As the world continues to move through the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are returning to work, either to their previous position or in a new role. The last couple of years have resulted in moments of reflection related to work, including contemplating acquiring a new skill or retraining in a new career. If this sounds like you, this may be the perfect time to make a change.
2nd Chance Employment Counselling wants to assist those exploring their career options by helping them to navigate job searches and possibly updating or upgrading their current skill set.
Currently, Guelph is experiencing a significantly low unemployment rate. According to the Workforce Planning Board for Waterloo, Wellington and Dufferin, the unemployment rate was sitting at 5 per cent in February 2022. For job seekers, this might be a good time to re-enter the workforce. There are many opportunities that offer a great deal of variety and require varying skills. Most employers are willing to train and are looking for people who are ready to work and want to learn.
Looking for retraining opportunities?
2nd Chance Employment Counselling can provide information about available opportunities and the various programs that may cover a portion or even the full cost of the training. One such program is the provincially funded Second Career program. The Government website states, “While the Second Career program is open to all laid-off workers and jobseekers, priority is given to applications for people who were laid off because of COVID-19 and want to retrain for jobs in sectors that have good potential for future employment.”
Want to explore a different career path?
Ready to investigate a different career path and get out there to market yourself? 2nd Chance Employment can assist with re-designing resumes and cover letters while also helping job seekers brush up on their interview skills and/or networking.
Job Developer Coordinator Sue Gordon says, “Sometimes it’s not just what you know but who you know. At 2nd Chance Employment Counselling, experienced staff can help job seekers begin the process of reaching out to employers through LinkedIn, the Guelph Chamber of Commerce and other networking groups. We also offer a workshop designed to give people the skills and confidence to branch out and start expanding their network by creating a dynamic elevator pitch, identifying their contacts and building up their confidence to communicate with those cold contacts. It is daunting at first, but the more people practice the better they will be.”
How to get started
It is important to first identify your career-related priorities and what you want to get out of a job. Many people are re-thinking their idea of ‘work’ and what they want to do. For example, some are looking to connect their hobbies and what they like to do in their spare time with a new career.
Enjoy working with tools? Then perhaps a career in the trades would be interesting. 2nd Chance Employment can help with marketing job seekers to potential employers and get them on the path to a new career.
This is a time of change and those looking to re-direct the narrative of their working life can get the support they need by contacting 2nd Chance Employment. Visit the organization’s website for contact details.