Career Expert Offers Free Job Search Series

For nearly three decades, Jan Melnik of Durham has been helping the unemployed, underemployed, and even the happily employed find work.

Beginning Aug. 21, Melnik, whose credentials include Master Resume Writer and Certified Career Manager, will offer her expert advice in a series of "boot camps" at the in Middletown.

Later this month, the president of Absolute Advantage will present the first of three monthly workshops, "The Toolkit: Accomplishment-Rich Resume, Target Cover Letter & Elevator Pitch," from 6-8 p.m.

"We've been told since 2009 that the recession is over, but in the Northeast in particular, but really nationwide, across most industries, it's been slow to rebuild in terms of real net gains in jobs," explains Melnik.

"The difference now is there is a sense of desperation among many because this is one of the longer cycles."

These programs will offer expert tips on what an effective resume looks like, the importance of leveraging social media in a job search and an inside view of the interview process.

From tapping technology in the most efficient way to sharing the #1 tip for removing anxiety in the interview process, participants will be able to put in place their own effective job-search plans, Melnik says.

Despite reports of grim job numbers, Melnik says there are opportunitiesin the fields of healthcare, technology and engineering.

She calls a strong resume "a door opener."

"But it's only the tip of the iceberg in the job search," she says.

"The Power of Social Media: Why You Must Leverage LinkedIn and Facebook" is offered on Sept. 25 and "The Game Plan: Insiders' Tips for Job Search & Effective Interviewing" on Oct. 23.

There is no charge for the programs but registration is required by calling the library at (860) 347-2520.