Information for Job Seekers
WorkSource partners are equal opportunity employers and providers of employment and training services. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for persons with disabilities. Washington Telecommunications Relay 711.
Services
The Shoreline Community College WorkSource Connection/Job Connections Center is available to students and the community. In partnership with Shoreline’s Jobs & Career Services, our facility gives job seekers access to resources for seeking and obtaining employment. Job seekers are welcome to make an appointment with the Workforce Career Navigator for assistance with job search, resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. We have an on-site Employment Security Department (ESD) representative who can assist in answering Unemployment Insurance related questions, as well as limited assistance with resumes and cover letters. Please contact our office directly at 206-546-5882 for more information about the services offered at our site, or to schedule an appointment with the ESD representative or Career Navigator.
Resources
The resources we provide at our WorkSource Connection/Job Connections Center include:
- Computers/printer
- Phone/fax machine
- Job board with current openings
- Workshops
- Computer resources for job searching and career information
- Books on resume development and more
- Resume review (by appointment)
- Assistance with Unemployment Insurance related questions (by appointment)
Job Searching
Finding a great job is possible, but it does require putting in the work and effort to make it happen. By utilizing several of the job search methods listed below, you will likely increase your chances of gaining employment. And for even more ideas and resources on job searching, please visit the Seattle-King County WorkSource site.
Networking
This is the most effective way of finding a job. Seventy-five percent of job openings are not advertised - most employers post internally first or hire friends/acquaintances of the people who work for them. Networking is a term that simply means asking people you know about job opportunities that they are aware of. You may be surprised what opportunities this can lead to.
Job Search Websites
There are several websites where you can search for job openings and/or post your resume, and there are many reasons to use them. They can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they have updated real-time information and they may be linked directly to a company site. They can also demonstrate to an employer your ability to use the Internet successfully. We also recommend going directly to the websites of the companies you are interested in working for and check back frequently as new jobs are often posted frequently.
Websites to help find available positions in your area:
Job Fairs
Job fairs take place frequently and offer a good opportunity to connect directly with representatives from companies. When attending a job fair, remember to dress and act professionally and bring multiple copies of your resume. You can find upcoming job fairs/hiring events listed on the WorkSource events page.
Social Media
Social media, including sites like LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook, can help you find a job, network, and connect with people who can assist you with your career. Be sure to use resources responsibly and keep your accounts professional.
Informational Interviewing
Get to know people in your industry through informational interviewing. In an informational interview, you have the opportunity to gather information about the occupation and company directly from the source. You ask the questions! There are several reasons why this method is so important: you can get some great advice and career information; you can impress an employer by taking an active approach in your job search — and you might be remembered when a position does come available in that company; you might be referred to another employer who is hiring; and you get to practice your interviewing skills. Call or write to make a 15-20 minute appointment either in person or over the phone. Be sure to talk with the right person (not someone in Human Resources).
Classified Advertisements
Check the help-wanted sections of large and small newspapers. Although this is not the most effective method, it still should be used in your job search. Many larger newspapers also post their want ads on line.
Placement Agencies
Placement agencies can offer temporary, temporary to hire, and permanent positions. The premise for these agencies is that a company will "hire" the agency to find an employee to fit their needs. Some agencies charge a fee to the applicant, but the majority charge the employing company. Some are general and others have industry specialties, such as information technology, etc.
Employment Agencies
There are state-supported agencies that offer assistance with job leads, job searching, resume writing, and more. The Employment Security Department provides this assistance to Washington state residents. They are located in the WorkSource centers around the state. You can access job listings and find your local WorkSource on their Seattle-King County WorkSource website.
Professional Associations
Most professions have an association with scheduled meetings, where members gather to discuss current issues and trends, and trade information about open positions. For a list of associations, look up the National Trade and Professional Associations of the United States at your local library. Attend a meeting and connect with people in your field.
Career Planning
There are many free websites that offer resources for career planning, interest assessments, labor market information and more:
- CareerOneStop
- Career Bridge
- Employment Security Department
- Check Out a College
- O*NET OnLine
- WOIS (contact department for site key)
- Choices Planner (site ID: "0102975", password: "esdwagov")
Here is more information and helpful resources for career planning.
Job Readiness
Stand out from other applicants with a strong resume and cover letter, professional interviewing skills and other job searching skills by utilizing some of the resources below:
