Take Action to Support Federal Contractors

Many of us enjoyed a paid federal holiday recently as we reflected on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Imagine if you had to work that day and did not receive any pay. Imagine if you had to go to work since December 22nd without receiving pay. Imagine if you didn’t have to go to work, but you weren’t getting paid and you don’t know when you’ll be able to return to your job. For 800,000 employees in addition to an estimated 500,000 federal contractors and their collective families, they do not have to imagine these scenarios. This is the reality they face along with the challenges of how to make ends meet.

Answering… “Why should we hire you?”

When I speak with groups of job hunters, I’ll typically ask them what questions give them trouble. Beyond the obvious ones like telling about yourself, your salary requirements, your weaknesses, and your goals… one I frequently hear is, “Why should we hire you?”

Three Ways to Incorporate Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year Into Your Wardrobe

For the past 20 years the Pantone Color Institute announces the color that will represent the upcoming year – a color that is selected on the basis of cultural factors, global issues, design trends, the political climate and so much more. The color of the year for 2019 – called Living Coral – is all […]

National Youth Mentoring Month

January is National Youth Mentoring Month. I’ve been fortunate to have a number of mentors in my life including family, teachers, friends and colleagues who have all helped me advance in my career, overcome challenges, or provided another perspective on something I may have been struggling with. In addition to being a mentee, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a mentor to assist young professionals who are interested in a career in government relations.

My Story: Brad Sleighter

Things hit an all-time low for Brad in 2014. His wife passed away, and he needed to move out of the home they once shared. After struggling with substance abuse for months, Brad sought treatment. During his treatment, he set a goal that he wanted to get a job and better his life. This is when a family member told Brad about Goodwill having programs and services for individuals seeking employment. Brad realized he would need help to reach his goal of finding a job, so he attended an information session at Goodwill.

Volunteerism: Why it Matters

Each of us has our reasons for volunteering. Today I’ll explore some of those reasons and why volunteering is not only good for the community, but it can also benefit you – and not just for job hunting purposes.

5 Fashion Trends for 2019 that You Can Find at Goodwill

You know the saying: what’s old is new again. That’s certainly true when it comes to fashion. Trends that were hot 10, 20, even 30 years ago are suddenly chic and must haves. But let’s face it, some “trends” are just downright timeless. And that’s one of the many reasons thrift shopping at your local Goodwill is a savvy shopper’s dream

Shutdown Showdown

At the time of this writing, we are heading into the longest government shutdown in history. While technically it is a partial shutdown with nine federal government agencies and various independent agencies closed, the impact is being fully felt for hundreds of thousands of federal workers and contractors who aren’t being paid, and may not receive back pay.

Three Cues From Your Employer That It’s Time to Look for Another Job

It’s inevitable. Sooner or later you’ll start looking for a new job. We have many reasons we might want to change jobs. But what are some signals from our employer that THEY are ready to move on from us? Today I’ll share three cues (and a bonus cue) from your employer that you’d better start looking.

New Year, New To You

Are you stoked for January? Because I know I am. No, not because I love short days and layering. It’s my favorite month of the year go to thrifting! Why? Well, think of it this way– after all those gifts have been given and the year draws to a close, the donations are about to hit peak awesomeness.

Opening Day on Capitol Hill

“Opening Day” is usually a term used in reference to baseball and the start of the season of America’s favorite pastime. However in Washington, DC it isn’t just about the Nationals. Opening day marks the beginning of a new Congress. Pitchers and catchers have yet to report for spring training, but lawmakers have reported back to duty on Capitol Hill.

My Story: Yashika Jones

The United States Department of Labor defines a non-traditional career for women as one in which 25% or less of those employed in the field are women. Yashika Jones has been a part of that statistic for nearly 14 years. While living in Connecticut, Jones was employed by the Sheet Metal Union. Working in this industry can often times be demanding, with long hours and unpredictable weather conditions.