Job Search Tools Available Through CT Department of Labor

Taking note of a proclamation signed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy marking November as Career Month, State Labor Commissioner Sharon M. Palmer reminds everyone that the agency has Career Centers throughout the state where individuals can obtain such services as career counseling, résumé writing assistance, skills assessment and job search tips, and can also take part in a variety of workshops ranging from successful interview tactics to computer skills.

“Whether a person is unemployed and seeking a new job, looking for a better position or thinking about making a career change, our services are available to anyone visiting a job center, while many people can find what they need by visiting our website,” Palmer noted.

“A robust and highly skilled workforce is essential for the competitiveness required to keep Connecticut a leader in cutting edge economic innovation and growth,” Malloy notes in the Proclamation.

“Experts agree the ongoing process of career development is essential for all individuals to maximize their personal potential, as well for the continuous health of our economy.

Career development is necessary for children as they expand their awareness of the working world, for youth exploring educational and career options, and for adults faced with a workplace of change.” 

The Proclamation notes that Connecticut is fortunate to have a variety of agencies and organizations dedicated to the field of career development.

In addition to the Department of Labor, agencies ready to help the state’s workforce include Community Technical Colleges and the Connecticut departments of Economic and Community Development, Education, and Higher Education.

“Connecticut Department of Labor employees want to get the word out to each resident and business in our state that we are here to assist them,” Palmer said.

“Whether you are a newcomer to the job market or a seasoned employee already working in your field of choice, we’re here to lend a helping hand. The majority of our services are offered at no cost, including recruitment events, job fairs and labor market statistics, as well as programs for employers such as tax credits and incentive programs and recruitment assistance.”

Workshops offered in November at the various Job Centers include:

• Bridgeport: Get Connected With LinkedIn on Nov. 4; Résumé Critique on Nov. 8; GED Orientation on Nov. 19; Exploring Technical Careers on Nov. 21.

• Hamden: Social Networking on Nov. 4; Successful Job Search Strategies on Nov. 8; Résumé Basics on Nov. 22; Internet Job Search on Nov. 25.

• New London: Putting Service into Customer Service on Nov. 1; Step Up for Vets on Nov. 8; Career Development Exploration Day on Nov. 13; Job Search Strategies on Nov. 27.

• Waterbury:  Résumé Basics on Nov. 1; Stress Management Strategies on Nov. 13, Networking Group on Nov.14; Interviewing Techniques on Nov. 22.

Connecticut’s Job Center locations include: 

Bridgeport: 2 Lafayette Square; Danbury: 4 Liberty Street; Danielson: 95 Westcott Road; Enfield: 786 Enfield Street; Hamden: 37 Marne Street; Hartford: 3580 Main Street; Meriden: 85 West Main Street; New Britain: 260 Lafayette Street; New London: Shaw’s Cove Six; Norwich: 113 Salem Turnpike, Suite 200; Torrington: 685 Main Street; Waterbury: 249 Thomaston Avenue; and Willimantic: 1320 Main Street, Tyler Square. Satellite offices are located at: 33 Elizabeth Street, Derby; 893 Main Street, Manchester; 560 Ella T. Grasso Blvd., New Haven; and 1642 Bedford Street, Stamford.