Host Linda Ockwell-Jenner interviews Melissa Small from EmployNext, a government-funded employment service supporting job seekers across Ontario with free recruitment support. They discuss how EmployNext connects employers to quality local talent, fills skill gaps through training funding, and provides 12-month follow-up — all at no cost to either party.
Key Takeaways:
- [01:43] Melissa introduces EmployNext as a free, government-funded recruitment service operating across Ontario, connecting employers with skilled local job seekers.
- [03:38] Traditional job platforms produce hundreds of irrelevant resumes; EmployNext delivers quality, geographically suitable candidates while ensuring timely follow-up.
- [06:41] The service supports every industry and level — from entry-level customer service and manufacturing to nurses, engineers, and project managers.
- [08:22] Training and skill-gap support is available through program funding, covering certifications like forklift drivers without the employer bearing the cost.
- [10:48] EmployNext is free because it's government-funded; they prove employment outcomes to maintain their operational funding.
- [13:28] Interested parties can contact Melissa at melissa.small@serco-na.com or by phone/text at 519-591-5102.