CEW Responds to Tough Economic Times, CEW Spring News 09

CEW Responds to Tough Economic Times

In the midst of a recession that has hit the state of Michigan particularly hard, the Center for the Education of Women offers a range of programs and services to help individuals find jobs and manage their finances.

Attendance has been particularly high for this semester’s regular Job Search Series, a 5-week program that covers such topics as career decision-making, on-line job sources, resumes, cover letters, interviewing techniques and negotiation skills. Participants always find these sessions helpful not only for professional advice and feedback but also for the chance to network with others in the community who face
similar challenges.

In April, the Center will also offer our popular Job Search Clinic, a one afternoon workshop that presents condensed versions of the topics covered by the longer Job Search Series. In addition, CEW has delivered a slate of financial programs this semester, full of practical advice about budgeting, starting a business and buying a home, as well as scholarly presentations about women and the economy.
CEW’s counselors are another valuable resource for the community and for UM faculty, staff and students, increasing numbers of whom face their own or their partners’ loss of employment. Our free counseling services provide these individuals support and guidance as they search for new jobs, change careers or return to school.

CEW’s information resources offer a way for job seekers to prepare for their job searches. Books on all aspects of job searching from networking to interviewing are available for use in the library or for check-out. In addition, we have books on returning to the workplace after a break and on entrepreneurial options. Through the CEW website, anyone can search the library resources, learn when programs are offered, or link to additional web-based sources of information.

While there is no denying that the job search process is especially challenging during these difficult economic times, it is gratifying when our participants tell us that CEW programs and services have given them renewed confidence and valuable job-hunting skills.

Sample Resources in CEW's Library

Expert resumes for people returning to work. 2008.
Encore: Finding work that matters in the second half of life. 2007.
The career coward's guide to changing careers: Sensible strategies for overcoming job search fears. 2008
The savvy part-time professional: How to land, create, or negotiate the part-time job of your dreams. 2006