No matter what obstacle your business is facing, the DOL almost certainly has a no-cost solution to help you meet your goals. With so many programs available, identifying which solution is right for your business can be tricky. Thankfully, NYS DOL’s Regional Business Services Representatives are here to help.
Each month we’ll feature a representative from a different region around the state. This month we meet Michael Cohen, who has served as an Occupational Analyst in the Long Island Business Services Regional Office since 2013. Michael began his career at DOL in 2010 as an Apprentice Training Representative.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy supporting businesses with their recruiting efforts and providing human resource consultation for the Long Island community. The DOL truly has no slow season, which makes the days goes by quickly. It’s gratifying to help individuals find careers and watch businesses grow. Businesses, especially new ones, are amazed to learn about all the no cost services we offer.
What are the key services you connect businesses with?
One of the many hats I wear is providing human resource assistance. This involves reviewing and updating employee handbooks, creating on-boarding plans, providing technical assistance on the latest Employment Law and Regulations, and conducting skill gap analysis for on-the-job-training. As part of the Business Engagement Team, I also help connect businesses with job seekers.
What are some of your favorite businesses to assist and/or visit in Central New York?
I have developed great relationships with so many businesses. It’s what makes working here so fulfilling. I’ve had the pleasure of assisting Green Team LI with onboarding for their NYSERDA on-the-job-training, which promotes jobs in energy efficiency and clean technology. I helped Roli Retreads, Inc. take advantage of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is a tax incentive for hiring people with barriers to employment. The last one that stands out is my work with Atlantic Nurseries, who I helped create their employee handbook and get up to speed on the latest labor laws.
What do you like to do when you’re not busy helping local businesses?
When I’m not helping local businesses, I’m spending time with my family and friends. Recently, my wife and I took our daughter to see a LI Ducks game. Seeing her experience a game in-person for the first time was priceless. I’m hoping to see the New York Mets go deep in the playoffs this year. It’s been too long without a World Series championship. Those who know me know I am also a big fan of “Big Blue” – the New York Giants. I can’t wait for football season to start.
To see if your business could benefit from one of our programs, contact your Regional Business Services Representative today.
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