Job search can be self-directed or structured.

In either case it includes the following types of activities:

· Preparing and submitting resumes.

· Attending interviews with employers.

· Participating in job clubs.

· Completing job applications.

· Researching employers.

· Preparing for self-employment when no income is yet being earned. See 10.12.3 (Self-Employment: Documenting/Tracking).

· Training in interviewing skills.

· Learning effective job search skills.

· Attending job fairs.

· Participating in other activities that support job search.

· Life skills training.

· Chemical health treatment, mental health treatment, or rehabilitation services activities when tracked and reported under Job Search. See 14.9.3 (Treatment & Rehab: Documenting/Tracking).

To set the stage for a successful job search:

· Tailor job search activities to the local economic conditions.

· Focus job search on currently available jobs that meet the participant’s employment goal and that match their skills and abilities.

· Expand the scope of the job search if that more narrowed approach does not lead to job offers.

· Do not routinely refer all participants to a single employer or a small set of employers.

Structured job search may be appropriate in some circumstances.

Structured job search is a continuum of organized, intensive, and supervised activities that help:

· Identify work skills.

· Develop soft skills.

· Build confidence.

· Coach the participant.

· Offer peer support.

Each employment services agency will design its own structured job search.

Some common components include:

· Requirements to participate in on-site activities.

· Modeling of workplace expectations, such as dress, timeliness, etc.

· Skill building workshops.

· Job club.

· Frequent evaluation of progress with constructive feedback for the participant.

The employment plan should include information about whether job search is on-site or self-directed.