FREE WORKSHOPS!
Foundations of Success in the Job Market, Digital Tools, Thriving in the Next Chapter
NEXT CHAPTER SUCCESS WORKSHOPS:
West Hartford: April 7, 8, 9 at the West Hartford Noah Webster Library
Bloomfield: April 21, 22, 23 at the Bloomfield Library
Avon: April 28, 29, 30 at the Avon Free Public Library
September workshops will be held in Farmington, Hartford, and Newington.
Day 1 – Foundations of Success
Welcome & Orientation: This session sets expectations for the program and helps participants articulate personal goals for their next chapter of work. It establishes a supportive learning environment and introduces how the workshop content connects to real-world opportunities. Understanding the Job Market: Participants learn how today’s labor market differs from past decades, including trends in hiring, flexibility, and skills-based recruitment. Emphasis is placed on where mature workers are in demand and how to align experience with current employer needs. (1:00 to 1:15 pm)
Resume Coaching: This session teaches participants how to create resumes that emphasize results, transferable skills, and strengths developed over time. Attendees learn how to reposition experience for new roles or industries without minimizing their professional history. (1:15 pm – 2:30pm)
Interview Skills: Participants practice answering interview questions with confidence, clarity, and relevance to today’s workplace expectations. The session also introduces negotiation strategies for compensation, flexibility, and benefits that support work-life balance. (2:45 pm to 4:00 pm)
Day 2 –Digital & Professional Tools
Digital & Professional Tools: This session builds comfort with essential workplace technologies such as email, document sharing, video meetings, and basic productivity tools. Participants also learn how to navigate online job boards and application systems with greater ease and confidence. (1:00 pm – 2:30pm)
Communication & Networking: Participants strengthen professional communication skills for both in-person and digital environments. The session focuses on building authentic connections, using LinkedIn effectively, and leveraging community relationships to uncover opportunities. (2:45 pm to 4:00 pm)
Day 3 – Thriving in the Next Chapter
Workplace Readiness: This session prepares participants to succeed once hired by addressing workplace expectations, team dynamics, and adapting to change. Strategies are shared for managing time, energy, and personal commitments while remaining engaged and effective at work. (1:00 pm -2:15 pm)
Financial Wellness & Goal Setting: Participants explore how work fits into their broader financial picture, including budgeting, retirement considerations, and healthcare implications such as Medicare and taxes. The session emphasizes informed decision-making rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. (2:30 pm to 3:30 pm)
Closing Session: Personal Action Plan: Participants reflect on what they've learned and identify clear next steps for their job search or career transition. Each attendee leaves with a personalized action plan and renewed confidence in their path forward. (3:30 to 3:50)
Networking Event (Day 3): This facilitated networking hour allows participants to practice new skills while connecting with employers, peers, and community partners. The focus is on relationship- building rather than immediate job placement. (4:00 pm to 5:00 pm)