Workplace Lessons Star Wars Can Teach Us in 2016

Ready to Take Your Job by Storm? The Force is with You.

There is no better time to manage workplace foibles, improve office morale, and reflect on the health of co-worker relations than the clean slate of a brand new year. Was 2015 was less than galactic? One way to learn from past mistakes is to look to a galaxy far, far, away. If the latest installment of the Star Wars epic (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) and the six that have come before are of practical value, it is as the world’s longest standing decoder ring for how to live our lives – both as people and employees.

Whether you’ve been doing the Jedi meld since 1977, or you only just got the memo about Luke’s absentee dad, these are the workplace lessons of Star Wars that, by now, we should have all taken to heart.

It’s a Fictional Galaxy.

Your office may not be populated by green wrinkled creatures or throat-singing bigfoots. Or maybe it is. Either way, the workplace can seem like its own kind of Death Star. Things like getting in before dawn, submitting endless time sheets, and staying late because of a shift snafu are probably not your idea of the ideal universe. But remember: when we bellied up to the cantina for some blue milk, we signed on for the physics of an immersive Empire where we must make allowances. When you’re the boss, you can allow Wookies in the snack room. Until then, take the strange rules of physics of the office in stride this year.

Be a Loyal Droid.

R2-D2 would always put himself on the line for C-3PO despite their many differences. Stepping up in the workplace, volunteering to help with projects, and playing Threepio to an overworked Artoo is one of the best ways to shine up your golden reputation in 2016. Being a leader means not blaming others for mistakes and missed deadlines, so resolve to take responsibility this year. You’ll gain co-workers’ trust and get noticed by the Jedi master as well.

There’s Always Another Sequel.

The workplace can feel like one of culture’s most successful franchises – there’s always a sequel, and we all have to go in again Monday. That means you have a second chance to right an egregious wrong (unless that wrong is Jar-Jar Binks). Some of the worst indiscretions can be smoothed over with acknowledgement and apology. But don’t wait 10 years – we all lose our cool or act like a princess (cinnamon buns and all), but the sooner you acknowledge you got up on the wrong side of the galaxy the better. Heed well: a simple “I’m sorry” to a co-worker or supervisor – in English, not a series of beeps – goes a long way to repairing damaged work relationships.

It’s a Democracy, not a Dictatorship.

No matter what your job is, being an employee is like being part of an energy field that binds the galaxy together. The more you can work as a team, the better armed everyone is to fight evil forces. Besides, what good is dominion when it leaves you high and dry with your knee-high boots on? This year, let the tenets of team playing be your guide. Try to listen, especially if you are a manager or supervisor. Most employees just want to be heard. Certain Stormtrooper coming in late every Monday? See what you can do to help with the challenges of her family schedule – finding a solution together can help side-step frustration and keep everyone from turning to the dark side.

Be the Hero of Your Own Journey. 

Sure, it’s 2016, but life is no different than it was long, long ago – in this universe, you control your own future. If boredom at work is setting in, train like a Jedi, or take class in saber-swinging that will help you snag that new position or promotion. If work is overwhelming, set a meeting with the Sith lord in the corner office to discuss your ideas for how work could be better distributed. Mentor a young ewok, or ask for that raise (Deserve, I do!). Remember, when you face down your fears, you almost always come back smarter and stronger. So don’t get encased in carbonite this year – take on a new challenge instead. The force is definitely with you.


photo credit: Be unique! via photopin (license)

7 Simple Rules for Being a Better Coworker

Staffing Specialists Reveal Their Best Tips for the Workplace 

Are you a trusted partner in the workplace? If you’re sensing it isn’t just your cologne that’s making coworkers steer clear of your cubicle, it might be time to examine your workplace reputation. A single workplace misstep, if done repeatedly, can send you down the wrong road when it comes to winning the trust and respect of coworkers. It can even affect your prospects of raises or promotions.

We talked to staffing specialists and managers to find out what qualities at work can make and break coworker relationships, and the majority were in agreement about the impact of seven simple things. If your workplace profile needs polishing, keep this list handy. You’ll thin the cloud of mistrust that surrounds you and start strengthening your workplace relationships instantly.

1. Take Responsibility.

Aspire to be a workplace leader? Don’t blame others for mishaps, mistakes, or missed deadlines. It doesn’t take long for coworkers to recognize when you’re being accountable and when you’re passing the buck. Taking responsibility – even when it may not seem fair at the time – pays dividends. You’ll gain the trust and respect of your coworkers, and it won’t go unnoticed to the powers that be.

2. Step Up.

It turns out that one of the best ways to burnish your workplace reputation is to step up. Volunteer to contribute on projects, or ask how you can help a coworker who seems overwhelmed. “A coworker who goes above and beyond minimal expectations is the shining star of the office,” said one Bonney Staffing specialist. “The effort devoted to lending an extra hand will be returned in spades.” At the same time, it doesn’t pay to be a doormat. “A worker should know their value,” the specialist said. “Picking up others’ slack all the time can take a toll on self-worth. The key is knowing that line.”

3. Save the Drama.

Temper tantrums, outbursts, sulking...that’s workplace drama, and staffing specialists and managers on the frontlines are unanimous – such behavior demolishes the Drama Queen’s rep. Gossip, the ugly stepsister of office place drama, is no more attractive. Chatting about coworkers behind their backs can seem like a harmless way to pass the time, but don’t be fooled. Even those willing to gossip with you will ultimately steer clear, leading to isolation and poor relationships. When it doubt, hold your tongue, and save the drama for your mama.

4. Show Up.

Woody Allen said it’s 80% of success, and it’s never more true than at work. Showing up on time is one of the easiest things you can do to gain the respect of coworkers, and showing up late is one of the easiest ways to lose it. Send the message that you value others’ time by eliminating tardiness and arriving at meetings when they are scheduled. Being the office straggler is one reputation certain to precede you – especially if you’re late.

5. Steer Clear of Politics.

Work is a team sport, not a party line. The old saw about talking politics applies to the workplace: it’s not safe. Why? Facing off about political issues can put a damper on productivity and be a drain on relationships. And, it’s always isolating to those whose views differ. Treat politics as a private issue, not a professional one, and when election season heats up the landscape, keep the flame on a low simmer from nine to five.

6. Keep “Weekend You” Out of the Office.

It’s not always easy. Social media activity mingles with the workday, and between Work You and Weekend You is just one blurred line. Workplace relationships are important, and sharing is a vital part of being a valued friend and coworker. But too much talk about staying out late and having one too many Frangelicos can sully your workplace reputation and make you seem immature and irresponsible. Err on the side of discretion. Unless you’re devoting your off-hours to helping the white rhino, save weekend shenanigans for your besties.

7. Make Suggestions.

According to several Bonney Staffing specialists, one of the best ways to enhance your professional profile is to make a contribution to the workplace. If you see a way to improve processes, say so. “Workers should, first and foremost, fulfill their job responsibilities. But if there is a way to offer suggestions to a team leader or to mentor a coworker, they should,” said one manager. Taking the initiative is the way to move from good coworker to valued coworker.” Just make sure you’ve got the facts and figures to support your recommendation – then go for it.

The Video Resume

Today’s Hiring Tool for Savvy Job Seekers 

For employers and job placement agencies, online applications have long been the norm, and now, communication via video is more common than ever before. The video resume – a video recorded remotely and sent to a hiring manager to support a job application – can be an important part of a job seeker’s package.

Video resumes are obviously a valuable tool to help time-starved hiring managers, but video resumes can provide an important edge for job seekers as well. It helps them put a unique stamp on their application, showcase their strengths, and gives them a leg up when it comes to getting the position they’ve been working toward.

If you’ve partnered with a staffing company or job placement agency that doesn’t offer job seekers the opportunity to create a video package as part of the application process, it’s time step out from behind the curve – and in front of the camera.

The Video Resume Edge

There are many compelling reasons for job seekers to have a video resume in their arsenal. With Facetime and Skype becoming common communication media, many hiring managers expect a remote interview to be part of the hiring process at some point.

But providing a video resume upfront can also be an effective way to differentiate yourself. While paper resumes may be fading fast, even digital resumes can be lost in the shuffle. And, when the job market is competitive, standing out in a pool of applicants is a job seeker’s objective. An exceptional video resume can make that happen.

Job seekers can think of it as making their very own commercial. "We want to make you look good."

Video resumes are used for all levels of employment, but they can be particularly valuable for mid-level jobs, where applicants are looking for a little extra edge in a highly competitive market, according to Kelly Aho, Vice President of Bonney Staffing Center. “It can make an enormous difference,” Aho said. “Video resumes allow you to portray yourself in the best possible light so a hiring manager can see you are more than a piece of paper. At Bonney, we have the best clients across all industries, and we want you to put your best foot forward to help you get in front of them.”

Aho said that the videos they create with applicants at Bonney provide an effortless “meeting” between employer and candidate and are an excellent way for an applicant to hone their presentation skills. All job seekers eventually end up in a face-to-face meeting, and after doing a video resume, the applicant is confident and prepared to take the next step.

It may seem at first glance that video resumes are a way for employers to see if an applicant is a “fit”, or to get a gut reaction about them. That may be true to an extent, but staffing specialists at Bonney say that the videos play a more meaningful role. For example, applicants can use a video resume as a way to overcome skills deficits or resume gaps by highlighting strengths instead. When you have a few minutes to sell yourself, showing that you are highly motivated can impress employers and overshadow a lack of experience, for example. And, hiring managers can take in much more information by viewing a video than they can by reading over resumes and letters. That can work to the job seeker’s advantage.

Ready for Your Close Up? How to Get Started

“We want to make you look good,” said Krista Thurlow, District Manager at Bonney Staffing, about the video resume process. At Bonney, all applicants have access to their proprietary video resume system, and staffers take them through every step of the process, making sure the version on camera shows the applicant in the best possible light. Job seekers can think of it as making their very own commercial.

The interview consists of around 3-5 general questions – questions such as, “What would a recent supervisor say about you?” – that are walked through with the applicant beforehand. It takes 5-10 minutes to complete. It’s an easy, friendly, low-pressure process, built specifically around helping applicants make a great impression and get an edge when it comes to in-demand positions with some of the state’s top-tier companies.

The video’s creation and packaging is completely taken care by Bonney, and staffing specialists will send along a link to the video to hiring managers along with the applicant’s resume. Hiring managers have access to the video even if they didn’t specifically ask for one, so the applicant has every opportunity to make their mark.

It’s that simple. If you’re ready to put your best foot forward, start by filling out an application. And when you’re asked about a video resume, just say you’re ready for your close-up.

Bonney Goes “Above and Beyond” for Veterans

Bonney Staffing Recognized at Veterans' Conference, Joins Maine's Hire-A-Vet Campaign

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), Chair Emeritus, Rob Carmichael (Brig. General retired) presents Donna Dumond and Robert Traill of Bonney Staffing with an ESGR Above and Beyond Award this past September. Bonney Staffing was recognized for exemplary employment assistance with military affiliated job seekers. 

Hero2Hired Photo by Employment Coordinator Travis Hill.

Bonney Staffing Center, Inc. is honored to be a recipient of the Above and Beyond Award this year, an award that recognizes civilian employers at the local level who have gone “above and beyond” in their commitment to veteran employees who are entering or re-entering the workforce.

The Above and Beyond Award is presented in limited numbers by State Committees of the ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve), a division of the Department of Defense that works with and recognizes civilian employers.

The ceremony was held in Northport, Maine on September 24, where Bonney was presented with the award recognizing our employment assistance with military affiliated job seekers statewide, in all of our Maine branch locations. The award was presented by ESGR Chair Emeritus, Rob Carmichael (Brig. General retired), and accepted by Donna Dumond, Vice President of Bonney Staffing Center, Inc. and Bob Traill, Director of Diversified Recruitment at Bonney.

Joining the Hire-A-Vet Effort in Maine

As part of our continued commitment to veterans in the workplace, Bonney is currently participating in the Hire-A-Vet Campaign, recently launched by the Maine Labor Department, ESGR, Hero2Hired, Veterans Inc., VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment, VA Veterans Homeless Program, VA Office of Rural Health, and the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, which urges the hiring of 100 vets in 100 days. It is part of a statewide effort to educate employers about the benefits of hiring veterans and decrease the veteran unemployment rate by providing the state’s vets with good-paying jobs where they can make use of their abilities. The campaign urges state employers to join in the effort, citing the many benefits of hiring veterans, such as company tax credits, their education, training, and values.

Bonney has a long history of integrating veterans directly into our outreach and recruitment strategy. The company’s staffing specialists value the unique skills of veterans, understand the challenges veterans face in the job search, and work to provide resources that cater to their specific needs. As part of our veteran recruitment effort, Bonney specialists provide support throughout the hiring process, helping veterans with important aspects such as communicating the transfer of their skills to civilian jobs. Our staff also play a vital role in educating employers on the many benefits of military-affiliated employees.

Bonney’s Hire-A-Vet efforts are underway, with 12 veteran hires and growing!

Thinking of hiring a veteran? Here’s 10 reasons why you should.

Are You Risking Job Burnout?

Every job has its ups and downs. But sometimes the downs last longer than they should. If your work environment is chaotic, demanding, unrewarding, or monotonous, and it’s been that way for months or even years, the trouble may not be your state of mind. It’s very likely you’re burned out.

Workplace burnout is a particular type of stress that can creep up on you. Certain jobs are notorious for being vulnerable to burnout – teachers can report burnout, or other jobs in industries that require caregiving and helping others can tax body and spirit and lead to textbook burnout. But employees in any career segment are susceptible if the job is stressful or simply unrewarding.

Burnout can be a drain – it can even have health consequences. But identifying its signs is the first step toward taming the flames and giving you the motivation to make a change for the better and start feeling rewarded by your work, not depleted by it.

Experiencing Job Burnout? Find Out – Take the Quiz

Give yourself 1 point for each statement below that’s True, and 0 for each statement that’s False.

___ You are a teacher, counselor, or health care worker, or you work in a job that requires monotonous or repetitive tasks more than 50% of the time.

___ You dread getting up in the morning and going to work.

___ You snapped at a co-worker more than once this week.

___ You’ve come to work late more than three times this month.

___ You’ve called in sick more than three times this month.

___ Getting things done at work is procrastination city – you’re just not motivated.

___ Your work and personal life is out of balance – you have little time or desire to devote to family, social activities, or personal care.

___ You rarely feel a sense of accomplishment from your work and/or you are rarely appreciated for your efforts.

___ You’ve been experiencing headaches, body aches, or back pain a lot lately.

___ Your energy’s sapped; you feel completely exhausted most of the time.

___ You can count on one hand how many good days at work you’ve had this month.

___ When you think of your job, you feel hopeless/helpless/trapped.

Your score is 0. Congratulations. You are most likely productive and happy in your current job. Take someone who’s not feeling quite so motivated to lunch. You’d probably make a perfect mentor – or at least serve as a sounding board if they are experiencing the burnout blues.

Your score is 2-4. You’re burnout level is at a low simmer, but there are warning signs. Getting a handle on it before it’s an issue can mean avoiding the complications of long-term burnout – things like insomnia and low energy – even illness.

First, see if a positive attitude helps. Start by complimenting co-workers on their work or praising their dedication. Second, give yourself a break. Take regular breathers during the workday, or decide to walk with a co-worker during lunchtimes to break up the day. Third, assess your non-working life. Do you have something you are passionate about outside the workplace? It may mean training for a 5K, volunteering, or taking a class – anything that will provide fulfillment and challenge when work isn’t meeting those needs.

Your score is 5-8. It may not be full-on burnout, but you are definitely a little singed. It’s important to get a handle on workplace issues now before you enter into the red zone.

Start by reaching out. Meet with co-workers and discuss how they are coping with burnout. Then, reach out to a manager or supervisor for a check-in meeting. Now is the time to proactively address specific problems, and talk about how you might increase duties, decrease workload, or moderate after-hours responsibilities. Put a positive spin on your concerns. Instead of saying you are constantly distracted by co-workers, for example, say how much you value your “in the zone” time and discuss ideas about how to capitalize on it. Or, if you are bound to a cube and are feeling isolated, ask how you might get involved in connecting with customers or co-workers as a way to take advantage of your strengths as a communicator.

Your score is 9+. You’re in the burnout red zone, and you could be in danger of serious repercussions. Burnout is making you vulnerable to illness (things like heart disease and obesity), and it’s probably affecting your personal life and relationships.

If talking to your employer hasn’t led to improvements, decide to make a plan toward a job change. First, assess your interest and skills, and decide what aspects about your current job you enjoy and those you don’t. It might be a good time to reach out to a job placement agency. Discussing your interests and skills with a job specialist can help you see your career potential in a new light, or uncover opportunities with businesses that are hiring right away. They’ll also have resources for helping you build up your resume and present yourself well to those who will appreciate what you have to offer.

Finally, take your physical and mental health seriously. Burnout is serious business, and while its effects are real, dealing with them can make the difference between going down in flames and dusting the ash off your shoulders.

Local Help for Those Experiencing Workplace Stress 

In Maine, the Maine Health Learning Resource Center has information and classes that provide stress management, mindfulness training, and support. In New Hampshire, 2-1-1 New Hampshire provides a variety of local services for those seeking to manage and reduce stress in the workplace.

Balancing Work & School

Studying & Working Full-time? 5 Things You Need to Succeed

For students everywhere, a new school year can bring the anticipation of new books, new teachers, and new classrooms. But if you are working full-time and going to school or taking a class to advance your education, the crisp fall air might signal an over-packed schedule, long nights, and a challenging balancing act that will have you spinning plates until the holidays.

If you are enrolled in school this fall, exams will fall at crunch time at work – it’s Murphy’s Law. To make it through, you’ll have to be prepared to dig in. But the good news is you are not alone. Many people like you have achieved a work-school balance and reached their goals. In fact, working while going to school can improve your performance. You may even be able to use your practical experience to write papers and complete assignments. So don’t be afraid – just be prepared for a new, exciting journey. Here are five of our best tips for balancing school and real life so you can make it through the year in Grade A shape.

1. Talk with the Boss

If you are a full-time employee going back to school, be up front with your boss about your commitments. If you are a valued worker, or if you are furthering your education as a way to advance within the company, your employer may be amenable to working with you on a flexible schedule during the school year, or to letting you leave early one day a week for a class or a designated study night. Most employers will appreciate your initiative, especially if they know your dedication to work will remain solid.

2. Get Family Support

The work-school balance dictates that time with friends, family, and partners will be limited. It might be hard at first on those closest to you when you’re coming home late, or holed-up studying night after night. Tell them why you’re doing it – whether it’s to build a better future, get a better job, or expand your horizons. If you have kids, be sure your partner or a family member is prepared to pick up the slack by babysitting or making meals during the week. Then, collaborate on a trip, outing, or some fun family time when the semester is over to give everyone something to look forward to.

3. Schedule It

Some people just aren’t natural schedulers – they prefer to take things as they come, and it works for them. However, if you are a full-time employee and a student, now is the time to take up the scheduling lifestyle. Consider what you’ll need to include in your newly scheduled week, and put it on paper or in a scheduling app. Will you need to wake up early? Catch up on sleep on weekends? Will studying require daily effort or a one-day-a-week cram session? Don’t forget to build in some buffer time to deal with unexpected issues or difficult assignments, and if you are a procrastinator, decide how you’ll kick the habit. You might enlist family or friends to apply peer pressure, or go cold turkey by scheduling study time every day, before crunch time hits, to get into the routine.

4. Ask for Help

First Lady Michelle Obama stressed it in her address to college-bound students this spring: “You’ve got to ask for help when you need it...,” she said. “You will not get through this alone.” No matter what challenges you are facing, asking for help can be the difference between success and failure. If you are a student enrolled at a college, many resources exist for those needing time management help, tutoring, or writing help, for instance. And, professors usually have office hours and are willing to help with things you may not understand in class, or offer guidance if you fear you might be in danger of falling behind. Reaching out is the first step to getting through those inevitable bumps in the road.

5. Stay Healthy

If you are balancing work, school, family, bills, and personal life, it can feel like there is simply not enough time in the day. Sometimes, exercise just doesn’t make the cut. Those who work and go to school are notorious for letting their health take a back seat. Don’t let it happen. The fact is, when your schedule is bearing down on you, you need time for yourself to combat burn-out and de-stress more than ever. Getting enough sleep, remaining active, and eating well is your ticket to keeping your energy, mood, and motivation out of the red zone. Remember how proud you’ll feel when you reach your goals – you can do it!

Switching Careers

A Practical Guide for Making a Change

Making the decision to change jobs is not uncommon – most of us do it several times during our employment years. But the decision to change from one field to another – a true career switch – is a serious undertaking.

According to Rebecca Bubier, Staffing Supervisor at Bonney Staffing Center’s Auburn branch, the most common mid-career switches are moves into areas of Medical, Accounting, Legal, Sales/Marketing and, within the field of Light Industrial, IT. Why are so many employees entering these fields for the first time? Feeling bored or stuck in a current job can be common motivating factors. “Those in their 20s and 30s often cite feeling unable to advance in their current job as their reason to make the switch,” Bubier said, “whereas older workers can be motivated more often by job security.”

Whatever your reason for making the switch to a new career path, consider these practical pieces of advice before making the leap.

Take the Time

Changing careers can be exciting, but it can mean some up-front work. Some job experts recommend developing a “parallel career,” that is, setting the foundation for your new career before you leave your current job. Building this foundation can entail finding out about opportunities in your area, understanding what skills you need, or figuring out how to handle finances during your job change. It can be the perfect time to talk to others in your new field, hone your interview skills, or start networking.

Find the Job You Want

You’re ready to make the change. Now how do you get there?

Start with informational interviews. Informational interviews with people you respect in your field of interest are low-pressure ways to learn about your industry, and most people are more than happy to oblige. You may find a mentor – or a job opening – along the way.

Talk to a staffing professional. Staffing professionals are well-versed in the art of career transition. Not only do they offer great advice, they can help you market yourself to attract the employers you’re interested in. According to Bubier, entering into a new career can be a matter of gaining enough experience to allow for a career pivot. For example, she might place someone interested in an accounting career in a banking position first. After they gain some experience, she can comfortably market them as a candidate in accounting.

Start networking. You might attend industry trade shows, job fairs, or conferences related to your industry, and tell your plans to friends and family. Getting word out about your new career will start setting the foundation so you’ll be well-positioned to move into the job you’ve always wanted.

If you know you need a change but you aren’t sure what career is best, there are plenty of local resources that can help you find the right position. In New Hampshire, The Job Match System allows job seekers to conduct a job search, learn more about their career options and explore new occupations. The Career Change Planning Checklist, can help with self-assessment and getting an action plan. Take a look at the LearningExpress Library offered by the Maine State Library, as well. It features practice tests, tutorials, and eBooks related to job search and workplace skills improvement, career certification and basic skills improvement.

You can also check out some of the most recent data about some of the fastest-growing industries by reading our recent post, The Fastest Growing Jobs to be sure you’re choosing a career with potential for growth.

Education or Experience?

The many educational options available at colleges, online, or as part of certification programs, can seem like launch pads for a ready-made career. Bubier often sees candidates who have put money and time into furthering their education with the idea that it’s a straight line to their dream job. “Sometimes, they can be disappointed to find that they still need to build that experience, and start in a more entry-level position than they’d hoped.” she said. The fact is, most employers care about experience over all. “Getting an education or certification in your new field is important,” she said. “But in many cases, you still have to work your way up.”

Before you jump into a degree, see if you might benefit from other avenues to build job experience. Many positions offer on the job training. Volunteer opportunities can be valuable in building relevant skills, as can temp work related to your field. You might even consider a program such as The Maine Apprentice Program. It combines on-the-job learning with related education that reinforces what you learn on the job.

Polish Your Presentation 

While having relevant job skills is important, candidates would do well to focus on polishing their presentation while they are preparing for their new career. “Presentation is huge,” said Bubier. “If you are a candidate who has excellent software skills & strong recommendations, I can market you to clients even if you’re just out of school.”

If you’re building a parallel career, build in time to work on your presentation. Hone your interview skills, create a strong, professional resume, and gather letters of recommendations from organizations where you volunteer, or from teachers who can speak to your aptitude and work ethic as well as your skills. You can also make use the Bonney Support Center to get interview tips, cover letter advice, and other resources for putting your best foot forward in your job search!

Workplace Time Wasters or Morale Builders?

Weighing in on 5 Familiar Job Rituals

Know an employer who treats work and fun like church and state? We’ll show you a company where productivity is down and turnover is up. Whether you’re part of a company of 5 or 500, morale is the major artery into retention and productivity – it’s the reason behind everything from the Employee of the Month to nap pods.

But some workplace traditions that began as morale-boosting efforts may have outlasted their usefulness. Could ubiquitous workplace rituals actually be killing efficiency as well as morale? Wonder no more – the verdicts are in on five of the most common rites of being an employee.

1. The Birthday Party

While some consider the workplace birthday party a much-needed sugar break away from the desk, others may consider it an overlong gluten-fest made worse by their mandatory attendance. It may seem like streamlining office productivity should begin with ditching the parties, plastic forks and all.

In fact, breaking up the day to honor a co-worker’s birthday does more good than harm. Some of the most successful companies credit breakroom antics – birthdays, retirement send-offs, or just quick games of ping pong – with improving employee happiness. Why? It’s a perk – from coffee to recreation, employees take respite in workplace extras, especially those that involve cake. Parties are relaxing, and that balances sometimes monotonous work with something social.

In exchange for a few lost minutes, the birthday party ritual is a mechanism that greases the workplace wheels on a number of levels. Instead of scrapping it, make it less painful by keeping financial responsibilities small (or anonymous), and celebrate just once a month rather than individually if the employee list is long.

Verdict: Morale Booster.

2. The Office Outing

Whether office barbeque or annual industry seminar, office outings can bring mixed feelings. Why clear a busy schedule to spend a long weekend with co-workers you spend most of every day with anyway? It’s a surefire time-waster...or is it?

Office outings can sometimes be awkward, but they can also reap rewards that last long after it’s over. Outings allow time to meet coworkers in a new environment that can spawn creative thinking and allow workplace hierarchies some distance. They can provide a time to celebrate accomplishments, and they are excellent for breaking up repetitive workplace routines. They can even be a way for individuals to show off their talents – maybe by providing the music at the company picnic, or letting the office paddle boarder time to shine by teaching everyone else the strokes.

Verdict: Morale Booster. 

3. Meetings

Meetings seem to be on everyone’s top time waster’s list. Hours in the meeting room is time you don’t get back, and without effective meeting management, they can cause staff to bleed productivity.

Some regular workplace meetings can be flabby, but they are more than just a time suck – they can serve genuine morale-boosting purposes. When everybody gathers, important questions are answered, issues are aired, and continuity in the workplace develops. Meetings allow managers and team leaders to lead, and hone their skills at doing so. And, that face time makes employees accountable and allows them a space to communicate IRL – an increasingly undervalued experience.

Today, many companies have given their meetings a makeover to align with the business trends of shorter times and stricter agendas. Follow suit, and your company will be better off keeping the weekly meeting on the schedule.

Verdict: Morale Booster.

4. Interoffice Emails

Jokes, political viewpoints and photos of puppies that have fallen asleep in their food bowls can seem like major time wasters when they stack up in your inbox – especially if the sender’s taste in humor, politics, or canine antics doesn’t match yours. Many office email policies limit emails to work-related content only, preventing bad-taste communications, or just those that cause distractions.

But emails that share inspiring stories, employee announcements, and corporate news and newsletters is no outdated ritual. CEOs and employees alike agree that their value is enormous, even if it’s hard to calculate. Sharing information or on-the-job achievements with employees is vital to helping employees feel like they are more than a number. When employees are in the loop about the company and its achievements, it helps them feel their work has a higher purpose – the number one morale boosting ingredient.

So keep up communications, but solve the inbox inundation by shutting off email for designated stretches instead, and encourage managers to institute a kitten-free email policy from eight to five.

Verdict: Morale Booster with Limitations.

5. Fantasy Teams

Fantasy gaming in the U.S. has surged. According to the Fantasy Trade Sports Industry, it has become a multi-billion dollar industry with over 40 million players. It’s no surprise that fantasy sports is woven tightly into the fabric of the workplace, where teams are created and closely monitored, sometimes obsessively.

As a result, much has been made about productivity losses when sports seasons are in full swing. But why rain on the gaming parade when the comradery and competition can be morale boosting for those involved? Here’s why: most companies can’t afford the mounting distraction it creates for their workers. Recent studies suggest that Fantasy Football players are costing between 13 and 18 billion in lost productivity. That’s a serious penalty.

While some companies have responded to the distraction of fantasy gaming by blocking access to fantasy sports sites, others have designated after-five conference space to fantasy sports play. Both approaches allow companies to tackle potential productivity losses head on so they won’t be blindsided.

Verdict: Sorry sports fans. It’s a Time Waster.

Got a workplace time waster story to tell? Share it below!

The Fastest Growing Jobs

Exploring Training Opportunities? Consider These High Growth Areas First.

Planning to train for a career and interested in choosing one with the best job outlook? You’re smart to pay attention to job growth trends. Choosing to pursue a job in an industry in decline or one that lacks opportunities in your area can leave you jobless down the road. But knowing which industries are boom and which are bust won’t provide the whole story. When it comes to your long-term job prospects, your level of education is the deciding factor in what job types will be open to you in 2016 and beyond.

The nation’s job growth statistics are inching upward. But some segments are falling fast (sorry, newspaper reporters and dairy farmers), while others are positioned for a rosy future (Well done, physical therapists and financial advisors!). Predicted job growth areas through the year 2022, for those without a high school diploma, show the highest growth in areas of Personal and Home Care Aides, as well as Carpenter Helpers and non-restaurant Food Servers.

Got a high school diploma and some college? You’ll find opportunities for Medical Assistants, and jobs in areas of skincare and beauty. With a two-year college degree, health-related jobs are on the rise in the nation and in Maine, New Hampshire, and North Carolina. And those looking toward a four-year degree may want to pursue a career as a Translator or an Information Security Analyst. (If you’re settling down in Maine and New Hampshire, try Meeting and Convention Planning for job security.)

Ready to plan your future? Consider these promising industries, courtesy of The U.S. Department of Labor.

Top 20 Occupations with the Most Openings through 2022

Retail Salespersons Food Prep Workers Food Servers Cashiers Waiters & Waitresses Registered Nurses Customer Service Representatives Movers (Freight, Material) Office Clerks Janitors

Personal Care Aides General & Operation Managers Nursing Assistants Home Health Aides Secretaries/Administrative Assistants Office Supervisors Construction Laborers Maids & Housekeepers Special Ed Teachers Tractor-Trailer Drivers

What Job Will Pay Me the Most?

Highest paying jobs are not necessarily those with the highest growth. But keep in mind that searching related jobs within high growth areas can uncover more lucrative positions. If you’re seeking the highest earnings potential with a high school diploma, try Supervisor of a construction trade, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Its projected median earnings exceed $56,000. Want the largest paycheck with a college degree? Nursing is an excellent bet, as is an Operations Manager or an Accountant.

Fastest Growing Occupations by Industry through 2022

These positions have the highest growth rate, but not necessarily the most openings. Positions range from those that require no high school diploma to those with some college or an Associate’s Degree.

Health Care Personal Care Aides Home Health Care Aides Sonographers Occupational Therapy Assistants Physical Therapies Aides Skincare Specialists Physician Assistants Health Specialty Teachers Medical Secretaries Physical Therapists Nursing Teachers Nurses

Labor Insulation Workers Stone and Brickmason’s Helpers Segmental Pavers Electrician’s Helpers Brickmasons Blockmasons Fence Erectors Cement Masons Pipelayer’s Helper Plumber’s Helper Pipe and Steamfitter’s Helpers

Technical Ambulance Drivers Commercial Drivers Medical Equipment Repairers Veterinary Techs CNC Programmers

Find more job growth sectors by state and education level at the CareerOneStop.com

Bonney Is Open for Business...in North Carolina!

Expansion Brings A Trusted Staffing Company to a New State

Bonney Staffing Center is excited to announce it is open for business in North Carolina! As of June 1st, 2015, we're busy staffing for a range of job types and providing job placement and employer services the same way we do in our local communities in Maine and New Hampshire.

Our New England clients know we have the passion and experience for reliable, high quality job placement – Bonney has been connecting job seekers with top employers since 1975. Now, in 2015, it’s time to take the most trusted name in staffing to the South. We’re looking forward to bringing the full range of services and support that our New England clients and employees have come to know to our new North Carolina branch.

At our new Salisbury location, we offer temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire job placement options with client companies in the Administrative, Clerical, Accounting, Legal & Medical Office, Customer Service, Technical, and Light Industrial fields. We’ll meet employer needs quickly and seamlessly, provide value-added services and specialized programs, and give job seekers personalized support to help them reach their goals.

Growing our business within the communities we serve is of enormous importance to us. We provide local jobs and serve neighborhood employers directly, in the regions where we live and work. That’s why we’re proud to be part of the Salisbury community and to call North Carolina our home. Stop by our new office location for a visit, and see why Bonney is the most trusted staffing company in New England – and across the nation!

Our Salisbury, North Carolina Location:

1904 Jake Alexander Boulevard West, #302
Salisbury, NC 28147
Tel: (704) 754-8040
salisbury@bonneystaffing.com

The Only Interview Tip Sheet You’ll Ever Need

Our Very Best Job Interview Do’s & Don’ts

 

Jobs are won and lost based on that initial job interview. We hear from countless HR managers, employees and interviewers, and the same advice for job hunters comes up time and time again, whether it’s about bringing coffee to an interview or arriving five minutes late. We’ve compiled that advice into a definitive best-of list.

Got the call? Great work – you’re half way there. These Do’s and Don’ts will take you the rest of the way.

Top 5 Interview DON’Ts: Don’t Even Think About It

1. Don’t Be Attached to a Coffee Cup. Don’t be fooled by the culture’s caffeine fixation – if you and your Flat White just won’t be separated, then you’re headed for a job interview Don’t. Bringing a cuppa joe (or any beverage) is unprofessional, and it can end up being a distraction. If you’re a smoker, refrain from smoking before you go, too. The smell will follow you, and you want to be remembered for other qualities. 
2. Don’t Bring Someone. Our interviewers weighed in on job candidate Don’ts, and they agreed: unless you’re Vincent Chase from Entourage, arrive alone. There is no need for anyone to go with you to an interview. You can do it on your own. Another person might be distracting, and your support system may be a window to your lack of confidence, even if Ari and boys stay in reception (see Do #1). 
3. Don’t Be Late. It’s as familiar as the first rule of Fight Club, and it’s just as important. Even candidates with the best of intentions falter on this Don’t, whether it’s because of poor directions, difficult parking, traffic, or scheduling. Being late makes it look like you’re not interested in the job, or that you’ll show up late for work. Plan well, take a practice run, and show up fifteen minutes early instead. 

The Thank-you Note:
Do or Don’t?

Is the thank you note an outmoded tradition? The answer is no. While stamped, addressed envelopes can be unnecessary today, e-mailed thank you notes are obligatory, even if you only had a phone interview. Write one as soon as possible after your interview and no later than 24 hours. Make it brief, courteous, and include a reminder of why you’re interested and qualified for the job.
Use this sample thank-you note for guidance.
4. Don’t Ignore the Dress Code. Our advice on interview clothing? Look like you’ve been working even if you haven’t been. Today’s conventions call for business casual when the job is labor-related, and professional attire when it’s a professional or office position. Casual daytime attire is almost never an option. Show your interviewer you’re making your best effort by looking professional and polished no matter what the job description. 
5. Don’t Be Undone by Your Phone. We can’t say it enough. A candidate that doesn’t turn off their phone during a job interview won’t make it past round one. If you’re answering your phone, texting, or getting phone calls or alerts, you’ll send a clear message to you potential employer that it will happen on the job, too. An accepted part of today’s digital culture? You bet. An acceptable job interview practice? IMHO, not by a long shot.

Top 5 Interview DO’s: You Got This

1. Greet the Receptionist. Our interviewers tell us they often check in with everyone you meet during your interview. (Sometimes that’s where they get their best information.) Be pleasant to everyone on the team from the get-go. When you arrive, start by telling the receptionist your name, with whom you’re scheduled, and the position for which you are applying. Make wardrobe adjustments at home or in the car, because the minute you park in the parking lot, it’s showtime.
2. Hone Your Social Skills. How important is looking your interviewer in the eye? Extremely, according to our HR contacts. What about handshakes? Crucial, they tell us. Eye contact shows honesty and self-confidence. The handshake is a first impression – make it firm (but not overly so). Know your interviewer’s name and use it at appropriate times as well. If you’ve been off the interview circuit for a while, take interviews even if they aren’t the perfect fit in order to practice your social skills and grow your confidence. When the right job comes along, you’ll be ready.
3. Hit the Highlights – of You. You are well on your way to a successful interview if you focus on what you do well. Your interviewer wants to hear what you bring to the table, and most questions can be answered by mentioning certain talents, interests or skills. Candidates sometimes tend to make excuses for past performance, lack of skills, or lack of education – don’t. Talk about what you’ve done to improve these aspects of yourself instead. Practice by answering these common interview questions.
4. Be a Listener. It’s discouraging when we hear interviewers say that a candidate didn’t seem like they were interested in the job because they seemed distracted or disengaged. Listening means you’re paying attention and showing you really want to work there. Even if this is your umpteenth interview this month, take time to learn about the company and the department, prepare questions, and listen during your interview so you can ask more.
5. Applicant, Know Thyself. It happens more often than even we would have predicted. Interviewees fail the easiest test of all: the one about themselves. An interviewer will almost always ask about your resume or application – that’s their only reference point. Why you left a job, what you learned from past employment, or why there are gaps in your history can be common questions. Be prepared. Review the facts of your resume and rehearse clear, straightforward responses. If you feel like you need to enhance your self-awareness, take our Know Thyself questionnaire.

Need more tips on preparing for a job interview? You’ll find plenty of career support resources in our Job Support Center.

Is Your Workplace Stuck in the Mad Men Era?

The Four Red Flags That Let You Know

From Utz® Potato Chips to the first steps on the moon, the bygone era depicted in the popular series Mad Men has a fascinating appeal. But for the employees of Sterling Cooper and its multiple agency spin-offs, life in the workplace was no bed of roses. Fortunately, a lot has changed since Don Draper sauntered onto Madison Avenue. But while the blatant sexism and extreme martini lunches can seem as laughable as leaving your picnic trash in the park, some workplace mores haven’t changed with the calendar.

Suspect you’ve been transported back to the Nixon era when you start your workday? It may not be the pocket squares and pencil skirts. Perhaps some office traditions have overstayed their welcome. Here’s a quick checklist to see whether or not your workplace got the memo that it’s 2015.

1. Women Are Second-class Citizens. 

When women aren’t getting equal pay for equal work, the numbers don’t lie. But getting the “Mad Men treatment” isn’t always about what’s on paper. Today, the transgressions may not be as obvious as those dished out to Peggy and Joan by the chuckleheads from Topaz Panty Hose.  

Despite mandatory meetings and policies, the message doesn’t always get through, and a culture of tolerance for bad behavior can develop. A hostile work environment is one part of Mad Men we’re not nostalgic for. It shouldn’t be tolerated under any circumstances. 

2. You Work With Technophobes.  

When Harry Crane introduced employees at the then SC&P to the megacomputer, it took up an entire lounge – and was regarded with plenty of skepticism. While understandable then, today, resistance to technology is simply retrograde.  

Co-workers who sidestep office tasks by claiming they “don’t understand the computer” will be left behind if they don’t embrace changes or take the initiative to learn new technology.  And it’s not just employees who are guilty of technophobia – it may be the company itself that resists investing in ways to improve work systems. We can all end up chasing the wave of technology – it moves faster than Harry could have ever imagined – but eschewing it can leave employees and employers in the dark ages. 

3. There’s a Culture of Competition. 

Not valuing the team can be a dangerous symptom of a Mad Men era workplace. Competitive workplace culture is par for the course when everyone’s clawing their way to the top. But stepping on heads to emerge the victor is simply outdated. Today, businesses rely on teambuilding to build strong relationships in order to achieve their goals.  

If your workplace is still caught up in the cut-throat world of competitiveness, you’re working overtime while your supervisor takes the credit, or only a homogenous few are given a voice, consider it a red flag that a new mode of thinking is in order. 

4. There’s a 9-5 Mentality. 

Don Draper’s idea of flex time was a three-hour lunch followed by a nap on the office couch, but such leniency didn’t extend to the typing pool. A lot has changed, and many options for flexible work hours exist, including valuing work accomplished over time sheets, allowing for atypical schedules to help meet family obligations, and opportunities, allowed by technology, to occasionally work off-site. 

Of course, most jobs still require set hours and being on the job in person.  But if an employer has a no flex time policy when 9-5 isn’t necessary, you may want to find out whether there’s a good reason.  

What if your workplace could use a little forward thinking? Peggy Olson didn’t become Copy Chief by hoping things would change. Address specific issues like inappropriate behavior with your supervisor. If your teambuilding efforts are being squelched, reference an article about how working as a team can have positive effect on a company’s bottom line and offer some ideas for implementation.

If it turns out your office is simply frozen in the dark ages, start updating your resume. Just because your company hasn’t moved on, that doesn’t mean you have to nurse your Old Fashioned along with it. Ask around about companies known for having a workplace that’s in step with the times, or connect with an employment agency that knows the company cultures and who’s hiring. You’ll be back to 2015 before Don can tip his fedora in a final farewell.

Bonney Staffing Spring Open Interview Event – Bigger, Faster, Better Than Ever!

Kick off the spring season by focusing on growth and new beginnings – in your career! There’s no better way to make a fresh start than to attend our Spring Open Interview Event. This exciting open house takes place April 9th across Maine and Southern New Hampshire at all of our 8 Branch Locations, and it will be bigger, better, and easier to apply for a job than ever.

This time, we’ve got 500+ jobs openings from employers hiring right now in a wide variety of Administrative, Light Industrial, & Technical fields. Seeking an opportunity in Manufacturing? Looking for Accounting? Medical Office? Warehouse? Customer Service or Clerical?  Whether you're seeking entry-level or career positions, our Open Interview Event is the simplest way to connect with some of the best local employers in the region! And to make this event even better, we’ve streamlined our interview process – it’s easy and faster to apply and get hired for any of our available positions than ever before!

Ready for a new beginning? Now is the time. Come to any one of our Branch Locations on Thursday, April 9th, 9AM-12PM and make this the season you start a brand new career. Know someone who could benefit from a new job? Let them know!

Below is an easy way to know what to expect – you can also download the PDF.

Bonney Staffing's Portland Office has moved to South Portland!

Bonney's Portland Office and the Bonney Staffing Corporate Headquarters have moved to South Portland! Our entire team of staffing professionals has relocated to a brand new office at 21 Donald B. Dean Drive!

At Bonney Staffing, we’ve experienced exciting growth recently and our new location will accommodate our expanding needs, allowing us to better serve both our customers and employees. We've chosen our new location with accessibility in mind: we're on the Portland Metro bus line** and  have free parking for all our visitors.

The Bonney downtown location was our home for almost 25 years. We're delighted to begin a new chapter in our history of serving the Greater Portland area in a beautiful new space in South Portland, and we’re grateful for the opportunity it provides to better serve our valued clients!

See you at our new South Portland location!

21 Donald B. Dean Drive, Suite 2
South Portland, ME
(207) 773-3829 or (800) 398-5909
fax: (207) 773-1864
portland@bonneystaffing.com

**On the Portland bus line? Take the 24A bus and get off at the Maine Mall/JC Penney stop. Look for the flashing red light/4-way intersection on Philbrook Road, straight ahead of you, and continue straight, onto John Roberts Road. Turn left into Donald B. Dean Drive. We are located in the 2nd building on your right. 

Resume Inflation: Top 5 Overstatements

The Bluster and Blarney of Today’s Job Seeker

Filling out your job history? Why settle for being a waitress when you can be a Dining Experience Liaison? While there’s nothing wrong with being a garbage collector, Waste Management Technician does have a certain ring to it. These types of exaggerations, termed “resume inflation” are on the rise, nudged by a competitive job environment and a culture that insists our resume should reflect our uberselves.

While some job candidates are experts at taking hyperbole to its outer limits, employers have an eye for resume padding even if you’re not an outright fabulist. Don’t say we didn’t warn you – here’s some of our favorite examples of bluster and blarney providing HR departments with colorful reading.

Top 5 Resume & Application Overstatements

1. Job Titles

Job titles like Genius and Sandwich Artist don’t even raise an eyebrow in today’s landscape. But some, whether Assistant Director in a department of two, or Innovation Sherpa in a technology company, just don’t pass the smell test. Hiring directors are up to their lapels with jargon. Put your best face forward, but think twice about listing your job title at a call center as Communication Executive.


2. “In Transition”

We’d all prefer to consider ourselves in transition when we don’t have a steady paycheck, but any potential employer knows that means unemployed. There’s no shame in being employment challenged. But if the story you’re sticking to is that you’re in transition, how you’re spending your time during this evolutionary stage better be compelling, and include things like training for a new career or building skills by volunteering.

3. “People Person”

This phrase had its heyday decades ago, but some applicants haven’t retired their people person status either in their resumes or introductory letters. These “people” people probably just want to emphasize their outgoing personality and willingness to plan the office Christmas party, but today’s typical people person also can wear the mantel of social maven.  Translation: they’ll spend more time on Facebook than on the monthly inventory report. If you interface well with clients, say so, and explain whether your skills are in answering the phone or negotiating a multi-million dollar deal.

4. “Results-Oriented”

Many applicants showcase their value with strong phrases like “results-oriented”. Trouble is, this can prompt the red flag brigade for application-weary employers hungry for details about your accomplishments. Phrases like this are dead weight if you don’t provide actual results to support your powerful turns of phrase, and they have a tendency to sound like you’re masquerading simple job duties as successes. According to a recent piece in Business News Daily, even the mere appearance of the phrase can land your resume in the circular file. Runner up: “was instrumental in” – you better not mean playing second flute in the high school band.

5. “Excellent”

Finally, this is your resume, not a Bill and Ted Adventure, and if your typing fingers are itching to upgrade your accomplishments as “outstanding” or your skills as demonstrating “expertise”, sit on your hands until the feeling passes. Your resume is fact-based, and opinions about your awesomeness quotient should be red-lined and left to those qualified to put the gloss on your abilities – like your references, who exist to sing your subjective praises.


Have you encountered a particularly egregious resume or job applciation euphemism, overstatement or outright misrepresentation? Let us know!

SPOTLIGHT: Skilled Manufacturing

Skilled Positions Beckon Job Seekers in Maine & New Hampshire

Manufacturing plays a prominent role in the nation’s economy, but a skills-job mismatch continues to challenge the industry. While some experts consider the skills gap in manufacturing an exaggeration, it’s a reality for employers in Maine and New Hampshire. Scan regional job boards, and you’ll likely see a number of openings in manufacturing: CNC and Manual Machinists, skilled Machine Operators, and Technical Production jobs are in high demand, as employers and staffing companies vie for these desirable workers with the experience and knowledge needed to keep operations humming.

"With the economy improving and production ramping up at many companies, the demand for these workers is big," said Tracey Chase, BONNEY Staffing Center Branch Manager in Auburn. "If you’ve got the skill set we’re looking for, I can place you in a great paying job on the day you walk in to our office.”

Skilled manufacturing jobs require specialized skills in a trade or in operations that can range from industrial machining to applications engineering. CNC Machinists are in particular demand, according to Chase. CNC Machinists work in setup and operation of computer numeric controlled (CNC) heavy machinery to produce parts and tools from metal, plastic or other materials. Manual machinists, another in-demand job, work in a variety of industries operating drill presses, mills or lathes, for example. While entry level positions can start at minimum wage, those requiring skills and experience can exceed $25/hour, and lead to higher salaried jobs down the line.

While salaries can be attractive, job seekers can’t just walk into skilled manufacturing positions. Training, education, or experience – and sometimes all three – is required. According to Krista Thurlow, BONNEY Branch Manager in Windham, the demand for employees with technical math, along with trades such as electromechanical skills & precision machining is through the roof.

The need for specialized skills has led to hiring challenges for businesses ramping up and those just recovering from the fog of recession. Vacant positions have even led some employers to target women, as they make efforts to broaden training and recruitment. Thurlow said she has seen more women in high skilled manufacturing jobs, especially in technical positions. Veterans represent another potential recruiting source, as many have the technical expertise and discipline gained in their service that can translate to the civilian sector.

In the current climate, even recent graduates are well-positioned to leverage their education and accumulate experience on the job. "Recent grads often have a combination of theory plus at least some hands-on experience. We do have employers who will hire recent grads who can be trained and developed on the job, and pay rates will go up," Thurlow said. "The job that starts at $15/hour can become a $28/hour job."

Wanted: Highly Skilled Workers for High Quality Jobs

Most industry experts agree that filling the skills gap in manufacturing requires collaboration with educational institutions. By coordinating training with the realities of the job market, community colleges, training programs, and even high schools can better prepare students with relevant skills. In the shorter term, a focus on worker retraining and providing opportunities to current employees can fill voids and create valuable workers.

Across the nation community colleges are ramping up degree programs and recruitment in related areas. In Maine, a bill in Congress aimed in part toward the need for workers in the manufacturing sector was introduced last year to allow tax credits for apprenticeship training. In addition, the Maine House Speaker proposed a $5 million initiative last month, meant to boost the partnership between manufacturers and community colleges in the state. Some employers have responded with opportunities to be certified as part of employment, offers of in-house training, and competitive salaries.

Training for skilled jobs in the industry can be a long-term commitment, but the payoff is worth it. Advantages of skilled manufacturing and machining jobs include promotion opportunities, job security, and good pay – skilled manufacturing exceeded average worker pay in 2013 by 24% according to the National Association of Manufacturers. And, manufacturing is a crucial cog in the wheel of a successful economy. In short, if you are a job seeker in Maine and New Hampshire, skilled manufacturing is calling.

The Bottom Line On Skilled Manufacturing for Job Seekers

If you have the skills, contact a reputable staffing company. Companies that specialize in job placement have good-paying positions that start immediately, and they’ll help you find an employer that fits your needs and skill level.

If you’re seeking a career, consider manufacturing. Local colleges, training programs, adult education, and apprenticeship programs are strengthening their manufacturing focus. By joining them, you’ll be training for a career with longevity and mobility.

If you’re a woman, consider manufacturing. Employers are broadening their reach, and that means positions traditionally held by men welcome women in manufacturing, machining, production and manual labor.

If you’re a veteran, consider manufacturing. Many of the skills you learned will be transferable to high-paying civilian job.

If you are willing to learn on the job, find an employer that will work with you. Ask a reputable staffing company about employers willing to train on the job or collaborate with employees on training opportunities.

Work Gaps? No Experience? Volunteer Positions Can Be Resumé Gold

Job Search Advice for the New Year: Volunteer 

If seeking a job is your goal for 2015, then you’re probably taking a hard look at your resumé this month. After all, the decision to hire begins with your resumé or application. If you’ve been out of work for a while, or if your skills and experience aren’t measuring up, you may feel caught in a vicious cycle. Without getting hired, those gaps only grow wider, consuming any chance you have of getting the job you want. If your resumé or application is coming up short, get ready for the best advice you’ll hear in 2015: Volunteer.

It may seem difficult to give your time away when what you really need is a steady paycheck, but believe us when we say that volunteering can work magic on a resumé. It can make work gaps all but disappear and put skeptical employers under your spell.

According to the Corporation for National & Community Service, volunteers have higher odds of finding a job after being out of work than non-volunteers, and that increase can go up to 51% for those without a high school diploma. So if you’re in the job market this year, sprinkle the equivalent of a little gold dust on your application and volunteer. Here’s the run-down on getting the most out of the opportunity.

5 Ways Volunteering Helps Your Job Prospects 

1. It eliminate work gaps. Volunteering can go on your resumé as work experience, and that means fewer lapses to answer for, especially when it’s been some time between jobs.
2. It builds self-esteem. Job searching is a confidence sapper. Continuing your work routine and providing value to an organization combats job search hopelessness in a way nothing else can.
3. It develops skills. By choosing an opportunity that puts your skills to work, your volunteer experience is as good as a paid position. Even skills like teamwork and punctuality enhance a thin résumé.
4. It shows you’re a self-starter. Volunteering means you’re ambitious, you’re a go-getter, and you take helping your community to heart. In short, employers love it.
5. It provides contacts. It’s a fact that most hiring is done by hearing about a job or knowing someone who has one. Volunteering puts you back in the work force network.

5 Things To Know Before You Volunteer

1. Do what inspires you. Your volunteer work should be something you feel passionate about says the Florida Times Union. It will help you stay committed if you are connected to the organization’s mission.
2. Use your skills. Organizations have many needs, so be determined about the role you want to play, and make sure it’s something that pushes you to use your skills. If graphic design is your interest, do the monthly newsletter at the local animal shelter, and say no to that job cleaning cages, at least for now. 
3. Seek out contacts. Volunteer where there are people in your line of work, even if you’re doing something else in the organization. Also, be sure someone in the position of authority can give you a letter of commendation for your efforts. 
4. Make sure it’s a formal position. Some organizations simply aren’t equipped take on volunteers. Make sure your volunteer position is with a medium or large 501(c)3, or with a business that accepts interns, where you can take advantage of training, get on a set schedule, get your name in the weekly newsletter, and have a manager or volunteer coordinator to whom you report. 
5. Take it seriously. Your volunteer work is a reflection of the kind of employee you are, so put your professional foot forward just as you would in a paid position.

5 Ways To Begin

1. In Maine: Start your position search at VoluteerMaine.org, or look for organizations that accept volunteers at the Maine Association of Nonprofits.
2. In New Hampshire: VolunteerNH.org can help you find opportunities or learn about AmericaCorps. You can also visit NH Center for Nonprofits to find a compatible organization seeking volunteers.
3. Anywhere: Start your search at Serve.gov, or find the right opportunity for you at Voluteermatch.org, where you can search for opportunities by state.  You can also search local job boards – they usually post non-paid, intern, and volunteer positions along with paid ones.
4. Teach a class. Whether you’ve got knowledge in accounting, hula-hooping, or creating a Facebook page, community and adult education centers and some local support organizations are open to hearing pitches to head up classes and workshops of all kinds.
5. Use your skills to make a difference. Media Cause has work for those with professional and marketing skills willing to donate their time to a good cause (and in some cases, they can lead to paid positions).