People seeking basic skills assistance are often doing so as part of an effort to broaden their employment opportunities. This manual has been written to help those learners learn more about job searching as they improve their basic skills. This second edition includes group activities, chapter questions and updated information.

Finding the Right Job is a complete job search system, addressing many issues relating to basic skills learners. Emphasis is placed on topics such as winning attitudes, employability skills, filling out forms and job retention. The desired outcome is for the learner to be ready for an effective job search.

Many activities relating to personal awareness and the development of job search documents have been included to facilitate this outcome. These activities have been articulated for the MTCU's Learning Outcomes so that learners can experience immediate progress as they begin their job search efforts.

The manual was originally designed to be a relatively independent learning project. However, since job searching is not something to be done alone, readers are encouraged to work with others. This new edition includes some group activities that will offer students the opportunity to practice their skills and raise their interpersonal awareness.

Some learners will not be able to work through the manual alone. They may prefer to work with a tutor or a group. Either option will work well; the manual was designed for adaptability. You may even choose to simply use relevant worksheets for specific tasks, like resume writing and filling in application forms. Adapt it to the needs of your learners, but remember in order to find work today, people must give 100% to each aspect of the job search process.

Finally, job searching is an active process. Learning should be applied in real situations. Your learners would benefit if you supplement this information with local newspapers, telephone directories and other resources. Encourage them to get involved in job finding clubs and pre-employment training programs. Most of all, stress the importance of direct contact with employers and provide support to your learners' efforts to get out there and promote themselves.

Keith Harford, Instructor
Prince Edward Learning Centre