What it’s like to text Empower Work: A step-by-step guide
Mackenzie Waldron is a writer focused on ensuring workers have the information and resources they need to thrive. She explores topics that surface on Empower Work’s free, confidential text line and brings research-backed approaches to support you.
Reaching out for support on a tough work issue can feel intimidating or overwhelming at first. Maybe you’re wondering if it really will help you, or you’ve been down this road before where you’ve reached out to friends and family and it got you nowhere.
At Empower Work, 90% of people report feeling better about their work issue after a conversation with a peer counselor. Volunteer peer counselors are here to listen, ask questions, and help you move forward and take your next steps. Sometimes, you just need to talk to someone who gets it. And chances are, our volunteers have also navigated work issues in their own lives at one time or another, and are here to support you.
If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens when you text Empower Work, this guide walks you through the experience, step by step.
Step 1: Reach out and start a chat
If you’ve made it this far, you should be proud of yourself. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help. You can contact an Empower Work peer counselor by texting 510-674-1414 , or by starting a chat on our website by clicking the icon in the lower right-hand corner. It is completely free and confidential.
Our text line is open from 7am-7pm PST. You can discuss your work issue with a peer counselor for however long you’d like within those hours and even come back any day if you’d like to keep brainstorming or have another issue at work.
If this step feels too early to take, you can always explore our resources on the website. Our blog offers support and next steps for different work issues.
Step 2: Get connected with a peer counselor
Once you’ve reached out, you’ll automatically get connected to a peer counselor within minutes. They will introduce themselves, ask questions, and reflect on your work issue with you. During this conversation, you will get support rather than directions.
Our peer counselors are real people who complete robust training. They’re not bots, and they’re not scripted conversations—they’re here to listen and support you through what you’re experiencing.
A peer counselor will help you navigate your way to your next steps, which can look different from person to person. You know yourself and the situation best. We’re here to be your thought partner and sounding board so you can find your path forward.
Step 3: Leave the conversation feeling better
More than 90% of people who have reached out to our text line report feeling better after a conversation, and many report meaningful improvements in their financial well-being within just a few months—like feeling more confident managing bills, being better able to handle unexpected expenses, or making progress toward their financial goals.
During your conversation, a peer counselor will help you discover your next steps. Some people leave with a clear plan. Others leave feeling calmer, more grounded, or less alone. Many say the most powerful part is feeling listened to and validated.
Sometimes, the next step may mean taking a walk on your break. Other times it might mean talking to your manager, beginning a job search, reporting the situation, or collectively organizing with other workers.
Your next step is what works best for you.
You’re Not Alone
When work feels impossible, reaching out can be a powerful first step.
If you’re going through a tough work moment and are ready to reach out, our volunteer peer counselors are here to help. Text 510-674-1414 for confidential support or start a web chat.
Experiencing a tough work issue?
Text 51 0-674-1414 for free, confidential support from a trained peer counselor.