1027-3           DETERMINING THE LEVEL OF REPRESENTATION

The level of representation for each job seeker will be individualized based on the presenting circumstances and job negotiation needs.  There are options for full, partial and self representation strategies that should be considered for each job seeker and each negotiation opportunity. The level of representation needed or desired is made at the EPM. In addition, some job seekers will have the skills and supports necessary to pursue self-employment.

1027-3 A.       FULL REPRESENTATION AND NEGOTIATION:  

There are several factors to consider when preparing to fully represent a job seeker. Those who typically benefit from full representation meet several of the following circumstances:

1.     The job seeker requires a fully negotiated job description

2.     Conditions of the job seeker are significant or atypical

3.     The communication and social skills of the job seeker warrant representation

4.     The job seeker’s skills and/or work history is extremely limited or complex

5.     Traditional work search has not been effective

6.     Job coaching or follow-up is essential to the job seeker’s successful employment

1027-3 B.      PARTIAL REPRESENTATION AND/OR NEGOTIATION:

Many individuals given the appropriate support may only require partial representation. Partial representation means that the JD is present to support and contribute to representation and negotiation between the job seeker and potential employer. Those job seekers that only require or desire partial representation typically are familiar with traditional job search and have the skills, interest and personality to carry out the majority of tasks on a posted job description. In partial representation only portions of the posted job description or expected schedule/work hours may need to be negotiated with the assistance of or representation from the JD. Those who typically benefit from partial representation to negotiate with an employer meet several of the following circumstances:

  1. The job seeker has a history of employment, yet has life circumstances that removed him/her out of the work force (brief or longer term)

  2. A traditional job is likely obtainable though a partially negotiated job is possible

  3. The job seeker has the necessary communication/social skills to participate in the negotiation process

  4. A traditional job is likely obtainable, yet the job seeker wishes to negotiate a portion of it to meet their unique skills, interests and conditions

  5. The job seeker has less complexities identified (i.e., may only have a health/medical or legal challenge, or specific scheduling needs) that impact obtaining and retaining employment

1027-3 C.      SELF-REPRESENTATION AND/OR NEGOTIATION:

Self-representation refers to job seekers who have strong capabilities in presenting themselves, interviewing and obtaining a job. They are able to self-advocate and represent their needs for future employment. Those who typically benefit from self-representation meet several of the following circumstances:

1.     The job seeker has a strong history of successfully obtaining traditional jobs

2.     Communication or social skills and pragmatics are strengths of the individual

3.     The job seeker has skills, knowledge and experience that match a traditional job description

4.     The job seeker has less complexities interfering with his/her ability to work (i.e., minor legal or domestic violence issues)

5.     Minimal to no negotiation is required based on Discovery results.

Note: 

Discuss the suitability of using a Portfolio for job seekers who represent themselves. Those who select to self-represent may benefit from their JD reviewing his/her Profile to emphasize aspects that may be presented in an application, resume or interview.

1027-3 D.       PARTICIPATION IN TRADITIONAL COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT:

Some clients may find success negotiating with an employer who has an open competitive recruitment or a position to fill. Those who are typically able to enter the traditional competitive recruitment process meet the following circumstances:

1.     The job seeker has a strong history of obtaining and maintaining traditional employment

2.     Communication or social skills and pragmatics are strengths of the individual

3.     Complexities or issues that were previously barriers to traditional employment have resolved

4.     The job seeker meets all qualifications and requirements of traditional job positions pursued

5.     The job seeker needs only minimal flexibility at the job.  The employer offers similar flexibility to all employees.

Note: 

There may be no need to develop a Portfolio for job seekers headed for traditional recruitment. Those who enter the traditional competitive recruitment process may benefit from their JD reviewing his/her Profile to emphasize aspects that may be represented in an application, resume or interview.

1027-3 E.      SELF-EMPLOYMENT:

Self-employment is an additional option for some job seekers. If the Employment Plan identifies a best fit with self-employment based on complexities and applicable skills, self-employment may be considered.  Self-employment options are varied, and sometimes desirable because of the flexibility of necessary job tasks and scheduling work hours. The JD may be involved in a variety of ways to support the job seeker in pursuing self-employment. Those who typically benefit from self-employment may meet the following circumstances or have reliable resources to support and manage a successful business:

1.     The job seeker is considered a “self-starter” who possesses strong initiative.

2.     The job seeker has a history in self-employment or the type of business they would like to pursue.

3.     Shows ability or has supports to look ahead, plan and carry out plans.

4.     May have strong communication and social skills.

5.     Organizational skill is a strong suit, or has supports to achieve.

6.     Some sense of creativity and ability to generate new ideas.

7.     Potential to follow the lead of others (i.e., customers) as well as lead others (i.e., employees).

Note: 

The JD may be involved in a variety of ways to support the job seeker in pursuing self-employment (see detailed information on self-employment in the NJD Study Guide and training materials).

 

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