How to Reap the Benefits of a Group Interview
Kristine from New York City asks, “I am applying for jobs and have been scheduled to participate in a group interview. What can I expect, and how can I ensure that the interviewers remember me?”
To Break the Generational Cycle of Poverty, Look at the Whole Picture
If I had a magic wand, after winning the lottery and achieving world peace (in that order), I’d shift the debate about poverty reduction from “did these investments work?” to “how can these investments work better?”
Attitude Is a Big Dog That Must Be Tamed
Mike from Chicago asks, “My coworker pulled me aside the other day and told me my negativity was bringing everyone down. I can’t change my entire personality for them, but are there small things I can do to make our working relationship easier?”
Major Provisions of Title IV in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program provides employment and support services to people with disabilities. Seen as having achieved mixed results, this year Congress is likely to reauthorize the nation’s job training program through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which would impact VR.
Networking Cards: The Pocket-sized Résumé
Katie from Nashville, TN, asks, “I’m job hunting and attending lots of career fair and networking events. A friend told me I should get business cards to hand out to people, but I don’t know where to start. Can you help me?”
Tick, Tock … The Congressional Clock Is Running Out
Time is melting away on the 113th Congress. Just a few short weeks remain to take care of business. The House is scheduled to be in session 38 more days until the fiscal year ends on Oct. 1, 2014; the Senate for 51. And there is much to be done in those critical days.
Day to Night: Ways to Ease Your Transition to Shift Work
Max from Albuquerque, NM, asks, “I just received a great job offer in a field I’m interested in, but here’s the catch—it’s a night shift job. I want the position, but working at night would be a big change for me. Any suggestions or advice?”
My Story—Lupita Flores
Lupita Flores attended Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona (Tucson)’s Ready to Learn program after being unemployed for two years. Her employer of 13 years laid her off when its office closed. The Goodwill trained her for call center work, and she was pleasantly surprised to find that her customer service background made it a perfect fit.
Remember the Zax!
When I talk about the importance of being engaged in public policy despite partisan gridlock, I often talk about one of my kids’ favorite Dr. Seuss stories, called “The Zax.” In the story, a north-going Zax and a south-going Zax encounter each other in the Prairie of Prax. Rather than stepping an inch to the west or an inch to the east to allow both Zax to continue their journey, they square off and stubbornly hold their ground.
Need to Get Away? Tips for Requesting Paid Time Off
Michael from Charlotte, NC, asks, “I just started a new job, and I am nervous about asking for time off, but I would hate to miss my family’s annual beach trip! Do you have any tips to help the conversation with my manager go more smoothly?”
My Story—Pam Velado
I’m Pam Velado. I was living in Dallas, TX, when I lost my job. I was very discouraged when I couldn’t find another job. I moved back home to Tennessee. I enrolled in a medical assisting school through a vocational rehabilitation program. Although I did well in school and obtained my certification, I did not […]
Long-Delayed Workforce Investment Act Bill Makes Its Way Toward the End Zone
Yesterday, House and Senate leadership unveiled the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would finally reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). A quick read confirms that priority positions advocated by Goodwill are reflected in the final deal