Rod
Workforce Challenge:
Rod was a successful telemarketer for 3 years at Triton Imaging Systems until an auto accident severely injured both of his legs in 2009. In July 2016, the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) referred Rod to the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board where he enrolled with the America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) in the city of Cerritos.
Rod was looking for a position as a Marketer/Customer Service Representative, but the only work experience he had in the previous 7 years was volunteering for an Interfaith Community Organization (ICO) during the past 3 months. Rod looked for work on the Internet, attended a Sears direct-hire recruitment and received job leads from AJCC staff. His biggest challenge was not having the tools to conduct an effective job search.
Workforce Solution:
Rod attended the Job Search Workshops and the 3-day motivational seminar entitled, Steps to Economic and Personal Success (STEPS). He was also a regular at the Friday Job Club at the AJCC, Cerritos. His counselors helped prepare his résumé, practiced interviewing with him and offered regular guidance and support. Rod was passionate about improving his computer skills too and obtained a used laptop from his church so he could practice. He also dedicated time to his health and exercised to strengthen his legs. Rod diligently rode the bus to interviews, sometimes spending hours traveling with his walker just to find out that he was not the right fit.
Outcome & Benefits:
After many months and 10 interviews with various companies, Rod finally received a job offer from the Small Business Growth Alliance in Irvine as a Business Consultant Assistant, a company he had applied for via Indeed.com.
“Go to all of the job search workshops and see your counselor. Learn as much as you can.” Rod stated. “I learned so much and that prepared me for my interviews. Thank you to all the staff.”
Congratulation, Rod!
