The “You Don’t Have to Work Here to Get Paid” Event!

The “You Don’t Have to Work Here to Get Paid” Event!


WSI -Workforce Strategies, Inc., an award-winning staffing and recruitment firm, has just announced their “You Don’t Have to Work Here to Get Paid” referral program has been extended through August 31st. Participants can refer jobseekers to WSI for the chance to win up to $1,500! (No WSI affiliation required.) 

How it Works


Extended through August 31st, earn a referral payout for anyone we put to work by the end of the month as follows:

Ready to get started?


The “You Don’t Have to Work Here to Get Paid” Referral program is open to all; entrants do not need to be a current WSI associate. Complete details and a referral form can be found at www.www.wsitalent.com/referrals/

Michigan Reconnect: Free Tuition Program

michigan-reconnect

Because our purpose here at WSI is to empower others to live their best lives, we’re excited to share a new education program available for Michigan residents!

The State of Michigan has recently announced a program allowing Michiganders, aged 25 years or older, the opportunity to receive a tuition-free associate degree from their in-district community college or complete a skills certificate. The program offers scholarships through more than 70 private training schools with 120 different programs that offer certificates in industries such as manufacturing, construction, information technology, healthcare, and business management. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the Michigan Reconnect Program:

  1. You must be at least 25 years old to apply
  2. You have to have lived in Michigan for at least one year or more
  3. You need to have a high school diploma
  4. You cannot have already completed a college degree (associates or bachelor’s)
  5. The program is also available to those currently in community college, as it will pay the remaining balance of tuition and fees

In a recent press release, the Acting Director of Michigan’s Labor and Economic Opportunity Department, Susan Corbin, stated, “Reconnect offers a path for so many Michiganders hoping to begin – or complete – their education and career journey. This program, like so many others we’re focused on, will help expand opportunity for all Michiganders and make Michigan a better place to live, work, and play.”To submit your application and learn more about the Reconnect program, please visit Michigan.gov/Reconnect.

I Hate My Job Assignment…Now What?

We all want a job that makes us want to jump out of bed in the morning. But when navigating the workforce, it’s inevitable at some point to accept a role that just isn’t a great fit for you. And that’s ok! Maybe you don’t respond well to the company’s management style or the work schedule doesn’t fit your needs. Whatever the reason may be, we want to help you find a job you love. After all, we’re in the business of empowering people to live their best lives, and it is February. 

So if your new job assignment isn’t working for you, the worst thing to do is become what we consider a “no-call-no-show”. We’ve seen time and time again associates who have been placed on assignment, only to not show up for work on Day 2 and ghost us when we reach out because they don’t enjoy their job and are afraid of getting yelled at, demeaned, or blacklisted. We at WSI Staffing cannot stress this enough: If you don’t like the assignment you’ve been given, that’s okay! We want to fix the situation and find something else that’s a better fit for you. 

What to Do if You Hate Your Job Assignment

  1. Talk to Your WSI Account Manager

If you decide the job just isn’t for you, give your Account Manager a call. They won’t be mad or berate you. They will talk you through your options and help to resolve any conflicts that arose on the job. 

  1. Identify What Went Wrong

When talking with your WSI Account Manager, try to find what it was exactly that you didn’t like about the job. Knowing why you want to leave your job will help you find what to look for in the next one. 

  1. Leave on Good Terms

You don’t want to burn any bridges for future opportunities. While leaving a job can be uncomfortable, it’s important to do it on good terms. That means giving as much notice as possible and speaking with your WSI Account Manager to discuss the details of your departure. 
Americans on average spend 90,000 hours of their life working. That’s a huge chunk of your life to be stuck in a job you hate. So give us a call, we’re here to help you thrive.

rapid! PayCard: A Direct Deposit Alternative

“So…how do I get paid?”

It’s probably one of the most asked questions we hear on a daily basis from our eager new employees. The days of paper checks are gone and getting paid is now more simple than ever. WSI associates have the option of being paid via direct deposit to their bank account or a rapid! PayCard.

The rapid! PayCard is an easy and safe alternative for direct deposit. You’ll be paid directly through your card and can use it to make purchases, pay bills, and even get cash from ATMs. If you change jobs down the road, you can also continue to use the card through your next employer and you can change from your payment method to direct deposit at any time.

How Do I Get Started with My Card?

Your WSI staffing coordinator will issue your pay card in the office before your first day of employment. Once activated, you’ll be able to use it immediately. Funds will be automatically loaded onto your card every payday.

You have three simple options to activate your rapid! PayCard.

  1. Download the free app – rapid!Access (available on both Apple and Android) 
  2. Log onto www.rapidfs.com
  3. Call Cardholder Services at (888) 727-4314. 

Where Can I Use My Card?

You can use your rapid! Payard anywhere that accepts MasterCard. You can make purchases in-person or online, withdraw cash from AllPoint and MoneyPass ATMs, transfer funds to a traditional bank account, set up an interest-bearing savings account, order additional companion cards for family and friends at no charge, and receive cash back with the Cash Back Rewards program. 

(Pro tip: When pumping gas, it’s best practice to prepay with the cashier inside. If you choose to pay at the pump, some gas stations may put a hold of $100 on your card that can last up to 24 hours.)

How Do I Check My Balance?

There are several convenient ways to check your account balance. You can log into the rapid!Access app, visit the rapid! Pay website, or call (888) 727-4314 to use the automated system or speak to a customer service representative. 

What Should I Do if My Card is Lost or Stolen?

It happens to the best of us. But you’ll have peace of mind knowing your money is protected and you aren’t responsible for unauthorized transactions thanks to MasterCard’s Zero Liability Policy. If your card is lost or stolen, just call 1-877-380-0980 to inform a representative and request a new one. 

But don’t take our word for it, check out these real user testimonies. 

Hundreds of Jobs Coming to Madison Heights: WSI Recruitment & Staffing Office Coming Soon

madison-heights-blog

WSI (Workforce Strategies, Inc.), an award-winning staffing and recruiting firm, is growing to new heights by establishing its tenth branch in Madison Heights, MI. A February 2021 grand opening is anticipated and details will be available at www.wsitalent.com.

The Year of Big Milestones

February 2021 will mark twenty years of WSI providing staffing and recruitment services to job seekers and employers. Since opening our doors in 2001, our teams have been committed to empowering job seekers to live their best lives. Expanding WSI’s footprint by opening a new office in Metro Detroit is an exciting way to kick off our twentieth year in business. 

“It’s amazing to look back on the growth we’ve had as a company,” says WSI President/CEO, Jeff O’Brien. “Even a global pandemic couldn’t stop us from providing extraordinary service to our employees, clients, and associates. We’ve built an incredible team at WSI, and it is our positivity and perseverance that will see us through as we continue to grow.”

Motor City Moves

WSI will be staffing for a major global provider of quality assurance solutions and will have 200+ Quality Inspector roles to fill. Quality Inspectors will examine a variety of mechanisms on the new third-row Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Wagoneer automotive parts to ensure all standards are met.  Jobs start at $14/hour.  

We get it. There are staffing agencies on every block that promise to get you in and out with a new job you’ll love. We know the common perception of the staffing industry, but we’re here to tell you that they’re not all the same. We invite you to experience the world of staffing, the WSI way. 

What’s Next?

We are currently recruiting a full internal team for our new Madison Heights office. A January 2021 grand opening is anticipated and will be updated at www.wsitalent.com. Are you or someone you know looking for a career in staffing? One thing is for sure, the world of staffing can be stressful and frustrating. But as much as it’s challenging, it’s just as rewarding – if not more. Check out our Madison Heights internal opportunities here. 

See you soon, Madison Heights!

For more information about WSI, visit www.www.wsitalent.com and/or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

WSI Announces Second Winner of Free Rent Referral Program

Meet Anthony Matteson. 

Anthony is a production employee at Package Right in Tipton, IN. “It’s easy work and there’s always something new to learn,” Anthony says, “I really like the people I work with.” 

Earlier this summer, Anthony referred a friend to WSI Tipton, which earned him an automatic entry into a drawing for free rent. Little did he know, that small act paid off big time. 

“Anthony was shocked to be named our second winner of the Free Rent Referral program,” says Moriah Morrisett, WSI Tipton Branch Manager. “When we called to give him the good news, he asked if it was some kind of joke. We were delighted to tell him it was very real!” Anthony went on to say that winning this free rent is a blessing and couldn’t come at a better time. 

Congratulations Anthony on winning free rent! Thank you for the referral and all that you do. We are so excited for all the great things ahead for you and the Package Right Family!

The Free Rent Referral program is open to all; entrants do not need to be a current WSI associate. Our first winner of the program was Yesenia Varela, a Machine Operator at Roskam Baking Company and WSI Grand Rapids Associate. The final winner will be announced soon. 

Complete details and a referral form can be found at https://www.wsitalent.com/rent

Why WSI?

We get it. There are staffing agencies on every block that promise to get you in and out with a new job you’ll love. But how can you weed through the masses to find an agency that will truly listen to your needs and care about what you want out of a career? We’re not gonna lie: we think WSI is the best company to work for. But we want you to see it for yourself.

1. The Proof is in the Pudding

Don’t take our word for it. Averaging a 4.8-star rating, our Google reviews showcase exactly why associates continue to choose WSI.  

Alexis Smith – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lindsay called me today about an application I had put in. She was very knowledgeable on the positions, and just overall so enjoyable to talk to. I’ve worked with other agencies before and the experience was never positive. I never had one even ask me what I would want out of a job. She truly seemed to care about my well being in a job instead of just throwing me somewhere without a second thought into what I would want or be good at. I already told her thank you for being so sweet on the phone, but I felt like other people should know too if they apply to WSI. I could tell Lindsay cares about other people and wants them to succeed and that was just really impressive to me coming from a temp agency considering my previous experiences.

Justin Suiter⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I was really in need of a good job that I felt would appreciate me. When I walked into WSI, I was greeted with care and professionalism. They made me feel like I had value and treated me as such. Because these wonderful ladies work so hard, I now have a great job that pays well. Walking into WSI Talent is the best and smartest thing I’ve done all year. Thank you, WSI for this amazing opportunity. I wanted to mention, Ashley, Kristina, and Gabby thank you so much. You are changing my life.

Tyler Wilson⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

WSI helped me find an opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in my field of studies. I’m an Engineering Management student at Western Michigan University. What’s important to you is very important to them. I just want to thank Taylor for helping me put my foot in the door.

2. Onsite WSI Representative

Picture this: You just scored an awesome new job through a staffing agency. You go through orientation and are ready to rock your first day… until you realize you’re unsure of how to read the schedules and clock in correctly. Cue freak out. 

Don’t worry. When you accept a role through WSI, you’ll be introduced to your Onsite Staffing Coordinator who will be onsite regularly. They are there to coach, counsel, and assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Having an Onsite Coordinator available helps minimize the growing pains that are bound to come with being a new employee. With their help, you’ll go from newbie to pro in no time!

3. Relationships

It’s the relationships that are built through the job placement process that really set us apart from the rest. From the moment you walk through our doors to apply, to the day you’re hired in, and for the entirety of your assignment, we’re here for you. We understand the power of a positive and fulfilling workplace. We live and breathe it every day, and love helping others experience it too. That’s why it’s our purpose to empower our associates to live their best lives. 

When speaking to his account manager Lindsey Casey, WSI associate Steven B. said he’d encourage other job seekers to use WSI because we’re  a “great agency where the staffing associates always work hard to help you find gainful employment.”

We know the common perception of staffing agencies, but we’re here to tell you that they’re not all the same. We invite you to experience the world of staffing, the WSI way. 

Four Tips to Help Crush your Virtual Interview

In this technology era, the popularity of finding jobs online is growing at a rapid rate. No longer are businesses posting their open positions on cork boards and waiting on an applicant’s call. With the shift in employees moving online to hunt for jobs, companies have followed suit with virtual recruiting efforts. 

Virtual job fairs have become widely popular over the last several months. They allow the opportunity to interview around your own schedule from the comfort of your own home. With a variety of interview times, job seekers have the flexibility to schedule time around other jobs or schooling.  

But how is preparing for an online interview different from a traditional interview? We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you crush your virtual job search. 

1. Check your Tech

There’s nothing worse than logging on to start your interview, only to find out your computer or cell phone is dead and the charger is nowhere to be found. We recommend setting your computer up where you plan to interview the night before (more on that later) and plug it in to charge overnight. Also, be sure to check your internet connection at least an hour before your scheduled interview time. You don’t want to sit down to begin, only to be met with a dropped signal. (Pro tip: Using headphones with a built-in microphone will GREATLY improve your sound quality.)

2. Still Dress for Success

While you may be able to connect with employers from the comfort of your home, you shouldn’t look too comfortable. Be sure to still wear presentable clothing that you would normally wear to an in-person interview, even if it is only from the waist up!

3. Distraction-Free is the Way to Be

Setting up your computer in an area free of distractions is a super important part of having a successful virtual interview. We recommend a desk or table in a room where the TV/music is off and family members won’t enter. It’s a good idea to move your pets to another room while you’re doing your interview. While we love our furbabies here at WSI, having them make a surprise guest appearance while you’re discussing your past work experience may throw you off your game. 

4. All Eyes on Me

It’s important to give your interviewer your full attention. Here’s what that looks like:

  • Eyes on your screen
  • Sitting in one place the entire time
  • Not on your phone or attending to other distractions off-screen (Interviewers will still be able to tell you’re not focused on them even if it’s not in camera view)

But most importantly, just relax! A good interview should feel more like a conversation than an interrogation, and that’s our goal at WSI with every candidate. Follow these tips and we’re sure you’ll be accepting that job offer in no time!

Hospi-facturing: Where Hospitality and Manufacturing Collide

While almost every industry has taken a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic, none have been hit as hard as the hospitality sector. From the closing of restaurants and bars to the restrictions placed on travel, the leisure and hospitality industry has lost 7.7 million jobs in April alone. That accounts for 47% of all positions. 

“Working in a restaurant means being part of a family for most,” says Dani Mullins, WSI Account Manager with over 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry. “Right now there are lots of lost people out there looking for a home and a sense of belonging that would benefit from a new opportunity.”

So, what are these hospitality workers to do in the meantime? The additional unemployment benefits and stimulus package kept furloughed waiters, hotel clerks, bartenders, and more afloat for awhile. But the extra funding has ended and many hospitality jobs are still unavailable or operating on reduced hours. Here’s where hospi-facturing comes in. 

If you think about it, hospitality and manufacturing aren’t so different.

Hospitality Manufacturing
• Serves people
• Transports tourists
• Prepares towels/bedding for guests
• Uses technology and machines
• Serves suppliers
• Transports products
• Washes/prepares garments for all industries
• Uses technology and machines

WSI identified this comparison in industries and saw an opportunity to provide short term solutions for those affected. Hospitality provides workers with easily transferable skills to move into a temporary manufacturing position during this time of shutdown. And, it even provides some benefits hospitality workers may not have enjoyed before, such as:

  • Steady schedule
  • Consistent pay
  • Holidays and weekends off
  • Multiple shift opportunities (for early risers and night-owls)
  • Temporary work

Think hospi-facturing may be a good fit for you? Take the quiz to find out!

To learn about WSI’s part in navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, read our blog: Our Role and Responsibility: Navigating Through COVID-19

For community resources, check out: Community Resources you can use Today