• Computer training (Keyboarding, Introduction to Computers, and more advanced classes for interested participants)
• Resume writing and cover letter preparation
• Assertiveness, self-esteem and stress management
• Budgeting
• Job search strategies and interviewing techniques
• Self/skills assessments and goal setting
• Individual employment counseling and on-going support
• Follow-up services for customer and employer
• Make Over Day in partnership with the City Mission and Jordan Lynn School

Our Employment Specialist matches participant’s skills with employer needs in all of the counties we serve.  Staff also provides support services and advocacy to individuals and families who may be facing a personal crisis.  This service is confidential and available as needed.  Additionally, Career Readiness provides services, such as resume updates, to class participants for up to a year after program completion.
 
Besides being 30 years old and going strong, what makes Career Readiness unique is that we firmly believe that the people who come to us are fully capable of learning new and more successful ways of living their lives and they want to.  For example, we actually teach participants how to write their resumes through a series of steps involving self exploration and techniques where individuals literally build a professional grade resume themselves.  Research shows that people who have a professional grade resume and know how to use it are that much more likely to be hired for the job of their choice and for more than minimum wage.
 
Our staff has over 40 years combined experience in the Employment field with specializations and advanced degrees in Special Education, Teaching and Mental Health Counseling.  This allows us another unique position in the community where we know the nature of the business, trends in the employment sector, political trends influencing the community and how to work cooperatively and collaboratively with others to provide the best service for the least amount of money.  Flexibility, creativity and innovation are key to the success of the program.  Career Readiness partners or collaborates with numerous agencies in 3 counties.  These relationships coupled with our extensive experience allow us to be the experts in Schenectady, Fulton and Montgomery Counties for providing quality follow up and retention services.

• 78% who become meaningfully employed retain their job for at least 90 days
• 100% who become employed upgrade within 1 year, i.e. obtain benefits, get a raise, get a promotion

In addition to leaving our program with a realistic view of workforce needs and of their own skills, participants gain the confidence and enthusiasm needed to reach their employment goals and make a new and improved life for themselves, their families and their community.