How Our Job Training Classes Work

Launch Your Job Search with Confidence

Attend two focused classes to gain real-world skills in career exploration,

job searching, interviewing, and workplace success.

We schedule classes each month. To earn your Topeka Youth Project Job Training certification, you will need to attend 2 classes. The details and steps for each are below:

 

Class One:

Objective: Learn tools and strategies to explore jobs in your areas of interest, careers. How to search effectively and create a professional network of referrals and contacts.

Duration: Two Hours
 

Step 1: Career Exploration

  • Begin with a short discussion about different career options.
  • Help analyzing your skills and goals.
  • Use tools and handouts to guide you towards a potential career match or advancement path if you are already working.



Step 2: Job Search Platform Tutorials

  • How to set up profiles on platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and local job boards.
  • Show how to use filters to find relevant entry-level or youth-friendly positions.
  • Learn how to upload resumes and cover letters.


Step 3: Resume and Cover Letter writing

  • Learn the basics of resume structure, including sections like contact info, education, experience (including volunteer work), and skills.
  • Look at AI powered resume builders to help your create or update your resume.
  • Review what makes a strong cover letter and demonstrate how to customize it for different job types.


Step 4: Network Building

  • The basics of professional networking and why it matters.
  • Creating or polishing your LinkedIn profile.
  • How to join professional groups or interest-based networks online.
  • Practice a short “elevator pitch” that you can use in networking conversations or elsewhere


Class Two:

Objective: Help confidently prepare for job interviews and understanding  what’s expected after you’re hired.

Duration: Two Hours or Less

Step 1: AI-Powered Interview Practice (NextGen Interviewing Lab)

  • Introduce the AI Interview Lab platform.
  • Choose a job role and walk through a mock interview experience.
  • Receive feedback on answers from instructor and AI tool as well as body language (if applicable).
  • Repeat as necessary.


Step 2: Workplace Expectation

  • Review workplace expectations such as showing up on time, communication, teamwork, initiative, and dress code.
  • Role-playing scenarios to help you practice respectful communication and conflict resolution.
  • Discuss how to handle workplace challenges and how to ask for help.


Step 3: Post-Hire Mentoring & Support

  • Explain the importance of the first 90 days on the job.
  • Encourage students to track progress, write down questions, and reflect on what they’re learning on the job.
  • Provide resources for job-related support.