Q. Where should I look for jobs?

Once you know what sort of job you’d like, give yourself the best chance of finding work by covering all your bases. The best places to unearth a job are:

Your local Salvation Army Employment Plus office – 136 123 (also has lots of handy job search information for you)
Job search web sites – www.jobsearch.gov.au, www.jobnet.com.au, www.mycareer.com.au, www.jobguide.detya.gov.au, www.seek.com.au and www.careerone.com.au
Local and regional newspapers
• Cold canvassing and the hidden job market
• Business web sites – to check their employment listings and get company information
• ‘Help wanted’ signs – keep an eye out, you never know where they’ll pop up
• Government Gazettes – lists government department positions
• Your local library – to access many of the options listed above

It is important to keep your vocational profile on the Australian JobSearch database updated to ensure you receive relevant job matches. Check it thoroughly to make sure your skills and employment information are correct. This can easily be done at The Salvation Army Employment Plus office you are registered at.

You should also consider volunteer work as a way to gain a foothold in the line of work you want.  Contact the nearest Volunteer Resource Centre in your area for more information.

Q. What if I can’t find any jobs I’m interested in?

If you are not having much luck finding a job you would be interested in, contact you local The Salvation Army Employment Plus office on 136 123.  They will be able to guide you in the right direction.

Q. I have not been able to get any jobs that I like and are starting to loose motivation…

Most people face joblessness at some point in their lives, and it is rarely an easy time. There are some things you can do to make keeping your chin up easier:

Set goals for yourself  - daily, weekly and long term - and keep as busy as you can, job hunting and using your time constructively
Exercise daily, drink lots of water and eat fresh fruit and vegetables – this produces a feeling of well-being, gives you energy and helps reduce anxiety and any depression
Look for ways to use the time you have to take yourself where you want to go – become a volunteer, find out about study options, join a neighbourhood group serving the community
Get support if you’re finding the going a bit tough – your The Salvation Army Employment Plus office can recommend counsellors who assist other people in similar situations
Remember that a period of not working does not make you any more or less valuable as a person
Focus on your strengths, and remind yourself of these daily. Take every opportunity to use your strengths in whatever ways you can
Remember that you are not alone! We never give up.