With Gen Z expected to make up 27% of the workforce by 2025 and the number of open jobs increasing employers need to examine their hiring process to ensure they are desirable to this generation of tech savvy individuals.  Here are some of the ways that employers can attract more talent. Quick and Easy Application Process Not only does the application process need to be quick and easy but the hiring process also needs to be fast and responsive.  Applicants are looking for a mobile friendly and fast application experience when they apply but if the hiring process is too cumbersome then ..read more

When you receive and accept an offer of employment from a new company it is an exciting time but be sure to end the relationship with your previous employer on a positive note and with professionalism.  It is not advisable to “burn bridges” as you don’t know how that could affect you in the future.  Here are some key steps to maintain a professional demeanor throughout the process. Write a Letter of Resignation A proper letter of resignation is an important first step.  This can be somewhat emotional, but it is important for closure for both you and your employer.  If you a ..read more

Many companies have a large percentage of their workforce retiring or about to retire.  Some of these employees have been with these organizations for many years and have built up a wealth of knowledge over time.  Baby boomers have insight to what has been tried before and what worked and what didn’t.  Will this information be passed on to the younger members of your workforce or will it be lost? Business continuity challenges The loss of this information can have an impact on your organization.  When a seasoned employee retires without passing along their knowledge there c ..read more

If the thought of looking for a new job overwhelms you then using a recruiting or search? Firm to assist you might be a better option.  Working with a firm that specializes in the Agricultural Industry can be more fruitful or rewarding than working with a generalized firm.  Many times, recruiters know about opportunities that are not being advertised and therefore your resume can become one of only a few that the hiring manager will consider.  They can also give you advice on what clients are specifically looking for and assist with a successful interview and they will negotiate ..read more

In high school, I was not taught to construct a resume to promote my skills. I was directed to list my employer details, a detailed list of the position’s tasks/duties, and my education regardless of the position for which I was applying.  Simple right?  It didn’t matter (or prove) if I could do the listed tasks/duties well… Since then, I’ve reviewed countless resumes. Formatting is always important. Plus, the initial review must include pertinent information – your work history, position titles, and tenure.  These headings catch the attention of the reader but, ultimately, the ..read more

There are so many career path options to follow.  If you think about it, a job considered normal today didn’t exist 20 years ago (examples).  Some know the career path they want and have each step planned out – others fall into their careers through opportunities that arise – and some still do not know yet what they want to do. During your working years, you will, no doubt, have had times when you had a big career decision to make.  How do you make the choice?  Gut instinct?  It is wise to consider your options carefully.  While your mentors and coaches will have ..read more

Why is the recruitment evaluation process so long?  It must seem like a big toll on your time (and energy) to talk multiple times with a recruiter, complete paperwork, etc. before a company sees your file.  What are the risks? Cost of Resignation I am assuming you are employed.  If we connect with you regarding a career opportunity, we evaluate not only your experience and skillset for ‘fit’, but to ensure that the company, its corporate culture and the community into which you are moving will work for you.  We want you to have the highest probability of success.  We d ..read more

The recruiter selection process involves multiple phases (Note: Process and pacing often vary based on the market demand, stage and the size of the organization): Set-Up Phase Clarifying Needs.  Recruiters work to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the competencies and experience the client looks for.  In addition, they focus on the company goals, values, styles, and culture to understand the ‘type’ of candidate who would be successful. Long Lists. A firm spends the first week or two of a search creating a “long list” of 100-plus candidates. The search team sifts ..read more

The agriculture and agri-food sectors are a major economic force in Canada. It employs over 2.3 million Canadians. Amazingly, this sector accounts for 1 in 8 jobs in the Canadian economy (12% of Canadian employment). The sector’s direct impact on the Canadian economy will be significant as the global demand for Canada’s food and agriculture products increases. Labour Shortage The CAHRC-CCRHA reports Canadian farmers lost $2.9B in 2020 due to labour shortages.  This resulted in significant production delays, production losses, and lost sales. If the shortage of on-farm agriculture workers ..read more

The terms “Mental Health” and “Mental Illness” are often used interchangeably but they do refer to different things. A Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) article defines the two (January 13, 2020). Mental illness affects day-to-day functioning. It is attached to anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depressive disorder. The CMHA states mental health is a state of well-being as life is meant to be lived, not just survived.  Therefore, a healthy mental state gives a sense of purpose. It is the ability to thrive despite the ongoing highs and lows of life.  ..read more