CHARLOTTE /MECKLENBURG JOBLINK CAREER CENTER
BEST PRACTICES
Challenge: Creating a seamless delivery system from five unique JobLink Centers hosted by three different partners and WIA providers, all located within the same city.
Solution: JobLink Orientation and WIA Orientation that is identical for all five centers.
· Same script utilized by all Centers.
· Customers transfer between centers for one or both orientations.
· Emphasis is placed on finding a job.
Challenge: Each JobLink Center offers numerous activities. How do you inform Charlotte internal/external customers of time, place, and activity on a daily basis?
Solution: Add a link to our website for a JobLink Calendar.
· Solves the dilemma of multiple workshops located at different Centers.
· Allows customers to easily identify next JobLink or WIA Orientation.
· Easier access for staff to inform and refer to other Center’s workshops.
Challenge: How to maintain quality of service in the face of staffing shortages.
Solution: Volunteers
· Charlotte/Mecklenburg WDB partnered with Goodwill Industries Youth Job Connection to provide summer youth workers at each JobLink Center.
· Partnered with Youth WIA providers Q-Foundation and Arbor Education and Training to provide work experience for youth.
· Partnered with The Urban League of Central Carolina Inc. to provide internships for those enrolled in their adult empowerment program.
· Utilized volunteers to assist customers in the Career Resource Center.
· Utilized high school students seeking community service work.
Challenge: Between August 2007 and December 2007, Charlotte lost over 1000 jobs in the financial services industry. How do we aid this mainly white collar jobseeker?
Solution: Central Piedmont Community College conducted a Career Exploration Class on campus and created a modified 4 week class to be held in the JobLink Center.
· Tuition fee is waived for dislocated workers.
· Assess interest, aptitudes, determine educational goals.
· Explore careers and resources and develop a written plan of action.