The Water Cooler

Does your boss value your work?
Wednesday, March 01, 2017

Believe it or not, money is not the only reward that people need in order to feel that they are valued at work. Yes, money sure helps but, in my own experience, my best paid position was one I left because I didn't feel that my time or efforts were respected.Looking back on it now, I realize that part of ...

Boost Your Career - Learn a Second Language
Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Boost Your Career - Learn a Second Language
by Melany Hallam

February is often the time of year that Canadians are thinking of taking a much-needed break from winter by flying off to a warm country-preferably with a beach. I've travelled to Mexico many times and have always found that knowing some Spanish can be helpful, ...

Computer Skills-they’re not just for desk jobs anymore
Monday, January 02, 2017

January 2017 Water Cooler Question: Do you have the computer skills to do the kind of work you want to do? Yes / No / I’m getting there

This is kind of a trick question these days because pretty much any job will require computer skills at some point. You may be working in construction or forestry, believing that you’re safe ...

Are you ready to be your own boss?
Wednesday, November 30, 2016

I’m my own boss and I love it, but it took many years to get to this point in my life. My writing and graphic design service didn’t materialize overnight. I worked as an employee for a long time while taking an increasing number of contracts on the side, building my skills and my client list. When I made the ...

Chronic pain - is it real?
Tuesday, November 01, 2016

by Melany Hallam

Question: Do you feel limited in the kind of work you can do due to your health? Answers: Very limited / somewhat limited / not limited

One of my best friends (let’s call her “Debbie”) - a talented teacher - is no longer able to work because of chronic pain and anxiety.

For as long as I’ve known her (about ...