Otago Polytechnic and partners offer seminars for job seekers

Otago Polytechnic has joined forces with a wide range of partners to offer two seminars for job seekers this week.

The events, which will be held at Forsyth Barr Stadium as well as online on Wednesday 24 June (12pm and 5.30pm), aim to help those who may have lost their job or are facing an uncertain future.

Key partners include Platinum Recruitment, Ministry of Social Development, Otago Chamber of Commerce and Otago-Southland Employers’ Association. Additional support and advice will be provided by Select Recruitment, Workbridge, University of Otago career development staff and Southern Rehab Ltd.

Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Social Services (careers specialty) students will also be present, offering advice on key job search strategies.

“We will be running a job board with examples of how to identify what employers actually want,” says Wayne Green, Careers Lecturer, Community Development and Personal Wellbeing, Otago Polytechnic.

“Our students can discuss ways that these strategies could be applied. Some support services will be available on the day as well as some information on what people can access.”

Dougal McGowan, Chief Executive Otago Chamber of Commerce, says the events provide a chance for people to get some “real-world advice” about the best processes when applying for jobs.

“Some people may not have developed a CV or may not have gone for a job interview for some time. They might be in an unfamiliar situation. This is an opportunity for them to gain some insights from experts.”

The seminars will cover the following:

• CVs: What are they; how to maximise them; dos and don’ts
• Interview advice; how to best sell yourself
• How to evaluate your experience and skills
• What support services are available
• Q&A session