As Ohioans endure the effects of the difficult economy, unemployment in Stark County has reached nearly 11 percent – the highest it has been in 25 years. According to USA Today, in this recession an average of five people compete for each job opening, compared to half that amount just two years ago. With an increasingly competitive market for jobs, it is important for Ohioans looking for work to utilize the tools and resources available to help them advance their careers. My colleagues and I in the legislature are doing all we can to create a business climate that will stimulate job growth and at the same time provide resources to Ohioans dealing with unemployment.
One such resource is the Employment Source in Canton, a local One-Stop career center. One-Stops are located throughout Ohio and more than 30 agencies, including the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), participate with them. The Employment Source connects job seekers with employers looking to hire. It provides valuable education and training on issues like resume writing, interview skills and higher education. One-Stops also offer job seekers weekly workshops and use of equipment including Internet access, fax machines, copiers and telephones. For more information about the Employment Source and other resources the center offers, visit www.ESwork.com <http://www.eswork.com/> or call (330) 433-9675. Also, feel free to stop in the office at 822 30th Street NW, Canton, Ohio, 44709.
When looking for a job it is important to effectively market yourself. Posting a resume online for employers and workforce professionals to see is a quick and easy way to make your credentials available and easily accessible. Using sites like www.OhioMeansJobs.com allows job seekers to post résumés or search electronically for job opportunities around Ohio. Managed by ODJFS and partnered with the nationally reputable job site Monster.com, OhioMeansJobs.com will return comprehensive job search results based on your particular area of interest and location.
To learn about the education and skills needed to pursue a specific career, the Career Voyages website offers information about the industries with the highest demand and the skills needed to enter such a field. The web site was created by the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Labor and is designed to help job seekers learn about growing sectors of our nation’s economy, such as health care, technology and advanced manufacturing. As you continue your job search, it is important to be aware of career fields in high demand, as well as how your individual skills fit into the global market. Visit www.careervoyages.gov to make use of this resource and to examine thriving career areas.
Creating high-paying jobs for our state is a top priority for members of the Ohio House, and we are fully committed to supporting Ohio’s families and strengthening our economy. As you continue your search for a rewarding career, I will do my best to keep you informed on the variety of resources the state has to offer.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office at (614) 466-9078 or write to me at Representative Todd Snitchler, 77 S. High Street, 10th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215. You may also email me at District50@ohr.state.oh.us.
