Job Seeker Experience Upgraded: Chat Live with Area Employers in Need of Talent

Michigan Works! Southwest launches video, chat platform to expand virtual employment services for job seekers

Michigan Works! Southwest is providing virtual employment services free to all southwest Michigan job seekers. Live virtual services now available include Employer of the Day events, job fairs, one-on-one career coaching office hours, and interactive employability skills workshops, all of which were held in-person at it’s four service centers prior to COVID-19. The first event kicks off Dec. 9 with an Employer of the Day event featuring Marshall Excelsior.

Virtual employment services benefit job seekers and the business community alike.

“This technology allows employers and job seekers to connect at a distance while simultaneously maintaining all aspects of an in-person conversation,” Business Services Coordinator Charlie Zigler said. “This fills a gap the southwest Michigan business community has been facing while seeking talent during the pandemic.”

As local employers report a need for workers to fill job openings, Michigan Works! Southwest continues to assist employers through enhanced access and implementation of virtual technologies.

Michigan Works! Southwest is committed to, and prioritizes, connecting area job seekers with safe employment opportunities.

“The availability of virtual services opens doors for both parties involved,” Service Center Manager Anna Bronsink said. “We want to emphasize the importance of developing relationships during this time. Our career coaching team is invested in the success of job seekers and, by enabling job seekers to spend some virtual face-to-face time with our staff, we hope to build trust and confidence while keeping everyone safe.”

Visit our events page to learn more about and register for upcoming virtual opportunities.