Tips for Landing an Entry-Level Position in Michigan After College

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.