The MaineLinks Newsletter

Weeks of Weeks of May 22 and 29, 2023

What to Know!

For small business owners the question of when and how much to raise prices is a tough one.  Maintaining loyal customers and earning a profit can be a delicate balance. There are times when raising your prices is necessary to keep your business viable.  A winning price strategy includes knowing your cost, market & customer base. Consideration of price increases should be determined by:

• Are your costs getting higher (and profits lower)?
• When was the last time you raised your prices?
• Are you experiencing an increase in demand?
• Do you understand the value of your product/service?
• What are your competitors’ pricing levels at?
• How much are your customers willing & able to pay?

Communicate the price increase in advance, let them know why you are raising your prices, and how it will benefit them. This can build trust and loyalty with your customers. Don’t overexplain or apologize – creating a sustainable business is beneficial to you, your customers, and your community. 

Veterans Corner

Memorial Day weekend is a great opportunity to take the time to honor and celebrate those who served the country, and those still working hard to give back to their communities. Like the Travis Mills Foundation, which supports post-9/11 recalibrated veterans and their families. Their programs help men and women overcome physical challenges, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation. You can support our veterans by registering or volunteering for the 12th Annual Miles for Mills 5K at 9 a.m. on Sunday, May 28, in Brunswick, Maine, at the Brunswick Landing, or virtually from any location you choose. The founder of the organization, Travis Mills, was in the middle of his third tour in Afghanistan when he was hit by an IED 11 years ago. He lost both arms and legs and is one of only five quadruple amputees who fought in Iraq or Afghanistan to survive his injuries. And, he's still going strong with his second chance at life.

Training Talk!

Want to learn a new trade? Central Maine Community College is offering Welding sessions starting May 22^nd for Multi-Language Learners. The 4- week sessions run 40 hours per week. This high-demand field includes jobs in the aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, agriculture and construction industries, and the rapidly growing renewable energy sector. The course covers a variety of welding techniques, including MIG & TIG welding, industry-standard weld joints, print reading, basic metallurgy, sheet metal forming, tube welding, and grinding & polishing.

Notable Quote:

“Never was so much owed by so many to so few”

--Winston Churchill

Hiring Events: (Click on the “Hiring Events” link for full list)

• 5/24- Calais CareerCenter- 5 Lowell St. Calais, ME Marshall Healthcare
• 6/1-  Madison VFW Post 7865 58 Preble Avenue, Madison, ME Sponsored by the Hinckley CareerCenter
• 6/7- Greater Portland CareerCenter Hiring Event 151 Jetport Blvd
• 6/14- The  Brunswick Mall Downtown Hiring Event- sponsored by the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter and the Town of Brunwick

Workshops: (click on the “Workshops” link for more)

• 5/23-  Maine Employment & Training Program Info Session by Eastern Maine Development Corporation
• Open until 5/31- Grow Your Business Online
• 6/2- Navigating a Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History

CareerCorner –May/June - Esthetician

An esthetician is a cosmetologist who specializes in skincare. Estheticians are tasked with improving, revitalizing, and beautifying skin. They can work in tandem with physicians in medical settings, such as in a medical spa, a dermatologist’s office, or a plastic surgeon’s practice. They can also offer services such as hair removal, oxygen therapy, and Botox. In Maine, an esthetician requires a license to practice and must complete a licensed esthetics course consisting of 600 training hours as well as pass a written and a practical exam. Additional certifications are also available to estheticians who wish to provide more specialized services. Esthetics is a growing industry.

And MORE!

Your local library is a great community resource for books and events.  Did you know that there are other treasure troves to borrow.  Outdoor games such as cornhole boards and croquet, craft kits, cooking supplies, and household tools to name a few.  Want to check out Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, a state park, or the Children’s Museum? Your local library may have day passes you can borrow. 

Did you miss the last newsletter? Ensure you subscribe for more updates from the Maine Department of Labor.

Maine Department of Labor and Maine CareerCenters provide equal opportunity in employment and programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request.