Seeking a job or looking for advice over a career change or training opportunities? Then don’t miss Employment and Skills 2011, which takes places at the Villa Marina in Douglas on Thursday 24th November. As well as providing the largest annual gathering of employers held locally, the event is also ideal for those who want to learn how to write an impressive CV, polish up their interview skills and obtain tips on how to dress in the workplace. Forty one exhibitors will fill the Royal Hall and Promenade Suite at the event, hosted by the Departments of Economic Development (DED) and Education and Children (DEC). First-time exhibitors include Shoprite, SES Satellite Leasing Ltd, Gallery Magazine and Manx Professional and Educational Services Ltd. Other professions represented include finance, media, transport and professional services. The Department of Health and the Engineering and Manufacturing sector skills group will showcase the diverse range of opportunities available in those fields. The latter will give presentations in the Broadway Cinema at 9.30am, 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 4.30pm and 5.30pm. In the Ivy Benson Bar, Wendy Campbell from Image Matters will be giving advice on how to present yourself for an interview. Nearly 900 secondary school students will attend in organised groups to talk to employers, before they make crucial A-level choices, about the qualifications they need to follow career paths. They are welcome to return after school to discuss career opportunities in more depth. John Shimmin MHK, Minister for Economic Development, said: ‘Employment and Skills 2011 is the largest event of its type on the Isle of Man and provides a unique opportunity for employers to meet with jobseekers and students in an informal setting. ‘We are fortunate to live on an Island that offers individuals a wealth of career options and I hope young people will make the most of this valuable opportunity to meet employers face to face to discuss their future careers.’ In his foreword to the programme, Peter Karran MHK, Minister for Education and Children, says: ‘It’s vital we equip today’s workforce – and the workforce of the future, represented at the event by nearly 900 secondary school students – with the skills they need to allow the Island to maintain its competitive edge in the years ahead. ‘Our links with business and industry have never been more important and I am grateful to all those attending the event for investing in our young people’s future.’ The event is open from 9am to 7pm and admission is free. To download a full programme, visit www.gov.im/lib/docs/education/events/employmentskills2011.pdf Employment and Skills 2011 is supported by Energy FM. Ends