RochesterWorks! is launching a new program at the end of August designed specifically for the professional level job seeker. Career Navigator is a five-day, intensive training program designed to teach transferability of skills into new industries and occupations; provide tools and resources to promote proactive job search methods, develop ownership and accountability for personal career management and maximize the power of group learning and support.

Rochester’s unemployment rate of 8.4% combined with the shrinking number of larger employers in the area has resulted in an extremely competitive marketplace and urgent need for this program. This program goes beyond polishing the resume. It will emphasize the “soft skills” or workplace competencies which are in such high demand by employers.

The program also differs in its approach for learning and delivery by utilizing participant-centered learning to maximize and expedite the learning curve.  It will also foster the concept of networking as a learning tool and information sharing.

In order for many to secure employment, it will mean the transfer of skills from one industry or occupation to another.  The program has been structured so that the identification of industries and occupations happens before the resume is constructed.  The self assessment and industry research should enable participants to move into productive job search more quickly.

Professional level job seekers can be categorized having worked in one company or career for a significant number of years, or have a college or higher degree, or have held managerial positions or who hold positions requiring advanced certification or education. People from administrative positions would also be candidates for this program.

Trainers for this program have great depth of knowledge in career management and transition services and represent both sides of the hiring desk.  

RochesterWorks! is partnering with companies and organizations in the community to offer this program at various locations around Rochester. The goal is to identify sites on the east and west sides of Rochester to accommodate the people from both regions. RochesterWorks! is grateful to the following sponsors for their generosity and willingness to help: The United Way, High Tech Rochester, Rochester Business Alliance, ER Associates, and Fairport, Seymour and Gates libraries.

This pilot program is scheduled to run through the end of January 2010.

For more information about the program, see http://www.rochesterworks.org/docs/CN_OneSheetforWebsite.pdf .

If you have questions or are interested in sponsorship, please feel free to contact Hannah Morgan at 585-263-4590 or email me at hmorgan@rochesterworks.org.

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