[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/jobshadowweek.jpg” caption=”Employee Career Services offers online tools to help McMaster employees advance their careers. File photo.”]Employee Career Services has revamped its website, which features a variety of career development tools, including self-assessment, job search tips and educational opportunities for McMaster employees seeking to advance their careers at the University.

Since its establishment in October 2004, Employee Career Services has experienced significant growth. The program assists employees with self-development by providing guidance in career planning, competing for employment opportunities and planning for professional development. This in turn helps McMaster University retain talented and dedicated employees, and enhances the University's position as an employer of choice.

Employee Career Services prides itself in providing employees with the necessary tools to help them realize their potential, achieve their career goals and strive for personal excellence.

To better serve the needs of a diverse workforce, the website has been redesigned to provide more relevant and comprehensive online career resources. This is a significant step in making career resources accessible to all employees and confirms the University's commitment to support employees in the process. Employees repeatedly express the value and worth of this program and are grateful it is available to them.

“Employees are investing in their career development and support for this program at McMaster is constantly increasing. An important message is that regardless of your position here at the University, there is always something that you can be developing. Through a variety of resources and opportunities, Employee Career Services is helping McMaster employees to achieve their goals, whether that is developing in their current roles, or new roles.”

The website has a clean look and is consistent with the University's new visual identity guidelines, which makes it appealing and inviting for visitors to explore. Careful thought was given to the content and organization of information addressing a wide range of career needs.

To access the website, employees can login using their MAC ID. Each section of the newly developed site has specific information sheets, guides, online tutorials and worksheets that can be downloaded for personal use.

One of the newest virtual resources is the Occupational Skills Profiles representing about 30 occupational groups within the University. These profiles are packed with government occupational information on skills, education paths, job trends and professional associations. The profiles serve as a reference for skills reviews, education options, professional development planning, writing resumes and job interview preparation.

Online career resources give employees anytime/anywhere access and will engage those employees who may not be able to schedule individual appointments or attend workshops due to time constraints. Employees are encouraged to visit the site regularly as updates will occur frequently.