We can help you with your job search!

You can get help with your resume and job searching skills through the Ontario Works offices.

If you are looking for a job, we can help you…

• Learn how to effectively use the Internet and other tools
• Get tips on how to complete application forms
• Create an up-to-date resume and cover letter
• Secure referrals to job counselling or training
• Find out who’s hiring
• Prepare for a job interview
• Find employment opportunities based on your skills, experience and education

Our Resource rooms have supports to help you, including:

• Computers, telephones, fax machines, photocopiers and newspapers
• Job boards with up-to-date job posting
• Staff to help you with your job search and other supports you need

Job Search Tips

Planning and Organizing Your Time

In order to complete an organized job search, you should:

• make your job search a full-time project
• set a daily routine. Plan where you will go, who you will see, where you will send resumes and how you will keep records for future references
• always allow time for follow-up on letters and resumes sent
• follow up on interviews by sending a thank you letter and by phoning for the outcome
• Where To Look For Work
• newspaper classified ads
• placement offices or nearby schools, colleges, universities
• private employment agencies
• Canada Employment Centres
• Community Resource Centres
• local unions
• library reference directories,
• talk to people you know and tell them about yourself and the work you can do
• Applications
• be neat, employers will not read messy forms
• read the entire form before writing anything
• use a pen and print clearly
• read over the form to check spelling, grammar, and general appearance
• remember to sign and date the form

Telephone Tips

• the telephone can save you time and get you organized
• prepare and practice how you will ask for information regarding a possible job or contact
• keep a copy of you resume nearby for reference
• take notes while speaking for future references
• keep the call brief
• be pleasant, polite, and positive

Resumes

• if you do not have a resume, go to our Ontario Works Resource Centre to create one. There will be someone there to help you
• take the time to assess your career goals, skills, qualifications, experience and education before writing your resume
• you may need more than one resume if looking for different types of work
• a resume should be no more than two pages and should be on 81/2 X 11 paper
• proof read your resume a few times to be sure there are no errors.
• prepare a list of references on a separate sheet to be given at the interview
• always keep a copy of your resume with you
• interview Tips
• learn as much as you can about the job you are applying for
• be prepared to show the employer how they can benefit from hiring you
• practice and prepare answers to common question; be sure that your answers are clear, concise and enthusiastic
• know the date, time and place of the interview
• be conservative in your choice of clothing and appear well groomed
• show a positive, confident attitude and remember to smile!
• do ask question to show interest
• bring a well-prepared resume and references to your interview