A quarterly event that connects employers and job-seekers is filling a crucial need as Michigan strives to keep pace in an ever-evolving global economy.
Now in its sixth year, the
Mid-Michigan Talent Connection brings job-seekers and employers together in a low-pressure networking environment. Events take place four times a year, with the next connection slated for June 4 at Meridian Christian Church in Okemos.
Michigan’s unemployment rate has fallen steadily over the past five years and dipped to 5.4 percent in April 2015—the same as the national jobless rate. Despite the improving job market, many employers struggle to find qualified workers in an economy increasingly reliant on high-tech jobs.
“We know many companies have an increasing number of open positions for which they cannot find qualified candidates,” said event partner Edythe Hatter-Williams, CEO of
Capital Area Michigan Works!. “Many job-seekers are in a position where they may need to refocus their job search and look at transferable skills they have, or even consider retraining. The Mid-Michigan Talent Connection is an ideal place to network with potential employers to see what it takes to be successful in the new global economy.”
The Talent Connection was founded in September 2010 (formerly Pink Slip Mid-Michigan) by a small group of citizens who saw a need to connect and educate job-seekers and local businesses. The event combines elements of standard job-fair with workshops and panels, as well as networking opportunities.
“What makes this different from other employment events is that there are no resumés passed at this time,” said Rick Stacy, founder of the grassroots initiative and president of Meridian Christian Community Ministries, an event partner. “There is no pressure for a job-seeker to ‘sell’ themselves, nor for an employer to hire on the spot. This time is about learning how we can help each other.”
The Mid-Michigan Talent Connection has drawn an estimated 750 job-seekers and 200 employers, ranging from Jackson National Life Insurance Co. to Dart Container Corp. Key speakers have included Bob Fish, cofounder of Biggby Coffee, and Rob Fowler, president and CEO of the Small Business Association of Michigan.
For more information and to register for the free event, click
here.
Source: Rick Stacy, Founder, Mid-Michigan Talent Connect
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
Got a story idea for Innovation News? Email Ann Kammerer here.
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