If you are in the manufacturing industry, the following tips can help reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus:

• Encourage workers to say home if they are sick
• Establish flexible work hours (e.g., staggered shifts), if feasible.
• Practice sensible social distancing and maintain six feet between co-workers, where possible.
• For work activities where social distancing is a challenge, consider limiting the duration of these activities and/or implementing innovative approaches, such as temporarily moving or repositioning workstations to create more distance or installing barriers (e.g., plexiglass shields) between workstations.
• Monitor public health communications about COVID-19 recommendations for the workplace and ensure that workers have access to and understand that information.
• Train workers on how to properly put on, use/wear, take-off, and maintain protective clothing and equipment.
• Allow workers to wear masks over their nose and mouth to prevent spread of the virus.
• Encourage respiratory etiquette, including covering coughs and sneezes.
• Discourage workers from using other workers’ tools and equipment.
• Use Environmental Protection Agency-approved cleaning chemicals from List N or that have label claims against the coronavirus.
• Promote personal hygiene. If workers do not have access to soap and water for handwashing, provide alcohol-based hand rubs containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Provide disinfectants and disposable towels workers can use to clean work surfaces.
• Encourage workers to report any safety and health concerns.

For more information, visit www.osha.gov/coronavirus or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).

Thank you and stay safe!

The Trillium brand of companies is privately owned by René Poch and provides more than 30 years of industry leading recruitment and staffing services through its divisions including: Trillium Staffing, Trillium Construction Services, Trillium Driver Solutions, Trillium Technical, and Trillium Environmental. With approximately 100 offices nationwide and nearly 400 internal recruitment professionals, the Trillium brand is proud to be recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts as a Top 25 Largest Industrial Staffing Firm in the U.S., a Top 100 Largest Staffing Firm in the U.S., a Top 100 Fastest Growing Staffing Firm in the U.S., and a 2018 winner of National Best and Brightest Companies to Work For. For more information please visit www.trilliumstaffing.com.

What seems to be the most evident reasons for the skills gap? According to a study by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute who surveyed leading manufacturing Executives, the 3 major contributing factors are as follows:

1. Shifting skill sets due to new advanced technology and automation
2. Negative perception of manufacturing companies and positions by students and their parents
3. Increased levels of Baby Boomers retiring

What can companies do to combat these factors? Truthfully, it needs to start with potential job seekers understanding the facts behind a career in manufacturing and companies taking a stand in dispelling all too common myths. As technology seems to be taking over everywhere we look, the major myth that people tend to believe is that manufacturing is a dying industry full of monotonous work in dirty, outdated facilities where it can be hard to make a true living. While those that work in the industry know that this is, for the most part, not even close to the truth, it can be extremely difficult to convince whole generations of parents and job seekers otherwise. Now, let’s talk about what a career in manufacturing could really look like.

• Manufacturing jobs can, in fact, pay well. According to Manufacuturing.net, on average manufacturing jobs can earn up to $84,000 per year including pay and benefits. In fact, 92% of manufacturing employees were eligible for full health benefits in 2015, which is about a 15% higher average than all other firms. The good part for students is that many manufacturers offer entry-level positions that allow employees to work their way up, improving their skill sets and increasing their pay along the way.
• Increased technological advancement doesn’t have to mean that manufacturing positions are being replaced. This simply means that old, outdated machinery is becoming easier and more cost efficient to replace and use. This, in turn, means that manufacturing employees are able to use higher quality equipment, programs, software, etc., in an effort to increase efficiency and, ultimately, profits.
• Manufacturing is not dying! In fact, according to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), for ever $1 spent in manufacturing, another $1.89 is added to the overall economy. This is highest multiplier effect of any economic sector.
• The manufacturing industry is literally going to have more jobs available than they know what to do with in the next 10 years. It is estimated that there will be more than 3.5 million available jobs in this specific sector alone with 2 million expected to go unfilled.

With all of that said, the only thing standing between companies and finding skilled talent is getting the truth out! Manufacturing leaders need to start from the ground up with recruiting talent. More emphasis should be put on enlightening students, their parents, and counselors on the ever present availability of career options in the manufacturing industry. The labor shortage isn’t going to go away on it’s own and unless something is done to discredit the years of misconceptions and myths regarding a career in manufacturing, the industry itself could start to struggle which could have a very detrimental effect on the economy overall.

The Trillium brand of companies is privately owned by René Poch and provides more than 30 years of industry leading recruitment and staffing services through its divisions including: Trillium Staffing, Trillium Construction Services, Trillium Driver Solutions, Trillium Marine, Trillium Technical, Trillium Environmental, Trillium Hospitality and Trillium Techs. With approximately 100 offices nationwide and nearly 400 internal recruitment professionals, the Trillium brand is proud to be recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts as a Top 25 Largest Industrial Staffing Firm in the U.S., a Top 100 Largest Staffing Firm in the U.S., a Top 100 Fastest Growing Staffing Firm in the U.S., and a winner of National Best and Brightest Companies to Work For. For more information please visit www.trilliumstaffing.com.

Manufacturing has added over 700,000 jobs since February of 2010, many due to durable goods.

What does this mean for employers?

The number of qualified and unemployed manufacturing workers is quickly depleting. Locating  qualified workers is becoming increasingly difficult, especially with the ever changing production technology changes. Many employers are seeking alternative hiring methods including: referral bonuses, large marketing campaigns, and staffing partnerships in order to meet their growing demands.

While many more entry level positions require little to no experience, hiring under-qualified staff can cost employers in other areas. Additional investments in employee training, employee turnover, work related injuries, and quality re-works can all be attributed to hiring under-qualified manufacturing workers. Employers who implement formal training and safety processes most often experience lower cost burdens related to product quality, employee turnover, and work related injuries and illnesses.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of top level talent? Contact us today! If you are a stand out in your profession and seeking contingent or long term career opportunities, visit our job seekers section for more information!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

The increased recruiting focus on skilled trades and technical manufacturing has left many employers with a void for entry level production workers and inspectors. In addition,  with many entry level production workers being crossed trained into new roles and moving upward within the manufacturing field, vacancies are continuing to grow for machine operators, assembly workers, and general production workers. So where does that leave employers? In a constant struggle for manufacturing workers.

If you are in need of production workers, consider a partnership with an industrial staffing agency, vocational schools in your area, or career counselors. Many have access to entry level workers who are seeking an opportunity to gain full time employment, even if it is seasonal.

Are you a stand out professional, technical professional, driver, or skilled worker seeking contingent, temporary, or long term career opportunities?  Visit our job board  for more information!  Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professionals and skilled workers? Contact us today!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

The employment outlook has definitely improved over the last several years. Here are some of the highlights for this season’s job seekers:

• More than half of employers plan to complete their summer hiring in the months of May and June.

• One of the biggest areas of improvement over the past two years is pay rates. About 66% of employers plan to pay their summer hires at least $10/hr.

• Almost half of employers in leisure and hospitality will be adding to their staff this summer.

• Manufacturing and IT industries still hold strong as second highest areas for projected staff growth.

Due to fluctuation in business schedules and projections, many employers will partner with staffing agencies or recruiting firms to help them locate their talent this summer. With in-demand positions including IT, clerical, engineering, and customer support staff this summer’s hiring demands are a little less traditional than past years. If you are considering a new position this summer, now is the time to apply! With most employers looking to add staff in the months of May and June, recruiting efforts are already in full swing. In order to best increase your chances of landing a position during this hiring surge, employ a variety of methods to get your name in front of hiring managers. For more information on how to land a job, visit the job seekers section of our blog.

Are you a stand out professional, technical professional, or skilled worker seeking contingent, temporary, or long term career opportunities?  Visit our job board  for more information!  Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professionals and skilled workers? Contact us today!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

While the application and screening process can be laborious for any position, the steps involved to remain in compliance while hiring CDL drivers can be overwhelming. Did you know that in order to fulfill legal obligations you may have to:

• Obtain employment verification and drug/alcohol test results
• Obtain certificate of compliance with driver’s license requirements
• Obtain applicant’s description of previous vehicle accidents
• Obtain applicant’s statement of On Duty hours
• Obtain a copy of applicant’s DOT physical card and physical
• Obtain a copy of the applicant’s driver’s license
• Obtain a copy of the applicant’s MVR
• Obtain a negative drug screen result

While employing a driver you must also ensure that your equipment, insurance coverage, and policies remain in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Simply staying informed on the latest regulation and compliance changes can be a full time job.

So what should an employer who doesn’t specialize in hiring drivers do? First and foremost, an employer should determine whether or not investing in compliance, training, and insurance premiums outweighs the benefits of them outsourcing their driving staff. Second, you should determine whether a third party logistics firm or a driver staffing agency would better service your needs. A driver staffing agency can provide you with screened and qualified drivers for long and short term needs, while maintaining control and responsibility of properly screening and employing the driving staff.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professional drivers? Contact us today! Learn more about our Dedicated Driver Services here! Are you a safe and professional driver who is seeking a rewarding career? Visit us here to locate a driving career in your area!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

• Are You Qualified? If you do not meet the minimum qualifications or requirements of the position, you are far less likely to be considered for the position. Employers are often inundated with applications and resumes in response to their job openings. Want to reach the top of the stack? Make sure you clearly state and demonstrate how you’re qualified for the position.
• Did You Follow The Application Process? With the large volume of responses that hiring managers typically receive for open positions, they create an application process that best allows them to streamline the process while juggling their other responsibilities. Following the application process as instructed can quickly demonstrate your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions. If the job posting asks you to apply online or requests no phone calls, your chances of impressing the employer will quickly decrease if you try to get around the system.
• What Does Your Resume Reflect? Is your resume up to date, clear, and concise? Does it quickly demonstrate your qualifications and professionalism? The average employer spends only 6 seconds reviewing a resume. Make sure your resume is clean, without stains or wrinkles, and quickly demonstrates your skills and abilities at first glance.
• How Was Your Applicant Etiquette? One of the fastest ways to land at the bottom of the applicant list is to be rude or inconsiderate in the application process. Seems like common sense right? While it can be frustrating to not hear back quickly or have an interview booked as soon as you feel it should be, keep in mind hiring managers are often overwhelmed with applicant responses and often juggle other responsibilities. Insulting them, their organization, or their staff can quickly land you out of the running for that and other positions within the organization.
• Did You Follow Up? Regardless of the outcome of your application and interview, follow up is key. Demonstrating respect and professionalism at all steps of the process can help you stand out significantly. Be sure to thank the interviewer for their time, send a follow up thank you card, and even if you are not chosen for the position remain professional. Your follow up after the fact, may land you the first call back if their first choice for the position does not work out for one reason or another.

Remember the job search process is different for everyone. If those around you are landing jobs faster than you avoid the temptation to get frustrated. Skills, abilities, and job availability have a large impact on the time it takes to find your next position. If you are struggling or could use some assistance in your job search process, consider partnering with an industry specialized recruiting firm to help align you with a career that best suits your qualifications and ambitions.

Are you a stand out professional or skilled worker seeking contingent, temporary, or long term career opportunities?  Visit our job seekers section for more information!  Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professionals and skilled workers? Contact us today!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

Losing a job, whether it was your dream career or a dead end job can be devastating blow to your emotions. It’s important to process it and move on so you aren’t dragging the excess baggage to your next position. Here are some great starting points.

• Keep it private at first. The anger, hurt, and depression that may come directly following the layoff can be difficult to deal with. Speaking negativity towards your former employer or co-workers can reflect poorly on you. Until you have come to grips with the change, it’s best to keep the news to those you are closest to and can entrust not to gossip outwardly.
• Grieve the loss. Losing the day to day friendships and relationships with co-workers and clients can be difficult to deal with. Be sure to take time for yourself to deal with all of the losses that come with the layoff. Avoid the temptation to vent or rant to these audiences as it can have a negative impact on your personal reputation and future career endeavors.
• Find the positives. In upcoming interviews you’ll need to be able to speak about your layoff without sounding angry or trashing your former employer. Determine the positives from the situation. Does this allow you to find a career with more advancement opportunities? Are you looking forward to a shorter daily commute? Highlight the growth and experiences that you gained during this employment and put your emphasis on these areas.
• Prepare yourself. Now is a great time to cut back on unnecessary expenses. Cutting back early on will better prepare you to handle your finances and not jump into another position just to make ends meet. Often times these are expenses that you can avoid even after taking a new position.
• Do your research. Take some time to determine what you liked most about your previous positions and what you’d like to avoid in future careers. Make a list and tailor your career search around these. Make a list of your greatest professional accomplishments. Be sure to highlight these on your updated resume.
• Seek Professional Assistance. Become familiar with the companies in your area. Who offers the best compensation and benefits? Who has a reputation for being a great employer? Who’s business initiatives best align with your career ambitions? Partnering with a staffing firm or executive recruiter can provide you with great insight to these areas and help you find an organization that best suits your future goals. They can also assist you with resume and interviewing tips.
• Notify your network. Do you have a Linked-In profile? Now would be a great time to update your profile and let your network know you’re seeking your next career. Speak to others who are familiar with your work and see if they have any career recommendations for you.
• Remain confident. It often takes time to land a new position. Avoid letting your frustration show through in interviews and correspondence with others. Now is a great time to show others how well you can deal with pressure.

Dealing with a layoff is sure to be difficult. A great way to improve your likelihood of finding a new career quickly is to remain positive and confident in your skills and accomplishments. If you are struggling to locate a career that is aligned with your goals and ambitions, consider speaking to others in your network or contact an industry specialized staffing firm.

Are you a stand out professional or skilled worker seeking contingent, temporary, or long term career opportunities?  Visit our job seekers section for more information!  Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professionals and skilled workers? Contact us today!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

What does this mean for you as an employer?

• Loss of productivity and business opportunities
• Increased insurance premiums
• Costs of injuries, loss time, and possible replacement of employees
• Decreased employee morale

What does this mean for your employee?

• Lost wages
• Pain
• Temporary or Permanent Disability
• Depression
• Death
• Changes in lifestyle
• Possible inability to return to their career path

The good news is these types of accidents are highly preventable. Simple housekeeping, maintenance, and proper training can greatly decrease the changes of a workplace injury due to slips, trips, and falls.

Here’s what you can do to help!

• Keep all surface areas clean and dry. Winter snow, slush, and water can quickly turn floors slippery.
• Keep aisles and floors clear and in good repair.
• Make sure each stairway has appropriate railing to prevent accidents.
• Remind your staff of the importance of  reporting and who to notify, in case of a spill, leak, or mess that could be dangerous. Keep these areas clearly marked until the hazard has been removed.
• Make sure all entrances are provided with rugs or floor mats to remove water and debris those entering the building.
• Keep walking surfaces clear of cords and hoses.
• Make sure all working and walking areas have appropriate lighting.
• Make sure parking lots are properly maintained, plowed, and salted during the winter months.

While not all slips, trips, and falls are preventable, preventative action can greatly reduce the number of accidents. Encourage your staff to report any unsafe conditions to management immediately and to take pride in their working area for the safety of themselves and others.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of top level talent? Contact us today!  If you are a stand out in your profession and seeking contingent or long term career opportunities, visit our job seekers section for more information!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.

With Clark Hill’s Immigration Law Update from November 15th, at least four additional states with begin require use of the system as of January 1, 2013. Some individual states have listed requirements based on the number of employees or new hires as well. Here are some highlights:

• North Carolina- Use of E-Verify will become mandatory for private employers with 100 or more employees.
• Pennsylvania- Use of E-Verify will become mandatory for state public works contractors or subcontractors with contracts worth $25,000 or more.
• Tennessee- Use of E-Verify will become mandatory for private employers with between 6-99 employees.

Other states also have new requirements of use with the system next year, read the full report here for more information on  your individual state. If you have temporary or contingent workers that are required to be processed through the system please contact your staffing provider to make sure they are aware of the regulations and are in compliance. Staffing agencies well versed in construction and related fields should be aware of the regulations and requirements in their area.

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of top level talent? Contact us today!  If you are a stand out in your profession and seeking contingent or long term career opportunities, visit our job seekers section for more information!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.