Job Development During COVID-19

By Abigail Hallett

One key part of my job as an Enhanced Employment Project Employment Provider is helping my clients find jobs. The COVID-19 pandemic has made this much more challenging, and I anticipate it will continue to bring challenges moving forward.

As businesses start opening back up, I have been working with one customer, Torey, to help her find a job. Together, we are exploring different entry-level jobs. As a part of this process, we are going through an entry-level jobs binder that has information and worksheets on different occupations that she is qualified for.

She learns about a job and then decides whether she would like to explore it further. If she is interested in learning more or trying it out, I then contact people in this field that would be willing to let her shadow them at work. I am hopeful this will help open doors for Torey and introduce her to a job that she would not have otherwise considered.

Finding jobs in this post-pandemic market is a challenge. But with the tools and skills that I have at my disposal as a job coach, I am optimistic that we can continue to help our clients find meaningful employment in the community.

Torey completes worksheets in an entry-level job binder, which helps match her with jobs that she may enjoy.