 116 N. Van Rensselaer Street Rensselaer, IN Fax: WorkOne Winamac 123 N. Market Street, Ste. 2 Winamac, IN Fax: Tues & Wed - 8:00am 4:30pm Oversight of Region 1 WorkOne System is provided by the Northwest Indiana Workforce Board