Putting the work in to find her dream job

Heather Hackett was ready to take the next step in her career but wasn’t sure where to begin. “My past jobs had communications and marketing-related titles, but I was wanting a program management job. I knew I had the skills, but I needed to do a better job of translating that onto my resume, and I simply wasn’t getting calls for any interviews,” she explained.

During her – what seemed like – endless job search, she came across information about PA Women Work’s 3 Cups of Coffee program and decided to see if it could help. “I was looking to make a jump in my career, and I needed support and someone to talk to. My mentor helped me focus my approach and supported me every step of the way,” she said.

Together, Heather and her mentor redid her resume, discussed strategies for writing a successful cover letter, and worked on different approaches to networking.

“3 Cups of Coffee is a great program for women who have been stuck and aren’t sure where to start,” Heather said. “It’s a way to define your goals and plan for your future with someone outside of your usual circle.”

Heather found a job after participating in 3 Cups of Coffee, but it wasn’t quite the right fit for her. The PA Women Work team invited Heather to participate in New Choices and continue building her professional skillset to aid in her job search.

“When I learned about New Choices, I knew right away I should take advantage of this opportunity,” Heather explained. “I was able to grow my network, do more work on my resume and update my LinkedIn profile. Having a cheering squad was incredibly helpful.”

Following her participation in New Choices, Heather was hired as the PA Engagement Associate at Benefits Data Trust, a national nonprofit organization. “I am so happy in my new job. They have a commitment to honoring diversity and offering professional development opportunities to employees,” Heather said. “The help that PA Women Work provided me, I couldn’t get that anywhere else. I am just so grateful.”

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