When exploring careers or looking for a new job, many people turn to commercial job boards and websites. However, one valuable resource that is sometimes overlooked is CareerOneStop.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop provides a wide variety of free tools and information designed to help individuals make informed career decisions.
The website for CareerOneStop is:
https://www.careeronestop.org/
Visitors to the website can explore careers, search for job openings, learn about training programs, and research employment trends. The site also offers information on resumes, cover letters, interviewing, and salary data.
Some of the resources available through CareerOneStop include:
- Career exploration tools.
- Occupation profiles and salary information.
- Resume and cover letter guidance.
- Job search assistance.
- Training and education information.
- Interview preparation resources.
- Career videos and self-assessments.
- Information for career changers and lifelong learners.
One of the strengths of CareerOneStop is that it brings together a large amount of career information in one place. Whether someone is entering the workforce, returning to the workforce after a break, or considering a new direction, the website offers resources that can help support the process.
Career development is often an ongoing journey. Having access to reliable information can make that journey easier and help individuals make more informed decisions about their future.
CareerOneStop is an example of how technology and public resources can work together to support lifelong learning and career success.
Those interested in learning more are encouraged to visit CareerOneStop and explore the many free resources available.
Live Your Life Learning Blog
When many people think about preparing for a career, they often think of college degrees or certificate programs. Another option that deserves attention is registered apprenticeships.
Fortunately, there are several ways individuals can explore apprenticeship opportunities.
Individuals can locate apprenticeship opportunities through a variety of resources, including:
Federal Government Resources
Information about apprenticeships can be found through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship.
The following website provides the ability to search for apprenticeship opportunities across the country:
https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-job-finder
The Office of Apprenticeship also provides information about the apprenticeship system and links to state apprenticeship agencies and resources:
https://www.apprenticeship.gov/about-us/apprenticeship-system
State Government Agencies
Many state government agencies provide information about apprenticeship programs available within their states. The Office of Apprenticeship website contains links and information that can help individuals locate state apprenticeship resources.
College and University Career Offices
Career offices at colleges and universities sometimes provide information about apprenticeship programs and opportunities available to students and graduates.
Job Search Engines
Major job search websites such as LinkedIn and Indeed often include apprenticeship opportunities. Searching with the keyword “apprenticeship” may help individuals identify available positions.
Google and AI Searches
Google searches and AI tools can also help individuals locate apprenticeship opportunities in the geographic areas they are interested in exploring.
One of the biggest advantages of apprenticeships is the opportunity to “earn while you learn.” Participants receive paid, on-the-job experience while also receiving training and instruction. Upon completion, apprentices earn nationally recognized credentials that can help open the door to future opportunities.
Although apprenticeships have traditionally been associated with the skilled trades, opportunities are expanding into many other fields. Today, apprenticeships can be found in areas such as healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, transportation, and other high-demand occupations.
Employers benefit by developing skilled workers, while individuals gain valuable experience and income as they learn. For many people, apprenticeships offer an attractive alternative or complement to traditional educational pathways.
Apprenticeships represent another example of how learning can take many forms. Whether you are entering the workforce, changing careers, or simply exploring your options, apprenticeships may be worth considering.
Through a combination of paid work experience and structured learning, apprenticeships provide another pathway to lifelong learning and career development
Live Your Life Learning Blog
If typing, writing, or computer work has become difficult due to hand or wrist pain, it can make career decisions more complicated.
I’ve created a free guide focused on helping individuals think through career options when dealing with repetitive strain injuries (RSI) in the hands and wrists.
The guide looks at practical ways to:
• Evaluate careers based on physical demands
• Use informational interviews to gather real-world insight
• Identify work patterns that may reduce continuous strain
• Ask better questions before accepting a job
This is a free resource and a living document that may be updated as new ideas and feedback are developed.
You will have the option to contribute if you would like, but there is no expectation to do so. If you are dealing with hand or wrist problems, please feel free to download the guide at no cost.
This publication is a collection of ideas. Take what is helpful to you, and leave what is not.
If this topic is relevant to you — or someone you know — you can access the guide here:
👉 https://liveyourlifelearning.gumroad.com/l/rsi-career-guide
Live Your Life Learning Blog
Hello everyone,
From time to time, you may receive emails from organizations or associations related to your profession. These emails often include invitations to seminars, conferences, presentations, or other virtual events.
These types of events can be a great way to:
- Learn new ideas and trends in your field
- Hear from experienced professionals
- Stay current with industry developments
- Connect with others in your profession
Sometimes these events are free or low-cost, and many are now offered online, making them easier to attend.
If you receive one of these invitations, it may be worth taking a look — you never know what useful insight or opportunity might come from it.
If you have a scheduling conflict and cannot attend the event live, it may still be helpful to register. Many organizations provide recordings afterward, allowing you to benefit from the content at a time that works for you.
Question for the week:
Have you attended a seminar or conference that helped you in your career?
If you’d like to share your thoughts, feel free to:
Thanks for taking a moment to read and share your ideas.
Mike
Live Your Life Learning
Live Your Life Learning Blog
This Week: AI Resources and Wrist-Friendly Career Tools
Hello everyone,
I hope you’re all doing well. Sorry for the pause in posting recently — I’ve had a few health issues to manage, but things are improving and I’m getting back into the swing of things.
With all the news lately about artificial intelligence and how it’s changing the workplace, I wanted to share a resource that some of you may find helpful.
Goodwill, the nonprofit organization that supports many career and workforce programs, is currently offering the Google AI Essentials Course for free for a limited time. If you’re curious about learning the basics of AI and how it can be used in everyday work tasks, this may be worth checking out.
More details can be found on the Goodwill website:
https://www.goodwill.org/
I’m not sure if the course is limited to people in the United States or available internationally, so be sure to check the website for details.
Resources for People with Wrist Challenges
For those who experience wrist pain or repetitive strain issues, I’ve also been working on sharing some ideas and resources that may help. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I’ve been documenting some things I’ve learned along the way.
I’ve created a small YouTube channel where I share information and resources related to wrist injuries and career options. Some additional notes and explanations are included in the video descriptions.
You can find the channel here:
Wrist Injuries to Career Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@wristinjuriestocareerchann4456
If you have thoughts, suggestions, or ideas, I’d be happy to hear them. You can either:
• Leave a comment on a video with the title “This Week: Course A.I and Wrist Resources” video on the Live Your Life Learning YouTube channel
• Send feedback to: helpfulfeedback@yahoo.com
My goal is to post again in about two weeks. I’m working toward sharing content a few times each month, and I’m also hoping to begin posting some interview conversations soon.
Things have been on pause for a while, so I appreciate everyone’s patience as I get things moving again.
Thanks for following along.
Mike
Live Your Life Learning
Live Your Life Learning Blog
This week on Live Your Life Learning, we’re focusing on a powerful — and often overlooked — job-search tool:
👉 A potential employer’s YouTube channel
Many organizations use YouTube to share:
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Company culture and values
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Employee stories and day-to-day work
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Leadership messages and hiring insights
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Training, onboarding, or “day in the life” videos
Watching a company’s YouTube content can help you:
✔ Better understand if the organization is a good fit
✔ Prepare stronger, more targeted interview answers
✔ Ask thoughtful questions that stand out
✔ Go beyond the job description
If you’re job-hunting, this is a simple step that can give you a real advantage.
Looking at a YouTube channel of a potential employer may help you finding opportunities with a potential employer.
Live Your Life Learning Blog
When filling out a job application, many systems give you a chance to review your information before submitting.
After completing a long application, it can be tempting to click “submit” right away — especially if you’re tired or short on time. If possible, pause and take a few extra minutes to review your application.
Things to double-check:
Also, look to see if the application has a “save” feature. If it does, consider saving your work and coming back to it later. Stepping away and returning with fresh eyes can help you catch mistakes — and ensures you don’t lose the work you’ve already done.
A few extra minutes of review — and using the save option when available — can make a strong first impression.
Live Your Life Learning Blog
As 2025 comes to a close, I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported Live Your Life Learning this year.
I’ll be taking a short holiday break and will be back in 2026.
I hope the rest of the year brings you rest, reflection, and time with those who matter most. As we head into 2026, may it be a year of growth, learning, and new opportunities.
Enjoy the holidays, take care, and I’ll see you in the New Year.
— Mike Searson
Live Your Life Learning
Live Your Life Learning Blog
Congratulations — you’ve been invited to an interview! 🎉
That’s a big step. One of the best ways to increase your chances of success is to spend a little time researching the potential employer ahead of the interview.
Here are some practical ideas to help you prepare:
1. Find the Location
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Look up where the employer is located.
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If the interview is in person, check the address and review a map so you know exactly where you’re going.
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If possible, consider driving by the location ahead of time to reduce stress on interview day.
2. Confirm the Interview Time
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Double-check the date and time of your interview.
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For virtual interviews, confirm the time zone.
A mix-up between Central Time and Pacific Time can easily lead to a missed interview.
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When in doubt, confirm the time by email.
3. Look for an Employee Handbook
Some organizations publish an Employee Handbook (also called an Employee Manual, Staff Handbook, or Company Guidebook).
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These documents often explain company values, expectations, and workplace culture.
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You may be able to find one online, especially for public organizations or educational institutions.
4. Check Recent News
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Try a Google search using the employer’s name plus the word “news.”
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This can help you learn about recent developments, achievements, or challenges.
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Mentioning something current in an interview shows genuine interest and preparation.
5. Review Annual Reports (If Available)
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Some organizations publish Annual Reports that summarize the past year and outline future goals.
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Search the employer’s name along with “Annual Report.”
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These reports can provide insight into priorities, growth areas, and long-term direction.
Final Thought
Making it to the interview is an accomplishment in itself.
Taking time to research the employer shows professionalism, preparation, and genuine interest — all of which can help you stand out.
Good luck with your interview!
Live Your Life Learning Blog
Cell phones play an important role in the job-search process. Here are a few practical tips to help make sure your phone is working for you — not against you:
1. Check Your Voicemail Storage Limits
Some phones or service providers have limits on how many messages can be stored.
If your voicemail box is full, employers cannot leave new messages — and you may not realize you missed an important call.
✔ Clear old messages regularly
✔ Make sure your voicemail is set up and working
2. Check Your Messages Often
Make a habit of checking your voicemail and text messages throughout the day.
Recruiters sometimes move quickly, and returning calls promptly can make a strong impression.
3. Keep Your Phone in the Same Place at Home
This simple habit reduces stress.
When you’re getting ready for an interview, you don’t want to waste time searching for your phone.
✔ Pick a spot
✔ Keep it there every day
4. Bring Employer Contact Information With You
Before heading to an interview, save or write down the employer’s phone number.
If you’re delayed (traffic, trains, etc.), you can quickly notify them — which shows professionalism and responsibility.
Closing Thought
These simple habits can help you use your cell phone more effectively during your job search — and avoid small problems that could cost you opportunities.
Live Your Life Learning Blog
