Employment class provides vital job search tools

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Lindsey Maurice
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  In a competitive job market, seeking employment isn't always the easiest of tasks as job searches, resumes and interviews can be unnerving.

Luckily, the Airman and Family Readiness Center is here to assist members of the Aviano Air Base community, through a variety of classes and services to include the next monthly Employment Class, which runs from
8 a.m. to noon July 20.

"This class prepares participants by addressing the main concerns when searching for the right job such as job search techniques, resume/cover letter writing and interviewing skills," said Susan Wilinski of the A&FRC. "The class also allows participants the opportunity to network with other job seekers. Networking is very important because you never know who might help you find a job."

During the job search techniques portion of the course, participants are asked to list what their ideal job or jobs would be and what skills, education and abilities they currently have or will need to acquire to get the job. Military members are asked to focus on how their skills obtained through service will transfer to positions outside of the military.

"Participants must also think about their financial needs and workplace environment preferences," said Ms. Wilinski.

Resume writing is another major portion of the class, focusing on recommended content, format/organization and strong verbiage to use.

"This is one of the primary reasons people sign up for the class," said Ms. Wilinski. "We encourage participants to create a 'master resume' that is very detailed with their accomplishments and actions at each job. Participants can then use this 'master resume' to create targeted resumes when applying for specific jobs. Participants leave the class with the knowledge of how to write a strong resume. Once they've spent time creating their resumes, our staff here at the A&FRC will happily review it alongside a prospective job description and provide feedback."

Ms. Wilinski added that the class also discusses federal government resumes and the federal government hiring system.

"Participants are usually very interested in learning how the federal resume differs from other types of resumes," she said. "They are excited to learn how to make an effective federal application."

Ms. Wilinski added that a resume alone will not secure a job however.

"A great resume will get you an interview, but your interviewing skills and ability to explain your experiences are what persuades an employer to offer a job," she said. "During the employment class we also focus on how a participant can create a positive and lasting impression through appropriate body language and attire."

Master Sgt. Chris Ford of the 31st Fighter Wing said he took the Employment Class in preparation for his upcoming retirement and found it to be very helpful.

"The resume writing portion was very beneficial," he said. "I actually put together a good resume based off of what I learned in the class, which has already received some positive results in my job search. The class is definitely worth attending. It provides important insight into what to expect."

The Employment Class is open to active-duty military members, Department of Defense employees and their spouses, and contractors. It is limited to the first 12 people to sign up.

Ms. Wilinski noted that the A&FRC offers a variety of other resources and services in addition to the Employment Class to assist customers on the job search.

"We have a Discovery Center that is filled with job assistance materials that can be checked out to include resume writing books, cover letter writing books, interview skill books, job search books, federal employment materials, salary negotiation information and more."

Individuals who want to improve their interviewing skills can also conduct mock interviews by request with the A&FRC staff members.

"Customers are welcome to use our facilities to complete applications, make copies and send employment faxes," said Ms. Wilinski. "We have a computer center available for online job searching, resume writing and more."

The A&FRC, to include its Discovery Center is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information or to sign up for the Employment Class, call 632-5407.