A Head for Business - 2021

A Head for Serving Otsego, Delaware, Chenango & Schoharie Counties

A Careers & Training Guide A Special Publication of The Daily Star Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021

• How to recruit and retain quality employees • The pros and cons of contract work • How to avoid work-from-home burnout • 3 types of winter jobs • The benefits of working for a small business • 3 tips to ace your interview • & MORE!

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How to avoid hiring the wrong candidate NT – Poor recruitment practices can cost a business a lot of money. Here are some tips for weeding out unsuitable candidates and finding the best person for the job.

Be clear about your expectations

How to spot a job applicant who’s truly motivated NT – If you want to hire a job candidate who’s driven to succeed, simply asking questions isn’t enough to gauge their level of enthusiasm. Here are a few tips to help you spot someone who’s truly self-motivated.

Recognize the signs of interest

Your job posting should be as precise as possible. Include the qualifications and experience you require from the candidate, the tasks the job entails and, if applicable, the duration of the employment con­tract. This will help to limit the number of applicants and attract the talent that truly meets your com­pany’s needs.

Verify candidates’ qualifications Ask technical questions and administer aptitude tests to ensure that candi-

dates have the skills and qualities they profess to possess. In addition, be sure to check up on their references in order to form a better idea of their past job performance and personality. If they have no references, that’s a big red flag!

Watch out for “job hoppers” Hiring and training new staff is costly, so be on the lookout for people who switch from one job to another on a regular basis. Frequent job changes and gaps in candidates’ resumes are possible indicators of a lack of commitment.

Once you find the person you want to hire, consider instituting a trial period before you fully bring them on board.

At the end of this interlude, both you and the new hire will be free to continue or terminate the collaboration.

An applicant who’s interested in the position you want to fill won’t just be dressed appropriately and show up to their interview on time.

They’ll also take the opportunity to learn about your company and practice active listening.

You want to seek out someone who’s interested in what you have to say, asks questions and provides well-thought-out answers to your inquiries. In addition, if they follow up after the interview, it’s usually a good sign that they’re motivated.

Ask the right questions It’s important to ask candidates behavioral questions to gain a better understanding of their experience, skills and personality. You should inquire about their expectations and ambitions, why they want to work for your company, how they want to be managed and what drives them.

By asking open-ended questions, you’ll give candidates the opportunity to spontaneously express themselves. You may find that they present themselves differently in person than they do in their cover letter. This will give you a feel for what they’re really like and help you determine if they’re a good fit for the position and your company.

If the candidate checks all the boxes, it’s likely that they’re truly self-motivated and will put in the extra effort on the job.

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

Content for A Head for Business provided by Newspaper Toolbox and Metro Creative Services.

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How to recruit and retain quality employees MCS – Great employees are the backbone of successful businesses.

Savvy business owners recognize the important role workers play in helping a business meet its goals, and recruiting and retaining such employees is a high priority for the world’s most successful firms.

According to the recruitment resource Betterteam, 68 percent of human resources professionals report problems filling positions – an increase of 50 percent since 2013.

Forbes magazine puts the potential cost of a single bad hire between $25,000 and $50,000. New employees are investments and due diligence should be used to find the right ones. Recruiting top talent may require thinking creatively, and it almost always requires significant effort on the part of the business doing the hiring.

Write a well-crafted job ad The job advertisement is the first thing jon seekers will see and it will be the initial tool to help whittle down the applicant pool. Use clear job titles that explain the job and be concise; avoid buzzwords like “wizard,” “rock star” or “ninja.”

Candidates tend to skim job descriptions, so avoid wordy phrasing and confusing job roles. Break down responsibilities into job duties, and be sure to mention specific make-or-break skills applicants will need to have. While you still may get some unqualified individuals

to apply, you may weed out others with specifics of the job.

Establish a list of traits you want new employees to possess An applicant’s skills, education and experience are important.

However, this should not be the only factor to consider when mulling a potential hire. Seek employees who have the potential for growth and can get along with colleagues and existing and new clients.

Use various job boards to advertise Many popular job boards, such as Indeed, Monster, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, offer free advertising for job posters. They are good places to start because they generate lots of traffic. Social media also can work much in the same way as free job boards, according to Workable, a recruitment software company. If you don’t find success with free job boards, you may need to go elsewhere.

Attend job fairs and utilize interns Building a community connection through local job fairs, networking with alumni organizations, and relationships with universities, trade schools and colleges can provide constant resources for new talent.

Plus, applicants may feel more comfortable working for a company that has outreach in the local area.

Follow up on references It may take time, but it’s important that references are contacted and

previous employment is confirmed.

Due diligence with a candidate’s references ensures companies get a bigger picture of potential hires, according to Indeed. Ask questions like “What is it like to work with

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the candidate?” or “What are their biggest strengths and weaknesses?”

Finding quality talent is an important task that’s vital to the success of businesses big and small.

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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Would you make a good care attendant?

NT – Thanks to North America’s aging population, care attendants are in high demand. Here’s what this re­warding line of work involves and what type of person is best suited for it.

What care attendants do Care attendants assist older adults with their daily activities, both in nursing homes and in private residences. Responsibilities of a care attendant generally include: • Personal care. This involves bathing and dressing the care recipient, assisting them with personal grooming and helping them go to the bathroom.

• General health care. Administering medication, following a care plan and reporting health changes are common tasks.

• Food preparation. Cooking simple meals and going grocery shopping are often required.

• Mobility assistance. Attendants help care recipients get in and out of wheelchairs, cars and show-

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ers. They also help them perform simple exercises.

Qualities care attendants should possess A care attendant should be reliable, a good listener and possess the following skills and qualities: • Compassion and a desire to seek a genuine sense of connection.

• Patience and an understanding that older adults may take longer to complete daily tasks.

• Interpersonal skills and an ability to effectively communicate with care recipients and their families.

• Initiative and a capacity to work by yourself and make proactive, informed decisions when faced with challenging situations.

If you want to be a care attendant and have what it takes, you may be able to enter into this line of work right away. A post-secondary degree generally isn’t required and some employers provide onthe-job training.

Capital Senior Living Community FT and PT Dining Servers & Personal Care Aides We will train no experience necessary.

OFFERING SIGN ON BONUS Apply online at HeritagethePlains.com AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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IMMEDIATE OPENINGS! SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER (Multiple Positions)

Effective September 1, 2021: Unadilla Valley CSD is seeking Special Education teachers.

Qualifications include New York State certification in Special Education K-6 and 7-12.

Salary and benefits are commensurate with experience and per the teacher’s contract.

Resumes and applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

SUBSTITUTES NEEDED FOR 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR Substitute Teachers, Substitute Teacher Aides, Substitute Bus Drivers, Substitute Bus Attendants, Substitute Custodial Workers, Substitute Food Service Helpers, Substitute RN, and Substitute LPN. Applications are available on the school website and are also available in the district office.

TEACHER AIDES - 10 Month Positions (Full Time) Effective September 1, 2021: Unadilla Valley CSD is seeking Teacher Aides. Graduation from high school or possession of high school equivalency diploma is required. Experience working with special needs students is preferred. Rate of pay and benefits are per the CSEA Contract.

Resumes and applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

Should you pursue a career in education?

NT – Education is a demanding field, but it’s also enriching and highly rewarding. Here are just some of the reasons to consider pursuing work as an educator.

BUS DRIVERS/BUS ATTENDANTS- 10 Month Positions (Part Time)

challenges, and you’ll have to adapt your teaching strategies to engage various types of learners.

A career in education will allow you to work in an energetic environment surrounded by young people. This means that no day will be the same as the next. Whether you teach toddlers or teenagers, you’ll need to find creative ways to capture their attention and nurture their curiosity.

As an educator, you become a lifelong learner. Each year, you’ll face new

So, are you ready to take on the challenge?

Jobs in the education sector As a teacher, you can work with nearly any age group and specialize in subjects ranging from philosophy to physical education. You can also choose from a variety of other interesting related professions, including:

• Teaching assistant

• Day care worker

• Student life coordinator

• Educational therapist

• Educational consultant

• Corporate trainer

• School principal

• Academic adviser

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

SUBSTITUTES NEEDED FOR THE FOLLOWING SCHOOL DISTRICTS:

Charlotte Valley CSD | Edmeston CSD Laurens CSD | Milford CSD Oneonta City SD | Schenevus | Stamford Windham-Ashland-Jewett CSD | Worcester CSD ONC BOCES (Grand Gorge & Milford)

SUBSTITUTE POSITIONS: Teachers | LTAs | Aides & Monitors Nurses | Cleaners | Bus & Van Drivers Clerical & Office Support | Food Service Workers

• Special education teacher A Head for Business - THE DAILY STAR

Please contact Sharon White in the district office at (607) 847-7500, ext. 1134 if you have any questions regarding these employment opportunities.

EOE

A contribution to society Teachers and other professionals in the education sector are in a position to make a profound impact on the lives of their students. In addition to helping them achieve academic success, it’s the job of educators to provide students with the knowledge and tools to become engaged citizens who go on to shape their communities and the world.

A fulfilling career

Effective September 1, 2021: Unadilla Valley CSD is seeking Bus Drivers and Bus Attendants.

Qualifications for bus drivers include possession of CDL License. Rate of pay and benefits are per the CSEA Contract. Training is available. Resumes and applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

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Please visit www.oncboces.org/subs for application and information. EOE

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The pros and cons of contract work NT – In today’s job market, it’s common for employers to hire people for a fixed amount of time or to complete a particular project. Are you wondering whether contract work is right for you? Here’s a look at the benefits and drawbacks.

Pros Temporary employment opportunities tend to be more widely available, and it’s fairly common for contract work to turn into a permanent position. In the meantime, you’ll be able to broaden your skill set. You can also sample various roles and employers before you make a long-term commitment. Plus, you’re free to take time off between contracts to travel or pursue a passion project.

Cons There’s no guarantee that your contract will be extended or that you’ll immediately find a new position. This lack of job security can lead to financial instability. Additionally, your income won’t be taxed upfront, and you won’t be eligible for entitlements like vacation time, sick leave, severance pay and health and retirement benefits. Plus, it can be hard to get to know your colleagues if you’re only around for a few months.

To find out about the positions available in your area, reach out to local job recruitment and temporary staffing agencies.

CDL Class A or B Driver & Equipment Operators Needed Motivated, dependable, some equipment experience.

Local work. Pension, health insurance bonuses.

Salary is market-competitive and commensurate with experience.

Opportunity for rate work up to $51.37/hr. for Drivers and up to $91.47 for Equipment Operators.

Delaware Bulldozing Corp.

5700 County Hwy. 18, Bloomville, NY 13739 607-538-1185 • klafever@delawarebulldozing.net AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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How to refer a friend for a position at your workplace NT – Do you know someone who has the right skills for an open position at the company you work for? While a referral could help both your friend and employer, you risk damaging your reputation within the company if the person you refer isn’t a good fit. Here are some tips to help you manage the situation.

Be honest If you know that your friend has strong principles, but you haven’t worked with them, you may not know what to say. However, you should be upfront with your employer and say that you can’t speak to the person’s technical skills, but you can certainly attest to their character. This approach will help your friend get an interview without staking your reputation on secondhand information.

Be helpful If you decide to refer some­one for a job, it’s in your best interest that the person makes a good impression. Offer to look over your friend’s CV and help them prepare for the interview. Since you work for the company, you can provide insight on which of your friend’s skills and qualities will be most valued.

Be tactful If a friend asks for a referral but you don’t think they’re a good candidate, one option is to explain that you have a personal policy not to refer others because

of the liability involved. If you do recommend a friend, make it clear that it’s not guaranteed they’ll get the job because recruiters take a variety of factors into account.

Finally, before you refer a friend, reflect on how you would feel about working with the person on a daily basis and, potentially, being their subordinate or superior.

NOW HIRING DRIVERS & OPERATORS

NOW HIRING FOR ONEONTA AREA FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME

casella.com/careers 607-432-5351 STOP IN TO APPLY AT: 49 Lower River Street, Oneonta

• Cashiers • Food Service Workers • Management Positions • Competitive Pay • Bonus Incentives • Flexible Scheduling • Employee Discounts on Fuel & Food • Growth Opportunities for Promotion • PTO • Tuition Assistance • Employee Assistance Program • Health, Dental, Vision, 401k and Term Life Insurance for all eligible employees

For more information or to apply: Visit the store or email: employment@mirabito.com A Head for Business - THE DAILY STAR

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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Do you have what it takes to work in IT? NT – There’s no shortage of employment opportunities in the field of information technology (IT). However, there’s also lots of com­pe­tition for positions, with numerous can­­di­dates who possess the baseline qualifications. If you’re looking to land a great job in IT, here are some of the qualities that will help you stand out from the crowd.

Analytical skills. The ability to interpret data effectively and see the big picture is essential to solving the sort of complex problems involved in IT work.

Communication skills. It’s likely you’ll work in a team setting alongside people who aren’t as tech-savvy as you. To have productive exchanges with co-workers and clients, it’s important to be able to communicate technical concepts in terms any­one can understand.

Organizational skills. In the IT field, it’s common to work on several projects at once, and co-workers and clients will depend on you to meet deadlines. You’ll need to have the ability to prioritize and effectively manage your time.

Learning skills. The IT field is constantly evolving. To have a successful career in this industry, you need to be willing to update your skills and know­ledge on a continual basis. Moreover, there’s often overlap between the worlds of IT and business, so you may be called on to develop your corporate skills.

If you possess these qualities and have a degree in information technology, then the digital world is your oyster.

Astrocom Electronics

has openings for the following positions:

Production Manager Purchasing Agent Production Assembler We offer a 401(k) Plan, Health and Dental benefits, Paid holidays, Vacation and Sick time and Profit-Sharing opportunities.

For further details visit our web site at Astrocom-electronics.com and click on job opportunities or call Carrie Laden in our Human Resource Department at (607) 432-1930 ext. 103 AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

BOULDER OIL COMPANY UNADILLA, NY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYMENT SEVERAL OPENINGS AVAILABLE DELIVERY DRIVERS - of home heating Fuel Oil/Kerosene and Propane on daily delivery routes. Must have CDL-B with Hazmat to qualify. We are looking to fill two full time positions and two seasonal positions (winter only) Competitive wages and benefits.

HVAC-SERVICE TECHNICIANS - we are seeking to employ technicians that have experience in fuel oil and propane heating system, repair or replacement & installation of hot air furnaces, boilers, water heaters, oil tanks. And basic maintenance of heating equipment. Applicants must have at least one year actual experience in the field. Competitive wages and benefits.

PLEASE APPLY WITHIN OR FAX YOUR RESUME TO: BOULDER OIL COMPANY 3 RAILROAD STREET UNADILLA, NY 13849 607-369-7212 FAX 607-369-5808 ATTN: BOB OR BECKY A Head for Business - THE DAILY STAR

Emotional Intelligence • Creativity • Growth Mindset

NT – When you apply for a job, your personal qualities are usually what set you apart from other candidates who have the same technical skills and industry experience. Here are the top characteristics that employers are looking for.

Emotional intelligence. You’re self-aware.

Your empathy makes you good at resolving conflicts, and you remain calm in high-pressure situations.

Creativity. You’re an avid problem-solver.

You question assumptions, think outside the box and strive to find innovative solutions.

Growth mindset. You’re naturally curious.

You embrace new challenges, welcome feedback and view setbacks as opportunities to learn.

Adaptability. You face uncertainty head-on.

You’re resourceful, willing to experiment and open-minded about change.

Cultural intelligence. You treat everyone

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with respect. You understand that your perspective is different from others, and you welcome diverse points of view.

Collaboration. You’re a team player. You like working with others toward a common goal, and you offer support and encouragement to those around you.

Adaptability • Cultural Intelligence • Collaboration

The soft skills employers are looking for in today’s job market

Contact job recruiters in your area to find out about professional development programs that can help you hone your soft skills.

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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How to avoid work-from-home burnout NT – Telecommuting has its perks, but it can also make you feel unmotivated, isolated, easily distracted and overwhelmed. Here are six tips to help you stave off burnout.

walk (without your phone), listen to a guided meditation, clean up your desk, read a magazine article or put on some music and dance.

1. Create a morning routine

Regular physical activity clears your mind and relieves stress. It also helps you sleep better, gives you more energy and boosts your self-confidence.

Make exercise a priority by scheduling a morning run, afternoon spin class or bedtime yoga session the way you would a work meeting.

Wake up 30 to 90 minutes before work, and establish rituals that set a positive tone for your day. Ease into your morning by stretching, taking a shower, listening to a podcast, making a smoothie or reading the newspaper.

2. Connect with colleagues Check in with your coworkers every morning and schedule virtual coffee breaks to keep up morale and maintain a sense of community. If you want to discuss a project, pick up the phone or hop on a video call rather than send an email.

3. Take effective breaks Stepping away from your computer periodically allows you to recharge and renews your motivation. Go for a

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4. Exercise every day

5. Make time to cook Putting together a snack or meal from scratch is therapeutic because it helps you tap into your creativity and feel productive. Cooking with fresh ingredients will also ensure you’re eating nutritious food that gives you the energy you need to get through the day.

6. Establish boundaries Set office hours and stick to them.

Don’t let your workday bleed into your

evenings and weekends, as that free time is crucial to your well-being. Send your coworkers a sign-off email at the end of the day, then transition from work to relaxation by going for a walk or taking your kids to the park.

If you’re struggling to work from home and feel like you might be approaching burnout, don’t hesitate to speak with a mental health professional.

Tips for overcoming shyness before a job interview

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

Symptoms of burnout The tell-tale signs that you’re approaching burnout include (but aren’t limited to) chronic fatigue, increased irritability, lack of motivation, loss of enjoyment, trouble concentrating, anxiety and feelings of isolation or detachment.

NT – Job interviews can be stressful for most people. How­ ever, if you’re uncomfortable around others, the mere thought of sitting in front of a recruiter can feel positively overwhelming.

If you don’t want your shyness to hold you back from getting the job of your dreams, the key is to be well-prepared.

• Ask questions about the interview process

The more prepared you are, the less stressed you’re likely to be.

Indeed, you’re almost guaranteed to feel confident and at ease during the interview if you take the time to get ready for it. To take control of the situation and avoid being caught off guard, you should:

Lastly, on the day of the interview, make sure your shyness doesn’t come across in your body language. In other words, remember to smile, stand and sit up straight, uncross your arms and maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Doing so will help you exude confidence. Good luck!

• Research the company beforehand • Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions • Rehearse your answers with someone who can give you feedback

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How women can rebound from a layoff MCS – Every career has its ups and downs. Successful professionals often credit certain moments in their careers as catalysts that ultimately drove their success. Though such catalysts may be positive developments, like a well-earned promotion or timely advice from a trusted mentor, many a professional also has been motivated by events that were not initially welcomed, including layoffs.

Many businesses were forced to lay off employees in the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent study published in the journal World Development found that, during the pandemic, women were 24 percent more likely to permanently lose their jobs than men.

As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, many women may still be trying to reenter the workforce after being laid off. The following strategies can help that transition back to work go smoothly.

• Reconsider your career path. People who look at layoffs as the catalysts for their success often do so because being laid off allowed them to step back and reconsider the path their careers were on prior to losing their jobs.

Such reflection may or may not compel a career change, but women can take time to reconsider if their previous field was something they want to get back into or if they want to pursue a different path. Perhaps it’s time to turn a passion into a profession? Or maybe the uncertainty of the pandemic has underscored the need for a career that’s more stable? Regardless of what they ultimately decide, women can spend time reconsidering their career path as they prepare to reenter the workforce.

• Contact your former employer.

Though certain workers, such as union members, may have a legal right to be recalled after being laid off, many professionals have no such right. However, that does not mean employers won’t want to bring them back as the economy begins to recover. In fact, many companies may prefer to do just that.

The Adecco Group’s Compensation and Workforce Trends survey in October 2020 found that 68 percent of organizations that furloughed or laid off employees during the pandemic intended to back-fill roles that were eliminated. The cost of training new hires and getting them up to speed on projects is considerable, and employers never truly know if new hires will mesh with coworkers. Those concerns do not typically apply when rehiring former employees. Women who liked their jobs and the direction their careers were going in prior to being laid off can check in with their previous employers about potential opportunities before they begin to look elsewhere.

• Stay connected. Maintaining connections with colleagues and even former clients is a great way to avoid the feelings of isolation that can sometimes arise after a layoff. Staying connected also may be a great way to learn about new opportunities before they become known to the general public.

Women were disproportionately affected by pandemic-related layoffs.

Rebounding from such layoffs can be easier when women employ various strategies as they look to reenter the workforce.

Join Our Team in Hospitality!

Employment Opportunities: NEW INCENTIVE: Apply, get hired, work at least 32 hours per week until November 30, 2021.

Get paid a bonus of $250.00!

FRONT DESK / RECREATION MANAGER BELL STAFF HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANTS HOUSEPERSON – HOUSEKEEPING EVENT MANAGEMENT SET UP CREW LAUNDRY LINE COOKS – EXPERIENCED STEWARDS / DISHWASHER SOUS CHEF

HAWKEYE GRILL SUPERVISOR RESTAURANT GREETER SERVERS TABLE BUSSERS MASSAGE THERAPIST GOLF SHOP OUTSIDE SERVICES GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE and GROUNDS RECREATION ATTENDANT GENERAL MAINTENANCE / PAINTER

We offer FREE meals, 401k, retail discounts and more!

The Otesaga Resort Hotel is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information and to fill out an online application go to

www.otesaga.com/employment

or contact: Terri Winter, Director of Human Resources 60 Lake Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 twinter@otesaga.com or

A Head for Business - THE DAILY STAR

607-544-2507 AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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4 jobs you can easily do from home NT – Do you want to enjoy the benefits of telecommuting? Here are four jobs that can easily be done from home.

1. Translator If you want to do this type of work, you must be proficient in at least two languages. Depending on your experience, you might be hired to translate anything from literary texts to technical documents. You can work remotely for an agency or find your own clients as a freelancer.

2. Social media manager

3 types of winter jobs

In order to effectively grow a company’s brand and audience across various social media platforms, you need to draw on skills ranging from copywriting and graphic design to marketing and data analysis. Creativity, adaptability and resourcefulness are crucial attributes.

3. Accounting clerk

NT – Whether you’re looking for a full-time job or a part-time gig, winter brings with it a number of employment opportunities. Here are three to consider pursuing.

If you’re organized, meticulous and great with numbers, this might be the job for you. With the help of spreadsheets and ac­counting software, you can easily carry out a variety of book­keeping and clerical tasks with­out stepping foot in the company’s office.

1. Delivery driver

4. Customer service representative

Over the holidays, a dizzying number of gifts are sent by mail and courier.

As a result, people willing to deliver packages or lend a hand in a warehouse can find seasonal employment in winter.

If you’re a good listener with strong communication skills who also enjoys helping people find solutions to their problems, consider becoming a customer service representative. Whether you answer questions over the phone, process return request emails or man the technical support chat line, there are plenty of ways to assist customers from the comfort of your home.

2. Retail employee The holidays are the busiest time of the year for the retail industry. Seasonal opportunities include working a cash register, providing customer service, merchandising, stocking shelves and gift wrapping.

If you decide to telecommute, visit office supply stores in your area so you can set up an ergonomic workspace in your home.

3. Resort worker In winter, ski hills are abuzz, and working at a resort can be a great option for people who want to get out of town and earn a few extra bucks. At the typical ski resort, there are seasonal positions available on the slopes as well as within the resort’s hospitality, housekeeping, retail, customer service, marketing and food and beverage teams.

Finally, if you want to earn a bit of extra pocket money, you could offer to shovel drive­ways in your community.

Volunteering The holiday season is the perfect time of year to lend a hand in your community while bolstering the credentials on your resume.

You can look for opportunities to volunteer at food banks, hospitals, seniors’ residences, animal shelters and non-profit or­ ganizations in your region.

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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Pre-employment tests: 4 preparation tips NT – As part of their overall recruitment strategy, some employers administer pre-employment tests. These examinations are frequently used to evaluate can­didates’ job skills, cognitive ability and personality. Here are four tips to help you prepare for this type of assessment.

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Rest Get a good night’s sleep so that you’ll be alert during the test. Being well rested also reduces stress.

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Review

Reflect Will you be taking a personality, integrity or emotional intelligence test? These types of assessments don’t have correct answers. The important thing is to be truthful about who you are. Before test day, identify your core values and motivations so that you can answer questions more easily.

Does the job you’re applying for require a certain le­­vel of computer literacy or other technical know­ how? Take the time to refamiliarize yourself with the software used in your industry, and brush up on other skills or knowledge you may be called upon to demonstrate.

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Run through IQ tests and other assessments that aim to measure cognitive ability can be difficult to study for. However, it helps to familiarize yourself with their format by ta­king practice exams online.

Best of luck on your test!

EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISEMENT

Heavy Motor Equipment Operator (full-time)

The Village of Cooperstown has an opening for the position of Heavy Motor Equipment Operator.

Requirements include the possession of a valid New York State CDL Class A or B license, and experience in the operation of heavy equipment. This is a full time position with a starting salary of $18.477 per hour and benefits that include paid leave time, health insurance and NYS Retirement System. Applicants must be a resident of Otsego County. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

For further information regarding the positions and to obtain an application please contact the Village Clerk’s Office at 607-547-2411 or send your resume and cover letter to: Jenna L. Utter Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown PO Box 346 Cooperstown, NY 13326

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Is Currently Hiring For The Following Positions • Room Attendants • Font Desk • Maintenance • Housekeeping • Breakfast Bar Please Apply in Person

No Phone Calls Please!

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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Advice for job hunters who have a disability NT – Finding a job can be challenging for anyone, but you may face additional hurdles if you have a disability. While employers are prohibited from discriminating, misconceptions can cast doubt on your suitability for a particular role. Here are some tips to maximize your chances of getting the job you want.

First, remember that you’re not required to acknowledge your disability on your résumé or in a cover letter. If you have reduced mobility, for example, you can broach the subject by asking about the building’s accessibility prior to the interview.

Furthermore, while it might be a good idea to briefly acknowledge your disability, be sure to focus on what you bring to the table. For any job seeker, the purpose of an interview is to explain how your qualifications and experience make you an ideal fit for the position. If you need to ask for an accommodation, phrase it in a way that emphasizes how this will allow you to do the job well.

Finally, keep in mind that your attitude can have a major impact on how you’re perceived in an interview. By showing confidence in your skills, you’ll provide employers with the assurance that you have what it takes to get the job done.

Resources A variety of organizations across the United States offer resources to help people with disabilities find rewarding careers.

These include Ability Jobs (abilityjobs.com), Getting Hired (gettinghired.com) and Ability Links (abilitylinks.org).

AUG. 18 AND 20, 2021

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Full-TimeFull-time Propane/Fuel Oil Delivery DriverDriver Propane Delivery Up to $1,000

Must have clean current CDL Sign-on Bonus! license with Haz-mat endorsement. Benefits include vacation and sick time, Health/Life Insurance, 401(k), dental insurance, product discounts, and enhanced disability.

Please send a resume and references to: Dan Mattice at dmattice@reinhardthomeheating.com

4 benefits of working for a small business NT – When compared to working for a large company, small businesses offer several advantages. Here are four of them.

1. You’ll be close with your team.

Typically, everyone in a small company knows each other by name and job title. Plus, it tends to be easy for small teams to form strong bonds, creating a solid, supportive and engaging work environment.

2. You’ll have a variety of tasks.

Working for a small business often means that you’re expected to wear many hats. This allows you to quickly develop your skills and gain experience in several areas.

3. You’ll be valued for your work.

If you finish a large project or receive positive feedback from a client, your efforts won’t go unnoticed by a small team. In fact, your colleagues will likely be happy to acknowledge and ce­lebrate your wins with you.

4. You’ll be involved in decisions.

In a small business, all employees tend to be encouraged to get involved. You’ll have the opportunity to express your opinions to maximize efficiency, solve problems and improve the products and servi­ces offered.

If you’re a strong team player who thrives in a rapidly changing environment, consider working for a small business in your area.

3 tips to ace your interview NT – Are you preparing for an interview? If you want to increase your odds of landing the position, knowing what your potential emplo­yer is looking for is an excellent place to start. Here are some additional tips that are likely to help.

They may ask you two very similar questions to ensure you have the skills required for the position.

It’s important to remain attentive throughout the discussion to ensure your answers are relevant and well thought out.

1. Do your research

3. Focus on skills

If possible, it’s a good idea to contact someone you know who works for the employer and ask them about the company’s values and current challenges. You should also search the internet for news and interesting facts about the business. If it’s a publicly traded company, the shareholder section of their website could be a gold mine of information.

Refer to your previous work experiences to show the interviewer that you possess the skills necessary for the job. Depending on the position, it may be a good idea to mention your expertise, team spirit, positive attitude and integrity.

2. Pay attention During the interview, focus on what the interviewer is looking for.

CVs: should you list your interests?

NT – If you want to make your CV stand out, consider sharing your interests. Though you should highlight your work experience first, also mentioning your hobbies and passions can give potential employers a glimpse into your personality. Sharing this information can help set you apart from other applicants with similar skills.

Draw connections It’s a good idea to focus on activities that show you have talents that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. For example, you might want to mention previous volunteer experience if you want to work for a non-profit organization. Similarly, stating that you’ve participated in team sports could be beneficial for a position that values collaboration.

Be specific You should personalize your areas of interest be-

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If you plan ahead and carefully prepare what you want to say, you’ll increase your chances of getting the job.

yond simple key­words to capture the recruiter’s attention. Have you travelled? If so, mention the destinations you visited. Or, if you practise traditional dance, note if you’ve ever won any competitions. Depending on the activity, the recruiter may learn more about your level of fitness, creativity or sense of responsibility.

If you’re having trouble writing your CV, consider reaching out to an employment agency for help.

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