Story provided by Stillwater Public Library
Job seekers looking to update their resumes or discover ways to search for jobs online will find helpful information in two virtual courses taught by Kayla Matlock from Meridian Technology Center (MTC). The Stillwater Public Library and MTC are partnering to provide two low-cost courses, “Resume Writing,” which takes place on Thursday, Sept. 23 at 6 p.m., and “Job Searching Online” will be on Saturday, Sept. 25. Both classes are two hours long and cover best practices and current trends in today’s job market. Classes cost $20 each, are payable to MTC and will take place online using Zoom.
According to Forbes, the U.S. added 8.1 million new jobs in April. Hopeful employees need to know how to properly search for jobs that suit their skill level. Knowing how to target a search is vital to not getting bogged down with mass, unwanted search results.
Matlock concurs.
“Keywords are vital to any search,” Matlock said. “Knowing which ones to use and which to eliminate will lead to more viable job options.”
Most new available jobs only get posted online, which is why Matlock offers one class solely focused on skills needed for those new to the online application process.
“With most businesses requiring applications be filled out online, knowing how to properly state skills and attach resumes is needed,” Matlock said.
Forbes also reports that many people are switching jobs or getting back into the workforce now that COVID restrictions have eased in most cities and towns. They suggest these new job searchers tailor their resumes for each job, rather than having one generic resume sent to all job application opportunities.
The “Resume Writing” course focuses on how to best highlight attendees’ attributes for each job.
“Employers are looking for applicants with a specific set of skills,” Matlock said. “You want your resume to be short and to the point, which requires changing your resume for each job application to keep it informative to each position’s skill requirements.”
Registration is required. Sign-up at library.stillwater.org/register.php. Questions can be directed to the Library’s Help Desk at askalibrarian@stillwater.org or by phone at (405) 372-3633 x8106.
Attendees interested in other short courses with MTC can search their catalog at www.meridiantech.edu/catalog.
Participants that need internet access can use the available computers at the Stillwater Public Library or borrow a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Library also has books on job searching, resume writing, interviewing and other job preparation topics. Individuals can request a free packet on local job search resources and tip sheets at the SPL Help Desk. Librarians also provide a limited number of free one-on-one computer and technology assistance sessions by appointment.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday- Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.