Money Smart is a nationwide program of workshops and activities to encourage the public to become financially knowledgeable. The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is partnering with the American Library Association and public libraries throughout the country are encouraged to plan special events with local resources. All events are free and open to the public.
Finding a good job is certainly a major Money Smart move. The library has planned four workshops focusing on recharging the job search. An additional series of “financial fitness” workshops will be offered during the official Money Smart week (April 5- 13).
Some workshops require advance reservations and patrons should visit or call the Stratford Library Reference Desk at 203-385-4164 or email: ask@stratfordlibrary.org.
RE-CHARGING YOUR JOB SEARCH WORKSHOPS INCLUDE:
Social Networking for Job-Search Success - Monday, March 24, 10 am to Noon, CTWorks Career Coach
(Limit: 10 participants – Main Street entrance). Today’s job market requires serious candidates to have an online presence. An overview of the most popular social networking sites will be presented along with how to use the resources and tools on those sites.
Create a Great Resume - Monday, April 28, 10 am to Noon, CTWorks Career Coach
(Limit: 10 participants – Main Street entrance). This workshop provides guidance for creating resumes for the 21st century work environment. Learn the pitfalls to avoid as well as the current standards and styles that make resumes stand out.
Improve Your Interviewing Skills - Thursday, March 27, 10 am to 12:30 pm, Lovell Room
This workshop, led by a Bridgeport Department of Labor jobs counselor, will focus on developing and improving interviewing skills. Participants will learn how to prepare for job interviews including interviews by a committee. Also covered will be how to avoid “red flags” when answering questions, learning to ask the right questions and following up appropriately.
Create a LinkedIn Account - Thursday, April 10, 10 am to 12:30 pm, Teen Department
Led by a Bridgeport Department of Labor jobs counselor, participants in this hands-on workshop will learn how to set-up a professional networking profile on LinkedIn that will enable network building and sharing information about job opportunities. The workshop is limited to 10 participants. Comfort using email and the Internet are required. Participants must have a valid email address set-up in advance and will need a resume in text format saved either to email or a flash drive.
MONEY SMART WEEK FINANCIAL FITNESS WORKSHOPS INCLUDE:
DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Etsy Shop Set-up - Thursday, April 3 at 6 pm, Lovell Room
Are you a crafter and want to sell your goods online? Certified Etsy Educator, Jennifer St. Jean, will discuss what you need to set up an Etsy shop, how to get started making your first sales, where to go when you need help and the four keys to Etsy success. Be sure to bring your questions about selling your work online!
Preventing Identity Theft Workshop - Monday, April 7 at 1 pm, Lovell Room – advance registration is required.
Wondering how to protect yourself from identity theft? Michael Buchas, associate examiner of the Connecticut Department of Banking, will present valuable tips on how to protect oneself from identity theft. Learn how to minimize your risk by managing your personal information cautiously and with heightened sensitivity.
Financial Fitness Checkup - Tuesday, April 8 at 6:30 pm, Lovell Room – advance registration is required.
Would you like to improve your financial future? One way to start is by participating in the Financial Fitness Checkup. This workshop will help you review your current status and identify actions you can take to improve your financial situation. Presented by University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service.
Take Control of Your Budget with Couponing - Sunday, April 13 at 2 pm, Lovell Room
Back by popular demand, Marilyn Zelinsky-Syarto of Two Frugal Fairfielders will demonstrate how to take control of personal finances by using couponing to become a smarter shopper.