Michigan Works! Southwest makes resume, resource workshops available virtually

KALAMAZOO, MICH. – Michigan Works! Southwest launched a series of virtual workshops for those preparing for an upcoming job search.

These online workshops, designed to provide support to job seekers while contact restrictions are in place due to COVID-19, will replace in-person workshops previously offered at Michigan Works! Southwest service centers. The virtual gatherings are one hour long and aim to help people prepare for their next career opportunity.

Hosted by skilled career coaching staff, the virtual workshops are being held online now until the end of June, with anticipation of a continued schedule. Topics include:

• Resume Development – June 2, 9, 16, 23 | 3 p.m.
• Job Search Tips and Tricks – June 4 | 9 a.m.
• Cover Letter Nuts & Bolts – June 18 | 9 a.m.
• Virtual Interviewing – June 11 | 9 a.m.
• Let’s Chat: Your Chance to Talk with a Career Coach – June 25 | 9 a.m.

“Michigan Works! Southwest provides essential services for those preparing for an upcoming job search,” Amanda Sutherland, administrator of workforce development, said. “Reframing our traditionally in-person workshops to provide them virtually gives job seekers insight to professional advice that connects them with purposeful career opportunities.”

Those interested in signing up for a virtual workshop can go to michiganworkssouthwest.org/events/ to do so.

“As the economy and regional businesses begin to reopen, we remain hopeful people will be able to return to their previous employers and positions,” Ben Damerow, Director of Michigan Works! Southwest said. “However, we know that’s not going to be the case for a significant amount of people, and Michigan Works! Southwest is positioned to lift those job seekers up. We strongly encourage individuals to take advantage of the resources available to them as they prepare for their job search. We are ready to continue working with our customers virtually and look forward to resuming in-person service in the future.”

The four service centers serving Southwest Michigan work with employers across their four-county region to bolster workforce development needs, and serves as the gateway connecting job seekers, employers, training partners and educators.

Michigan Works! Southwest operates service centers in Kalamazoo, Calhoun, St. Joseph and Branch counties. Last year, more than over 135,000 individuals visited the service centers to tap into the unique resources available. Services include career coaching, resume and resource workshops, job search assistance, employer retention programs, training courses and job trend information. The service centers also assist more than 1,000 regional employers seeking assistance with talent recruitment, apprenticeship programs, job fairs, candidate pre-screening, hiring and training support, layoff support and labor market data.

Service center staff remain available to serve by phone appointment to work one-on-one with job seekers to build their resumes, prepare for job interviews and help address other needs. To schedule an appointment, call 1-877-256-8294.

About Michigan Works!

Michigan Works! Southwest specializes in talent development strategies with services tailored to meet the needs of both employers and job seekers. Information is also available online at michiganworkssouthwest.org . To find other Michigan Works! locations within the state of Michigan visit michiganworks.org or call (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).