WorkSource Oregon News - Training and Employment Consortium

Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 1
In this issue:
TEC La Grande Computer Classes—Pg. 1
Debra Wheatman, “Five Bad Interview Answers to Avoid” - Pg. 2
Bringing you information on the workforce issues in our area and what we can do to help you
to meet your training and employment goals by utilizing our programs and services.
Baker, Union, and Wallowa Counties
WorkSource Oregon News
Oregon’s National Career Readiness Certificate—Pg. 3-7
“A successful man is
one who can lay a
firm foundation with
the bricks others have
thrown at him.”
David Brinkley
Volume 2 Issue 1
Spring 2012
Ash Grove Cement hires NCRC Employees—Pg. 8
Oregon Green Tech Certificate—Pg. 10
The challenge: Presenting curriculum in a new, fun, and exciting manner. That’s what
Instructor Mary Ann Miesner tackles when she instructs classes in the La Grande TEC
classroom. “I want them to take the skills I give them and apply them on the job they get;
then come back and tell me they couldn’t fill the position without the knowledge they gained
in class.” That and the “Aha Moments” are why I am here”, says Mary Ann with that special
smile on her face.
It makes TEC especially proud to have someone who dedicates her services to the community and the classroom like Mary Ann does on staff. The La Grande Chamber of Commerce
selected her as the 2011 Woman of the Year. She has served on the local school board for
many years (including being the chairman for three terms), and is currently in her 10th year
serving on the City Council.
Check out the computer classes at your local Training and Employment office. The staff
are dedicated to helping you receive the training you need to fill a position in your community.
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 2
Five Bad Interview Answers To Avoid
Posted by Debra Wheatman on http://www.glassdoor.com/blog/ • July 6th, 2011 See more from
Debra Wheatman at:
http://www.careersdonewrite.com
While no one can predict exactly what will be asked, there are many standard interview questions that can
make or break an interview. Answer the questions correctly and you will soar to the next level. Provide a
poor response and you will be pounding the pavement anew.
It always amazes me how interviewees often stick their foot in their mouth when it comes to some of the
most basic interview questions. The biggest rule of thumb for developing good
interview answers is to practice beforehand. Work with a friend, colleague, or professional career coach to hone your responses.
No matter what the question, giving TOO MUCH INFORMATION is the kiss of
death. Your answer should be brief and to the point. Any meandering or veering off the
path will only lead you astray. While you may think that adding more detail is a plus because you provide more information, all it serves to do is annoy the interviewer and make
her think you can’t follow simple instructions. A short explanation will allow for an interesting dialogue that will drive camaraderie with the interviewer.
2. If you are asked about your previous boss, NEVER – I repeat – NEVER, bad mouth him. Even if he was an embezzling scoundrel who came to work drunk and took all the credit for every good thing you did; you will only
hurt yourself by providing a negative report. You will look like a whiner, and worse – a troublemaker. When answering interview questions, present things in the most positive light. In the case of an ornery boss, you might say
that you didn’t feel his management style was in line with the positive direction you wish to take with your career. If asked for specifics, you can politely say that you had differing work styles and work ethics. Period. There
is no need to elaborate beyond this.
If asked where you see yourself in 5 or 10 years, your answer should be thoughtful; consider your audience. If
your interviewer is the SVP of sales, indicating that you want his job is not a good idea. (Do I need to tell you
that?) Everything is about your spin strategy. You want to ensure you maintain a positive and proactive brand
image. Ambition and drive is a good thing – but it needs to be presented in the right way. Stick with an answer
that highlights what you hope to achieve or accomplish. For example, “I hope to close over $50M in new business.” This response demonstrates that you are looking to add value without leaving the impression that you plan
to claw your way to the top no matter how many heads you have to step upon.
If you are thrown a curveball question that has no apparent answer, don’t panic! Do not tell the interviewer there
is no answer to the question. Instead, pause, and play along; say something that shows you can be creative and
think on your toes. Don’t be afraid to add a dash of humor when appropriate. If asked to share a bit about yourself, this does not mean you should start telling the interviewer about your husband, children, church, or any other
aspect of your personal life. While it is an open-ended question, it is intended to learn a bit more about you in relation to the core attributes that make who you are. You don’t need to regurgitate exactly what is on your résumé
either. The interviewer has that already. Perhaps there is something you have done recently that you would like to
share to demonstrate your value. By all means, do so. This is an opportunity to sell the incredible and unique person that is YOU.
5. If you have a history of blowing it when it comes to interview questions, you may want to consider taking some
extra time to rehearse your answers. Get dressed as though you are going on the actual interview. Sit in front of a
full length mirror or use a software program that will allow you to record yourself via mini-cam. Develop and
refine your message; this will help you provide the interviewer with intelligent, well thought out answers and
avoid the blunders that come from being unprepared. Bad answers can cost you. Not only will you be limited in
terms of job offers, but you may also find yourself spiraling down into the blues after being repeatedly turned
down. Rejection can affect your psyche and interfere with future interview performance. Your preparation will
facilitate your comfort during the process and enable you to deliver your information with confidence. The result
– landing a new job that meets with your personal and professional goals!
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"A ship in harbor is safe -- but that is
Not what ships are built for.
~ John A. Shedd, Salt from My Attic, 1928
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Page No. 7
“Today we live in a project world and, if you’re in a
project world, you’ve got to be a great teammate.”
Tom Peters
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Page No. 8
Ash Grove Cement
http://www.oregonncrc.org/index.php/for-employers/
employer-spotlights/31-ash-grove-cement
Headquarters: Overland Park, KS; Plants in Durkee, OR and eight other states
Product: Portland and masonry cements as well
as other limestone products
Employees: 115 at full capacity
www.ashgrove.com
Situation
Ash Grove Cement does not often hire in large numbers. The construction and staffing of a new cement plant, coupled with the appeal of working with ACT and the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), presented an opportunity to establish consistent, company-wide foundational skill requirements for new employees.
The sharp increase in the technology needed to run its cement plants highlighted the advantage of
having an additional hiring tool to identify qualified candidates.
Utilizing the National Career Readiness Certificate
Ash Grove began using the NCRC in 2009. Professionals at the Durkee plant drew upon best practices
from peers in other states to guide implementation of the NCRC.
In Oregon, Ash Grove partners with WorkSource Oregon (WSO) to source applicants, who typically
come from Baker County as well as neighboring Malheur and Wallowa Counties. The company lets
WSO know there is an opening, which is typically at the laborer level. WSO provides Ash Grove with a
list of candidates who hold certificates as well as those who have indicated their interest in working at
Ash Grove. Knowing that Ash Grove prefers the NCRC encourages candidates to earn a certificate.
"Engaging employees in the continuous improvement of our business starts with identifying the right job
candidates who will become employees who grow along with the company."
- Terry Kerby, plant manager, Durkee
Impact
Ash Grove's Durkee plant has hired two employees since it began to utilize the NCRC program and
plans to hire several more in the coming year. Ash Grove will continue to prefer the NCRC for all new
hires company-wide. The consistency of the NCRC across state lines provides Ash Grove with a hiring
tool it can use at any of its locations.
For a complete list of Oregon’s NCRC committed employers go to: http://www.oregonncrc.org/index.php/forjob-candidates/job-candidate-resources
For a complete list of Oregon’s NCRC committed employers, go to: http://www.oregonncrc.org/index.php/forjob-candidates/job-candidate-resources
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 9
With unemployment up, these days good jobs are harder to come by. It pays to make a great impression when you get an
interview. In fact, Gillette recently commissioned Harris Interactive to conduct a survey of more than 500 HR professionals. The survey revealed that 90% of HR pros believe being well groomed is key to making a strong first impression and
setting yourself apart from less tidy competitors.
Recruiter Roundtable: Interview Fashion and Grooming Tips
By Yahoo! HotJobs
The Recruiter Roundtable is a monthly feature that collects career and job-seeking advice from a group of recruiting experts
throughout the US.
The question we put before our panel this month is, "What is the one piece of fashion and/or grooming advice you wish
more candidates would heed before going on an interview?"
Get the Details Right
The night before the interview, lay out your wardrobe to make sure everything fits, is free of wrinkles and is current with
today's styles. Also take the time to polish your shoes. While this may sound minor, showing up with scuffed shoes may
signal to the employer you lack attention to detail. Finally, remember that the interview is not your time to make a fashion
statement, so avoid tight clothing, limit your jewelry and go easy on fragrances. The interview is your opportunity to show
hiring managers how talented you are, and maintaining proper appearance will ensure they focus on your abilities rather
than your attire.
-- DeLynn Senna, executive director of North American permanent placement services, Robert Half International
Accessorize with Mints
I wish more candidates would take a strong breath mint before their interviews. It may sound silly, but you would be surprised how distracting bad breath can be during an interview! Gum also works, but remember to discard your gum
BEFORE the interview.
-- Bob Hancock, independent staffing consultant
What Are You Revealing?
Look in the mirror: If too much is showing, don't wear it. While low-cut blouses or shirts are in fashion, most are inappropriate for the workplace, including the initial interview. The interviewer could possibly be distracted by the inappropriateness of the candidate's attire, and therefore not focused 100 percent on the interview. This is unfortunate for both parties;
the candidate may not be getting the positive reaction to answers they want, and the interviewer may be less apt to probe
for the information they need to make a solid hiring decision.
-- Joelle Thies, staffing specialist recruiter, Wells Fargo
The Smell of Success Is Scent-Free
If your perfume or cologne enters the room before you do, chances are your scent may be interfering with your chances of
landing the job. You'll see subtle signs from the interviewer -- he'll lean away from you, she'll wrinkle her nose or open a
window. If someone on the interview team has allergies or asthma, and if you're meeting with them in a small room, your
strong scent will be just the excuse they need to leave the room quickly, without them getting a chance to hear the details
about the brilliant marketing campaign you developed at your last company. The focus during the interview -- and afterward when the interview team gets together to discuss your interview -- should be on your accomplishments, abilities and
why you're the right person for the job. So keep it scent-free.
-- Cheryl Ferguson, recruiter, The Recruiter's Studio
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Page No. 10
Preparing Workers
for green occupations across a
variety of diverse industries
About the Program
The Oregon Green Technology Certificate will prepare employees with the foundation
skills needed in a variety of industries that are associated with or support "green jobs".
The program satisfies employers' needs to employ workers who have basic technical
skills that can transfer to different kinds of work and work settings. This is a three term,
45 credit, 1 year Certificate Program. Training is provided by nine community colleges
6 Steps to a Successful Start
Local information can be obtained by calling Training and Employment Consortium at 541963-7942 or 541-523-6331. Program eligibility requirements will be provided at the Orientation meeting. Contact prior to January 1, 2012 for the next available session.
This program is financed in whole or in part with funds provided through the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Work-force Development and The Oregon Consortium from the U.S. Depart-ment of Labor. This program is an
equal opportunity program. Auxiliary aids and services are
available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 11
Career Navigation Services
Your future is waiting. Are you ready? WorkSource Oregon opens the door for employment
opportunities through education, training and career navigation services.
The job search can be intimidating. Let us help! We’re a agency working with many partners
to provide you with job preparation services free of charge.
Our job seeker services allow you to create a personal success plan that helps you take your career to
the next level by working with one of our qualified Workforce Development Specialists.
Resource Rooms: Free access to computers with high-speed Internet access, phones, fax machines, copy machines, and printers are available at one of our WorkSource Centers. Find a Job: WorkSource Centers offer
state-of-the-art job matching services. With workforce and employment specialists on hand, we give you the
support you need to get back in the game. Educational Opportunities: If you are having difficulty matching
your skills to available job opportunities, training may be an option. We offer training opportunities with
skills related workshops, on the job training worksites and some higher education opportunities are available. Veterans Services: Our highly trained veteran’s employment specialist can help you make the transition
into civilian life or improve your current job situation. Young Job Seekers: For jobseekers ages 16 to 21, we
can help you find an after school job, explore career opportunities, or explore and provide additional resources for education and training. Professional Network: Career transition services are offered through networking, workshops and business partnerships. We work with employers in the area to identify skilled and
qualified employees.
We can also provide additional resources to break through barriers working with other partnering agencies,
including domestic violence counseling, vocational rehabilitation, charitable organizations and other community service organizations. WorkSource is able to provide special services to help you make your workplace
transition successful. We will work one on one with you to develop the best career or training plan to
suit your needs.
Baker County:
http://www.trainingemployment.org/Calendars/Baker/bakercountytec/month/2012_10.html
Union County:
http://www.trainingemployment.org/Calendars/Union/unioncountytec/month/2012_10.html
Wallowa County:
http://www.trainingemployment.org/Calendars/Wallowa/wallowacountytec/month/2012_10.html
Or go to www.trainingemployment.org and select the county calendar you want to view from there.
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 12
Worker Retraining
Funding your Future.
Benefits for participating:
Access to staff who are committed to your
personal academic and career success.
Career Guidance
Tutoring Resources
Assistance with School Selection
Budgeting and Planning for School
Assistance with FAFSA Application
Help with Resumes and Job Search
Skills Training at the WSO Center
Assistance to secure employment
On-The-Job Training
Call TEC at:
541-963-7942,
541-523-6331,
541-426-3149
or toll free at 1-800-956-0324
- Steven Greenhouse, labor reporter for The New York Times and author of The Big Squeeze: Tough Times for the American Worker, talks about whether job retraining works in a down economy.
“I think, you know, when unemployment is rising, if you have the money, go retrain, go get better skills, go back to college. But unfortunately, a lot of people are living paycheck to paycheck, and they can't afford to take, you know, six
months or a year retraining.
You know, my sense is when you're having problems finding a job, improve your skills. Maybe you won't get a better job six months from now, a year from now, but hopefully, when the economy improves in a year, in two years and
four years, that retraining will pay off because you'll be able to get a better job than the one you left. “
Career changes result for many reasons, but whatever the cause, it is a wellknown fact this transitional phase is one full of emotional turmoil and
stress. The degree and intensity of this turmoil however,
is truly a personal choice.
Let one of our qualified Workforce Development Specialists assist you with
your own career transition.
If you're not sure where you're going, you'll probably end up
somewhere else. - Anonymous
We realize that some people are not physically or mentally able to work, and society must care for
them. But for the most part, people in poverty are able to work if assisted with barrier removal. Helping people to work is an incredibly good investment. The investment in changed lives can never be
measured. -Liane Phillips, Cincinnati Works
Volume 1, Issue 1
What You Need to Know
GED® stands for “General Educational Development. It is a
series of five tests that measures one’s achievement in five
major areas of high school education. When all five GED®
subtests are taken and passed, one is awarded a certificate.
The certificate indicates one has the knowledge and skills
equivalent to high school graduates in the five areas.
Why Do I Need a GED®?
When you fill out applications for jobs or educational programs, you can list your GED® as equivalent to a high school
diploma. Some employers and colleges accept the GED®.
What Happens During the Test?
At each testing session the Examiner checks ID, hands
out test materials, reads directions and starts the test.
You may not take a break during the test. You may
leave early if you finish before the time limit has ended.
If staying for another session, you must return before the
start time of next exam.
What Is a Passing Score?
The GED® subtests use a Standard Score that ranges
from 200 to 800. To earn a GED© certificate you must
receive: a minimum standard score of 410 on each of
the five tests, an average passing score on all five tests
of 450 or more and a total minimum passing score of
2250.
What If I Fail One of the Tests?
If you fail a test, you may retake it using a different form.
Retests after a failed test are $20.00. You may
make three attempts per year to pass the GED ®
tests.
Page No. 13
How Do I Sign Up?
A consultation with TEC GED Chief Examiner, Lynn
Trice, is the first step. At this time an appointment for
testing can be setup. Testing will be at the TEC office.
Hours: 8-12 and 1-5 Monday thru Friday
Contact Lynn at: 541– 963-7942 x43
How Much Does It Cost?
The testing fee is $145.00 for all five tests. It will cost
$20.00 for retests and there is a $10.00 No-Show fee.
All fees are to be paid prior to or the day of the test.
To improve a score, there is a $20.00 fee and there
must be a compelling reason for the retest. If you
choose to pay by test, a one time $35.00 state testing
fee and $10.00 GED’s test fee must be paid before
testing and then $ 25.00 per test each time you take a
new test ($170.00 total) .
What Do I Bring?
Government– issued photo ID. Bring ID to each
testing session. All ID must contain your name,
photo, date of birth, current address, and
signature.
Payment- Make checks payable to Training and
Employment Consortium.
If you are 16 or 17 years old, you are required to
bring high school release or GED® Option form.
Do not bring such personal possessions, such as
purses, backpacks, phones, etc., because you
cannot take them to your seat while you test.
Pens and pencils will be provided.
Prep
You can find both free and paid prep-sites at:
Official Site: http://www.oregon.gov/CCWD/GED/
http://www.oregon.gov/CCWD/GED/PDF/
GEDOnlineCourses.pdf
Accommodations
You may request special accommodations for
physical or learning disability by filling out appropriate paperwork– available at the TEC office.
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 14
WorkSource Oregon - your source for quality candidates & great jobs
Vision:
WorkSource Oregon is a statewide network that will stimulate job growth by connecting businesses and workers with the
resources they need to succeed.,
WorkSource Oregon is a network of public and private partners working together for businesses and workers to:
Ensure businesses have a ready supply of trained workers whose skills and talents are aligned with the expectations
and needs of business and industry;
Connect businesses with the resources they need to grow their workforce and their business; and
Provide the resources to help Oregon's unemployed and underemployed get connected with the employers that are
right for them, find the jobs they're looking for and get trained for jobs they want.
Mission Statement:
All employers and workers understand the workforce development system and know how to access its resources.
Our Mission:
To communicate effectively with key audiences so that information is easy to find and resources are readily available to all
Oregon businesses and workers.
Organization:
State Agencies
Governor's Office of Education & Workforce Policy
Oregon Economic & Community Development
Oregon Employment Department
Community Colleges & Workforce Development
Department of Human Services
Vocational Education
Oregon University System
Oregon Disabilities Commission
Commission for the Blind
Local Providers
Clackamas Community College (Clackamas county)
Region 4 Workforce Investment Board (Linn, Benton, Lincoln counties)
Lane Workforce Partnership (Lane county)
Mid-Willamette Workforce Network (Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties)
The Job Council (Jackson & Josephine counties)
Worksystems, Inc. (Multnomah & Washington counties)
The Oregon Consortium & Oregon Workforce Alliance - including:
Management Training Corp (Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook)
Umpqua Training & Employment (Douglas)
South Coast Business Employment Corp (Coos, Curry)
Mid-Columbia Council of Governments (Hood, Sherman, Gilliam, Wheeler, Wasco)
Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (Deschutes, Crook Jefferson)
TBA (Klamath, Lake)
Community Action Program for East Central Oregon (Morrow, Umatilla)
Training & Employment Consortium (Union, Wallowa, Baker)
Training & Employment Consortium (Harney, Grant, Malheur)
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page No. 15
LET US HELP YOU
Applying for Federal
Aid
DESIGN YOUR
To apply for federal aid and to apply for many other student aid programs, students must complete a
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Electronic versions of the FAFSA make applying
for financial aid faster and easier than ever.
RESUME!
Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to
Federal Student Aid is a comprehensive resource on
student financial aid from the U.S. Department of
Education. Grants, loans, and work-study are the
three major forms of aid available through the Department's Federal Student Aid office. Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid tells you about the programs and how to
apply for them..
Visit http://studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/
student_guide/index.html for more information.
Or you can call the Federal Student Aid Information
Center toll free at
1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243)
This is a FREE service and
there is NO cost to you!
Visit one of our three locations for more information!
These programs are funded in whole or in part with funds provided by the U.S.
Department of Labor and administered by the Department of Community Colleges
and Workforce Development through The Oregon Consortium and Oregon Workforce Alliance Oregon.
TEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program.
Auxiliary aids and services available upon request.
TTY 541-962-0693.
Baker County TEC
1575 Dewey Avenue
Baker City, OR 97814-2455
Telephone: 1-541-523-6331
Union County TEC
1901 Adams Ave.
La Grande, OR 97850
Telephone: 1-541-963-7942
Wallowa County TEC
104 Litch Street
Enterprise, OR 97828-1262
Telephone: 1-541-426-3149