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2 Take Back Control
A
job transition often involves a lot of changes. As you face the process
of starting over to find a new job or a new career, talking with people
can help you figure out what your options are. Talk with family, friends,
and co-workers as well as AFL-CIO Community Service representatives, and
people in job placement and training programs about your long-term and
short-term plans.
#3
Have a Plan
A
key to taking back control of your life is planning. A good plan will
help you find a new job, get retrained, or build a new career. Components
of a good plan might include:
Finding
a new job.
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Analyze your skills. Make a list of the skills you've acquired over the years. Do you have additional skills you've gained through a hobby or other jobs?
What
do you like to do in your spare time? Perhaps you like to repair cars,
cook, or work with numbers. Don't overlook anything that could lead
to a new career or revive an old one. -
Identify demand occupations. Find out what skills are in short supply in the area where you wish to work. Talk to someone at your local One-Stop Center about which jobs are more plentiful. Check the employment listings and the newspaper's help wanted ads.
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Determine your options. The One-Stop Center can give you skills assessment tests, career counseling, and references to suitable jobs. Other more intensive reemployment services, as well as training options, may be available. You'll most likely find the number for your local One-Stop Center in the phone directory under Government Agencies.Again, it is important to remember that talking to people can help, because many jobs are filled by word of mouth.
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Market yourself. Prepare an attractive resume. Be sure to include information on past jobs, training, and other qualifications.