Whether your job loss results from an unexpected company layoff or termination, it is bound to be an emotional time. The loss of the work family, routine, income, self-image and sense of belonging can leave any former employee with a sense of grief. This can be a very difficult time for not only for you but also for your family members due to changes in routines and lifestyle.

When Hayley Burnett came to EPC seeking assistance with her job search, she already had prior experience working with employment agencies. This had not always been a positive situation for her and, while often offered access to workshops, what Hayley knew she really needed was an advocate.

As a graduate of the Child and Youth Worker Program at Centennial College, she had been seeking long term employment in her field of study since 2014. Dealing with the challenges associated with having a physical disability, she felt she had been struggling with stereotypes including employer concerns regarding potential health costs, her level of independence, and productivity.

At this time of year, many people are gearing down from other activities as they prepare for the holidays. “I will get back on track in the new year” is a common phrase used by many. Yet the holiday season can provide excellent opportunities for networking as we attend events where we may not have seen people for a very long time. This gives us the opportunity to have a conversation in a more relaxed setting.

Job searching is difficult during normal times. With the added stress of COVID 19, staying healthy and motivated can be challenging. Our Employment Counsellors have developed a list of tips to help you stay safe and look after yourself during this difficult time.

The job search process is incredibly competitive. With resume submissions, online applications, networking, social media management, and interviews, there are so many opportunities to highlight your value. And then it finally happens…you get a job interview and feel like you nailed it. The employer is talking like you already have the job, you sense rapport, and it appears that only the formalities remain before you land the position.

As an Employment Counsellor, a major part of my job is coaching people on job interviews. I have the benefit, in this job, of having personally been in more job interviews than most people will in a life time. When I was younger, I worked as a seasonal labourer and had to find a new job every winter when I got laid off from my summer gig. Over the years I have worked in customer service roles, print production, restaurants, general labour, in education, publicity and, even for a little while, as a junior forest ranger. Interviewing has just always been a part of my life. Over the years I have learned five reasonably simple things that have had a major impact on my interview skills. Doing these things won’t be a complete substitute for good preparation, but if practiced as part of your interview prep they can give you much more control over interview situations.

We would like to start by thanking representatives from Goldwin Metal Products Ltd., Nordia, Peterborough Humane Society, Peterborough Trent Valley Honda, Crayola, The Keg Steakhouse and Kawartha Guard Service for attending EPC’s 2018 Career Week Employer Panel session. This well-attended event provided tips to job seekers regarding employer expectations in the areas of job prerequisites, the application process and desired traits in a new employee. By using this checklist of employer recommendations, it will help you stay on the right track when trying to stand out as a preferred job candidate to both get and keep the job.

As Canadians we brace ourselves annually for the frigid winter months. When employed or in training, we force ourselves to bundle up and forge on. However, when unemployed; it may be a little more difficult to muster up the energy and motivation to face the elements especially given that the result could possibly be a rejection. If minus 40 degrees is not your thing, there are many activities you can still pursue to keep you in the zone while keeping warm as well. Check out this video for great ideas on how to maintain your job search activity during a harsh winter.