With Thanksgiving just days away, we find ourselves pausing to show gratitude for the positive events of the past year. We spoke with several Horizon Goodwill “alumni”, participants who have utilized our job-training curriculum, asking each “What Are You Thankful For?” [Read more…] about Horizon Goodwill Asks “What Are You Grateful For This Thanksgiving?”
I Will Never, Ever, Donate This Item To Horizon Goodwill
I’ve accumulated a lot of clothing over the years; sports coats, dress suits, casual jackets, you name it. Pretty much any trendy sweatshirt, hoodie, souvenir t-shirt or baseball jersey, at one point or another, has made its way into the black hole that is my closet. But there is one particular piece that I’m strangely attached to. One simple article that has been my mainstay, the “go to” keystone of my personal wardrobe that will never, ever be donated to Horizon Goodwill. Today, I am going to finally confess the reason why……. [Read more…] about I Will Never, Ever, Donate This Item To Horizon Goodwill
Think You’re Unemployable? Think Again!
Life can be exhilarating, overwhelming, breathtaking, difficult, rewarding, frustrating and complicated, often all at the same time! Everyone on this planet, regardless of their race, religion, career or gender will experience a life full of highs and lows in this always-unpredictable world. I’ll let you in on a little secret—I wouldn’t want it any other way! [Read more…] about Think You’re Unemployable? Think Again!
It’s Amazing What You Don’t Know
Horizon Goodwill Can Do What?
Moving is never fun, but moving out of state can be downright brutal! After decades of living in Pittsburgh, PA, the company I helped create was sold to a competitor, which, in a way, was a blessing in disguise. See, since I was a teenager, I had always wanted to make a living as a writer. That’s not to say writing wasn’t part of my job description within my last business, but those duties were more out of necessity as no one else had the inclination to create employee handbooks or year-end reports. Of course I also performed what I like to call “hobby writing”, that is, rather than playing golf or going fishing, I found relaxation in front of a monitor and just, well, writing! [Read more…] about It’s Amazing What You Don’t Know
How to Boost Morale During Employee Spirit Month
March marks Employee Spirit Month. What are you doing to raise the spirits of your employees and create a positive work environment?
At Horizon Goodwill Industries, we believe when an individual has a job, his/her life works. While a major part of our core services include helping individuals with disabilities or other barriers find a job, we also match employers with skilled workers to grow their businesses. In addition, we provide encouragement, support and assistance once our clients enter the world of work, and we urge all employers to do the same.
As a business owner, supervisor or manager, you know it takes hard work and commitment from every employee for your business to succeed. Each individual you hire can make or break your company. Throughout this month, we encourage all employers, large and small, to take steps to ensure your employees enjoy working for you, remain inspired to be productive and feel valued on your team.
Here are 10 ways you can boost morale and encourage a happy, healthy working environment at your office.
- Set a good example: Stick to your word, maintain a positive attitude, and be approachable at all times.
- Let your employees know how they are doing. Congratulate and recognize them when they’ve completed a project well. Likewise, provide feedback and suggestions on how to improve if you’re disappointed in their work.
- Celebrate special milestones, events, and accomplishments in the lives of your employees: birthdays, engagements, weddings, births, and anniversaries.
- Listen to your employees. Paying close attention to their needs, issues and personal stories shows respect, support, and trust.
- Communicate clearly, frequently and in person. This ensures everyone is on the same page and keeps your employees in the loop as much as possible.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Encourage your employees to try innovative, risky ideas, take on new responsibilities, and share their own advice.
- Give them plenty of room to grow. Encourage your employees to attend training seminars, conferences and other developmental opportunities to help them evolve within your company.
- Offer incentives for a job well done. This could be anything from a free lunch to a half-day on Friday for meeting an important deadline.
- Encourage a good work-life balance. Be open and flexible. Encourage breaks throughout the day so your employees don’t feel overwhelmed and overworked.
- Have fun! Make team-building events, community service projects, themed parties or after-work get-togethers a regular part of your schedule.
October is National Work & Family Month
This month marks the 10th anniversary of National Work & Family Month. During this time, Congress, businesses, advocacy groups, academic institutions and other organizations encourage employers to think strategically about family-friendly policies and work-life benefits to help their employees succeed at home and on the job. Some of these policies may include workplace flexibility, health and wellness initiatives, and community involvement. The message is simple: a healthy balance between work and personal life is in the best interest of the worker, the employer and the national workforce. [Read more…] about October is National Work & Family Month