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Whether you’re just starting out on the job market or consider yourself a seasoned professional ready for a change of scenery, figuring out your next career move can be overwhelming. Before you can even get to the tactical stuff—like updating your resume and LinkedIn profiles, searching for job openings, and preparing for interviews—it’s important to have a strong idea of what you're seeking. Are you driven by a need for a challenge, more work-life balance, a better cultural fit, or something else? To avoid the analysis paralysis that can come with weighing so many options, it helps to take a step back and think broadly about your goals and values. Once you determine what matters most in your decision, you can actionize it—like a go-to-market plan for your soul. Get started with the Goal-Value-Action (GVA) Framework . What is the Goal-Value-Action Framework ? The GVA Framework is a structured approach that guides you from broad aspirations to concrete steps. Here’s how it works (and here's where you can get the Goal-Value-Action Framework worksheet ): Start with Your Goal – At the center of the framework is your “north star,” the big motivation for your job search. This should be something meaningful, motivating, and specific. Example: This might be “Flexibility” if you’re seeking work-life balance to enjoy more of Michigan’s great outdoors. Identify Your Core Values – Surrounding your goal, define four key values that you want to shape your decisions and priorities. These values serve as guiding principles that keep you aligned with your goal—the “why” of your goal.  Example: If your goal is “Career Growth” you might have values like, “Continuous learning” to reflect the importance to you of learning new skill sets, or “Connection” if your impetus for career growth is to network with more like-minded professionals in your industry. Identify Actions – For each value, list specific actions you can take to bring your goal to life. These are the practical steps that ensure your search efforts move you forward. Resist the urge to list big actions—the most effective actions are the ones you can adopt consistently into your day or week. Example: if your value is “Creativity,” some actions might be to spend 10 minutes per day journaling or making art. Why the GVA Framework Works A job search is more than just submitting applications—it’s about finding the right fit. Many goal-setting methods focus only on outcomes, and traditional pros and cons lists don’t account for multivariable decisions. The GVA works by connecting your goal to your values, making them more relevant and sustainable long-term. This approach helps maintain motivation, especially during the inevitable ups and downs of job searching. Practical Tips  Write It Down – This is one of those times when it most serves you to write the GVA out by hand. Print several blank copies, pour your beverage of choice (Michigan has some amazing roasters and brewers to make this part of the process extra enjoyable), and start drafting.  Revisit Regularly – Perhaps the most critical component to the GVA is to revisit it frequently. Post it by your desk, in a notebook, on your fridge, or wherever will allow you to see it regularly. This will reinforce your commitment.  Consult It – The GVA is a living document. Life changes and so may your priorities and actions—but your values should remain the same for the goal you’ve identified. When you find yourself at a crossroads, consult your GVA: which path is best aligned with your primary goal? Final Thoughts Making a career change can be a complex and emotional process. The Goal-Value-Action Framework provides a clear path to follow, ensuring that every step you take moves you closer to a job that aligns with your core values and aspirations. Whether you’re searching for your next Michigan opportunity or looking to grow in your current role, the GVA can bring you the clarity and purpose to navigate your career transition. Author: Cassy Tefft de Muñoz is a native Michigander who calls the Upper Peninsula home. With over 15 years in the public and nonprofit sectors, she has extensive experience in international affairs, higher education, and community and workforce development. Cassy describes herself as an incorrigible intrapreneur who is just as likely to be found embarking down her favorite hiking trail with her dog, Tikka, as perusing a used bookstore.  

Communication is an art much more than a science. Yes, there are specifics you must include like listing your work history, making sure spelling is correct and that you are using full sentences in an application. However, once you get to an actual interview, there is more to the nuances of verbal, non-verbal and written communication that influences how you present yourself. Below are a few tips to make sure you show up ready to convey that you are the best candidate: Prepare . Think a lot about what will make you memorable in a sea of applicants. Think of your opening as your debut and start strong. This rule of three helps to give enough but not too much information.  What are three business accomplishments you want to share? Be specific but short and concise. What are three personal tidbits and something that makes you unique? What is something that connects you to the person on Zoom, or in the  room?  BONUS: Look up the LinkedIn profiles for the people that will be interviewing to see what their work experience is, groups they belong to, volunteer experiences or any shared connections. These types of connections will help you stand out from other applicants. Practice . There is no such thing as being too prepared. And the more you practice the easier your conversation will be. Record yourself several times until you are comfortable with what you are saying about yourself. You want to practice until you are confident but not scripted. This is important for both online and in-person interviews. This helps you target changes you might need to make in your tone, nervous habits or how often you use the words “um,” “like” or “you know.” It is also important to look and act in-line with the position you want to attain. If you are applying for a creative position, there may be more leeway. But an interview is still an interview. You want to be polished, articulate and confident – your interviewers are assessing your ability to represent them and the organization well. Polish . Check your online profiles. The interviewers are going to do their research on you, and you want to be sure you stand out in a good way.   Go through your social media accounts and do a clean-up. This is not just for LinkedIn but also includes your Facebook and Instagram accounts. Those are the three top social accounts recruiters and HR teams will check. If you are just graduating, it is probably time to remove the late-night photos you have posted. Double check your feed for any comments or posts that might be considered controversial. You don’t have to delete everything that’s important to you but ask yourself if you are comfortable with someone who’s interviewing you seeing those items.  •    Don’t post anything negative about current or former employers. This will be a red flag for future employers. Plan . Think through some questions in advance about the company or the position you are interviewing for. Having a list of 5-10 questions shows that you are interested and serious about the opportunity. It will also help to make sure you come away from the meeting with a good understanding of the position and your ability to do the job. And in many cases these questions can set you apart from other candidates who haven’t done the same level of preparation. Here are some ideas for those questions:•    How does the company define success in this role? What kinds of professional development opportunities are available for individuals in this role? Can you describe the company culture? What does the onboarding process look like for this role? What are the top three goals for the company in the next 3-5 years? Can you tell me a little more about the team I’d be working on? What are the most immediate projects that I would take on? What are the biggest challenges the company is facing? (Or the team I’ll be working on is facing?) Doing your homework to prepare, practice, polish and plan before you head into your interview will provide you with a solid foundation to articulate your strengths, show your interest in the organization and be a strong and memorable candidate for the interviewers.  Pamela Lippitt is Chief Communicator and Owner of The Hill Street Group where she uses her skills in marketing, public speaking and team training to help others succeed. She helps people maximize their voice, creating confident, savvy leaders. In addition to leading several successful businesses, she was also the Executive Director of The Michigan Israel Business Bridge, a non-profit organization, giving it a prominent voice in both Michigan and Israel. She has served on Automation Alley ’s International Advisory Committee, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Global Michigan Initiative and Ann Arbor SPARK ’s Foreign Direct Investment Committee. Pam is a proud volunteer mentor in the TechTown Detroit’s Professional Services Network “Ask an Expert" program. Pam is a strong advocate for working women and co-founded the Jewish Working Women’s Network. Pam is a life-long (and very proud) Michigander and has a BA in Communications from the University of Michigan.  

Graduating from college—whether it’s a two-year or four-year program—is a significant achievement. The next step is finding an entry-level job, which can feel overwhelming in today’s competitive job market. Michigan offers diverse opportunities across thriving industries in cities like Flint, Detroit, and Lansing. Here are five tips to help you secure your first position and kick-start your career. 1. Consider Michigan’s Growing Industries Michigan is home to an array of industries offering entry-level opportunities. Flint , (in the Thumb of Michigan) the birthplace of General Motors and just an hour north of Detroit, continues to offer a diversity of manufacturing opportunities and growing opportunities in healthcare as well, thanks to major employers like McLaren Health Care and Hurley Medical Center . Educational services ( Kettering University , Mott Community College and the University of Michigan-Flint ), social services and financial service opportunities are also great options in the Flint region. Detroit , famously known as the "Motor City," continues to lead in mobility innovation, with companies like Ford hiring regularly. Beyond advanced manufacturing, Detroit also has a booming tech and creative economy. Lansing (an hour and a half northwest of Detroit) is Michigan’s state capital. It’s a hub for public service, economic development and government roles with opportunities at a long list of state and regional agencies. Lansing also offers a wide variety of career opportunities in higher education at Michigan State University and with employers in the healthcare and biotech industries.  2. Utilize Local Networking Opportunities Networking is a powerful way to connect with potential employers, and Michigan offers many opportunities tailored to recent graduates. In Flint, events through organizations like GST Michigan Works! and community centers or local associations are excellent places to meet industry professionals. Michigan has a vibrant entrepreneurial and tech scene across the state, with a network of SmartZone organizations providing resources and access to community assets, as well as hosting events and workshops. Lansing’s Regional Chamber of Commerce offers a Leadership Lansing Program that is a great way to network and develop skills for community leadership, as well as meet employers in government and education sectors. Additionally, local young professional groups like Flint & Genesee Young Professionals in the Flint area, MichAuto’s You Drive the Future and Mobility Meetups in the Detroit region, or Lansing 5:01’s Grand River Connection networking events can help you connect with peers and employers in your area. Get connected to these programs to build your network and stay informed about job opportunities. 3. Tailor Your Resume for Michigan Employers Employers appreciate candidates who understand their industries and markets. When applying for jobs in Michigan, customize your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences. Spend time looking at the job postings and analyzing your resume. Depending on the types of roles and/or industries you are focusing on, you may need to create multiple versions of your resume. Customizing your resume will help it stand out in the sea of resumes many recruiters receive for open positions. For example: If you’re applying for a role at an automotive manufacturer like Lear Corporation in Flint, emphasize any technical skills, internships or certifications that align with the industry. If you’re targeting government roles in Lansing, showcase your coursework, leadership experiences or community involvement that demonstrate public service skills. Even part-time jobs or volunteer experiences can set you apart when framed effectively.  While you are updating your resume, be sure to pay attention to your LinkedIn profile. This is the first place a recruiter will look if they are considering you for a position. 4. Leverage Alumni Networks and Career Resources Both two-year and four-year colleges in Michigan have strong alumni networks that can be invaluable resources. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn who are working in your desired industry or location. Ask if you can do an informational interview, and then ask if they have any recommendations or suggestions for open positions and who else to contact. You’ll learn about the organizations and different roles available while developing your interviewing skills. The Career Services department at your college or university is an excellent resource for career assistance and networking opportunities. In Flint, the University of Michigan-Flint’s Career Services offers everything from career fairs and resume resources to interviewing tips. Consider Starting with Internships or Apprenticeships If you’re struggling to land a full-time role, consider internships or apprenticeships, which often lead to permanent positions. Many Michigan employers, such as Ford, McLaren Health Care, or University of Michigan Health-Sparrow, offer programs designed to transition participants into entry-level roles. These positions allow you to gain hands-on experience, build your professional network and demonstrate your potential to employers. In Flint, for instance, volunteering with local organizations or hospitals can lead to opportunities in healthcare or community services  (a great place to look for volunteers opportunities is Genesee United Way’s Volunteer Opportunities Board ).  Final Thoughts Whether you’re graduating from a community college or a university, Michigan offers a wealth of opportunities for entry-level positions. From Flint’s healthcare sector to Detroit’s automotive and tech industries or Lansing’s government and education roles, the key to success is preparation, persistence and utilizing local resources.  Author: Brianna Mosier is Executive Director of Flint & Genesee Education & Talent , a division of the Flint & Genesee Group . Her work focuses on building strong connections between employers, job seekers, students and community organizations to support the growth and development of the Flint & Genesee region in Michigan (also called The Thumb ). Brianna is a lifelong Michigander and attended Baker College in Flint. She has been with Flint & Genesee Group for over six years and leads the Flinterns program, youth training and job programs, a talent attraction program with local employers, business development programs for the region, a professional leadership development program, and assists with the Flint & Genesee Young Professionals .