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If you have been laid off, downsized, under-employed, or simply looking for your next opportunity, you know how tough it can be to find a position in a difficult job market. Even in a decent job market, it can be tough to land the right job for your skill set. The people at IowaWORKS get it – and they can be your resource for finding your next big opportunity.

What is IowaWORKS?

IowaWORKS was created by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The program is designed to connect eligible workers with the resources they need to land their ideal job. If you aren’t sure about the right career path for your skillset or are looking to take classes and gain skills, they can help in that area, too.

Career Guidance

Assess Your Skills – IowaWORKS can provide a skills assessment so that you know exactly what your skill level is in areas that employers are looking for. They administer the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), which certifies you for workplace skills that employers are looking for.

Review Open Positions – IowaWORKS can help you review employment trends, provide a wage comparison, and review skill requirements for the jobs you want. If you need additional training in certain areas, the Workforce Advisors can help you learn the skills you need so that you can meet the demands of the marketplace.

Apply for the Job – When is the last time you wrote a resume? Writing a resume can be a daunting task, especially if you are writing it from scratch. Don’t go it alone – IowaWORKS has Workforce Advisors on hand to assist with resume writing, resume critique, interview skills, and more.

Receive Unemployment – if you have been laid off, you know navigating unemployment insurance claims can be confusing. The Workforce Advisors can help you navigate and understand the claim process.

Veteran Services – When a service member retires from active duty, they often need help in aligning their service experience to civilian life. IowaWORKS will assist in building a resume and connecting with local employers.

Connect with Iowa Valley Resources

IowaWORKS is dialed into the local workforce; the Workforce Advisors understand what skills local employers are looking for, and they will help applicants network with hiring managers. But, they also can connect you with training opportunities locally. They will help you identify the skills that local employers are looking for right now, and help you choose the classes you need to succeed in those positions. Depending on the classes you need, they could also help you find the funds (through national and statewide grants) to learn the skills you need. In Central Iowa, Workforce Advisors work closely with community colleges like Marshalltown Community College, Ellsworth Community College, or Iowa Valley Continuing Education to provide access to long term or short term career training opportunities.

If you are unemployed, under-employed, or simply looking to change careers, consider working with IowaWORKS to supercharge your job search. They are available at no charge, and are eager to help you find your perfect position!