On Tuesday June 26th at our annual general meeting two special employers were recognized for their contribution in helping community members reach employment.  Both PBCN Petro Canada and Boston Pizza have gone above and beyond to offer employment opportunities to our participants.  The management and staff of both locations have gone out of their way to train and mentor prospective employees no mater of their ability or disability.  Their efforts  have made a difference in the lives of their employees and in the future of our community. 
Both Boston Pizza and PBCN Petro Canada have proven that by helping their staff they have helped their community and have helped their own businesses.  Thank you very much for your support now and in the future. Robert - Vocational Counselor.

The old saying, you only get one chance to make a first impression, is something to remember when you are looking for employment.  Your potential employer will get that first impression when you walk in to drop off your resume.  That first impression of you can lead to an interview and a job, or it could lead to the employer discarding your resume.  Here are four personal hygiene issues to take care of that will give you an advantage to getting that job you want.
1. Wash:  This sounds like common sense, but you would be surprised how people can miss things.  Make sure you wash your hands, have clean finger nails, wash your hair and make sure you are well groomed.  Combed hair looks like you care about your self and gives employers the feeling you might care about your job.
2. Clean clothes:  Wear clean clothes.  If you, or people in your home smoke, maybe keep a set of interview cloths in a sealed bag (like a garbage bag) to keep the smell of stale smoke off your clothing.  Avoid things like slogans on your tee shirts or clothes that are too revealing.  Try to look like you are ready to go to work right now if you were asked.
3. Scents: Its okay to wear some scented products, but not to much.  Most people like a little perfume but a huge over spray can be offensive.  Look for signs that say the business is a scent free location.  If it is and you are wearing some body spray, maybe come back next day with no spray.  
4. Brush your teeth:  Bad breath and stuff on your teeth makes people thing you don't care about yourself, co-workers and most importantly customers.  Brush your teeth before you go out and have some gum or mints ready.  Sometimes you will get a dry mouth when you are dropping off resumes because you are a little nervous.  Drink water to keep yourself hydrated and your breath fresh, avoid sugar drinks or coffee as they can mess up your breath before you meet someone.
Keep these in mind and make sure your first impression is something that will lead to an interview and the job of your choice.
Robert, Vocational Counsellor

The following are four great tips for improving your resume.

• Adapt your resume to the information you've gathered about the employer and job you want. Make your resume show you as the answer to the employer's needs.

 

• Use action words that vividly bring your resume to life. Avoid the pronoun "I" and inexpressive words such as "I was responsible for…," or "My duties involved ... "

 

• Emphasize your accomplishments and achievements. Think unique selling point.

 

• Keep it simple, clear, and brief - two or three pages. 

If you have questions or want help with your resume call us at the Prince Albert Community Service Centre (306)-953-4460, Robert - Vocational Counsellor