Talent Pipeline Management

When discussing talent needs with employers, the need for young people to enter career fields is a common topic. Much of the workforce is aging and looking toward retirement.   As those workers leave their positions, many opportunities will be available. 

The Talent Pipeline Management process includes involving the high schools as a source of future talent. As such, GST Michigan Works! assists local schools with employment-related training, such as mock interviews. The interviewing process is generally one of the more stressful parts of the hiring process, and proper preparation can determine the difference between employment and continued job searching. Skills alone don’t always get you hired; often, it’s how you promote your skills… and yourself. 

Mock interviews are an excellent opportunity for students to practice these critical interactions. It allows the student to make mistakes, ask questions, learn, and get feedback in a non-judgmental setting. It may be their first interview experience, and nervousness is present and visible. Once settled down, many students learn that it is a conversation about themselves, which helps make the exercise much easier for them.

GST Michigan Works! had the opportunity to assist students at Corunna High School with their interview training. We found that many had questions regarding all aspects of the interview, which we were able to address and help them build confidence. By the end of the interviews, it became clear to the students how the process worked, the nuances, and how to answer and ask questions. We also discussed in-demand career fields and other employment opportunities. The long-term effect of this interaction is that future employers will have more confident and prepared candidates who can present themselves articulately and professionally! We came away from the experience optimistic about what the future world of work will look like with these capable students as a part of it!