We’re always delighted to discover a new resource for previously incarcerated job seekers, and we’ve found another one.
It’s called Step Ahead and is hosted by the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and funded by Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota. Although developed for use within Minnesota prisons and jails, it is a valuable tool that anyone can use. Some of the resources are Minnesota focused, but the information and exercises are applicable to anyone anywhere.
Written in clear, concise language, the various sections of the website will help you learn what you need to know to assess yourself and organize your job search. By completing the exercises, you will have a better idea of your skills and abilities and how to apply those to your job search.
Useful exercises help job seekers learn what they have to offer
Some of the exercises that will help you focus on what is important to you and what you have to offer a potential employer include:
A strength worksheet that helps you learn more about yourself and prepares you for the inevitable “What are your strengths?” interview question that a hiring manager is likely to ask.
The matching interests to work options exercise that will allow you to match your interests to a variety of careers, some of which you may have not considered.
A value rating sheet encourages you to examine what’s important to you in a job in the way of achievement, independence, recognition, relationships, support or working conditions.
And then there’s a spreadsheet to put these all together, so you can apply what you’ve learned about yourself to your job search.
In addition, the website offers tips and info on:
- Setting goals and creating a career plan.
- Expanding your skills and evaluating the skills you developed from work assignments and training programs in prison.
- Developing job search strategies.
- Dealing with your record.
- Determining the various types of interviews and how to deal with each one.
- Creating a resume.
- Learning how to network.
Although the Job Search Help section is geared towards jobseekers living in Minnesota who can seek assistance from the organizations listed, those from other states can get similar information by visiting their local American Job Center.
Here are a few additional resources that may help you:
New Beginners Job Search Handbook
Career One-Stop website for ex-offenders
