July Job Journal 2023

Job Journal

LOOKING FOR WORK?

Find a career path, part-time or fulltime work. Find a job that offers benefits.

FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ZOOM INTERVIEWING.

Learn how to prepare to set yourself up for job success.

MOBILE WORKFORCE SERVICES UNIT

Yes, the Lower Shore Mobile Workforce Services Unit can help. Check the calendar to find out when the mobile will be in your area.

CLASS STARTS SOON- CULINARY PROGRAM- ENROLL NOW

Class starts July 10, 2023.

VIDEO

The Lower Shore Workforce Alliance promotes Free Education and Training Opportunities.

https://lswa.org

https://www.lowershoreajc.org

Happy Friday!

The Job Journal is released on the first Friday of each month. The Job Journal contains information and resources from the three counties: Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester. Please feel free to click on the links within the Table of Content for quick access.

If you need to subscribe or unsubscribe to the Job Journal, email us at jobjournal@lswa.org.

Also, if you are a non-profit organization and would like to submit information about an event or resource, email us at jobjournal@lswa.org by the 15th of the month.

Thank you for following us, and if you haven't, please subscribe to our Facebook and Instagram pages.

INTRODUCTION

LOWER SHORE WORKFORCE ALLIANCE

Thank you

Coretta Scott King believed that a community's greatness is measured by the compassionate actions of its members. We want to express our gratitude to the community for supporting our efforts to continue publishing the Job Journal. As the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance (LSWA), we distribute this valuable resource to customers, agencies, and businesses in the Tri-County area. We take pride in being a trusted source that helps improve the lives of families.

As the fiscal year comes to an end, we want to share some of the programs we have worked on through the Lower Shore 4E Partnership (Engage, Employ, Educate, and Equip). One of these programs was the Participate Training, which gave four residents of the

Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland the opportunity to complete a Community Health Worker certification through online training scholarships offered by the Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center. All four participants successfully completed the program and earned a credential. We also hosted two

virtual job fairs with three primary healthcare providers participating and attendees registering. In collaboration with our industry partners, we are now organizing in-person and virtual job fairs to reach individuals with transportation limitations. We have seen an increase in attendance over time.

Additionally, we established a reemployment incentive to business grant program with Seaside Plumbing, LLC, to hire four to five plumbing apprentices who will attend a 20-week training session. These reemployment-funded apprentices will earn between $15.00 and $17.00 per hour and work full-time. The re-employment project will pay half the worker's wages during the apprenticeship.

Plus, we partnered with ABC Chesapeake Shores to provide an introductory construction course that combined classroom and hands-on training for four weeks. Ten students completed the course and received four industry-recognized certificates, and some were even offered employment upon graduation.

Also, we sponsored an OSHA Forklift Certificate class. Thirty participants acquired their OSHA Forklift Certification and can secure a warehouse and logistics job after attending this class. Due to high demand from our customers, we added another forklift class to our offerings.

We also collaborated with the Maryland Broadband Cooperative to launch an onthe-job fiber optic technician program that will hire four entry-level people and train them to become certified fiber optic cable splicers and network technicians.

We funded a Maryland insurance license preparatory class for ten qualified students. After completing the course, graduates interviewed for open positions with area insurance companies. The graduates are eligible to sit for the Maryland State Property and Casualty Insurance exam.

We collaborated with Vehicles for Change and Pohanka Automotive Group to establish an automotive mechanic training program. Individuals with no experience enter Vehicles for Change basic training program. Once completed, graduates will transfer to Pohanka’s advanced classroom and on-thejob training program. LSWA supports this effort by reimbursing a portion of the participant’s salary for six months. This program has much success, and Vehicles for Changes has a waiting list.

LSWA's Level Up Program, is a Youth Service Program that offers education, training, and support services to individuals aged 16-24 who are not in school and facing economic or educational challenges. We assist young people with over 14 services, and work with community resources and partners to ensure our program's success. Our goal was to reach 42 new youth participants, and we achieved 90% of our target.

Our Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program, which has existed successfully for several years, helps connect job seekers and businesses through education, workforce training, and economic development. During the fiscal year, 47 participants completed the program, including 26 in CDL A, 4 in CDL B, 1 in CDL B to CDL A, 11 in CNA, 1 in Dental Assistant, 2 in Metal Fab, 1 in Medical Assistant, and 1 in HVAC.

Also, we have completed the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance Four-Year Comprehensive Plan for the years 2020-2024. If you wish to review the plan in its entirety, please click on the link provided below. Moreover, if you have any inquiries, concerns, or suggestions, you can reach us via email at AJCoperator@gmail.com. Kindly note that the gray areas are current updates. https://lswa.org/policies/

LSWA has had a highly productive year and we are thrilled to share our growth with you. From being featured on Delmarva Life to producing videos, and creating a LinkedIn and Instagram page, we are proud to have almost 1k followers on Facebook. However, our greatest achievement is the success of our exceptional programs and we extend our congratulations to all graduates. We appreciate the support from everyone who has contributed to our success and are excited to continue growing to unimaginable heights. Thank you for being a part of our thriving agency and caring community.

Sincerely,

Publis

"LSWA is for workforce, That's a SHORE thing" ~Robert Hendricks

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Lofland Administrative Specialist I/ Certified Navigator Department of Worcester County Health Department Station within DSS

Kiya

Employee Spot Light

The purpose of an employee spotlight is to celebrate the great staff at Lower Shore American Job Center and showcase firsthand stories about our workplace. This month, we would like to introduce an employee, Kiya Lofland Administrative Specialist I/ Certified Navigator Department of Worcester County Health Department Station within DSS.

1.What do you like most about the work you do here?

I find it fulfilling to be able to help numerous families. By providing access to affordable and sufficient health insurance, families can lead healthier lives.

2. What is the most exciting/interesting/challenging project you’ve worked on here?

The most challenging thing about my job is my limited English proficient families. Part of my work is focused on reducing the barriers for individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) and helping covered entities to understand and comply with their language assistance obligations. With engaging with so many families I’ve been able to understand some words & understand their culture even better.

3. How long have you been with Worcester County Health Dept. inside the American Job Center?

Technically I’m with the Worcester County Health Dept. & I’ve been employed with them for 2 ½ years as a Certified Navigator.

4. How did you get started in the industry?

I was looking to challenge myself into something new & out of the box for me.

5. What drew you to apply for this position and why?

When I originally applied for this position we were in the beginning of Covid 19 & I was unemployed at the time. I was looking for a way to provide for my family. Shortly after I applied, I checked the status of the application & was notified that it was a hiring freeze due to the pandemic. Completely discouraged I had given up on the job. Approximately 6 months later I received an email asking if I were still interested in the position.

6.What do you enjoy most about working at Worcester County Health Department?

I love the families/individuals that I make contact within the Social Services Dept. I also thoroughly enjoy working with my coworkers. It is a friendly atmosphere.

7. What is one thing that you wish people knew about your job?

Zoom Interview Tips: A Guide For Your Online Interview

Landing a Zoom interview is a huge accomplishment for first-time job seekers and people changing careers. It’s also an exciting opportunity to get to know a company and a position you’ve applied for while logging on from anywhere in the world.

With Zoom interviews becoming more common, the video software itself adds a layer of preparation on top of researching the company and presenting yourself confidently. Use this article as a guide to prime your mind for meeting a potential employer and to set up the device you’ll be using so that you arrive on camera ready to shine.

In-person vs. Zoom interviews

Whether you’re new to Zoom or a seasoned user, conducting an interview remotely might feel unfamiliar or intimidating. How does a Zoom interview work, exactly? How will it differ from an in-person interview? How will you establish a rapport with your interviewer across a screen? Will you need to create a fancy work

to serve as a backdrop (or conceal your existing one)?

The first thing you’ll need to do is get clear instructions from the organization on how to join a Zoom meeting and with whom you’ll be interviewing. You’ll most likely receive a link to a Zoom meeting or a numerical meeting ID scheduled for a set length of time. As with an inperson interview, you could be speaking with a recruiter, hiring specialist, the manager or supervisor to whom you’d report, or even the organization’s founder.

With many professionals now working remotely, employers may be making efforts to accommodate different work-from-anywhere scenarios, including shared spaces with limited private areas [1]. Take the pressure off of yourself to create the optimum interview environment, and at the same time, be aware of these potential advantages and drawbacks of interviewing over Zoom:

Checklist for your interview on Zoom

Your next step is to configure the technological aspects of your Zoom interview. Remember that you don’t need to create a state-of-the-art home office with professional lighting and sound equipment. You can take a few steps to feel confident about your interview setup.

Use this checklist to streamline your preparation:

1. Double-check instructions from your contact at the organization, including the day, time, and time zone of the interview, the Zoom meeting link you’ll be using, and other details.

2. Charge your device and install the latest version of Zoom.

3. Set up a free Zoom account if you don’t already have one. Personalize the basic settings by adding a headshot and selecting your time zone.

4. Pull up the organization’s website and your resume, cover letter, preparation notes, and other application materials.

5. Sign in to the email account from which you applied for this position.

6. Start a new Zoom meeting and test your internet connection and app settings. Adjust the audio and video settings to your liking. Add a virtual background, or blur the background if you prefer not to display your physical space. Practice using the mute button, chat feature, screen share, and video recording features.

7. Leaving the Zoom meeting open, place your device where you feel most comfortable conducting the interview. If possible, experiment with the room’s lighting and angle your screen about 45 degrees from a light source to provide the clearest view of your upper torso and face. When the setup is to your liking, end the Zoom meeting.

9. Close all other windows, tabs, and programs besides your application materials.

10. A few minutes before the interview, settle into your space and click the organization’s Zoom link.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I do a Zoom interview on my phone?

Yes. If you have a smartphone, install Zoom and sign into your account (or create a new account). Before your interview, test your connection by opening the app and starting a new meeting. Experiment with propping your phone against a solid object, such as a wall or a stack of books. Find the angle and orientation (landscape or portrait) that offers the best view of your face and upper torso. Make sure your phone is secure and won’t slide or fall during the interview.

What should you not do in a Zoom interview?

There are several things you can avoid during your Zoom interview to enhance your experience. Avoid arriving late to your interview; confirm all meeting details and do your utmost to arrive early or on time. Avoid joining the Zoom meeting without having first tested your internet connection and app settings. Once the interview starts, avoid checking your phone or other tabs on your device unless your interviewer instructs you to look at something specific.

How do you introduce yourself in a virtual interview?

The best way to introduce yourself in a virtual interview is to start with a friendly greeting, followed by thanking the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. If the interview is for a job you’ve applied for, express your interest in working for the organization and learning more about the position. Your interviewer might engage you in brief small talk before launching into the official line of questioning. If the interviewer begins with, “Tell me about yourself,” it might be appropriate to deliver a short professional introduction, or elevator pitch, highlighting your qualifications for the position and what inspired you to apply.

How do you stand out in a virtual interview?

There are a few ways to stand out on screen. Always remember to look straight into your device’s camera to simulate eye contact and create rapport. Focus on providing concise and interesting answers to the interviewer’s questions. Be yourself, let your personality shine, and be forthcoming about your unique qualifications for the position.

Continue to read [https://www.coursera.org/articles/zoom-interview-tips]

Keep an eye out for the Somerset County commercial featuring youth discussing their understanding of mental health, which will be available on the linked website. While you wait, you can explore helpful resources, information, and tools for maintaining your overall well-being by scanning the QR code or clicking the provided link.

Thanks, Somerset County Local Management Board, our community, the school system & 47 ABC - WMDT!

https://www.flowcode.com/page/youth-mental-health-movement

mwejobs.maryland.gov

Enroll at https://mwejobs.maryland.gov

1.

Create a résumé in the system.

2. Schedule your one-on-one appointment (see below for contact information)

3. Bring copies of your résumé, cover letter or other job search materials to your appointment

Contact

(410) 341-8533

YoVanda Brown

Bill Draucker

Jorge DeJesus Jr.

Andrea Kenney

Killian Walker

Dyann Foskey

Tyler Horton

Hannah Schweikert

Veterans Representative

Cherice Johnson

Christina Williams

Reentry Navigator

Tawanda Redding

Office Email: dlwdalsalisbuy-LABOR@maryland.gov

31901 Tri-County Way

Salisbury, MD 21804

Energize Your Job Search

Résumé Reviews

Not getting any interviews? Have your résumé reviewed by a Job Service Specialist to discuss up to date résumé ideas and formatting tips to get your résumé to the top of the pile.

Job Search Techniques

If you are frustrated from navigating through endless job boards, social networking sites and piles of newspapers, we can help you mainstream your job search and learn to focus on finding the right job.

Interviewing Tips

Learn how to get prepared for your upcoming interview and how to best answer questions about employment gaps, terminations and other sticking points that can be tricky, and what questions you need to ask the employer.

Labor Market Consultation

Explore resources that will help you to research careers, industries and find information about specific occupations. By utilizing the most up-to-date labor market information available for salaries, job outlook and training, we can help you make decisions that are more informed in your job search.

Effective Online Job Applications

We can assist you through the sometimes-complicated process of completing online applications from setting up an email account to copy and pasting your résumé into the application.

Job Skills Identification

Finding transferrable job skills while changing careers can be difficult, we can help you explore your experience and learn how to translate those skills to another field

Resources for Job Seekers

There are many resources for job seekers from getting funding to go back to school to veteran services to computer training, ask how the One-Stop can help you in finding your next career.

Ask Us to Design a Custom Consultation to Meet Your Needs

Meet one on one with a Job Service Specialist to further discuss problems you are encountering during your job search and how to overcome them with confidence.

www.labor.maryland.gov

Adult Education

Individuals can enroll in classes to increase their basic reading, math, and writing skills or learn the English Language, prepare for the GED® tests, and increase their readiness for work or job advancement. Instruction is available for anyone over age 18 who is not currently enrolled in high school. Classes are offered in all Maryland counties and Baltimore City. Follow the link to locate classes in your area.

Federal support for adult instructional services is provided by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act which creates a partnership with states to jointly fund the Adult Education activities Maryland

Adult Education High School Diploma Options Brochure

Attend the Foodworks program, a 12week culinary job training course that is available through a partnership between Wor-Wic and the Maryland Food Bank.

The program provides a foundation in the culinary field and assists with job placement. The upcoming cohort starts on July 10, and there are still openings.

Step behind the scenes of our auto technician training program! Our talented interns are honing their skills and transforming vehicles with passion and dedication. Help us keep this program going by making a donation today. Together, we can drive change and empower individuals for a brighter future. Start your donation journey here

www.vehiclesforchange.org/online-car-donation

PLAY PLAY PLAY

Become self-sufficient during lean times. In partnership with the National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP), Telamon provides services that educate, train, or prepare eligible farmworkers for other jobs. Our trained staff members work one on one with you to develop a plan to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. The programs can help you identify career paths and assess your skills and interests.

You can also turn to Telamon for help finding work through on-thejob training, local market information, and job placements. Bilingual services are available in many of our offices. The U.S. Department of Labor funds this program.

Servicesinclude:

Careercounseling

Jobandclassroomtraining

Customizedtrainingprograms

RemedialeducationandGEDpreparation

EnglishasaSecondLanguage(ESL)classes

Skillupgradesandoccupationalcredentialing

Jobplacement

Pre-ApprenticeshipPrograms

To Apply: https://www.telamon.org/maryland-es/

U N D A M E N T A

S E R V I C E S

LEGAL SELF-HELP CENTERS

FREE legal help in civil cases for individuals who do not have a lawyer. Watch a short introductory video about the walk-in (in-person) court help centers or the call or chat services.

MARYLAND COURTS SELF-HELP CENTERS

410-260-1392

mdcourts.gov/self-help

Monday- Friday. 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM

FAMILY LAW HOTLINE

800-845-8550

Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

LEGAL FORMS HOTLINE

800-818-9988 (English)

877-293-2507 (Spanish)

Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday: 9:00 AM- 12:30 PM

Thursday: 9:0 AM- 4:00 PM

SOMERSET COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

11770 Somerset Avenue

Princess Anne, Maryland

Fridays, 9:00 AM to Noon

410-651-4618

WORCESTER COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

81 West Market Street

Snow Hill, Maryland

Mondays, 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM

410-632-5638

DISABILITY RIGHT MARYLAND

800-233-7201

disabilityrightsmd.org

LEGAL AID BUREAU INC.

800-818-9988 (English)

877-293-2507 (Spanish)

Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM

MARYLAND VOLUNTEER LAWYER SERVICES, INC.

800-510-0050

mvlslaw.org

PRO BONO RESOURCE CENTER OF MARYLAND, INC

800-396-1274

probononmd.org

WICOMICO COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

1101 North Division Street

Salisbury, Maryland

Mondays, 9 AM to Noon

410-334-3127

These organizations may assist you with free or reduced cost legal representation:

Lower Shore American Job Center Mobile Workforce Services Unit

The American Job Center (AJC) Mobile Unit is a community outreach program utilizing the latest technology to deliver on-site employment search and career services. The AJC mobile unit is outfitted with a generator and seven computers with cellular Internet access making it a truly self-contained employment resource.

The AJC mobile unit maintains a regular schedule of locations throughout Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

Come and join us for an exciting evening filled with adventure, fantasy, and magic as we play the famous tabletop roleplaying game, Dungeons and Dragons. The event will be held on Wednesday, July 5 at 5:30 pm at the Snow Hill Branch. Everyone, regardless of experience level, is welcome to join. This event is open to both adults and teens, but registration is required.

You can sign up for the event using the link provided at https://worcesterlibrary.libcal.com/event/10416206 or by calling 410-632-3495.

Small Local Business Hiring...

B U S I N E S S E S H I R I N G N O W

LSE Part Time Behavioral Specialist

Part Time Program Instructor Aide Custodial Coordinator

Part Time Custodial Crew Member

TJX/Marshall Retail Associate, Part Time (NOW HIRING) Apply Online Olive Garden Busser

Ocean Pines Association Part-Time Swim Instructors

Senior Summer Camp Counselors

Lifeguards- Seasonal and Year-Round Golf Maintenance Labor Banquet Staff: Line Cooks & Servers General Laborer (OCEAN PINES ASSOCIATION CONTINUATION)