First Job Search Training a Success

The first ever Job Search Training at Church of the Holy Communion was a success. Twenty one people attended at least one session of the training that took place on Wednesdays in May, while the average attendance for all the sessions was ten. Participant evaluations were uniformly positive, saying that the presentations were clear, understandable, and useful.

Heather Soukup and Nola Speiser of the Minnesota Workforce Center attended session three to share the many resources they have available. Heather said, “We’re so excited that you are offering this here in St. Peter, because that is one thing we’re not able to do!” Douglas Kalahar of the Hiniker Company came in for the session on interviewing. He shared his insights from the employer’s side of the table and responded to questions from every participant.

Each session ran from 10:00 am until noon. A simple soup lunch was served by members of the Church. It also received positive evaluations. (The training and lunch were provided at no cost to participants.)

The church plans to offer job search training once each quarter. The next four week training will begin on Wednesday August 4.

Finding a job is a job in itself—one most of us never trained for. It has gotten more complex and demanding in the last few years. Participants will learn a proven 6 step program for finding work. Anyone who is out of work, or seeking different work, is welcome to participate.

The Job Search Training has six steps that must be done in order to be effective: personal attitude, assessment, marketing strategy, marketing materials, interviews, and follow up. Participants are encouraged to attend all four session to get the full benefit of the training. Surveys have found that people who consistently work the program are more likely to find a job than those who don’t.