Maria
Workforce Challenge:
Maria was searching for permanent employment after being out of work for 1 year and 3 months. She held her prior job for 15 years and worked in the real estate division of a law firm as an Assistant Property Manager, where she earned a good salary. Unfortunately, the company was sold and then shut down. Maria lacked personal connections in the firm and also faced difficulties finding jobs close to home with a salary comparable to her previous position.
Workforce Solution:
Maria learned about the America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) through the Job Club offered at the Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) program. In early December 2016, Maria enrolled with the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO WDB) at the AJCC, Norwalk and secured paid work experience through the Transitional Subsidized Employment (TSE) program. The Field of Dreams in Norwalk hired Maria as a temporary Administrative Assistant while her Career Development Specialist (CDS) at SELACO WDB provided guidance, support services, encouragement and sent her job leads. Maria remained determined and never lost hope to become self-sufficient again.
Outcome & Benefits:
Maria finally found a job through a friend’s referral. After 3 interviews, she was offered a full–time position as a phone operator for an Urgent Care facility near LAX. Because of the combined efforts of the workforce partnerships, Maria was able to get back on her feet, gained valuable work experience and learned how to conduct an effective job search. She advises other job seekers, “Don’t be discouraged, a good opportunity will come up. Remain positive. Use all the resources that are given to you. Knock on many doors. Someone will answer and it will be your time to shine. Prepare prior to any phone interview or actual face-to-face interview. Practice your pitch and have your resume active. Contact your references and let them know you applied for positions.”
