FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Unemployment is still a problem for some in Grand Bahama, but a new company has emerged to assist persons to getting ready for the work world.

Recently the government held job training programmes for 240 persons on Grand Bahama and with the assistance of various companies around the island, these persons have been put to work but are being paid by the government in the National Job Readiness and Training Programme. But there are still some persons out there that need this service.

Benchmark Consulting Services recently announced its training and development programme which is expected to begin this month.  According to CEO, Billie Bowe, they are offering a wide variety of training and development programs for unemployed individuals in Grand Bahama at no cost.  She said that interested persons can register at the YMCA, visit the Department of Labour, the National Insurance Board or contact her more information.

“Our philosophy is to provide a positive environment with practical learning, sound advice and lasting business principals” explained Bowe. “These programs are targeted towards individuals with little or no work experience or persons who just need to jump-start their careers and be ready for that next job opportunity. It’s accessible, effective learning, with life changing potential.”

Some of the topics to be covered include Resume Writing and Interviewing Skills – Doing Right and Getting the Job!  Bowe said this course will prepare participants for their first interview or any interview for that matter.

“We will provide resume-writing workshops and role-play interviews. We will expose the secrets of what most employers or recruiters are looking for in a potential candidate.

Another key part of this programme is the topic “Dressing for Success – How to Make the Right Impression the First Time!”

Bowe explained that this program is designed to help persons put their best foot forward and present the most professional image.

“We discuss grooming standards for the workplace and how your hair, clothing, or even your nails can stand between you and getting the job of your dreams. We will have a fashion show displaying the do’s and don’t ‘s for workplace fashion.”

Then they look at Customer Service in Hospitality, Food and Beverage and Retail, which Bowe said is designed to help persons interested in going into the hospitality, food and beverage, or retail sectors.  She stressed that Customer service is key, and in some instances, it’s your livelihood.

“We will go back to the basics and answer fundamental questions about why customer service is important and how attitude counts!”

Also being tackled is the topic “Introduction to Personal Finances and Budgeting” which has as it mean focus building wealth, not bills!

“This seminar is for persons who wish to learn the basics of financial planning and budgeting” she stated. “It’s amazing how far a dollar can go if you set the right goals and align them with what’s most important to you, your core values.”

Another programme she will be offering is called the Coco Chanel Principals of Business for women which she explains is specifically designed for women who are interested in learning how to be ruthless in business but still do it with poise and grace.  She noted that Coco Chanel was a pioneering French fashion designer whose modernist thought, menswear-inspired fashions, and pursuit of expensive simplicity made her an important figure in 20th-century fashion and Bowe will focus on teaching these real life business principals to help participants be successful in business.

Public Speaking Basics will be addressed as well, giving the participants confidence through speech.

“Speaking in public is a way of life” said Bowe. “There are opportunities to speak to one or two individuals, or you may one day be faced with the opportunity to speak in front of a large group. This seminar will help you overcome your fears, avoid “crutches” which are words or sounds we use, for example “um” or “ah” too many times when speaking. As your confidence builds, your ability to speak clearly and precisely increases.”

And also during this time they will be offering Business Writing Basics which is an introduction to the basics of business writing.  Bowe says participants will learn that writing in a business environment can tell a person what level of experience or intelligence you possess.

“We will cover proper email etiquette, various letter-writing styles, form letters, and many other useful tools to help you become better at written communication.”

For interested persons in the future they will be offering other programmes including Conversational Spanish, Business Plan Preparation and Advice, Goal Setting and Life Map Planning, Introductory Computer Software Training (Windows and Microsoft Office), Leadership Principals For the Future, Prosperous Women Seminar Series, and The Art of Journaling.

Photo: (L-R) Karon Pinder-Johnson, YMCA executive director is seen with Mrs. Billie Bowe of Benchmark Consulting Services who will be offering free job training services at the YMCA as of this month.