Workforce Centers offer useful job searching tools

Earlier this year, the U.S Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that Minnesota is one of the fastest-growing economies in the country as we tied California for fifth place in growth of gross domestic product last year. Last month, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) reported that Minnesota added 12,000 jobs in August – returning our economy to pre-recession numbers.

This is all great news for the state. We have been moving in the right direction, but now it seems that we are picking up steam. With that said, many Minnesotans are still searching for jobs or looking to upgrade their current positions. The search can be a frustrating and testing time for people.  Fortunately, there is help out there that will make the job search easier.

If you or someone you know is currently looking for employment, I encourage you to visit your local workforce center.  They provide the tools, resources and services needed for job search, career planning and training needs.  A visit to the workforce center may offer the help you need to find a job.

They offer several job-seeking tools, such as:

• Workshops and Training – Job seekers have an opportunity to identify their job skills, learn how to write effective resumes and cover letters, develop networking skills and more.
• Reference Library – The library provides business and employer directories, labor market information, career planning and development information and more.
• Networking and Job Clubs- Practical courses in networking and organized job clubs where members meet regularly to discuss their job searches, share job leads, improve job-seeking skills and offer support and encouragement to one another.
• Career Fairs - Career fairs attract large numbers of employers who are offering a variety of jobs in various industries.

The Ramsey County Workforce Center is located at 2098 East 11th Avenue, McKnight 36 Plaza in North St. Paul (779-5666) and Washington County Woodbury’s is located at 2150 Radio Drive in Woodbury (275-8650).

Another good resource is the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) website, www.deed.state.mn.us.  Along with several job-seeking tools, you can also find information on the Unemployment Insurance Program.  The program provides temporary benefits to qualified persons out of work through no fault of their own. Its purpose is to help maintain the economic stability within a community.

We all likely know someone that is currently searching for employment.  Do what you can to give them a hand.  Help can come in many forms. If it is providing encouragement, help looking for a job, being a reference, making a meal for their family or offering financial aid, do what you can to help.  

As always, please contact me with questions or suggestions regarding any issue. I encourage you to visit me at the Capitol, or let me know if you’d like me to stop by your home or apartment.  Also, please tune in to my local cable TV show, “Your Capitol: What’s Up?,” which appears on public access channels 15 and 16. I can be reached by email at sen.chuck.wiger@senate.mn and by phone at 651-296-6820.