Dear Working Wise:
I am 52 years old, have worked since I was 15 and most my positions have been in either retail or fast food places. I want to get a better-paying job—possibly with a pension, but I’m not sure how. Is there any help available? Is it too late? Signed, Need a Raise
Dear Need a Raise:
No, it’s not too late to look at your options and find a career that fits your needs.
Many people mistakenly think of career planning as something you do at the start of your career and never do again, but ongoing career management is increasing in importance.
The world of work is becoming more complex as we move toward a knowledge-based economy—more jobs are requiring post-secondary education and training.
The needs of workers are also changing—what we want from our jobs tends to shift as we age, start families, or near retirement.
Canada Career Week, October 31 – November 4, 2011, is a great opportunity to take a little time to revisit your career plan and ensure that you are still on track.
I recommend you take in some of the more than 60 career events that are happening in Alberta Works Centres around the province during Canada Career Week. You can find out more about all the job fairs, workshops for job seekers, and job-shadowing opportunities happening in your community at www.alis.gov.ab.ca/careerevents.
You can also visit your nearest Alberta Works Centre—year-round—and ask to meet with a Career and Employment Consultant. Your consultant can help you discover your strengths, identify your transferable skills, and explore your work preferences to help you find a suitable new career.
Career and Employment Consultants have helpful information on hundreds of potential new careers including salary, working conditions and required training.
Once you have found a new path, your consultant will be able to advise you on any additional training you require and how to get it.
If you have the training you need, your consultant will be able to provide you with job-search support and advice. They will be able to connect you with free workshops on searching for a new job, writing your resumé, and preparing for job interviews.
Many consultants can also provide information on local employers who may be hiring for positions that would be a good fit for you.
Your Career and Employment Consultant can also show you the handy free job-search tools that are available in Alberta Works Centres located across the province, including:
· Computers with Internet access;
· Access to the Job Bank www.jobbank.gc.ca;
· Telephone, fax, and photocopiers;
· Referrals to local employers who are hiring; and
· Mini Job Fairs held right in the Alberta Works Centre.
To find the Alberta Works Centre nearest you, visit www.employment.alberta.ca/offices.
If you have trouble with transportation or prefer online services, you can also take advantage of the fantastic career-planning resources on the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) web site at http://alis.alberta.ca.
Good Luck!
Do you have a work-related question? Send your questions to Working Wise, at charles.strachey@gov.ab.ca. Charles Strachey is a Regional Communications Manager with Alberta Human Services. This column is provided for general information.
