MARY BALDASANO / Special to the PVT Laurayne Murray presents employment concept to Pahrump area business people. Advertisement

One of the things Pahrump lacks is an available, quality work force. While this may be due to low-paying jobs, a lot of it is due to the inability of individuals to survive an interview.

Recently the Chamber of Commerce presented a seminar to local business representatives regarding a new program, "Suit Yourself," that will help people be trained as well as prepared for the interview process.

As part of the Rural Community Workforce Solutions of Nevada Inc., the program, developed in partnership with Job Connect, it is designed to help people better their chances for success even after the initial interview is over.

The program is also being implemented in conjunction with Job Connect's "Dress for Success," plan -- an effort to obtain professional attire for both men and women from, among others, recent retirees who might have wardrobes they can offer others.

Suit Yourself will help individuals discover their passions, present themselves as solution partners, personal grooming, professional attire, and powerful guidance and support.

Laurayne Murray, the seminar speaker, said: "We need to help them acquire credentials, make a commitment and achieve confidence in themselves."

The two-part program includes two classes, "Setting Your Goals to Achieve Success" and "Communications Mastery."

The objective of the first is to help students better their chances for success by understanding their talents, gift, and goals by having purpose and clear vision for building a resume; of the other, to help them better their communications skills, both internally and with others, which gives them the skill-set to complete a successful interview process and with personnel afterwards.

Another aspect of the program is to teach students how to act during confrontations, also avoidance activity, and to teach businesses how to take leadership actions instead of ignoring or firing an individual.

A syllabus and brochure have been prepared and will be offered to employers and potential employees alike.

The program is expected to be implemented in August. Mentors are sought to work with those who participate in the program. The opportunity is offered to those 14 and up and will also be offered as an option for offenders.

Victoria Ballant, director of Job Connect, emphasized that employers should "send employees who face termination to take the program. It may prevent the ultimate action from being taken."

To participate as either a supporter or student, call 775-537-2767.