I know that there is some well-earned cynicism among business people toward government programs. But just as there are efficient and inefficient businesses, there are also good government agencies, employees and programs - like the regional Workforce Investment Boards (WIB).
Businesses should take advantage of the services of the WIB. The local WIBs are working hard to coordinate job training, match training to industry needs, place people in the best positions, and help businesses with tasks like writing job descriptions. The WIB should be a part of every business' human resources team.
Something else business people should know about their WIB is that they have a wide range of qualified job applicants for your open positions; it is nothing like the welfare office images of twenty years ago. When layoffs happen or a company closes, all of the employees enter the WIB system. As a result; local businesses can use the WIB to recruit all types of employees from entry level to technology to sales to executive.
I strongly urge all Central Valley businesses to develop a relationship with their WIB Business Associates. Our experience at CVBI is that they provide a great deal of support for our member businesses (and for us!). They can help employers manage the maze of incentive zones and a myriad of other programs and benefits that can add to every business' bottom line. And it doesn't cost a
penny -- so you're crazy to pass up the help!
One more thing. Check out the second annual survey of employers on the Fresno County WIB's Web site. It has amazing
information about our economy.