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The Women's Center for Advancement, Human Resources Association of the Midlands and Career Link are teaming up for a first-of-its-kind effort to help job seekers.
The Series for Success kicks off Monday, 6-7:30 p.m., at Mercy Hall, College of St. Mary, 7000 Mercy Rd. Pre-registration with the Women's Center for Advancement is required at a cost of $10 per session. Classes will take place on four consecutive Mondays.
Topics covered will range from finding one's passion to dressing for job interviews. Human resources professionals will provide insiders' perspectives on what applicants should consider in order to make themselves viable job candidates.
Nancy Peck Todd, WCA Chief Career Partnership Officer said women face unique challenges on the job front. “Women on average make 73-percent of what men make, and so there is a huge need for them to be employable and be successful in those careers.”
The first step for women on the hunt, she said, is to find their passion. Michelle Bohs is a perfect example. The Omaha woman was working in retail, but said, “I mean, basically, I was just grabbing a job and I wasn't happy."
Among the issues holding her back was low self-esteem. "With me alone, going out there and interviewing for a job it was very hard," she said, “(like) where to look for clothing - and putting the whole package together-“
Her process was two-fold. It began with counseling to overcome other issues she was facing. Then, through WCA, she received expert guidance in getting on a successful career track.
"We have seen that there's such a need in this community. Hunting for a job can be daunting and frustrating,” said Todd.
Through an assessment, which workshop attendees will be given, Bohs said she learned her strengths and her interests were more tailored for the hospitality industry.
"We really coach them on how to turn their resume into an interview magnet and help them interview with ease,” said Todd.
Clothing choice for those interviews is extremely important, said Todd. “Even though we see in business more casual environments, you still want to put your best foot forward.”
A wide variety of women’s suits, separates, shoes and accessories are available to WCA clients, free of charge, in their “Career Closet.” The store within the organization’s 29th and Farnam headquarters is stocked with high-quality donations.
“We were able to dress her head to toe in a very professional outfit,” said Todd of her work with Bohs. “Shoes, purse. She shined.” Those attending workshops will get a voucher to shop the career closet.
"It's when people build their confidence and they find their fit, they are going to get their job,” Todd said.
Bohs found her fit, working at a downtown hotel. “It’s just, joyful,” she said of the change. “The job is wonderful."
