The Ready.Set.Work! initiative is now in its third year. At Manpower’s World Headquarters in Milwaukee, volunteers assist women who face barriers to employment at one-day workshops. Many of these women have been victims of domestic violence, have criminal backgrounds, or are recovering from alcohol or drug addiction. In 2009, more than 90 women attended. Our partners include United Way, Sojourner Family Peace Center and 15 other community agencies.

The goals of the workshop are to:

• ·         Update the women on current job search techniques and skills.


• ·         Help increase the confidence of the participants.


• ·         Create a comfortable, nurturing environment for learning.

The agenda includes:

• ·         A motivational speaker to start the day’s event


• ·         Presentations to give tips on searching for a job, writing a resume, and preparing for and participating in an interview


• ·         Career apparel fashion show to demonstrate suitable attire

The highlight of the day is a one-on-one resume coaching session with a trained volunteer. Each candidate is given personal attention to address her specific resume needs. Each woman then leaves with an effective updated resume or a newly-created resume printed on high-quality bond paper.

Takeaways have also included portfolios, vouchers for assistance with purchasing clothing, and online job-search resources.

In addition to updating their skills and preparing these women for their job search, the workshops boost their self-esteem and give them hope for the future. One participant said, “I came away from the program more informed and surer of my direction.”