Charise Wilson Wants People Working

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has turned businesses across the state upside down and sideways. Many companies went from prosperous to struggling seemingly overnight. Employees have either had their hours reduced or have been furloughed altogether because of the changing economic landscape. With little end in sight and leaders grappling over the future, those affected by these recent events need a venue to change their own situation.

Charise Wilson is the owner of Workforce Ready Solutions in Woonsocket. Her minority-owned business aids clients with employment services, resume writing and training. She admits the current climate makes what she does more challenging.

“Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, our economy was strong and at a multi-decade record low for unemployment, which was at approximately 3.5%,” said Wilson. “However, according to The New York Times,  the unemployment rate has skyrocketed to over 13%, and it’s increasing daily. That means more than 15 million individuals are currently unemployed. This does not even take into account those that are under-employed.”

Those numbers are eye-popping enough, but Wilson said that finding work in this economy is still possible. While some industries are shrinking, other markets such as retail (supermarkets, for example), trucking/transportation and nursing/medical fields are in desperate need for temporary help. People may become frustrated with either the lack of work in their field and/or what they are qualified to do.

Wilson said having a positive attitude can go a long way to finding a short-term answer that may develop into a long-term endeavor. Another way to ensure their chances of success is updating their credentials. A clean cover letter and resume can open doors as quickly as sloppy documents can close them. She can help get the point across to decision makers so applicants can shine.

“As an African-American woman, I know first-hand the difficulties in finding mentors and figuring out just the right career path,” she said. “That is one of the reasons why I enjoy providing these types of services for others, and why I am passionate about helping people with their career direction. The work that I do allows me to support communities and help families.

“It feels like I am landing the job myself every time I help someone – and that never gets old!”

In order to land that job, Wilson said she also works with clients on their job interview skills, proper business attire and other factors to distinguish themselves from the pool of other candidates. She said the aforementioned documents can get someone through the door, but providing candidates with the missing tools and resources to get a competitive advantage that ultimately decides whether applicants receive a return meeting, much less an offer.

She understands with the recent spike in joblessness, there will be more people fighting for fewer jobs. That makes more sense to stand out in the best way possible, she said.

“Many people claim to be able to help with resumes and to coach you through the hiring process, but Workforce Ready Solutions has proven we can actually help. If you’re unsure about your next career steps or if you are looking for some employment guidance and direction, consider connecting with us. I have nearly two decades of career services leadership experience and my small business provides unique career solutions with a targeted approach that is world-class.”

Wilson adds that companies should also reach out to her if they have a staffing problem during this economic upheaval. In addition to the aforementioned services, :they support job seekers every day and want to help these individuals to connect with local business, or something to that effect.

Wilson is offering a free, no obligation consultation. Visit her website at https://wfrsllc.com/services, or contact her either by email at [email protected] or call 401-526-9090.