Resources for Job Seekers

Our job seeker toolkit is designed to help you analyze your skills and work history, create effective resumes and cover letters, access career resources, and stay organized as you pursue employment opportunities. For additional help, use Book a Librarian to schedule a face-to-face appointment.

Resume, Cover Letter & Interviewing Help

RESUMES

Your resume should be as unique as you. The type of resume you should use will depend upon your experience. There are three common types of resume styles: chronological, functional, and a combination. Check out JobNow’s Optimal Resume tool (found under the Career Resources tab) for more information about the different types of resumes and to view samples and templates of each style.

Resume worksheet | Pocket resume
These documents provide a starting point for filling out an application and creating a resume. They also help with tailoring your resume for a specific job. Use the resume worksheet and pocket resume to get organized by jotting down your skills, work history, and education.

COVER LETTERS

When it comes to cover letters, one size does not fit all. Each letter should be tailored to the specific position for which you are applying, and should be accurate and distinctive. JobNow’s Optimal Resume tool will guide you through the necessary steps to create a cover letter that will help distinguish you from other applicants.

Cover letter tips
When preparing to write a cover letter, check out these tips to understand what you need to know to write a strong cover letter.

Cover letter worksheet
This worksheet functions as a first draft. You can get started without needing to worry about formatting. Record basic information and key elements to include in your cover letter in this worksheet.

Job log | References log
The job and reference logs provide additional ways to organize your job search. The job log is used to track your work history and is helpful when applying for jobs online. The same is true for the reference log. Your references will be at your fingertips when you need to include them with any job application.

References sample
Download this sample references document that you can use as a starting point to create a polished reference page to give to any employer who requests references.

Interview tips
You’ve landed an interview, and now it is time to prepare. The interview tips sheet will help you think about and get ready for interview questions you might be asked and that you will want to ask respective employers. Still wanting more help? Check out our digital resource JobNow for additional interview information.

Resources for job seekers
Worksheet describing our services and resources as well as resources on the web

SCLD Digital Resources

An in-district library card is required to use resources from our Digital Library.

JobNow
Online job coaches available every day from 2-10pm to help with resumes, cover letters, and interviews; links and tips available any time

Peterson’s Test and Career Prep
Read career-based books online, take practice test for specific careers, and use the career tools to learn about technology and build a resume

Data Axle Reference Solutions
Search over 2 million job postings nationwide with job search tools and help

LinkedIn Learning
On-demand technology, creative, and business training taught by industry experts

Gale Courses
Learn new skills with hundreds of high quality 6-week courses on professional development and personal enrichment topics

Udemy
Learn and improve your skills across business, tech, design, and other fields with over 6,000 on-demand video courses in multiple languages

Partner Resources: Education, Job Skills & Support

WorkSource Spokane
Tools to search for jobs online, resources for writing effective resumes and cover letters, and interview tips

Employment Security Department
For jobseekers, students and employers looking for in-demand careers, wage information, job openings, and resume help

Unemployment Benefits
Learn about eligibility, apply for benefits, and more

Varsity Tutors Practice Tests
Education and career related tests

Washington Career Bridge
Explore careers, view job trends, find education, and browse approved programs and schools for worker retraining through WorkSource

GED Easy
Find GED classes in the Spokane area, take practice tests, and connect with free online instruction

mySkills myFuture
Match your current skills and experience to job openings and educational opportunities

Apprenticeship and Journeyman Training Center
Take classes while you learn on the job with apprentice training programs available at Spokane Community College

Apprenticeship – Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
Learn more about apprenticeship and how to become an apprentice and find programs throughout the state

National Center for Education Statistics – College Navigator
Make a list of schools that are right for you based on factors such as location, cost, test scores, and program or major

Job Scams
Learn the signs of a job scam and job placement services, where to look for jobs, and how to report a job scam

Partner Resources for Teen Job Seekers

Next Generation Zone
Explore career options and learn the skills you’ll need to be a successful member of the workforce

Business AfterSchool
Engage in a series of industry skill workshops, providing on-site awareness of Spokane’s high-demand industry sectors by highlighting new technology, research, development and innovation