September is Workforce Development Month. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s financial resource management and workforce development (FRMWD) team plays a vital role in the education of Alabama citizens. Through community education around the state, they help to equip the citizens of Alabama with the tools necessary to join the workforce.

Job Search Preparation

The FRMWD team conducts job search preparation workshops throughout the year in communities across the state. This no-cost opportunity is a simple way to develop knowledge and skills while preparing to enter the workforce or change careers. The Job Search Preparation workshop is a series of three sessions that focus on

• career choices
• resumé writing
• interview skills

Individuals who attend the workshops leave prepared to choose a career that fits their individual preferences, create a resumé to highlight why they are the best choice for the job, and tips on how to have a successful interview. Individuals will also gain the confidence to move forward with a job search. Whether these skills are new to you or you just need refresher tips, these workshops can add value to the job search toolkit.

Workshop Topics

In the career choices session, participants will learn to identify work values, skills, and interests. Attendees will also receive resources to help them determine their individual strengths along with information pertaining to online career assessments. The resumé writing session will include resumé writing tips, identifying the right resumé for each individual, submitting a resumé electronically, and writing a cover letter. Individuals can join the Interview Skills workshop to learn common interview questions, understand behavioral questions, learn how to ask appropriate questions during the interview, and understand how to dress for the interview.

Workforce Development Month

During September, Alabama Extension’s human sciences team is highlighting the Job Search Preparation workshop. Take an opportunity to reach out to the local FRMWD regional agent to schedule a workshop. The financial resource management and workforce development team welcomes the opportunity to work with individuals and community groups throughout the year.

Interested in learning how the Alabama Cooperative Extension System can provide your community with no cost workforce development education? Contact Alabama Extension’s FRMWD team today at aceshse@auburn.edu or 334-844-7560. Individuals may also visit the directory and select a county. The contact information for the local regional agents will be provided.