The Staff at CareerForce in Chaska is here to support job seekers. You can:

• Use the Resource Lab
• Meet with local employers
• Get help from other support services

CareerForce offers:

• Computers for job searching and work use.
• Job search tools and printed materials.
• Job leads from the Southwest Metro area. 
• A printer, copier, scanner, and fax machine for job-related use.
• A Resource Room Specialist to help answer your questions. 
• Information about Housing Resources for people who are homeless, have low-income, or are at risk of losing housing. 

Helpful Documents and Tools

• Employment Agencies
• Internet Job Search Sites
• Job Transition and Networking Groups

Websites & Online Tools 

• Minnesota Dept. of Employment & Economic Development (DEED)
  • Job and Career Fairs
  • Labor Market Research and Analysis
  • CareerForce Creative Job Search Guide in a Digital World
• MinnesotaWorks.net Job Seeker Services

• 7 Truly Free Resume Builders with No Hidden Costs or Paywalls

Finding Employment After 55

• Resources for Employment after 55:

  • If you are 55 or older, you bring valuable skills and experience to the workplace. To improve your chances of finding a job that fits your background, talk with a CareerForce specialist. You may also want to try these tips:

    • Use your network. Reach out to former coworkers, including younger ones. Ask friends if they know of opportunities. Stay active in professional groups and community organizations. Many jobs are never posted, so networking is very important.
    • Build your online network. If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, create one. Need help? Watch an online tutorial or set up a time with a CareerForce specialist for support.
    • Update your resume. A functional resume may work best. This format highlights your skills and accomplishments instead of focusing only on dates. Remember, many employers use software to scan resumes first. Be sure to include the skills listed in the job posting.
    • Show recent achievements. In your cover letter and interviews, talk about your latest successes and how they helped your past employer. Highlight any recent training or certifications you’ve completed.

Job Seekers with a Criminal Record: Resources and Support

If you have a criminal record, you might feel it’s hard to find a job. You are not alone—many people feel this way. But help is available.

Employers often do background checks. That’s why it’s important to know what’s on your record and feel ready to talk about it.

A criminal history can make the job search harder, but it doesn’t mean you won’t find work. Many employers are willing to give people a second chance. There are also community resources to support you.

Helpful Job Search Resources for People with a Criminal Background

• Employment Handbook A helpful guide to explain your rights, and how to show your strengths during your job search. 

More Support:

• Career One Stop

• Minnesota Recovery Connection - Jobs for Felons

• CareerForce MN Justice-Involved Resources

• New Leaf (Justice Involved) Workshops

• MN Goodwill Easter Seals Reentry Program

Programs to Help You Stand Out 

You can tell employers about these programs during your interview:

Federal Bonding Program

•  This program gives employers a free insurance bond of up to $5,000 when they hire someone with a criminal background. Less than 1% of these bonds have had claims out of more than 40,000 bonds issues. It helps employers feel safe giving people a second chance. 

Work Opportunity Tax Credit

• Employers can get a federal tax credit of up to $9,600 for hiring someone with a felony, if they’re hired within one year of release or conviction. This can help them feel more confident in hiring you.

Talk to a career counselor at your local CareerForce. We're here to help.

Phone: (952) 361-1711

Email: workforcecenter@carvercountymn.gov

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