People looking for jobs will be able to learn tips from the Capital Area Training Consortium-Area Workforce Center on Wednesday.

"How to Conduct a Self-Directed Job Search" will highlight how the job-search industry has changed in the past five years and offer advice to help in finding a job.

Naima Wares-Akers, a vocational specialist with the center, said Internet applications are more common now, but many people have only applied on paper.

"We're showing people it's a lot more sophisticated, but giving them the tools to be more successful," she said.

The screening processes that many companies are using today also are making it difficult for people to find jobs, Wares-Akers said. "Nowadays, a computer might decide if you get to see a live person for an interview."

Still, the résumé is an important component of the job search.

"We attempt to show people how to organize that search so they don't get frustrated," she said.

The free public lecture will take place from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at two locations. The Richmond office is at 7333 White Pine Road, while the Sandston office is at 5410 Williamsburg Road.

-- Lindsay Machak