Frequently asked questions
Below are just some of the questions you may have about the work we do at Resource (but were afraid to ask!) If you have any other queries, just ring the office on 020 8346 4000 and we will be happy to tell you more.
- What is Resource?
- Resource is an independent charity, based in North London set up to help unemployed people in the Jewish community back into employment. It is operated by professional volunteer and paid staff who offer training and one-to-one support.
- Who can use Resource and for how long?
- Jewish people who are unemployed or under threat of redundancy, or returning to work after a break are able to use the facilities and take advantage of the services offered. We also help recent graduates or people who have come from another country and are legally able to work in the UK. Membership continues until a client finds employment or for six months. This can be extended under certain circumstances.
- I fall into those criteria. If I contact you what can I expect?
- When you contact us by phone or email, an appointment is made to meet an Advisor. If we agree Resource can help, and you are work-ready, you'll attend a two day seminar to give you tools and techniques associated with finding a new job. You will be expected to meet with your personal Advisor on a regular basis who will work with you on the practical elements of your job search and help you decide what other seminars may be useful.
We can also offer computer training on a one-to-one basis in Word, Excel and Power point, as well as how to use the Internet and e-mail. Even if you have facilities at home, you can still work on our computers and search the Internet for employment opportunities and labour market information in the Centre. As the computers are well utilised, you may need to book a specific time to use them. You can also send faxes and make phone calls, scan the daily newspapers and access the careers library. - I don't live in London and can't get to the Centre, can I still make use of your services?
- We have recently launched a telephone service to clients who cannot attend the Centre. In addition to talking to one of our Advisors, you will be able to access our members only website. For more information contact Resource.
- Who are the personal Advisors and how do I choose one? Will I always see/speak to the same person?
- All the Advisors are skilled volunteers with relevant backgrounds, here to help our clients return to employment. They offer a safe and confidential environment for discussion of all issues related to job search. Advisors meet regularly for training and development. Unless there are scheduling issues, you can expect to see the same Advisor.
- When is Resource open?
- The Centre is open to clients from 9.30am - 4.30pm, Monday to Thursday, however the phones are manned until 5.30pm. The Centre will also take phone calls on Friday from 9.30am - 1pm. The Centre is closed on Bank holidays and Jewish holidays. All clients need to book an initial appointment by ringing 020 8346 4000.
- I have been to Resource in the past, I need your services again. Can I come back?
- If you have had a break of more than one year, after your initial membership period, you can return to meet with an Advisor to see if we can help you again.
- This all sounds wonderful, but how much does it cost me?
- There is no cost to the client to use the Centre or any of the facilities. However a small deposit is required when the client attends for the first meeting, but this is refunded on full attendance of all seminars that are booked and confirmed.
However, you may know of friends and family that are in a position to support our work, so do tell them about us. When you find employment, think about becoming a 'Friend' of Resource, so that we can continue to support people like you in the future. - What else does Resource provide?
- Resource has a Networking Service as well as access to a Careers Advisor. Tailored training seminars, including Career Transition and Developing your Networking Skills are offered. Look at the section on Training Seminars for the latest courses available.
- How quickly will I find a job?
- That's down to you and how hard you work at your job search! Resource will do everything it can in offering support and guidance to ensure your success. Our experience shows that the more effort clients put into finding a job, preparing CVs, researching their particular field and improving interview and presentation skills, the better the chances of securing and retaining the job they really want! Our job is to assist in that process.
- I have no formal qualifications. Will you help me?
- We help people from any occupational background and with any level of qualification or experience. We also help signpost clients, who may need additional training, to specific courses.
- It has been many years since I've had an interview. Can you help me prepare?
- We hold seminars on interview skills as well as mock interview sessions tailored to a particular job and you can be videoed for constructive feedback. Our Confidence Building seminar also help you to 'speak up and speak out'.
- My CV is out of date. What is the current way of presenting a CV?
- A CV is for you to show off your skills and achievements and needs to be constantly monitored and adapted to jobs for which you are applying. The Centre offers guidance on current best practice and together with your Advisor, you develop a suitable CV as your marketing tool for a range of jobs.
- I want to change direction but I don't know what to do. Can you help?
- We help our clients to become job-ready. If that involves a change of direction, support and advice is on hand via your Advisor as well as a trained Careers Advisor. Resource also has 'Adult Directions', a computer programme which identifies alternative careers.
- Do you see people with disabilities?
- Our premises are wheelchair accessible. Clients with other disabilities can be assisted if they have appropriate support in place. If we cannot offer relevant support, then we will endeavour to refer the client to more appropriate agencies.
- I don't need your services, but my son is unemployed and sitting around at home. Can I come in to help him find a job?
- We will try to help all the people who approach us. However, they have to be sufficiently motivated to contact us themselves!
- Does Resource advertise job vacancies?
- Resource is not an employment agency, but we do regularly receive offers of work experience, internships and job opportunities. We advertise these vacancies for current clients who are job ready.
- What does networking mean and can you help me with this?
- Many people find jobs through contacts they may have in the community, friends or family. Even if you cannot find a job this way, people within your network may be able to offer opportunities to shadow them or assist with advice about a certain industry. We have an active networking department that is constantly building up new links both within and beyond the community.
- Why don't prospective employers respond to my applications?
- It may be that your approach is not as effective as it could be. You will be able to use time with your Advisor to assess where your approach can be strengthened. By attending our training courses you can improve skills and market yourself more effectively. Unfortunately, it is a fact of life that some employers don't respond at all! We will ensure you are presenting all your strengths in the future, so that disappointment is minimised.
- I have been at home for eighteen years bringing up my children. What skills do I have for a prospective employer?
- Your Advisor can support you in assessing your transferable and life skills. Attending the courses Resource offers can reconnect you with the world of work, build up your self-esteem and confidence and help you find and retain paid employment.
- I would like to start my own business. Do you offer any advice on this?
- We regularly run a seminar specifically targeted at clients interested in setting up their own business or becoming self employed.
- I know exactly what I want to do but don't know where to look for this kind of job. Can you help?
- We can discuss the use of industry specific agencies, which newspapers to look at on which days, as well as the use of the internet and online applications.
- I am an employer in the local community. Can you help me fill my vacancies?
- We are always looking to build up our network of prospective employers and will post vacancies that we feel may be of benefit to our clients. We also welcome offers of internships and work experience.
- I want to help Resource. What do you need?
- Resource is registered charity (No 1106331) and relies on voluntary contributions to continue our work. We take pride that our services are free at the point of delivery when clients most need our help. We are also delighted to hear from people who wish to volunteer time and have skills and expertise that would be beneficial to our clients at Resource. To find out more, speak to the Centre Manager on 020 8346 4000.
