Want to get the job you want and put income assistance behind you? B.C.'s income assistance system has been redesigned to focus on achievement through employment for clients who are able to work.

Here's how Surrey's Parvinder Suri changed her life forever, and you can too.

Parvinder was a single mom who moved from assistance to income. Her income assistance worker referred her to one of our employment programs called Destinations. Parvinder re-worked her resume, polished up her interview skills and got her first job.

While employed, Destinations paid for her computer training and necessary certificates, and provided her with regular encouragement.

Through the support of the program, Parvinder's salary and experience climbed steadily and she's now qualified to compete for an $18-an-hour position with the school board. She's full of optimism — for her, the future is now bright and full of promise.

To provide clients like Parvinder with the skills and supports they need to enter the workforce, the government has invested more than $300 million on a full suite of employment programs.

And it's working!

Our four job placement programs have placed more than 30,600 income assistance clients into good jobs — jobs like painters, cashiers, retail clerks and security guards.

There are currently almost 10,000 jobs available to clients in communities throughout the province.

To reach your full potential through employment, check out the latest in Job Search Materials, Job Site Links and Career Tips in Achieve BC's Jobs & Opportunities section and the resources section of the Industry Training Authority's web site.

5 Tips to Get Your Resume Noticed

Getting a great job starts with having a great resume. Try these tips to transform your resume from standard to standout.

1. Be specific. Tailor your resume to the job you are interested in.
2. Keep it short and simple. Not more than one or two pages.
3. Be honest. Highlight your skills and accomplishments - but don't exaggerate.
4. Check for errors. Correct spelling and typing highlights your good communication skills.
5. Make a good first impression. Always include a cover letter.

Achieve BC has lots more to get you started on your job search. For everything from networking and cold calling to advice on polishing your interview skills, go to Jobs & Opportunities at Achieve BC.

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