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If you live in a disaster area impacted by Hurricane Helene and it's been declared a presidential disaster zone, you may be eligible for $750 in initial relief to cover urgent needs. Learn more
Employment Resources for Working People
Searching for a new job or transitioning into a different career can feel overwhelming, especially for working-class people who face financial and personal pressures. However, with the right strategies and tools, you can explore job opportunities, gain valuable career guidance, and access resources that will help you land the right job for your skills and aspirations. Here, we’ll walk you through practical steps to boost your job search, connect with employers, and enhance your career prospects.
Start with Online Job Boards
The first place to begin your job search is with popular online job boards. These platforms allow you to search for jobs based on criteria such as location, industry, and experience level. You can even set up job alerts to be notified of openings that match your qualifications. When using these platforms, make sure to refine your search using filters like job type (full-time, part-time, remote) and industry to narrow down your options. Setting up job alerts will save you time and keep you updated on the latest opportunities in your field.
Top Job Boards to Explore:
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Check Company Websites Directly
While job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn are fantastic for discovering a wide range of job opportunities, not all job listings make it to these platforms. Many companies prefer to post their job openings exclusively on their own websites for a few key reasons: they may want to avoid paying fees to job boards, have a specific recruitment process in place, or prioritize internal candidates first. By visiting company career pages directly, you can gain access to positions that might not be widely advertised elsewhere.
Here’s how this strategy can benefit your job search:
1. Direct Access to Exclusive Job Listings
Some companies, particularly smaller businesses, nonprofits, or even large corporations, choose to manage their hiring internally. As a result, they may list roles only on their official websites. By regularly checking these websites, you get the chance to apply for jobs that aren’t posted on large job boards, reducing competition for certain positions.
2. Build a Relationship with the Company
When you apply directly through a company’s career portal, it shows initiative and genuine interest in that specific company. Your application isn’t just one of many submitted through a third-party job board. Often, hiring managers appreciate seeing applications come directly from their own site, which can give you a better shot at getting noticed.
By applying directly:
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You may interact directly with the company’s HR software or recruitment platform.
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Your application won’t be lost among the many entries a company receives from job boards.
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You can often create a job profile on their website, allowing you to get updates when new positions become available.
3. Stay Informed on Company News
Regularly visiting a company's website helps you stay updated on more than just job openings. You'll be able to:
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Learn about company updates and initiatives that can be useful when preparing for interviews.
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Research their leadership team, projects, or financial health, which can help you tailor your resume and cover letter to show how your skills align with the company’s direction.
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Understand company culture, values, and mission, which may help you decide if it's a place where you’d be happy working.
4. Learn About Internal Referral Programs
Some companies have internal referral programs, where current employees can recommend candidates for positions. By connecting directly with the company, you may have a better chance of leveraging these programs if you know someone who works there. Referrals are highly regarded by many companies and can fast-track your application.
Pro Tip: Keep a List of Target Companies
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Make a List: Start by identifying companies that align with your career goals, interests, or values. This could include both large corporations and small local businesses, depending on your field and preferences.
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Set Alerts: Many companies have an option to create job alerts or subscribe to notifications when new positions are posted. Setting these up ensures you don’t miss out on any opportunities.
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Regularly Visit Career Pages: Even if you’ve set up alerts, it’s a good idea to check the career pages periodically. Some positions may be posted for internal candidates first and then made public a bit later.
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Organize Your Search: Use a simple spreadsheet or notes app to keep track of companies, links to their career pages, and the dates you checked or applied. This will help you stay organized and follow up when necessary.
5. Understand the Company's Hiring Process
When you apply directly through a company’s website, you’re more likely to follow their preferred hiring process. This could mean filling out their specific application forms or completing assessments they require. Adhering to their process can boost your chances of progressing through the recruitment pipeline faster since you’re complying with their systems right from the start.
Attend Job Fairs
Job fairs are an excellent opportunity to connect with multiple potential employers in one location, whether in-person or virtually. They provide job seekers a platform to network, learn about job openings, and, in many cases, interview directly with hiring managers. By preparing strategically, you can make a great impression and increase your chances of landing a job.
Here’s a more in-depth look at how job fairs work and how to make the most out of attending one:
1. Benefits of Attending Job Fairs
Face-to-Face Interaction:
One of the greatest advantages of attending a job fair is the chance to meet potential employers face-to-face. Even in virtual job fairs, live chats or video interactions allow you to make a direct connection with recruiters or hiring managers. This can set you apart from other candidates who only submit resumes online, where interactions are often impersonal.
Networking Opportunities:
Job fairs bring together a diverse array of companies, including large corporations, small businesses, and staffing agencies. Even if a company isn’t hiring for your desired position, attending can still help you:
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Build relationships with recruiters and company representatives.
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Gain information on industries or sectors you hadn’t considered before.
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Learn about upcoming job openings or initiatives that may interest you in the future.
Immediate Feedback:
In many cases, employers may offer on-the-spot interviews or screenings. Even if you don’t walk away with a job offer, this immediate feedback can help you refine your resume, improve your interview techniques, or gain valuable insights into what hiring managers are looking for.
2. How to Find Job Fairs
There are multiple ways to find job fairs, both in-person and online. Here are a few methods:
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Local Community Centers and Workforce Agencies:
Community centers, workforce development agencies, and even local chambers of commerce often host job fairs or have partnerships with local employers. They may advertise these events through bulletin boards, newsletters, or on their websites.
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Schools and Universities:
Even if you’re not a student, universities and community colleges often hold job fairs that are open to the public. These events are a great opportunity to meet companies that recruit for internships, entry-level, and mid-level positions.
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Virtual Job Fairs:
Many job fairs have transitioned to virtual platforms, allowing you to attend from the comfort of your home. Websites like Brazen, CareerEco, or Indeed host virtual job fairs where you can connect with employers through online chat or video conferencing. The convenience of virtual fairs allows you to attend multiple events, even those that might be geographically distant.
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Company-Sponsored Job Fairs:
Some large companies host their own job fairs, either at their office locations or virtually. Keep an eye on company websites and LinkedIn pages for announcements of upcoming events.
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Social Media and Online Event Listings:
Platforms like LinkedIn, Eventbrite, and Facebook often list job fairs or career events happening in your area. Many companies also announce job fairs through their social media channels.
3. Preparing for a Job Fair
Preparation is key to making the most of your time at a job fair. Here are some crucial steps to take before attending:
Research the Companies Attending:
Most job fairs will publish a list of participating employers ahead of time. Make a note of the companies that interest you and research their available positions, work culture, and recent news. This helps you tailor your conversations with recruiters and ask thoughtful questions.
Prepare Your Elevator Pitch:
An elevator pitch is a 30-60 second introduction of yourself that quickly conveys who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for. Practice delivering a confident and clear pitch before the event. Here’s a simple structure you can follow:
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Who You Are: Mention your name and relevant experience or education.
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What You Do: Highlight your skills, expertise, or career focus.
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What You’re Looking For: Briefly state the type of position or industry you're interested in.
Example:
“Hi, I’m Sarah. I have five years of experience in marketing, with a strong background in content creation and digital campaigns. I’m currently looking for a role where I can apply my skills to help companies grow their online presence and reach new audiences.”
Bring Copies of Your Resume:
Even if the event is virtual, make sure to have a well-crafted resume ready to share. For in-person job fairs, bring multiple printed copies in a folder, as you may meet several recruiters. For virtual job fairs, ensure your digital resume is up-to-date and ready for upload, as many platforms allow you to submit resumes directly during the event.
Dress Professionally:
First impressions matter. For in-person events, dress as you would for a job interview. For virtual fairs, ensure you look professional from the waist up and that your background is clean and free of distractions. Dressing professionally shows that you take the event seriously, even in a virtual setting
4. What to Do During the Job Fair
Once you arrive at the job fair, whether in-person or virtually, here’s how to make the most of the experience:
Prioritize Your Time:
Job fairs can be busy and overwhelming. Start by visiting the companies you’re most interested in. Be sure to ask questions about their hiring process, open roles, and what they’re looking for in candidates.
Engage with Employers:
When speaking with recruiters, show genuine interest in their company and the available positions. Ask insightful questions such as:
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“What skills are you looking for in this role?”
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“Can you tell me more about the company culture?”
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“What’s the next step in your hiring process?”
Take Notes:
If you’re meeting with several companies, it’s easy to forget details about each conversation. Bring a notepad or use your phone to jot down important information, like the names of recruiters, follow-up instructions, or details about open positions.
Request Business Cards:
Collect business cards or contact information from the recruiters you speak with. This will be helpful when you’re ready to follow up after the fair.
5. Follow Up After the Job Fair
After the job fair, it’s important to maintain the connections you made. Here’s how to do so effectively:
Send a Thank-You Email:
Within 24-48 hours, send a personalized thank-you email to the recruiters or hiring managers you met. Mention something specific you discussed during the job fair to help them remember you, and express your continued interest in the position or company.
Example:
“Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me at [Job Fair Name] yesterday. I enjoyed learning more about [Company Name] and the exciting projects your team is working on. I’m particularly interested in the [Job Title] position and believe my background in [relevant experience] would be a great fit. I’ve attached my resume for your reference and look forward to any next steps.”
Apply for Jobs:
If the recruiter directed you to apply through their website, do so as soon as possible. Mention in your application that you spoke with them during the job fair.
Connect on LinkedIn:
If appropriate, send a connection request on LinkedIn to the recruiters you met. Include a brief message to remind them of your conversation and express your interest in staying in touch.
By attending job fairs with a well-prepared strategy, you maximize your chances of making meaningful connections and finding job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Whether online or in person, these events provide valuable insights, networking opportunities, and the chance to land a job.
Network for Job Opportunities
Networking is one of the most effective strategies for finding job opportunities, and it often leads to positions that are never publicly advertised. In fact, many companies rely heavily on employee referrals and connections when filling open roles. Building and maintaining a strong professional network can give you insider access to job openings and increase your chances of being considered for positions. Whether through social media, industry events, or personal connections, networking can be the key to landing your next job.
There are several methods to network for job opportunities, both online and offline. Here are some key ways to make networking work for you:
1. Leverage LinkedIn for Professional Connections
LinkedIn is one of the most powerful tools for professional networking. It allows you to connect with industry professionals, recruiters, and colleagues, and to showcase your skills, work experience, and career aspirations.
Engage with Content: Actively engage with posts from industry professionals. Like, comment on, or share content that is relevant to your field. Thoughtful engagement helps keep you on the radar of your connections and can lead to valuable conversations.
Post Your Own Content: Sharing articles, insights, or updates about your professional journey demonstrates your expertise and keeps your profile active. This can help attract recruiters or professionals who share similar interests.
Join LinkedIn Groups: Participate in LinkedIn groups related to your industry or job search. These groups often share job postings, industry news, and discussions. Engaging in these groups can expand your network and help you stay informed about relevant job opportunities.
2. Join Professional Organizations
Professional organizations offer a wealth of networking opportunities by connecting you with others in your industry. Whether you’re looking for job leads, advice, or mentorship, these groups provide direct access to people who can help advance your career.
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Identify Relevant Associations: Look for professional associations that cater to your industry or specific job role. Many industries, from marketing to engineering to healthcare, have dedicated organizations that provide networking opportunities, professional development, and career resources.
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Attend Conferences and Webinars: Professional organizations often host conferences, webinars, and workshops. Attending these events helps you stay current on industry trends while meeting potential employers or collaborators. These events can also introduce you to thought leaders in your field.
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Volunteer or Join a Committee: A great way to establish meaningful connections in a professional organization is by getting involved. Volunteering for a committee or helping organize an event allows you to interact with other members in a more engaged, purposeful way.
3. Participate in Community Events
Networking doesn’t have to be limited to formal settings. Community events such as local meetups, business mixers, or skill-building workshops are excellent places to meet professionals in your area. These casual events can lead to organic conversations with potential employers or other job seekers.
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Look for Local Meetups: Websites like Meetup.com or Eventbrite list numerous community events based on your interests and location. Many industries have informal meetups where professionals gather to share experiences and exchange job leads.
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Attend Industry-Specific Workshops: Workshops or skill-building events often attract professionals who are active in their fields and eager to share insights. Engaging in these settings allows you to develop new skills while networking with like-minded individuals.
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Make Conversations Intentional: While at community events, introduce yourself to people in a friendly and approachable way. Let them know you’re exploring opportunities in your field. Even if the person you meet doesn’t have an immediate job lead, they may know someone who does, or they may be willing to introduce you to key industry contacts.
4. Reach Out to Friends, Family, and Former Colleagues
Sometimes the most effective networking comes from the people you already know. Your existing network of friends, family, and former coworkers can be a valuable resource for job opportunities.
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Start by Reaching Out: Let your network know you’re searching for a new job. Send personalized messages to friends, former colleagues, and acquaintances to see if they know of any openings. Be specific about the type of role or industry you’re targeting
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Example:
“Hi [Name], I hope you’re doing well! I’m currently seeking new opportunities in [industry/role] and thought I’d reach out to see if you know of any openings or could introduce me to someone in that field. Any advice or leads would be greatly appreciated.”
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Use Informational Interviews: Ask your contacts if they can introduce you to someone at a company you’re interested in or someone in your desired field. These informational interviews can give you insight into the industry and help you expand your network, even if there’s no immediate job opening.
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Be Ready to Reciprocate: Networking is a two-way street. Be open to helping others in return, whether that’s offering to review a resume, making introductions, or sharing job leads you come across.
5. Ask for Introductions or Advice
One of the most effective ways to expand your network is by asking for introductions. Many people are willing to connect you with someone in their network, especially if they know you’re serious about your job search and have a clear goal.
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Be Clear and Specific: When asking for an introduction, be clear about what you’re looking for. For example, if you’re interested in working at a specific company, you can ask if your contact knows anyone there and if they’d be willing to introduce you
Example:
“Hi [Name], I noticed you’re connected to [Person at Company]. I’m very interested in [company’s] work in [specific area]. Would you be willing to introduce us? I’d love to learn more about their company culture and potential job openings.”
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Seek Advice, Not Just Job Leads: Sometimes, asking for advice is more effective than directly asking for a job. People are often more open to sharing their insights or offering guidance on how to navigate your job search. This approach also opens up conversations without the pressure of immediate job placement.
Key Takeaways
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Networking is about building relationships, not just asking for jobs. The stronger and more genuine your connections, the more likely they’ll be able to help you down the line.
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Engage consistently with your network, whether through LinkedIn, professional organizations, or community events. Keep your profile visible, and offer value where you can.
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Don’t be afraid to ask for help or introductions. Be clear and specific about your job search goals, and be willing to reciprocate when others need assistance.
By incorporating these networking strategies into your job search, you’ll broaden your reach and open the door to job opportunities that may not be available through traditional job boards.
Government Resources
Government resources can be a game-changer for job seekers, offering a wide range of services, tools, and programs designed to help people find employment, improve their skills, and navigate the job market—all often at little to no cost. These programs are specifically tailored to provide support in key areas such as career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and even access to retraining opportunities. Leveraging these resources can increase your chances of finding the right job while giving you access to expert advice and training that would otherwise be costly.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most valuable government resources for job seekers and how you can use them to your advantage:
1. American Job Centers
American Job Centers (AJCs) are government-funded resource centers spread across the U.S., designed to provide comprehensive support to job seekers at various stages of their job search. They offer a range of services that can help you whether you’re just starting your search or looking to switch careers.
Services Provided by American Job Centers:
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Job Search Assistance: AJCs can help you navigate job listings, apply to positions, and access resources to improve your job search strategies.
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Resume and Cover Letter Help: One of the key services is personalized help with building or improving your resume and cover letter. Job center professionals can review your materials and provide valuable feedback to ensure your resume stands out to employers.
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Career Counseling: Career counselors at AJCs offer guidance on which jobs align with your skills, interests, and career goals. They can also help you explore alternative career paths if you’re considering a change.
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Training and Certification Programs: Many centers offer access to vocational training, apprenticeships, or certification programs that are either free or low-cost. These can help you gain new skills or improve existing ones, making you more competitive in the job market.
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Job Placement Services: AJCs often collaborate with local employers, providing direct job placement services for individuals who meet specific qualifications.
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Workshops and Classes: Many centers host workshops on job search strategies, interview preparation, and workplace skills, such as communication or technology use. These workshops can help you refine your job-hunting abilities and boost your confidence.
How to Access:
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You can find your nearest American Job Center by visiting the official site at CareerOneStop’s AJC locator. There, you can search by your ZIP code to locate a center in your area.
2. CareerOneStop
CareerOneStop is a free, comprehensive online platform provided by the U.S. Department of Labor. It offers a wide variety of tools and resources to help job seekers at all levels of experience. Whether you’re exploring potential career paths, looking for job listings, or needing help with your resume, CareerOneStop has everything in one place.
Key Features of CareerOneStop:
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Job Listings: CareerOneStop aggregates job postings from various sources, making it easier to search for jobs in your field or geographic location. You can filter job listings based on your criteria, such as industry, education level, or salary expectations.
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Career Exploration Tools: If you’re unsure of your next career move, CareerOneStop’s tools can help you explore different occupations. You can access detailed information about various careers, including job duties, salary ranges, employment outlook, and educational requirements.
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Training and Education: CareerOneStop provides a search tool to help you find training programs, educational institutions, apprenticeships, and certification courses that can help you gain new skills or transition into a new industry.
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Resume and Cover Letter Builders: If you need help creating or updating your resume, the platform offers easy-to-use tools to help you craft a professional resume and cover letter. You can customize templates and get tips on writing impactful job application documents.
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Skills Matcher: If you’re unsure about what kind of jobs you qualify for, CareerOneStop’s Skills Matcher allows you to input your current skills and experience, and then suggests occupations that align with those skills.
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Interview Preparation: The site offers resources to help you prepare for interviews, including common interview questions, tips for answering them effectively, and advice on how to make a good impression.
How to Access:
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To get started, visit CareerOneStop, where you can explore a wide array of resources for free. It’s a user-friendly platform, accessible from any internet-enabled device.
3. Job Corps
For young adults aged 16-24, Job Corps offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on training and job placement assistance. It’s a free education and training program that helps young people acquire skills in specific trades and transition into meaningful employment.
Key Features of Job Corps:
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Career Training: Job Corps offers vocational training in high-demand industries such as healthcare, construction, automotive repair, and information technology.
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Educational Opportunities: Participants can earn their high school diploma or GED, and some centers offer partnerships with local community colleges for advanced training.
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Job Placement: After completing the program, Job Corps assists with job placement and career counseling to help participants find employment.
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Room and Board: Many Job Corps centers offer residential programs, meaning participants can live on-site while receiving training, making it easier for those who need housing assistance.
How to Access:
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To learn more or apply for the program, visit Job Corps. The site includes detailed information about program locations and the application process.
4. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)
The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program is designed to help workers who have lost their jobs due to increased imports or shifts in production outside the U.S. It provides financial support and retraining opportunities to help displaced workers re-enter the job market.
Key Features of the TAA Program:
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Training: The TAA program provides funds for retraining and upskilling workers, allowing them to learn new trades or enhance existing skills to fit emerging industries.
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Income Support: If you’re enrolled in a training program through TAA, you may receive extended unemployment benefits beyond the usual time limits.
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Job Search and Relocation Assistance: The program provides financial support for job searches and may cover moving expenses if you need to relocate to find new employment.
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Wage Subsidy: For workers over 50, TAA offers wage subsidies that help bridge the gap between their old wages and what they earn in a new job.
How to Access:
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To see if you qualify for TAA benefits, visit your local American Job Center or check the Department of Labor’s website for information on eligibility and application requirements.
5. SkillBridge for Veterans
SkillBridge is a unique program for transitioning military members, helping them gain civilian work experience through internships and training before they leave active duty. This initiative allows service members to receive on-the-job training that can lead to full-time employment after their service ends.
Key Features of SkillBridge:
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On-the-Job Training: Military members can participate in internships or job training programs with civilian companies while still receiving their military pay.
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Career Guidance: The program helps participants translate their military experience into valuable skills in the civilian job market, offering career counseling and transition assistance.
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Industry Partnerships: SkillBridge partners with companies in industries such as technology, healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing to offer diverse career opportunities to veterans.
How to Access:
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Service members can explore SkillBridge opportunities by visiting the DoD SkillBridge website or speaking with their military career counselor to find available internships.
How to Make the Most of Government Resources
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Take Advantage of Free Training: Many government programs offer free or low-cost training in high-demand industries. These can be a great way to gain new skills or transition into a growing field.
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Consult Career Counselors: Professional guidance from career counselors at American Job Centers or online resources like CareerOneStop can help you identify the best job opportunities based on your skills and goals.
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Stay Engaged: Many government job resources offer workshops, training sessions, and networking events that can help you stay competitive in your job search.
Key Takeaways
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Government resources provide comprehensive support for job seekers, offering tools and training that can improve your chances of finding employment.
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American Job Centers and CareerOneStop are excellent places to start, offering personalized help, job listings, and resume assistance.
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Specialized programs like Job Corps, TAA, and SkillBridge offer targeted assistance to specific groups, helping them retrain and find new employment.
By leveraging these resources, you can enhance your job search strategy, gain new skills, and access job opportunities that align with your career goals.
Build a Strong LinkedIn Profile: Ensure that your profile is complete, professional, and up-to-date. This includes having a high-quality profile picture, a compelling headline, a detailed summary of your experience, and a portfolio of your work (if applicable). A well-maintained profile increases your visibility and credibility to potential employers and industry peers.
Connect with Industry Professionals: Use LinkedIn to connect with people in your field, whether they are former colleagues, people you’ve met at conferences, or even second-degree connections. When sending a connection request, include a personalized message explaining why you’d like to connect.
Example:
“Hi [Name], I’m currently exploring opportunities in [industry/field] and noticed your impressive background in [specific area]. I’d love to connect and learn more about your experience at [company].”