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G-r-r-r! LinkedIn arbitrarily changes format. Now what?

Ahhh!  Perhaps you were just getting a handle on LinkedIn – they drastically transformed not only its design, but functionality.

I was delighted to be included in the GetApp.com article addressing the LinkedIn revolution.

Here it is for your reading pleasure.

Ready to leverage LinkedIn? Let us teach you how to use the LinkedIn Sales Funnel, or we can manage it for you.  For more information contact Steve Dubin, office – (781) 582-1061, email –SDubin@PRWorkzone.com.

G-r-r-r! LinkedIn arbitrarily changes format. Now what?Read More

Talking Information Center’s Boston Studio at MCB Now Open

Talking Information Center (TIC), the award-winning, nonprofit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts, recently announced the opening of a second studio in Boston.

TIC is proud to announce that their Boston studio, located at the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB), 600 Washington Street, Boston, is now in operation. The new location serves as a direct link to their Marshfield studio and provides a more convenient location for state officials and other guests who would otherwise have to commute to Marshfield.

“We are thrilled to be able to record interviews in our Boston studio as it better facilitates scheduling of our guests who are located in town,” noted James Bunnell, Executive Director of TIC. “Our Boston studio may be used to advocate for different agencies, as it enables MCB and others to reach the community.”

In addition to their Boston and Marshfield studios, TIC has affiliates in Mashpee, Pittsfield, Lowell, Springfield, and Worcester broadcasting their diverse programs 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also offers cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

Talking Information Center’s Boston Studio at MCB Now OpenRead More

Duck. Don’t hide. Clear writing runs afoul.

When did we stop calling a duck a duck?

Reminds me of when our dating service client wanted to refer to themselves as a “relationship” consultants.  Again, I’m lost. Are you therapists?  Ancestry.com?

Call a duck a duck. Not “Waterfowl family Anatidae”.

Our attention span and interest levels are nanoseconds. Don’t make me work too hard to determine what the heck you are talking about.

Example. I received this response from a prospect the other day.

“We provide consulting and research to companies to help them offer better overall experiences to their customers – a combination of product, service, marketing, and ops. We usually work with relationship based products like software, banking, medical devices, telephones, and so on. Products and services that require consistent performance overtime in all parts of the relationship. If you know of anyone who needs management consulting or research please think of us. We offer custom projects, retainer based support, and training. ”

What?

You had my eyes glazing over BEFORE the end of the first sentence.

Need help keeping it simple. Give a holler.  Or jot a very brief note.

For more information contact Steve Dubin, office – (781) 582-1061, email –SDubin@PRWorkzone.com.

Duck. Don’t hide. Clear writing runs afoul.Read More

Jim Mileski of Old Colony Elder Services Retires After 38 Years

Jim Mileski

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities, announced that Jim Mileski has recently retired after 38 years of dedicated service.

Mr. Mileski began his career at OCES on December 5, 1978 when he joined 25 co-workers at the agency. He was hired as a Case Manager, but shortly after, in fulfillment of an agency need, Mr. Mileski was asked to oversee multiple OCES contracts with service providers. He accepted that challenge and served in the capacity of Contracts Manager until his retirement.

In January, OCES’ Board of Directors recognized Mr. Mileski for his 38 years of dedicated service and contributions as a valued employee. A retirement party for Mr. Mileski was held at OCES’ Brockton office on Main Street. While Mr. Mileski knew about the party, he did not know that he would be presented with a professional chef’s hat as a part of the festivities, as a nod to his passion for baking and sharing of his delicious creations with his colleagues.

Brenda Correia, Coordinator for Elder Community Support Programs at the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) attended Mr. Mileski’s retirement party and presented him with a Certificate of Excellence on behalf of EOEA for his 38 years of dedicated service in the community.

“Jim came on board in our early days, just four years after our founding, and has been an integral part of our team ever since,” explained Nicole Long, CEO. “Jim’s efforts have truly contributed to our success, and we thank him for his dedication to OCES for the past 38 years. Congratulations Jim, and we wish you a very happy and healthy retirement!”

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 26 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and people with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 235 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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FitWorx Promotes Sara Fuller, DPT

Sara Fuller, DPT

FitWorx, the “non-gym” solution for a healthy lifestyle and weight loss with four locations in Massachusetts, has promoted Sara Fuller, DPT to Corporate Outreach Director and General Manager of the Pembroke location.

Fuller, who is a physical therapist, has been with FitWorx for two and a half years, previously holding the position of manager at the Pembroke location. In her expanded role, Fuller will be responsible for all corporate outreach, and oversee operations and all staff at the Pembroke location. Additionally, Fuller has been named to FitWorx’ Advisory Board, where she will serve as an expert advisor to senior management and FitWorx FitCoaches with regard to program development, medical evaluations, nutrition and fitness.

Fuller holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Simmons College in Boston, and is Athletic Trainer Certified. She is also Nutrition Certified from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). She is a member of the South Shore Chamber of Commerce. For seven years prior to FitWorx, Fuller worked as a physical therapist in the neurology department of the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.

“Helping individuals realize that attaining a healthier lifestyle is possible, and then working with them every step of the way towards success is incredibly rewarding,” explained Fuller.

She continued, “Previous to FitWorx, my role was to rehabilitate a patient post surgery or post injury over a prescribed period of time with the goal of returning him or her to functional independence and his/her previous level of activity,” said Fuller. “I am very passionate about preventative work and helping individuals over the long-term. I believe that independence is optimal function, and FitWorx is where I can help individuals the most.”

As part of Fuller’s corporate outreach, she strives to connect with local physicians and healthcare professionals in creating greater awareness among their patients of FitWorx’ proven approaches to weight loss and fitness.

“At FitWorx, our goal is to get individuals, in particular those with sedentary lifestyles, weight issues or medical conditions such as High Blood Pressure, Type II Diabetes and High Cholesterol, on the path to weight loss and an overall healthier lifestyle,” explained Fuller.

A native of Brookline, MA, Fuller is a resident of Kingston, MA.

Get with the Program

FitWorx helps real people achieve a realistic weight loss goal with manageable, proven approaches to weight loss and fitness. FitWorx training and nutrition program is designed to help members reduce body fat percentage by increasing lean muscle by up to 10 pounds. FitWorx programs include meal plans, exercise routines, and accountability for sticking with the plan.

A FitWorx membership includes: full access to the facility seven days per week; friendly training with a FitCoach three times per week on full body strength training workouts; weekly weigh-ins; monthly re-evaluations to track progress and help determine the best course of action to reach goals; and personalized weight loss program and meal planning with weekly plan review.

About FitWorx

FitWorx is the “non-gym” solution for a healthy lifestyle and weight loss. Offering a personalized fitness program that combines nutrition with customized workouts, and the ongoing guidance and support of a personal FitCoach, FitWorx has helped thousands achieve their weight loss goals and attain and sustain a healthy lifestyle. Each member is provided with the guidance of a FitWorx certified personal trainer, known as a FitCoach, at every visit, ensuring that each step taken brings the member one step closer to his/her goal. Through a well-rounded program of Strength training, Cardiorespiratory fitness, Flexibility (stretching) and Weight loss management, FitWorx is dedicated to helping every member adopt a healthier lifestyle and succeed in meeting their weight loss goals.

FitWorx officially opened doors in 2013, and has quickly grown to four locations in Massachusetts: Easton, Pembroke, West Roxbury and Weymouth. The company is currently looking toward national expansion through franchise development.

To learn more about FitWorx and their “90 Days to a New You” program, or to sign up for two-week free trial, visit www.FitWorx.com.

 

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Apollo Safety Launches a Dedicated Waste Management Division

Apollo Safety, Inc., providers of gas detection products and services for universities, hospitals, government operations and other organizations, recently announced the formation of a special division to serve waste management facilities throughout New England.

Focused on prevention, Apollo Safety has created a dedicated Waste Management Division to provide gas detection equipment, maintenance and monitoring services to this growing niche market. The new division caters to waste management facilities, including transfer stations and construction and demolition debris recycling facilities.

“Gas detection systems at waste disposal and recycling facilities are imperative for employee and public safety. The systems alarm at the first sign of trouble – such as carbon monoxide or other hazardous gas,” explained John V. Carvalho III, president of Apollo Safety.

Apollo Safety implemented a gas detection monitoring system at New Bedford Waste Services, the largest enclosed construction and demolition debris recycling facility in New England.

Gas Detection Systems

Apollo Safety’s offerings include a wide variety of portable and stationary gas detection systems, including brands such as Industrial Scientific, RAE Systems, RKI, and GMI. These systems are available for purchase or rental at weekly or monthly rates. Rental equipment is certified to NIST standards and is guaranteed for the entire rental period. Apollo Safety also utilizes wireless gas detection systems, which report directly back to a command post miles away at the first sign of trouble. The wireless systems provide the ability to check gas levels in real-time, with the security of knowing that headquarters has access to the same readings.

Apollo Safety provides waste disposal and recycling facilities with on-site installation, staff training and 24/7 service.

Carvalho continued, “The only way to know if a gas detection system is working is to test it with the appropriate gases. As experts in gas detection, we inspect, calibrate and test the systems on a regular schedule. By not having a routine maintenance system in place, the health and safety of everyone on site is at risk if the gas detection equipment is not functioning properly.”

For more information about Apollo Safety or to schedule a consultation, call 800-813-5408 or visit www.apollosafetyproducts.net.

About Apollo Safety

Founded in 1995, Apollo Safety, Inc. has grown to become the leading safety and technical services equipment provider in New England. As experts in gas/toxic leak prevention and detection, Apollo Safety goes beyond simply installing gas detection systems, and provides regular maintenance and monitoring (testing) of the systems to ensure they are continually in optimal working order.

Apollo Safety provides portable, stationary and wireless gas detection systems, sales and support for most major brands of gas detection device manufacturers, as well as service in their “state of the art” in-house service center. The company also provides on-site support with factory-trained technicians for both portable and stationary gas detection systems.

Apollo Safety is a member of the National Safety Council, Massachusetts Safety Council, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Association (RIAFC) and the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts (FCAM) and is trusted by facilities managers, building owners, landlords, universities, hotels, institutions, government operations and others throughout the region. A veteran-owned small business, Apollo Safety is located at 57 Walnut Street in Fall River, Massachusetts. For more information, call 800-813-5408 or visit www.apollosafetyproducts.net

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OCES Organization Announcement To Prepare for the Future

Nicole Long

The Board of Directors of Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities, recently announced a senior management restructuring. These changes will prepare them to build upon the agency’s strong positive reputation in the community, as well as to embrace new opportunities. Nicole Long has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Diana DiGiorgi has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO). As CEO, Ms. Long’s primary focus will be to maintain and grow community and funding source relationships. As COO, Ms. DiGiorgi’s primary concentration will be on internal business operations.

Diana DiGiorgi

From the statement by the Board of Directors: “OCES has experienced rapid growth in programs and staffing to meet consumers’ needs across the region especially over the last 5-10 years.   It is time to reorganize these responsibilities into separate positions to ensure the agency’s strength and progress into the future.”

Ms. Long began her career at OCES in 2005 in the Family Caregiver Support Program. She was appointed Assistant Executive Director in 2015, working alongside Ms. DiGiorgi on strategic and operational initiatives. She holds a Master of Social Work from Bridgewater State University and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Ms. Long also serves as a Commissioner on the Board of Directors for the Plymouth Housing Authority and is an Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapist at Wildhearts Therapeutic Equestrian Program in West Bridgewater.

Ms. DiGiorgi joined OCES as the Finance Director in 1996 and was appointed Executive Director in 2006. She holds an MBA from Northeastern University. Over the last 10 years, Ms. DiGiorgi held positions of Treasurer and Vice President on the Mass Home Care Association. She recently served as co-chair of the Interagency Council on Housing and Homelessness (ICHH) Committee on Elder and Chronic Homelessness, working to build partnerships that enhance coordination to maximize housing and service resources.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 26 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and people with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 235 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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Talking Information Center Participates in “Wonder Fair”

Jim Bunnell

The Talking Information Center (TIC), a nonprofit reading service based in Marshfield, MA and the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts, recently participated in Furnace Brook Middle School’s “Wonder Fair” for sixth graders held January 27th.

Designed to raise awareness and give the Marshfield middle school students a better understanding of what it would be like to have vision or hearing impairment, learning disorder or other disability, the Wonder Fair offered different “simulator” stations.

Jim Bunnell, Executive Director of TIC led the station simulating visual impairment. Working with more than 300 students in groups of six at a time, Bunnell helped to teach the students about visual impairment and blindness awareness, including how to assist and guide someone with a visual impairment and how to approach someone who has a visual impairment. In an exercise that was similar to the Blindfold Run/Walk that TIC held with Furnace Brook Middle School last October, the children participated in an exercise where they were paired together, one guiding the other blindfolded partner, for a firsthand experience of what it is like to be blind.

“The number of individuals with vision impairment is expected to increase significantly over the next 10 years. Creating greater awareness and understanding is key. I really enjoyed working with the students, as they had no idea of the challenges without sight. They do now,” explained Bunnell.

At the close of each session, Bunnell asked the students if they had any questions and many students made comments along the lines of “I never realized how lonely and dark it is without being able to see.”

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also offers cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

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Charles Manson or high school cheerleader? If your LinkedIn photo looks like either of these…

It’s true. I got tired of hearing that my LinkedIn headshot was a bit out of date. What gave it away? The dark hair? Hair at all? The optimistic smile?

I’m here to save you from the same fate. If your headshot looks more like your oldest child or a still shot from a bank video tracking a robber, you might want to reconsider.

Seriously, if your headshot is more than five years old, you should have it updated. Maybe your current photo includes your dog, mom, spouse or favorite sports equipment. Or, perhaps the background of your current photo is cluttered or distracting – that includes odd patterns or random words.  Or worse, you’ve Photoshopped out everything but the unidentified hand on your shoulder. Another telltale signs of the need for a new photo is significant fashion shift – from wild hairdo to trending eyeglasses.

Your LinkedIn photo should be you on your best day!

So, you are smiling and approachable. Your hair and makeup look great. Your attire is professional. Your attractive head fills the space – from the top of the head to just below the shoulders.

Care to stand out a bit?  Go black and white.

Want to make sure you make the right impression. Hire a professional photographer who can use professional lighting and offer a bit of coaching.

Now for full disclosure, I recently went outside the box and had Abraham, my talented son and proud graduate of Massachusetts College of Art, create a Super Hero illustration of me to replace my LinkedIn headshot. (See my image on this E-Newsletter.)

Perhaps it makes my headshot timeless. I’m sure you will let me know.

For more information on how to optimize LinkedIn to fill your sales funnel, please check out our upcoming workshop–The LinkedIn Sales Funnel – Hands-On Workshop. We’re hosting two workshops:

For complete information, click here.

 

Charles Manson or high school cheerleader? If your LinkedIn photo looks like either of these…Read More