Job seekers in today's economic climate need to be able to present themselves in their best possible light to potential employers.

Piedmont Technical College is working in conjunction with the Upper Savannah Workforce System to offer a series of one-week employability skills courses designed to help students identify and articulate their strengths, and to understand the behavioral interviewing process many employers are using today.

Gwendolyn Wiggleton, who has recently relocated to South Carolina, said that the class has helped her feel more prepared for the job market. "The class has broadened my knowledge about what employers are looking for. It's helped me decide what to do next," she said.

Participants in the class will be fully prepared for an interview situation, and will gain confidence about what they have to offer an employer.

"Competition for jobs in these economic times is fiercer than it has been in decades, so people looking for work need to be able to effectively communicate their strengths," says Lisa Bartanus, training director for PTC's Economic Development division. "The course helps participants identify and communicate what they bring to the table."

Based on Piedmont Tech's work with companies throughout the region, the curriculum incorporates the skills requirements of employers in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, banking/financial, service and more. The curriculum focuses on behavioral interviewing, effective problem-solving skills, workplace communication and other skills necessary to succeed in today's work force.

The class culminates in mock behavioral interviews, during which students will be able to practice and perfect the skills they've learned.

The course is open to the public, but for those who are eligible, the cost of the course will be covered by Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funds. For more information about how WIA can help you reach your career goals, please attend a Workforce System Information Session. The sessions are held every week at the local Employment Security Commission One-Stop Workforce Centers. The schedule for the Upper Savannah region can be found at http://www.us1stops.com/workshop_info.html. You may contact the Upper Savannah Workforce System at (800) 922-7729.