Job Action Resources
We’re here for you.
You’re not alone in your job search
Job searching isn’t easy— especially when you’re trying to find work that actually meets your needs. Over 60% of people who reach out to Empower Work are searching for jobs or coping with job loss. The average job search now takes around six months—and it can feel discouraging, exhausting, and uncertain.
We’re here for you. Our trained peer counselors offer free, confidential support to help you stay grounded, rebuild confidence, and take your next right step.
Beyond our text line, you will find resources to help support you through your job search below.
The top 5 questions job seekers ask our peer counselors
Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move at work is normal — and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our peer counselors have supported thousands of workers through job searches, career changes, and tough work moments. Here are some of the questions we hear most often, and how talking them through can help you feel more confident and in control.
Staying motivated:
“I’ve been searching for months and I’m feeling burned out. How can I stay motivated and keep going?”
It’s completely understandable to feel drained after searching for months — job hunting can take a real emotional toll. You’re putting in effort every day, often without clear feedback or results, and that’s exhausting. Sometimes the best way to stay motivated is to pause and reset. Our peer counselors can help you reset, rebuild confidence, and find a plan that feels doable again.
Regaining confidence:
“I’ve lost my confidence after losing my job. How do I start believing in myself again?”
Losing a job can make you question your worth. It’s okay to feel unsure right now. Our peer counselors can help you process what happened, support you as you rebuild confidence, and remember the strengths and experiences that make you who you are.
Career discovery:
“I’m not sure what kind of job makes sense anymore based on my interests and skills. How do I figure out what’s next for me?”
When your path feels uncertain, it’s easy to feel stuck or second-guess what’s next. Our peer counselors can help you take a step back, reflect on what matters most to you, explore different paths, and build a realistic plan for moving forward. You might be closer to your next step than you think.
Job search strategy:
“My resume and applications keep getting ignored. What should I change so I actually hear back?”
You’re not alone — so many people feel stuck when applications seem to disappear into a void. Our peer counselors can help you look at your approach with fresh eyes, from your resume and cover letter to how you’re searching or networking. Sometimes all it takes is a new perspective and a little encouragement to get momentum going again.
Managing stress and basic needs:
“I’m struggling to make ends meet while I search. How can I find resources or support right now and manage the stress?”
Trying to get through a job search while making ends meet is exhausting. You don’t have to carry this alone, and even small steps can make a big difference in feeling more in control. Our counselors can connect you to local and national resources for food, housing, or training and help you come up with ways to manage your stress.
Top resources to help support your job search
Below are trusted tools our counselors often recommend. Each one helps with a specific part of the job search.
Indeed - job listings & alerts
Website: https://www.indeed.com/
Best for: Finding lots of open roles quickly, then narrowing by pay, location, and schedule.
How to use:
Search your target role and set filters (pay range, remote/hybrid, posted date).
Turn on job alerts so new roles land in your inbox.
Save 3–5 roles to compare requirements and keywords for your resume
Resume.com — resume & cover-letter builder
Website: Resume.com
Best for: Creating an ATS-friendly resume/cover letter fast—even if you’re starting from scratch.
How to use:
Pick a simple template and paste in your recent experience.
Match wording to the job description (skills, tools, keywords).
Download as .docx or PDF.
My Next Move – O*NET Interest Profiler — career exploration
Website: https://onetinterestprofiler.org/
Best for: If you’re unsure what roles to target next or want to discover roles that fit your strengths.
How to use:
Take the interests quiz.
Review suggested careers with descriptions, skills, and typical wages.
Click into roles to see required skills and related training.
SkillUp Coalition — short-term training & job pathways
Website: https://explore.skillup.org/all/training?formats=National+online
Best for: Upskilling into in-demand roles without a 4-year degree.
How to use:
Browse career paths and short, vetted programs (many are free/low-cost, under 12 months).
Create a profile to save programs and see local or remote options.
Use their guides to plan steps from training → job applications.
FindHelp.org — free/reduced-cost local services
Website: https://www.findhelp.org/
Best for: Reduced cost on basic needs during a search (food, housing, transportation, medical care)
How to use:
Enter your ZIP code.
Choose a category (e.g., food, housing, health, job training).
Contact providers directly from the listings.
Talk to a counselor
Job searching can feel isolating—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Text an Empower Work peer counselor now for free, confidential support and a clear next step.
Here’s how it works:
Step #1 • Start a chat
Text 510-674-1414 or click on the chat icon.
We’ll connect you with a trained peer counselor within minutes.
Talk to real people - working professionals who have gone through selection and training. (No cost. No judgment. Real people who get it.)
Step #2 • Get immediate support
A peer counselor will introduce themselves, ask questions, and reflect with you.
Get support, not directions. 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 • Feel empowered to take the next step!
Sometimes it 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.
