Job-Seeking Resources


hireAbility Job Search Assistance Process
 
Tailored to the jobseeker’s needs, abilities and resources. 

Intake
  • Self-referral or referral by vocational rehabilitation agencies, healthcare providers, community organizations or other sources.

  • hireAbility collects information to target the right job opportunities and present a convincing application. 

  • Jobseeker meets with a Staff member to discuss job search focus, employment history, work strengths and weaknesses, marketable skills, accommodations needed on the job, etc.

(If job seekers need additional education or training, or if they need assistance with accommodations, assistive technology or other rehabilitation or job-readiness issues before being ready to begin employment, hireAbility helps jobseekers identify and contact the  appropriate agencies, organizations or programs).

Job Search Assistance:  hireAbility helps the job seeker design and carry out an effective job search.
  • Identify jobs that fit jobseeker’s background and goals.
  • Inventory jobseeker’s resources for job searching (e.g. computer access and skills; knowledge of job information sources; relatives, associates, acquaintances who can help surface job leads and networking contacts).
  • Design an overall job search strategy including online research, newspaper and other job advertising media, networking and “jobseeker marketing”.
  • Resume and cover letter writing assistance:  help jobseekers prepare cover letters and resumes that show how their experience and skills fit the job they apply for.
  • Interview practice and interview skill development.
  • Employer outreach:  hireAbility contacts employers who are likely to know of opportunities in the types of jobs Jobseekers are seeking.
  • Networking assistance:  hireAbility helps the jobseeker design a program for making contacts and securing informational interviews.
  • Accommodation assistance:  hireAbility assists the Jobseeker and employer in identifying resources and vendors in the event that the jobseeker needs reasonable accommodations.
  • Benefits information:  hireAbility staff refer Jobseekers to Pennsylvania Disability Rights Network, Medical Assistance to Workers with Disabilities and other resources to meet the need for accurate and complete information on implications that getting a job might have on Social Security income, health insurance and similar supports.
  • Job retention assistance:  Where needed, hireAbility assists new hires and employers with orientation, adaptation and other post-hire issues.