Tulsans Seek Employment Through Goodwill's Job Connection

With the opening of its second Job Connection site Monday, Goodwill is connecting Tulsans with jobs, and it's already quite busy.

The first connection center opened four years ago, and it's been very popular. It has helped nearly 13,000 people find jobs.

From manufacturing gigs, to clerical work, to landing a job as an executive - Goodwill said they are the pipeline for job seekers to employers.

Stacy Cole with Goodwill said, "There's a lot of jobs out there but you would be surprised how many people don't know how to get jobs and you would think that it simple to do, but it's not."

Cole coaches people on how to market themsleves and what to do to make sure their resumes stand out.

Mathias Jeffery knows from experience how well the job connection center works. He said the staff there is persistent, a quality many employers value.

Jeffery stated, “It's like they bug you and if this don't work then they try this and every Tuesday they always have a little hot list or a job hot list, which is right here and that's pretty helpful too.”

With Goodwill's help Jeffery landed his last manufacturing job. It was temporary, so now he's looking for a permanent position.

The center also helps people like Angela Haley who is looking for a career change.

"I've been in retail for the last four years. I have six years' experience in clerical and want to get back into it. I love it, I miss it. I love working with people. I am just looking for that opportunity where I can grow it into a career," said Haley.

So far this year Goodwill has helped 600 Oklahomans find jobs with the help of a computer lab, fax machines, and a hands on approach that is different from temp agencies.

Cole said, “If they have low computer skills we are going to help them. If they have trouble filling out a job application, we are going to help them. We are not just a coach - we are a partner."

The center is open every day from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and you don't need an appointment, you can walk in. For more information visit their website, or call the new Yale location at (918)-599-0067.