Employment Services

training

Employment Services

Employment Services

VANSDA offers a variety of services and support systems to meet the needs of our diverse client base. Whether planning for school, looking for additional training, upgrading, creating a resume or in need of support finding employment, VANSDA is your partner for success. Our professionally trained staff can assist clients navigating through employment changes or career adjustments. Clients are provided access to our employment services through one-on-one interaction or group workshops.
By providing access to programs, workplace partnerships and mentorship, VANSDA assists individuals who require job placement and/or career guidance through the use of appropriate interventions of facilitated pre-employment workshops and information sessions.
Staff conduct work readiness assessments, substantiated by career theories. Every effort is made to assist clients, enhance their skills and tailor resumes to meet the demands of the Annapolis Valley’s businesses. The organization also supports its clients in identifying opportunities for employees and assist employers in building a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Workshops

VANSDA offers a variety of workshops monthly. The workshops are designed to allow a client to be self-sufficient for those who are ready for work, only requiring a simplified service to move ahead or those who need more support and official recognition of completion. Clients upon completion of a workshop receive a soft copy completion certificate, emailed and put on a thumb drive for future reference. Clients can also make use of our mock interview process.
Completing a comprehensive job search tracking sheet is one tool used in ensuring that all bases are covered and that the hidden job market is not being overlooked. It is also a means for clients to document the time that is spent daily seeking employment. Networking sessions also benefit clients by providing hands on experience and assisting the job seeker in making cold calls, but also striking up conversations with persons for the first time and selling themselves to potential employers right on the spot.

Enhanced Services

Enhanced Services are offered to clients who need more of a comprehensive plan. This process includes all the workshops and participation in specialized supports such as mock interviews, updating portfolios, completing self-assessments and employment counseling. Enhanced Services also include career exploration and help address barriers to employment and employment maintenance.
VANSDA’S services are also being expanded to assist youth in school with career exploration and transition plans from school to work. Transition programs are available to older workers, displaced workers or others who have similar barriers to employment.

Skill Enhancement

Skill Enhancement can cover a multitude of options. Depending on the clients’ job experience and education, the option of updating skills may be necessary. These programs are either half or full day commitments and may be tailored to specific trades or industries. Some are limited to specific programs that also have an essential skills component that usually lasts for a minimum of 6 weeks.
Provincial Certifications include the various levels of First Aid, WHMIS, Confined Space Entry/Awareness, Traffic Control Person, Fire Safety, Food Safe to name a few. Also offered in-house are such soft skill courses such as Attitude is Everything, Dressing for Success and Telephone Etiquette.
Distance Training is also offered to interested persons across the province using our virtual classroom. All that is required is a computer with a microphone and internet access. This training which includes the Essential Skills Module provides easy access for those who especially live in rural areas with limited transportation options. This program generally runs as needed yearly with limited spaces available.

Other Services and Supports for Clients

Job Seekers are provided assistance with applying for online job vacancies that require filling out lengthy electronic applications. Without an updated resume, these can be challenging, staff is ready to assist you.
Clients can also benefit from study groups for courses such as the Air Brake Endorsement, Employability Skills and Math Skills tests when offered.
VANSDA also provides clients the opportunity to gain a basic understanding of what Portfolios are, understanding an Record of Employment (ROE), and Analysis of Workplace Culture are some of the information sessions that are also offered.

Expanded Services for Employers

VANSDA continues to expand its services to employers. Services are available to assist in recruiting, sourcing trained, experienced or recent graduates for term leaves, vacation, even illness whenever possible. Current employees may participate in select refresher courses such as First Aid and WHMIS and receive a free updated resume.
The VANSDA virtual class room (featuring our Smart Board System) can be booked for provincial training or staff meetings free of charge when available.