“The best part of my job is seeing people develop skills they can use for their own independent job searches, and watching the transformation that occurs when someone goes from unemployed to employed. The change is significant. We all celebrate!”
— Josette Molloy, Marin County Employment Counselor
Losing your job can be a terrifying experience, and the recent economic downturn has left thousands of Marin residents unemployed and unsure where to turn. Josette Molloy is an employment counselor who helps Marin residents conduct job searches, get hired and retain their positions over the long term. Over her nine years with the county she has helped hundreds of Marinites get back on their feet.
FIVE QUESTIONS WITH JOSETTE
1. Have you seen an uptick in Marin residents needing help in recent years?
Yes. Due to current economic conditions, there has been increased demand for information on how and where to find employment as well as to develop the skills needed to find a job.
2. If you lose your job, what are the first three things you should do?
1. Determine if you are eligible to file for unemployment benefits. If so, file a claim.
2. Attend an orientation to session at your local one-stop and determine what services you'd like to use.
3. Make a plan and stick to it. Looking for work in this economy IS a job.
3. What kind of help can you give to someone who has lost his or her job?
There are a vast number of resources available people may not be aware of. They include workshops, support throughout the search, referral to additional resources, some training funds, and recruitment events, to name but a few. You can click here to get started.
4. How does one get started with your program?
The best way to begin is to attend a one-time orientation that describes all the job search services available and how to access them. After that session, a person can decide which services they would like to participate in; for example, you attend any number of workshops, meet with an employment counselor, come to an on-site employer recruitment, or use our Career Resource Center.
5. What would happen if your department were downsized or eliminated?
Downsizing would extend wait times and crimp access to services critical to helping people get back on their feet. Timing and networking are critical elements of a job search. Elimination of services would be devastating - not only to the job seeker - but also to the effect on their families and our local economy.
