• General Resources
• Career Assessment Tools
• Resume and Cover Letter Resources
• Overcoming Criminal History
• Getting Your Work History Together
• Transportation and Directions

General Resources

Comprehensive online tools for job seekers.

• The Riley Guide describes when and where to search for jobs on-line, and has information on resumes and cover letters, interviewing, networking, and salary negotiation.
• Creative Job Search covers all aspects of the employment process, including how to manage your finances while looking for work, and tips on interview etiquette.
• Hennepin County Library's Job & Career Links

Career Assessment Tools

Not sure what kind of work you'd like to pursue? Wonder what career would be the best fit for your skills and interests? Check out these links.

• Explore Careers - Learn about typical work activities, skills needed and wages for different careers.
• Career Voyages - Information on in-demand occupations and high-growth industries.
• ISEEK Skills Assessment - Assess possible careers based on your SKILLS.

Resume and Cover Letter Resources

Need help building your resume? Check out these web sites for samples and suggestions.

• Sample Resumes
• JobStar -- Resumes and Cover Letters
• iSeek Resume Help
• University of Minnesota Resume Tutor
• Merriam-Webster Online (dictionary and thesaurus)

Overcoming Criminal History

If you're an ex-offender looking for work, visit these web sites for tips and resources.

Local and National Resources

• Double-check your criminal background records. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension's Computerized Criminal History will let you obtain public criminal history information at no charge.
• For information on how to obtain criminal records from other states, check Statewide Criminal Background Check Resources.
• AMICUS is a local non-profit organization committed to helping ex-offenders successfully re-integrate into the community.
• The Council on Crime and Justice offers a weekly support group for ex-offenders. [PDF]
• The National HIRE Network offers resources and information for job seekers with a criminal history, including your rights, legal information, Frequently Asked Questions, and contact information for local resources that may be able to help.

Useful Articles for Ex-Offenders

• Criminal Records and Getting Back Into the Workforce: Six Critical Steps for Ex-Offenders Trying to Get Back Into the Workforce
• Job Hunting When You Have A Criminal Past
• How to Address Your Background on Your Resume

Getting Your Work History Together

Use these web sites to look up information about your previous employers and work history.

• Dex Online (yellow pages)
• The Social Security Administration, a government agency, can prepare a report detailing your employment history in the United States. There is a cost for this service. Follow this link for more information.

Transportation and Directions

Trying to get to work, school, or a job interview? Use these web sites to plan your trip from door to door.

• Traveling by bus or light rail? Use the MetroTransit Trip Planner.
• Driving? Check out MapQuest: Driving Directions.