News
Right Place Forecast Points to Strong Regional Economy in ’25
December 12th , 2024
According to the 2024 State of the Region report, presented at The Right Place’s 2025 Economic Outlook, the region’s job growth is one of the better numbers from its three-year strategic plan projections. Approximately half of the job report is from the tech and manufacturing sectors.
The Right Place Releases 2024 State of the Region
December 6th , 2024
On December 5th, The Right Place presented a state of the region presentation at its 2025 Economic Outlook event. The 2024 State of the Region report shows the trends shaping the Greater Grand Rapids region. The report highlights, population growth, education strengths, industrial strengths, and tech job growth.
Grand Rapids Giving Day Podcast | Hello West Michigan & Marvelous Lifestyles Outreach
November 26th , 2024
Tune in to this podcase episode to hear Executive Director, Rachel Gray, share about Hello West Michigan, leading up to the Grand Rapids Giving Day event on December 5, 2024.
Catlin Whitington of ArtPrize: Eyes on the Prize
October 7th , 2024
Recently relocated to West Michigan from Austin, Texas, the Executive Director of ArtPrize shares his experience with coming Grand Rapids to help lead ArtPrize. Loving the outdoors and the affordability of the area, Catlin Whitington’s network has allowed him to feel connected to the area quickly.
WSCC Hosting Business, Economic Summit
September 25th , 2024
West Shore Community College is set to host a Business and Economic Summit on October 9, aimed at fostering collaboration among local businesses and organizations. The event will feature discussions on economic development, talent efforts, and technology, such as AI.
MEDC Creates Michigan’s Growth Office
July 19th , 2024
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has launched the Michigan Growth Office, led by Chief Growth Officer Hilary Doe, to implement the recommendations of the Growing Michigan Together Council. It aims to drive the state’s population growth by retaining current residents and attracting new ones. Learn more about the story in the link.
5 Ways a Growing City Can Define Their Brand
April 10th , 2024
Exploring five strategies for emerging cities to create a brand identity, this spotlights the power of unique characteristics, community engagement, and a leadership team. A compelling city brand not only attracts businesses and residents but also sparks tourism, fueling economic growth and igniting a sense of civic pride.
Hello, Grand Rapids
November 25th , 2023
Mlive featured ReThink West Michigan’s 12th annual event, designed to bring back former residents. Hosted at The B.O.B., the event connected attendees with major employers like Acrisure, GE Aerospace, and Amway, highlighting regional job opportunities within West Michigan. Learn more about the story in the link.
ReThink West Michigan with Hello West Michigan
November 22nd , 2023
Take a listen to our Executive Director, Rachel Gray, speak about ReThink West Michigan over the air and learn more about what ReThink is and how it attracts talent to the West Michigan area.
Home for the holidays? Networking event hopes to bring residents back to West Michigan
November 22nd , 2023
The 12th annual ReThink West Michigan event is designed for those considering a return to West Michigan, including college seniors and locals seeking job opportunities. It encourages networking with employers during the Thanksgiving holiday, promoting regional growth. Hello West Michigan’s Executive Director, Rachel Gray, encourages Michiganders to participate and invite out-of-towners. The event offers a casual, professional setting to explore career opportunities and learn about the region’s lifestyle and community assets. Read more on the event by visiting the news article.
Networking event aims to draw ‘boomerangs’ to West Michigan jobs
November 21st , 2023
Our very own Executive director, Rachel Gray was on WoodTv8 discussing how ReThink West Michigan is an impactful event to recruit and retain top talent in the region. ReThink West Michigan is a networking event for those who moved away and are looking to reconnect with the community. Read on to learn more about ReThink and attendee testimonials like Brandy Martin who moved away and came back to West Michigan after discovering new opportunities.
Population Situation: West MI leaders hope region becomes model as state population declines
June 14th , 2023
Rachel Gray chose West Michigan as her home after college, citing opportunities and a sense of community. As the executive director of Hello West Michigan, she encourages others to stay, sharing her authentic experiences of the vibrant community. State officials aim to attract more individuals like Gray as Michigan addresses population challenges. Learn more about the population situation in the news article.
Investing in Tomorrow’s Talent
March 21st , 2023
Our Executive director, Rachel Gray and Program Manager, Jessica Kuster discuss how West Michigan gets its college students to stay, live and work here on the MiBiz Livestream Episode 3. Rachel and Jessica share why hiring interns is your best conversion strategy to get entry-level workers and how implementing or upgrading your internship program supports a myriad of business goals including succession planning, retention, and refine culture.
Bay Area Venture Capitalist Says West Michigan Placed to Capture Tech Talent
March 14th , 2023
West Michigan is capturing tech talent by fostering a business environment that is open to entrepreneurs and leveraging its history of automotive innovation. Hello West Michigan’s strategic partner, The Right Place Inc., recently launched an initiative to make West Michigan a Midwestern tech hub and together they have launched social media campaigns to attract tech workers to West Michigan.
CertID Founder gives 2023 Insights, Considers GR’S Tech Hub Potential
March 10th , 2023
The Right Place and Hello West Michigan are working together to increase exposure to tech careers in the region’s schools and raise awareness for what West Michigan has to offer by leveraging Hello West Michigan’s efforts to target individuals with ties to the area to grow the high-tech talent pool.
Confluence Talks on the Effort to make Grand Rapids a Regional Tech Hub.
March 7th , 2023
Rachel Gray, Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, will be a part of discussions hosted by Confluence, in April 2023 focused on efforts to transform Grand Rapids into a regional tech hub.
Say Hello Attracts Tech Talent to West Michigan
February 14th , 2023
Hello West Michigan Executive Director Rachel Gray talks about the Say Hello Initiative attracting tech talent on The Seven 8 News. The Say Hello Initiative will bring more outreach, more awareness, and more talent. The nonprofit received a new grant and had its Annual meeting on February 15th in Holland.
Grant to Attract High–Tech Workers to West Michigan
February 15th, 2023
Hello West Michigan partners with MICHauto to strengthen Michigan’s global competitiveness in the automotive, mobility, and technology industries, and improve Michigan’s pipeline of talent equipped to take on the jobs of the future. Hello West Michigan, was awarded a $125,000 grant to allow them to fully realize the vision we have for the Say Hello Initiative.
Michigan Lures Tech Workers After Layoffs from Tech giants.
January 23rd, 2023
Due to recent layoffs in the tech sector, Michigan is actively attracting highly skilled tech workers. Compared to places like California, Michigan has a lower cost of living. So, tech workers who have recently been affected by layoffs from Microsoft, Amazon, and Facebook may consider relocating to Michigan.
Grand Rapids Emphasizes Work-Life Balance
January 20th, 2023
A strong work-life balance is why many people choose to move to West Michigan. Grand Rapids is a place where employees can thrive at work, embrace the community around them, and have a personal life all in one place. Hello West Michigan, is an organization that believes having a work-life balance is important and helps build a community where young professionals want to live and work.
11th Annual Networking Events to Connect Former West Michiganders With Local, Hiring Employers
November 21, 2022
The ReThink West Michigan event series is designed around Thanksgiving holiday visits to give former residents the opportunity to connect with employers while they’re home for Thanksgiving. The event will provide a casual, professional environment to network and discover career opportunities with growing organizations in the region.
Networking event aims to lure residents back to West Michigan
November 17, 2022
The annual Thanksgiving-time networking event, ReThink West Michigan, gives attendees who are home for Thanksgiving an opportunity to connect with some of the region’s biggest employers.
ReThink West Michigan connects those home for the holidays
November 16, 2022
Hello West Michigan and The Right Place are teaming up to host the 11th Annual “ReThink West Michigan” networking event, hosted every year around the Thanksgiving holiday so that former residents visiting home can attend.
ReThink West Michigan – The WGVU Morning Show
November 15, 2022
Hello West Michigan Program Manager Jessica Kuster joined the host of the WGVU Morning Show, Shelley Irwin, to talk about the upcoming ReThink West Michigan networking events.
ReThink West Michigan job fairs taking place Nov. 17 & 23
November 15, 2022
Hello West Michigan Program Manager Jessica Kuster sat down with Michelle Dunaway and Todd Chance of Fox 17’s Morning mix to talk about the 11th annual ReThink West Michigan networking event.
11th Annual ReThink West Michigan Hosting In-Person/Online Events This Month
November 11, 2022
On Nov. 17 and Nov. 23, Hello West Michigan and The Right Place will host virtual and in-person networking events to attract talent to West Michigan. The event series is designed around Thanksgiving holiday visits to give former residents the opportunity to connect with employers while they’re home for Thanksgiving.
The Right Place seeks tech transformation for Grand Rapids
September 16,2022
Earlier this month, The Right Place Inc. shared a report with a vision to grow the tech sector in the Greater Grand Rapids region. The strategy calls for 20,000 new jobs in tech over the next decade, growing the sector to 10% of all regional employment. Tactics to attract new tech workers to Grand Rapids include leveraging organizations such as Hello West Michigan to attract individuals to the region.
The goals of Intern Connect conference, returning in person
June 8, 2022
Intern Connect aims to welcome interns who are in the area for the summer, and showcase what the community has to offer. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from successful professionals in the area, and network with other interns and area professionals.
Hello West Michigan hosting summer engagement series for interns
June 7, 2022
West Michigan Intern Connect, designed to retain college graduates in West Michigan, consists of a “combination of in-person and virtual events, plus digital resources aimed at helping interns connect with the community, their peers, and local employers.
Hello West Michigan aims to connect interns with community
June 7, 2022
This is the 9th year that Hello West Michigan has launched Intern Connect, which is the largest intern event in the western half of the state. Intern Connect combines in-person professional development events with virtual elements and also provides digital resources for local interns.
Conference gives young professionals ‘peek behind the curtain’ of workplaces
June 7, 2022
West Michigan Intern Connect, an event connecting interns with business and community leaders, is back in person this summer. The event will tackle things like job searches, confidence in the workplace, and budgeting.
Hello West Michigan launches Rapid Roots
March 4, 2022
Rapid Roots is Hello West Michigan’s new cohort-style program to acclimate executives relocating to the region. This program will introduce participants to the region in an experimental way and give them the opportunity to make connections in the community.
Local leaders ready themselves to put ARPA dollars to work in the Bay County region
February 17, 2022
Bay County is allocating funds to support local businesses and create economic growth and recovery. The Chamber and Bay County will focus on talent attraction and retention by modeling a program after Hello West Michigan’s initiatives in providing resources for job-seekers.
Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting with Jessica Kuster
February 15, 2022
Program Manager, Jessica Kuster, joins Shelley Irwin on The WGVU Morning Show to talk about Hello West Michigan’s 2022 Annual Meeting. Listen to the full interview here.
Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting with Rachel Gray
February 14, 2022
Hello West Michigan Executive Director, Rachel Gray, joined West Michigan’s Morning News to talk about the mission of Hello West Michigan and the 2022 Annual Meeting.
Hello West Michigan invites public to annual meeting
February 14, 2022
Hello West Michigan hosts their Annual Meeting on February 16th and guest speaker Kevin Oakes will share a presentation about cultural change in the workplace. The Annual Meeting is open for anyone to attend.
Hello West Michigan Welcomes Author Kevin Oakes, Announces New Program at Annual Meeting
February 10, 2022
Hello West Michigan hosts 2022 Annual Meeting with guest speaker, Kevin Oakes, to talk about successful cultural changes in organizations. Hello West Michigan will also update their impact on the community in 2021.
Hello West Michigan Hosts 22nd Annual Meeting Feb. 16; Announces New Program
February 9, 2022
Hello West Michigan will explain their efforts in attracting talent to West Michigan and review their impact on the community in 2021. Rapid Roots, Hello West Michigan’s cohort-style program, will be officially launched at the Annual Meeting.
Hello West Michigan Wins West Michigan Woman Readers’ Choice Award
December 1, 2021
West Michigan Woman just announced the recipients of their Readers’ Choice Awards and Hello West Michigan received the award for Recruitment Services in the Business & Career category.
Nonprofit marks 10 years of luring professionals back to West Michigan
November 9, 2021
Hello West Michigan hosts 10th annual ReThink West Michigan event to grow West Michigan’s talent base. Attracting talent to West Michigan is done year-round by Hello West Michigan and the organization will continue to highlight the opportunities Michigan has to offer.
10th annual networking event to virtually connect former West Michiganders with local, hiring employers
November 9, 2021
The 10th annual ReThink West Michigan will be hosted virtually by Hello West Michigan and The Right Place joined by regional partners and local businesses. The event will give former residents the opportunity to connect with hiring employers and consider the possibility of relocation.
Networking Event to Virtually Connect Former West Michiganders With Local, Hiring Employers
November 3, 2021
Hello West Michigan and The Right Place host their 10th annual ReThink West Michigan event. The casual, professional networking event is geared to attract talent to West Michigan by connecting jobseekers with hiring companies.
Hello West Michigan Executive Director, Rachel Gray, Talks ReThink on WGVU Morning Show
November 1, 2021
The WGVU Morning Show hosts Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, Rachel Gray, to discuss the 10th annual ReThink West Michigan event. WGVU host, Shelley Irwin, and Rachel Gray chat about the professional networking event.
MEDC | This Just In: Community Revitalization Projects in Cadillac, Lansing Win National Recognition
October 8, 2021
The International Economic Development Council hosted their annual conference where local companies and organizations received awards for IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development. Hello West Michigan received two awards and is recognized for success in the Back to Michigan event series.
Annual Thanksgiving Event Series Receives Awards from International Economic Development Council
October 5, 2021
Hello West Michigan in collaboration with the Back to Michigan Host Organization Committee was awarded for their excellence in economic development. Winning a silver for Cross-Border Collaboration and a bronze in Innovation Programs and Initiatives, the Back to Michigan Host Organization Committee came together and overcame obstacles to put on a successful event series.
Hello West Michigan Takes Home Two Awards for Excellence in Economic Development
October 5, 2021
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has award Hello West Michigan and The Right Place with a Silver and Bronze ranking for their efforts in hosting Back to Michigan. The Back To Michigan Host Organization Committee won Silver in the Regionalism and Cross-Border Collaboration category. The Back To Michigan event series won Bronze in the Innovation Programs and Initiatives category.
West Michigan reverses Chicago exodus, gaining residents as state stagnates
August 10, 2021
Statewide, Michigan’s employment is expected to be flat from 2018 to 2028. Job openings, the state warns, will mostly come as aging workers retire and when people move to other existing jobs. The solution: attracting residents.
West Michigan’s Largest Intern Connect Event Returns
June 9, 2021
Everything Business Corp shares West Michigan’s Largest Intern Event, Intern Connect 2021. This year, Intern Connect will be held virtually 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 23. Topics covered during the conference will include working with your managers, relationship building, and a young professional panel discussing real talk on adulting with Jamon Alexander.
8th Annual Intern Connect helping students connect with businesses and community again
June 6, 2021
Our Executive Director, Rachel Gray, went live on Fox News to talk about the largest intern event in West Michigan, Intern Connect 2021. Our 8th annual Intern Connect will be virtually presented on June 23rd from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm.
Lakeshore Advantage introduces Gentex interns to their new home in West Michigan
June 4, 2021
This will be more than an internship for young professionals. Gentex summer interns will participate in a series of teambuilding events to get to know each other better and to explore the area for the duration of their internship.
Pivoting from In-Person Internships to entirely Remote Programs
May 26, 2020
A recent article from MiBiz highlights the transition from in-person internships to entirely remote programs. West Michigan employers are adapting and shifting the traditional workplace by effectively developing new programs. Read about how virtual internship programs will benefit the future talent pool for interns and how Hello West Michigan is assisting employers on page 13.
Navigating the Job Market When Your Position is Eliminated
May 7, 2020
Rachel Gray, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, gives tips and insight into the job market. She shares various employment resources and professional development tools to help with the job search process. Listen to her full interview to find out the next steps to take when looking for a new role.
Exploring Personal Branding in a Virtual World
April 22, 2020
As the virtual world becomes more diverse, establishing your personal brand is more important than ever before. Rachel Gray, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, shares best practices and tips to create and maintain your personal brand in this webinar series.
HR and Marketing departments must collaborate to support recruitment efforts
April 5, 2020
It’s more important now than ever before to support the HR and marketing departments at your organization in recruitment and hiring efforts. Cindy Brown, VP of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, and Rachel Gray, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, do a deep dive into crisis communications and marketing and discuss how various departments can work together to create change for their business.
C
elebrating a decade of Community Involvement and Growth
March 6, 2020
Hello West Michigan is celebrating the last ten years of educating, attracting, and connecting individuals. The 2020 Annual Meeting featured C-suite executive speakers and West Michigan transplants that shared stories of relocation and how Hello West Michigan services assisted along the way. Hello West Michigan was the first of its kind in the nation and continues to attract and retain individuals to the West Michigan region.
Rachel Bartels speaks on talent attraction as being key to economic development
February 9, 2020
Local companies throughout the county have expressed finding trouble when recruiting and retaining new employees. Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, will speak on talent recruitment and the importance of economic development at the upcoming Knox County Area Partnership (KCAP) Annual Meeting in Illinois. She will discuss best practices for communities looking to refill their talent pipeline.
Hello West Michigan and The Right Place continue to develop talent efforts in the region
February 7, 2020
The Right Place shared economic development goals and the strategic plan for the region over the next three years. Hello West Michigan and the Right Place will continue to develop talent, retention, and attraction efforts. The plan involves a heavy focus on inclusive growth initiatives and working to ensure the entire diverse West Michigan population can share in the region’s economic success.
State pride is up and ex-residents want to return to the region
November 27, 2019
Professionals have the opportunity to meet with West Michigan employers to talk about the community and learn about what coming back would look like. Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, Rachel Bartels, said: “People are ready to have those conversations and say, ‘I want to come back, now show me how to do it and please help me do that.’”
ReThink West Michigan: Pairing drinks and appetizers with job offers
November 27, 2019
For the eighth year, ReThink West Michigan is back and hoping to connect hiring employers with former West Michigan residents. The casual networking event will host over 50 employers between six event locations. Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, said it isn’t uncommon for attendees to leave the bar with a job offer.
Rediscover job opportunities in the region at ReThink West Michigan
November 26, 2019
Former West Michigan residents that are considering moving back to the region are able to explore opportunities by attending ReThink West Michigan on Thanksgiving eve. Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, and Rachel Bartels, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, talk with WOODTV to share some insights about this year’s event.
Business leaders in West Michigan to former residents: “We want you back.”
November 25, 2019
Business leaders encourage former residents to return to the Mitten state and rediscover job opportunities in the West Michigan region. The ReThink West Michigan annual event is being held in six different locations, including: Fremont, Oceana County, Muskegon, Hastings, Grand Rapids, and Ludington.
Calling all former West Michigan residents: Your next opportunity is waiting
November 25, 2019
ReThink West Michigan aims to capitalize on one of the most popular bar nights of the year by offering drinks, appetizers, and job opportunities at a networking event for former West Michigan residents. There will be 49 companies and nonprofits at the six regional event locations on November 27.
Bringing talent back to West Michigan by attracting boomerangs
November 25, 2019
ReThink West Michigan is back for the eighth annual year and looking to reach all individuals that are returning home for the Thanksgiving holiday. New to the lineup of event locations is Oceana County. Hear more about the event in Oceana County from Jodi Nichols, Business Development Coordinator at The Right Place, and Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan.
Opportunities await for former West Michigan residents coming back home
November 25, 2019
Former West Michigan residents make new connections over Thanksgiving holiday
November 19, 2019
Individuals travelling from out of state to visit family in West Michigan this Thanksgiving season have the unique opportunity to attend ReThink West Michigan, a casual networking event to connect former residents to hiring employers. Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, and Juan Carlos Hernandez, Senior Talent Acquisition/Diversity Specialist at Spectrum Health, sit down with WOODTV to discuss what’s expected at this year’s event.
ReThink West Michigan is not a typical job fair
November 16, 2019
ReThink West Michigan, the happy hour-style networking event, will connect hiring employers with former West Michigan residents considering relocating back home on November 27. Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, said: “We’re highlighting the things people want to know about when they think about relocating: career opportunities and lifestyle in West Michigan.”
Hello West Michigan garners awards at international conference
November 12, 2019
Hello West Michigan brought home two awards at the 2019 International Economic Development Council Awards. One award is ‘best in show’ for the annual event, ReThink West Michigan. The second was a gold excellence award for Hello West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan brought home two awards
November 12, 2019
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) awarded Hello West Michigan a gold excellence award for the organization and a ‘best in show’ award for the annual ReThink West Michigan event at the 2019 International Economic Development Council annual conference.
Eighth annual ReThink West Michigan hosts employers from IT, HR, healthcare, engineering, and more
November 8, 2019
Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, talked with Travis Alden, President of Barry County Chamber and Economic Development on eightWest about the opportunities available for individuals visiting West Michigan on Thanksgiving Eve. Each location will feature several hiring employers from the region with available positions in finance, IT, HR, healthcare, engineering, and more.
Economic Summit at Hastings: Culture becomes a competitive advantage for businesses
November 2, 2019
The Barry County Economic Development Alliance will host a panel of professionals to highlight how the culture of a company or organization can be catalytic to future success and prosperity. Executive Director, Rachel Bartels, will be serving on the panel for an interactive discussion about first-hand experiences and best practices in economic development with professionals from West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan and Muskegon Area First: ReThink event happens in six West Michigan locations
October 31, 2019
Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, and Darryl Todd, Director of Talent Initiatives at Muskegon Area First, sat down to discuss ReThink West Michigan on November 27. Muskegon is one of the six location hosts for this years event. Each location will feature different hiring employers from around the region.
ReThink West Michigan awarded Best in Show by International Economic Development Council
October 22, 2019
The annual ReThink West Michigan event received an award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) at the 2019 annual conference. The IEDC received over 400 submissions from 12 countries for the category and ReThink was selected as the top overall, making it a globally recognized best practice in economic development.
ReThink West Michigan connects professionals with employers
October 22, 2019
Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, and Cindy Brown, VP of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, sat down with the team at WOOD TV8 to talk all things ReThink. ReThink West Michigan is an annual networking event held on Thanksgiving Eve and is geared to connect professionals with hiring employers from the region.
ReThink West Michigan attracts former Michiganders back to the state
October 17, 2019
Executive Director, Rachel Bartels, says ReThink West Michigan is an opportunity for former residents to discover opportunities in West Michigan while visiting home for the holiday. There will be six different West Michigan locations this year and each will feature hiring employers from around the region. Listen to her talk with 13OnYourSide to find out more about the eighth annual event.
Hello West Michigan actively seeds the region’s economic development
September 20, 2019
Economic development is a ‘team sport’ in West Michigan. Hello West Michigan actively attracts new talent to the region and focuses on keeping the talent here. Cindy Brown, Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, says that regional development is about “planting a seed,” so even if West Michigan professionals move away, they know there are opportunities waiting if they move back.
Sixth annual West Michigan Intern Connect encourages interns to network with local employers and create connections
June 18, 2019
Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, Rachel Bartels, talked with WOOD Radio about the sixth annual West Michigan Intern Connect. The conference is designed for interns to get out and explore the region. The sessions at the event will cover positive communication in the workplace, dress code, and networking tips.
Intern Connect Conference will teach West Michigan interns professional development skills
June 17, 2019
Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, sat down with FOX17 Morning Mix to talk about West Michigan Intern Connect 2019. This year, the event is a half-day professional conference where interns can meet their peers, connect with local employers, and learn valuable skills to help them grow as professionals.
West Michigan population continues growth spurt
June 9, 2019
Michigan’s second largest city, Grand Rapids, passed the 200,000 person population milestone for the first time last summer and many other West Michigan communities are showing strong growth to come. Strategic efforts by The Right Place, Inc. and Hello West Michigan have led to an increase in companies coming to West Michigan and in boosting the region’s population.
The WGVU Morning Show: Cindy Brown talks internships, Intern Connect, and opportunties
May 21, 2019
“Interns come in all shapes and sizes. There’s no box anymore.” Cindy Brown, Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, talks with Shelley Irwin from WGVU about the importance of internships, building your network, and opportunities in West Michigan. Listen to learn more about Intern Connect, a half-day professional development conference open to all interns on June 19.
Hello West Michigan Candidates are Helping to Reverse ‘Brain Drain’
April 14, 2019
As the Kent County population increases, so does the number of college-educated residents relocating here from other states. The increase in professionals moving to West Michigan is helping businesses meet the demand for skilled workers. Read the full article to find out the current trends in talent attraction and why Hello West Michigan candidates are making the move to West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan talks with Michigan’s Second Wave about solving the talent shortage
March 13, 2019
The Let’s Detroit site, which launched in September 2018, provides job seekers with more career and lifestyle information specific to metro Detroit. The Let’s Detroit campaign also brings with it the first-of-its-kind Text a Detroiter program. Read more to find out why it is important to go beyond marketing to help candidates and hires make lasting connections to their new community.
Hello West Michigan and Michigan House Collaborate as Talent Partners
March 1, 2019
Michigan House is a public-private partnership that serves as an “experiential embassy” at SXSW by promoting Michigan’s career and lifestyle opportunities and the state’s signature attractions. Now, its talent attraction and retention emphasis are increasing as the event’s power to improve perceptions of the Great Lakes State and attract “new collar” job seekers have become more evident. For 2019, more than 40 organizations statewide — about 15 of which are from West Michigan — are part of the program with their sights set on recruiting and raising awareness of their organizations.
Cindy Brown on how talent attraction is more than billboards
February 28, 2019
Sit down for a conversation with any business person in West Michigan and the talk will inevitably drift toward talent — why there isn’t enough of it, where to find it, how to court new workers to the area, and why so many of our youth leave. Continue reading to learn more from Cindy Brown. She serves as Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place and collaborates with other talent related organizations to address regional talent pipeline challenges.
The WGVU Morning Show: Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting
February 25, 2019
Rachel Bartels, Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, speaks about the organization’s upcoming Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting updates the community on Hello West Michigan’s talent attraction and retention efforts. First Sgt, Ret., Matt Eversmann, will be discussing veteran hiring and retention at the event.
Hello West Michigan Partners with Michigan House in 2019
February 21, 2019
The membership-based talent recruitment agencies Lets Detroit, Hello West Michigan, Ann Arbor Spark, Southwest Michigan First and Lansing 501 provide marketing and consulting support toward the effort, including sharing information about job openings, candidate information and resumes. These groups are partnering with Michigan House to attract talent to the State.
Rachel Bartels and Fox 17: Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting
February 21, 2019
Hello West Michigan’s Executive Director, Rachel Bartels, talks to Fox 17 about the organization’s upcoming Annual Meeting on February 26 at Davenport University. View the news clip and learn more about this event.
Michigan Women Podcast: Meet Rachel Bartels
February 6, 2019
On this episode of Michigan Women, host Meghan Bunchman sits down with the new Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, Rachel Bartels. The two talk about choosing the right college, giving back and how to connect those moving to Michigan with local jobs.
Attracting young workers from outside GR remains a priority
February 1, 2019
Getting people to come to work in Grand Rapids is the main priority for Cindy Brown, now vice president of talent initiatives at The Right Place Inc. Brown previously served as executive director of Hello West Michigan, which promotes the region as a good place to live and work, but she transitioned to the full-time role at The Right Place to tackle persistent talent issues.
Hello West Michigan announces new Executive Director
January 15, 2019
Hello West Michigan has become a model for what a successful talent attraction organization can be, according to Rachel Bartels, and that is why she is thrilled to become its next Executive Director. Her goal, beyond working with what she describes as “an amazing team that I’m now privileged to lead,” is to educate, attract, and connect people to West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan appoints executive director
January 10, 2019
A local talent attraction organization looked within to find its next executive director. Hello West Michigan, a nonprofit that promotes the region “as a place where business thrives and people want to live and work,” said last week it promoted its former program manager, Rachel Bartels, to the role.
Hello West Michigan announces new executive director
January 10, 2019
Hello West Michigan is pleased to announce that Rachel Bartels, the organization’s former program manager, has been selected as the next Executive Director. “We are thrilled Rachel Bartels will become the next Executive Director of Hello West Michigan,” said Ann Harten, chairperson of Hello West Michigan and vice president of Global Human Resources at Haworth. “Rachel’s expertise and talent made her the obvious choice to lead the organization, and we look forward to Hello West Michigan’s future achievements under her leadership.”
Hello West Michigan names new executive director
January 2, 2019
Hello West Michigan, a Grand Rapids-based talent attraction organization for the state’s west side, has selected Rachel Bartels to lead the nonprofit as its new executive director. She replaces Cindy Brown, who is exiting her post to serve full time as vice president of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, a Grand Rapids-based economic development agency, according to a news release.
The WGVU Morning Show: ReThink West Michigan
November 19, 2018
Local partners are hosting a career event to attract former West Michiganders back to the region. Shelley Irwin talks about this ReThink West Michigan event with guests from Hello West Michigan, Cindy Brown and Rachel Bartels.
New campaign to attract talent
September 28, 2018
Hello West Michigan is noted as, “a world-class platform for talent attraction and retention.” Scroll down to the segment “New campaign attracts talent to Motor City…” and click Listen. Hello West Michigan is mentioned at 8:36.
Bay Area Venture Capitalist Says West Michigan Placed to Capture Tech Talent
March 14th , 2023
West Michigan is capturing tech talent by fostering a business environment that is open to entrepreneurs and leveraging its history of automotive innovation. Hello West Michigan’s strategic partner, The Right Place Inc., recently launched an initiative to make West Michigan a Midwestern tech hub and together they have launched social media campaigns to attract tech workers to West Michigan.
CertID Founder gives 2023 Insights, Considers GR’S Tech Hub Potential
March 10th , 2023
The Right Place and Hello West Michigan are working together to increase exposure to tech careers in the region’s schools and raise awareness for what West Michigan has to offer by leveraging Hello West Michigan’s efforts to target individuals with ties to the area to grow the high-tech talent pool.
Confluence Talks on the Effort to make Grand Rapids a Regional Tech Hub.
March 7th , 2023
Rachel Gray, Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, will be a part of discussions hosted by Confluence, in April 2023 focused on efforts to transform Grand Rapids into a regional tech hub.
Say Hello Attracts Tech Talent to West Michigan
February 14th , 2023
Hello West Michigan Executive Director Rachel Gray talks about the Say Hello Initiative attracting tech talent on The Seven 8 News. The Say Hello Initiative will bring more outreach, more awareness, and more talent. The nonprofit received a new grant and had its Annual meeting on February 15th in Holland.
Say Hello Attracts Tech Talent to West Michigan
February 14th , 2023
Hello West Michigan Executive Director Rachel Gray talks about the Say Hello Initiative attracting tech talent on The Seven 8 News. The Say Hello Initiative will bring more outreach, more awareness, and more talent. The nonprofit received a new grant and had its Annual meeting on February 15th in Holland.
Grant to Attract High–Tech Workers to West Michigan
February 15th, 2023
Hello West Michigan partners with MICHauto to strengthen Michigan’s global competitiveness in the automotive, mobility, and technology industries, and improve Michigan’s pipeline of talent equipped to take on the jobs of the future. Hello West Michigan, was awarded a $125,000 grant to allow them to fully realize the vision we have for the Say Hello Initiative.
Michigan Lures Tech Workers After Layoffs from Tech giants.
January 23rd, 2023
Due to recent layoffs in the tech sector, Michigan is actively attracting highly skilled tech workers. Compared to places like California, Michigan has a lower cost of living. So, tech workers who have recently been affected by layoffs from Microsoft, Amazon, and Facebook may consider relocating to Michigan.
Grand Rapids Emphasizes Work-Life Balance
January 20th, 2023
A strong work-life balance is why many people choose to move to West Michigan. Grand Rapids is a place where employees can thrive at work, embrace the community around them, and have a personal life all in one place. Hello West Michigan, is an organization that believes having a work-life balance is important and helps build a community where young professionals want to live and work.
11th Annual Networking Events to Connect Former West Michiganders With Local, Hiring Employers
November 21, 2022
The ReThink West Michigan event series is designed around Thanksgiving holiday visits to give former residents the opportunity to connect with employers while they’re home for Thanksgiving. The event will provide a casual, professional environment to network and discover career opportunities with growing organizations in the region.
Networking event aims to lure residents back to West Michigan
November 17, 2022
The annual Thanksgiving-time networking event, ReThink West Michigan, gives attendees who are home for Thanksgiving an opportunity to connect with some of the region’s biggest employers.
ReThink West Michigan connects those home for the holidays
November 16, 2022
Hello West Michigan and The Right Place are teaming up to host the 11th Annual “ReThink West Michigan” networking event, hosted every year around the Thanksgiving holiday so that former residents visiting home can attend.
ReThink West Michigan – The WGVU Morning Show
November 15, 2022
Hello West Michigan Program Manager Jessica Kuster joined the host of the WGVU Morning Show, Shelley Irwin, to talk about the upcoming ReThink West Michigan networking events.
ReThink West Michigan job fairs taking place Nov. 17 & 23
November 15, 2022
Hello West Michigan Program Manager Jessica Kuster sat down with Michelle Dunaway and Todd Chance of Fox 17’s Morning mix to talk about the 11th annual ReThink West Michigan networking event.
11th Annual ReThink West Michigan Hosting In-Person/Online Events This Month
November 11, 2022
On Nov. 17 and Nov. 23, Hello West Michigan and The Right Place will host virtual and in-person networking events to attract talent to West Michigan. The event series is designed around Thanksgiving holiday visits to give former residents the opportunity to connect with employers while they’re home for Thanksgiving.
The Right Place seeks tech transformation for Grand Rapids
September 16,2022
Earlier this month, The Right Place Inc. shared a report with a vision to grow the tech sector in the Greater Grand Rapids region. The strategy calls for 20,000 new jobs in tech over the next decade, growing the sector to 10% of all regional employment. Tactics to attract new tech workers to Grand Rapids include leveraging organizations such as Hello West Michigan to attract individuals to the region.
The goals of Intern Connect conference, returning in person
June 8, 2022
Intern Connect aims to welcome interns who are in the area for the summer, and showcase what the community has to offer. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from successful professionals in the area, and network with other interns and area professionals.
Hello West Michigan hosting summer engagement series for interns
June 7, 2022
West Michigan Intern Connect, designed to retain college graduates in West Michigan, consists of a “combination of in-person and virtual events, plus digital resources aimed at helping interns connect with the community, their peers, and local employers.
Hello West Michigan aims to connect interns with community
June 7, 2022
This is the 9th year that Hello West Michigan has launched Intern Connect, which is the largest intern event in the western half of the state. Intern Connect combines in-person professional development events with virtual elements and also provides digital resources for local interns.
Conference gives young professionals ‘peek behind the curtain’ of workplaces
June 7, 2022
West Michigan Intern Connect, an event connecting interns with business and community leaders, is back in person this summer. The event will tackle things like job searches, confidence in the workplace, and budgeting.
Hello West Michigan launches Rapid Roots
March 4, 2022
Rapid Roots is Hello West Michigan’s new cohort-style program to acclimate executives relocating to the region. This program will introduce participants to the region in an experimental way and give them the opportunity to make connections in the community.
Local leaders ready themselves to put ARPA dollars to work in the Bay County region
February 17, 2022
Bay County is allocating funds to support local businesses and create economic growth and recovery. The Chamber and Bay County will focus on talent attraction and retention by modeling a program after Hello West Michigan’s initiatives in providing resources for job-seekers.
Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting with Jessica Kuster
February 15, 2022
Program Manager, Jessica Kuster, joins Shelley Irwin on The WGVU Morning Show to talk about Hello West Michigan’s 2022 Annual Meeting. Listen to the full interview here.
Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting with Rachel Gray
February 14, 2022
Hello West Michigan Executive Director, Rachel Gray, joined West Michigan’s Morning News to talk about the mission of Hello West Michigan and the 2022 Annual Meeting.
Hello West Michigan invites public to annual meeting
February 14, 2022
Hello West Michigan hosts their Annual Meeting on February 16th and guest speaker Kevin Oakes will share a presentation about cultural change in the workplace. The Annual Meeting is open for anyone to attend.
Hello West Michigan Welcomes Author Kevin Oakes, Announces New Program at Annual Meeting
February 10, 2022
Hello West Michigan hosts 2022 Annual Meeting with guest speaker, Kevin Oakes, to talk about successful cultural changes in organizations. Hello West Michigan will also update their impact on the community in 2021.
Hello West Michigan Hosts 22nd Annual Meeting Feb. 16; Announces New Program
February 9, 2022
Hello West Michigan will explain their efforts in attracting talent to West Michigan and review their impact on the community in 2021. Rapid Roots, Hello West Michigan’s cohort-style program, will be officially launched at the Annual Meeting.
Hello West Michigan Wins West Michigan Woman Readers’ Choice Award
December 1, 2021
West Michigan Woman just announced the recipients of their Readers’ Choice Awards and Hello West Michigan received the award for Recruitment Services in the Business & Career category.
Nonprofit marks 10 years of luring professionals back to West Michigan
November 9, 2021
Hello West Michigan hosts 10th annual ReThink West Michigan event to grow West Michigan’s talent base. Attracting talent to West Michigan is done year-round by Hello West Michigan and the organization will continue to highlight the opportunities Michigan has to offer.
10th annual networking event to virtually connect former West Michiganders with local, hiring employers
November 9, 2021
The 10th annual ReThink West Michigan will be hosted virtually by Hello West Michigan and The Right Place joined by regional partners and local businesses. The event will give former residents the opportunity to connect with hiring employers and consider the possibility of relocation.
Networking Event to Virtually Connect Former West Michiganders With Local, Hiring Employers
November 3, 2021
Hello West Michigan and The Right Place host their 10th annual ReThink West Michigan event. The casual, professional networking event is geared to attract talent to West Michigan by connecting jobseekers with hiring companies.
Hello West Michigan Executive Director, Rachel Gray, Talks ReThink on WGVU Morning Show
November 1, 2021
The WGVU Morning Show hosts Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, Rachel Gray, to discuss the 10th annual ReThink West Michigan event. WGVU host, Shelley Irwin, and Rachel Gray chat about the professional networking event.
MEDC | This Just In: Community Revitalization Projects in Cadillac, Lansing Win National Recognition
October 8, 2021
The International Economic Development Council hosted their annual conference where local companies and organizations received awards for IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development. Hello West Michigan received two awards and is recognized for success in the Back to Michigan event series.
Annual Thanksgiving Event Series Receives Awards from International Economic Development Council
October 5, 2021
Hello West Michigan in collaboration with the Back to Michigan Host Organization Committee was awarded for their excellence in economic development. Winning a silver for Cross-Border Collaboration and a bronze in Innovation Programs and Initiatives, the Back to Michigan Host Organization Committee came together and overcame obstacles to put on a successful event series.
Hello West Michigan Takes Home Two Awards for Excellence in Economic Development
October 5, 2021
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has award Hello West Michigan and The Right Place with a Silver and Bronze ranking for their efforts in hosting Back to Michigan. The Back To Michigan Host Organization Committee won Silver in the Regionalism and Cross-Border Collaboration category. The Back To Michigan event series won Bronze in the Innovation Programs and Initiatives category.
West Michigan reverses Chicago exodus, gaining residents as state stagnates
August 10, 2021
Statewide, Michigan’s employment is expected to be flat from 2018 to 2028. Job openings, the state warns, will mostly come as aging workers retire and when people move to other existing jobs. The solution: attracting residents.
West Michigan’s Largest Intern Connect Event Returns
June 9, 2021
Everything Business Corp shares West Michigan’s Largest Intern Event, Intern Connect 2021. This year, Intern Connect will be held virtually 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 23. Topics covered during the conference will include working with your managers, relationship building, and a young professional panel discussing real talk on adulting with Jamon Alexander.
8th Annual Intern Connect helping students connect with businesses and community again
June 6, 2021
Our Executive Director, Rachel Gray, went live on Fox News to talk about the largest intern event in West Michigan, Intern Connect 2021. Our 8th annual Intern Connect will be virtually presented on June 23rd from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm.
Lakeshore Advantage introduces Gentex interns to their new home in West Michigan
June 4, 2021
This will be more than an internship for young professionals. Gentex summer interns will participate in a series of teambuilding events to get to know each other better and to explore the area for the duration of their internship.
Pivoting from In-Person Internships to entirely Remote Programs
May 26, 2020
A recent article from MiBiz highlights the transition from in-person internships to entirely remote programs. West Michigan employers are adapting and shifting the traditional workplace by effectively developing new programs. Read about how virtual internship programs will benefit the future talent pool for interns and how Hello West Michigan is assisting employers on page 13.
Navigating the Job Market When Your Position is Eliminated
May 7, 2020
Rachel Gray, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, gives tips and insight into the job market. She shares various employment resources and professional development tools to help with the job search process. Listen to her full interview to find out the next steps to take when looking for a new role.
Exploring Personal Branding in a Virtual World
April 22, 2020
As the virtual world becomes more diverse, establishing your personal brand is more important than ever before. Rachel Gray, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, shares best practices and tips to create and maintain your personal brand in this webinar series.
HR and Marketing departments must collaborate to support recruitment efforts
April 5, 2020
It’s more important now than ever before to support the HR and marketing departments at your organization in recruitment and hiring efforts. Cindy Brown, VP of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, and Rachel Gray, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, do a deep dive into crisis communications and marketing and discuss how various departments can work together to create change for their business.
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elebrating a decade of Community Involvement and Growth
March 6, 2020
Hello West Michigan is celebrating the last ten years of educating, attracting, and connecting individuals. The 2020 Annual Meeting featured C-suite executive speakers and West Michigan transplants that shared stories of relocation and how Hello West Michigan services assisted along the way. Hello West Michigan was the first of its kind in the nation and continues to attract and retain individuals to the West Michigan region.
Rachel Bartels speaks on talent attraction as being key to economic development
February 9, 2020
Local companies throughout the county have expressed finding trouble when recruiting and retaining new employees. Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, will speak on talent recruitment and the importance of economic development at the upcoming Knox County Area Partnership (KCAP) Annual Meeting in Illinois. She will discuss best practices for communities looking to refill their talent pipeline.
Hello West Michigan and The Right Place continue to develop talent efforts in the region
February 7, 2020
The Right Place shared economic development goals and the strategic plan for the region over the next three years. Hello West Michigan and the Right Place will continue to develop talent, retention, and attraction efforts. The plan involves a heavy focus on inclusive growth initiatives and working to ensure the entire diverse West Michigan population can share in the region’s economic success.
State pride is up and ex-residents want to return to the region
November 27, 2019
Professionals have the opportunity to meet with West Michigan employers to talk about the community and learn about what coming back would look like. Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, Rachel Bartels, said: “People are ready to have those conversations and say, ‘I want to come back, now show me how to do it and please help me do that.’”
ReThink West Michigan: Pairing drinks and appetizers with job offers
November 27, 2019
For the eighth year, ReThink West Michigan is back and hoping to connect hiring employers with former West Michigan residents. The casual networking event will host over 50 employers between six event locations. Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, said it isn’t uncommon for attendees to leave the bar with a job offer.
Rediscover job opportunities in the region at ReThink West Michigan
November 26, 2019
Former West Michigan residents that are considering moving back to the region are able to explore opportunities by attending ReThink West Michigan on Thanksgiving eve. Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, and Rachel Bartels, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, talk with WOODTV to share some insights about this year’s event.
Business leaders in West Michigan to former residents: “We want you back.”
November 25, 2019
Business leaders encourage former residents to return to the Mitten state and rediscover job opportunities in the West Michigan region. The ReThink West Michigan annual event is being held in six different locations, including: Fremont, Oceana County, Muskegon, Hastings, Grand Rapids, and Ludington.
Calling all former West Michigan residents: Your next opportunity is waiting
November 25, 2019
ReThink West Michigan aims to capitalize on one of the most popular bar nights of the year by offering drinks, appetizers, and job opportunities at a networking event for former West Michigan residents. There will be 49 companies and nonprofits at the six regional event locations on November 27.
Bringing talent back to West Michigan by attracting boomerangs
November 25, 2019
ReThink West Michigan is back for the eighth annual year and looking to reach all individuals that are returning home for the Thanksgiving holiday. New to the lineup of event locations is Oceana County. Hear more about the event in Oceana County from Jodi Nichols, Business Development Coordinator at The Right Place, and Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan.
Opportunities await for former West Michigan residents coming back home
November 25, 2019
Former West Michigan residents make new connections over Thanksgiving holiday
November 19, 2019
Individuals travelling from out of state to visit family in West Michigan this Thanksgiving season have the unique opportunity to attend ReThink West Michigan, a casual networking event to connect former residents to hiring employers. Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, and Juan Carlos Hernandez, Senior Talent Acquisition/Diversity Specialist at Spectrum Health, sit down with WOODTV to discuss what’s expected at this year’s event.
ReThink West Michigan is not a typical job fair
November 16, 2019
ReThink West Michigan, the happy hour-style networking event, will connect hiring employers with former West Michigan residents considering relocating back home on November 27. Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, said: “We’re highlighting the things people want to know about when they think about relocating: career opportunities and lifestyle in West Michigan.”
Hello West Michigan garners awards at international conference
November 12, 2019
Hello West Michigan brought home two awards at the 2019 International Economic Development Council Awards. One award is ‘best in show’ for the annual event, ReThink West Michigan. The second was a gold excellence award for Hello West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan brought home two awards
November 12, 2019
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) awarded Hello West Michigan a gold excellence award for the organization and a ‘best in show’ award for the annual ReThink West Michigan event at the 2019 International Economic Development Council annual conference.
Eighth annual ReThink West Michigan hosts employers from IT, HR, healthcare, engineering, and more
November 8, 2019
Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, talked with Travis Alden, President of Barry County Chamber and Economic Development on eightWest about the opportunities available for individuals visiting West Michigan on Thanksgiving Eve. Each location will feature several hiring employers from the region with available positions in finance, IT, HR, healthcare, engineering, and more.
Economic Summit at Hastings: Culture becomes a competitive advantage for businesses
November 2, 2019
The Barry County Economic Development Alliance will host a panel of professionals to highlight how the culture of a company or organization can be catalytic to future success and prosperity. Executive Director, Rachel Bartels, will be serving on the panel for an interactive discussion about first-hand experiences and best practices in economic development with professionals from West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan and Muskegon Area First: ReThink event happens in six West Michigan locations
October 31, 2019
Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, and Darryl Todd, Director of Talent Initiatives at Muskegon Area First, sat down to discuss ReThink West Michigan on November 27. Muskegon is one of the six location hosts for this years event. Each location will feature different hiring employers from around the region.
ReThink West Michigan awarded Best in Show by International Economic Development Council
October 22, 2019
The annual ReThink West Michigan event received an award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) at the 2019 annual conference. The IEDC received over 400 submissions from 12 countries for the category and ReThink was selected as the top overall, making it a globally recognized best practice in economic development.
ReThink West Michigan connects professionals with employers
October 22, 2019
Jessica Kuster, Program Manager at Hello West Michigan, and Cindy Brown, VP of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, sat down with the team at WOOD TV8 to talk all things ReThink. ReThink West Michigan is an annual networking event held on Thanksgiving Eve and is geared to connect professionals with hiring employers from the region.
ReThink West Michigan attracts former Michiganders back to the state
October 17, 2019
Executive Director, Rachel Bartels, says ReThink West Michigan is an opportunity for former residents to discover opportunities in West Michigan while visiting home for the holiday. There will be six different West Michigan locations this year and each will feature hiring employers from around the region. Listen to her talk with 13OnYourSide to find out more about the eighth annual event.
Hello West Michigan actively seeds the region’s economic development
September 20, 2019
Economic development is a ‘team sport’ in West Michigan. Hello West Michigan actively attracts new talent to the region and focuses on keeping the talent here. Cindy Brown, Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, says that regional development is about “planting a seed,” so even if West Michigan professionals move away, they know there are opportunities waiting if they move back.
Sixth annual West Michigan Intern Connect encourages interns to network with local employers and create connections
June 18, 2019
Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, Rachel Bartels, talked with WOOD Radio about the sixth annual West Michigan Intern Connect. The conference is designed for interns to get out and explore the region. The sessions at the event will cover positive communication in the workplace, dress code, and networking tips.
Intern Connect Conference will teach West Michigan interns professional development skills
June 17, 2019
Rachel Bartels, Executive Director at Hello West Michigan, sat down with FOX17 Morning Mix to talk about West Michigan Intern Connect 2019. This year, the event is a half-day professional conference where interns can meet their peers, connect with local employers, and learn valuable skills to help them grow as professionals.
West Michigan population continues growth spurt
June 9, 2019
Michigan’s second largest city, Grand Rapids, passed the 200,000 person population milestone for the first time last summer and many other West Michigan communities are showing strong growth to come. Strategic efforts by The Right Place, Inc. and Hello West Michigan have led to an increase in companies coming to West Michigan and in boosting the region’s population.
The WGVU Morning Show: Cindy Brown talks internships, Intern Connect, and opportunties
May 21, 2019
“Interns come in all shapes and sizes. There’s no box anymore.” Cindy Brown, Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, talks with Shelley Irwin from WGVU about the importance of internships, building your network, and opportunities in West Michigan. Listen to learn more about Intern Connect, a half-day professional development conference open to all interns on June 19.
Hello West Michigan Candidates are Helping to Reverse ‘Brain Drain’
April 14, 2019
As the Kent County population increases, so does the number of college-educated residents relocating here from other states. The increase in professionals moving to West Michigan is helping businesses meet the demand for skilled workers. Read the full article to find out the current trends in talent attraction and why Hello West Michigan candidates are making the move to West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan talks with Michigan’s Second Wave about solving the talent shortage
March 13, 2019
The Let’s Detroit site, which launched in September 2018, provides job seekers with more career and lifestyle information specific to metro Detroit. The Let’s Detroit campaign also brings with it the first-of-its-kind Text a Detroiter program. Read more to find out why it is important to go beyond marketing to help candidates and hires make lasting connections to their new community.
Hello West Michigan and Michigan House Collaborate as Talent Partners
March 1, 2019
Michigan House is a public-private partnership that serves as an “experiential embassy” at SXSW by promoting Michigan’s career and lifestyle opportunities and the state’s signature attractions. Now, its talent attraction and retention emphasis are increasing as the event’s power to improve perceptions of the Great Lakes State and attract “new collar” job seekers have become more evident. For 2019, more than 40 organizations statewide — about 15 of which are from West Michigan — are part of the program with their sights set on recruiting and raising awareness of their organizations.
Cindy Brown on how talent attraction is more than billboards
February 28, 2019
Sit down for a conversation with any business person in West Michigan and the talk will inevitably drift toward talent — why there isn’t enough of it, where to find it, how to court new workers to the area, and why so many of our youth leave. Continue reading to learn more from Cindy Brown. She serves as Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place and collaborates with other talent related organizations to address regional talent pipeline challenges.
The WGVU Morning Show: Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting
February 25, 2019
Rachel Bartels, Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, speaks about the organization’s upcoming Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting updates the community on Hello West Michigan’s talent attraction and retention efforts. First Sgt, Ret., Matt Eversmann, will be discussing veteran hiring and retention at the event.
Hello West Michigan Partners with Michigan House in 2019
February 21, 2019
The membership-based talent recruitment agencies Lets Detroit, Hello West Michigan, Ann Arbor Spark, Southwest Michigan First and Lansing 501 provide marketing and consulting support toward the effort, including sharing information about job openings, candidate information and resumes. These groups are partnering with Michigan House to attract talent to the State.
Rachel Bartels and Fox 17: Hello West Michigan Annual Meeting
February 21, 2019
Hello West Michigan’s Executive Director, Rachel Bartels, talks to Fox 17 about the organization’s upcoming Annual Meeting on February 26 at Davenport University. View the news clip and learn more about this event.
Michigan Women Podcast: Meet Rachel Bartels
February 6, 2019
On this episode of Michigan Women, host Meghan Bunchman sits down with the new Executive Director of Hello West Michigan, Rachel Bartels. The two talk about choosing the right college, giving back and how to connect those moving to Michigan with local jobs.
Attracting young workers from outside GR remains a priority
February 1, 2019
Getting people to come to work in Grand Rapids is the main priority for Cindy Brown, now vice president of talent initiatives at The Right Place Inc. Brown previously served as executive director of Hello West Michigan, which promotes the region as a good place to live and work, but she transitioned to the full-time role at The Right Place to tackle persistent talent issues.
Hello West Michigan announces new Executive Director
January 15, 2019
Hello West Michigan has become a model for what a successful talent attraction organization can be, according to Rachel Bartels, and that is why she is thrilled to become its next Executive Director. Her goal, beyond working with what she describes as “an amazing team that I’m now privileged to lead,” is to educate, attract, and connect people to West Michigan.
Hello West Michigan appoints executive director
January 10, 2019
A local talent attraction organization looked within to find its next executive director. Hello West Michigan, a nonprofit that promotes the region “as a place where business thrives and people want to live and work,” said last week it promoted its former program manager, Rachel Bartels, to the role.
Hello West Michigan announces new executive director
January 10, 2019
Hello West Michigan is pleased to announce that Rachel Bartels, the organization’s former program manager, has been selected as the next Executive Director. “We are thrilled Rachel Bartels will become the next Executive Director of Hello West Michigan,” said Ann Harten, chairperson of Hello West Michigan and vice president of Global Human Resources at Haworth. “Rachel’s expertise and talent made her the obvious choice to lead the organization, and we look forward to Hello West Michigan’s future achievements under her leadership.”
Hello West Michigan names new executive director
January 2, 2019
Hello West Michigan, a Grand Rapids-based talent attraction organization for the state’s west side, has selected Rachel Bartels to lead the nonprofit as its new executive director. She replaces Cindy Brown, who is exiting her post to serve full time as vice president of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, a Grand Rapids-based economic development agency, according to a news release.
The WGVU Morning Show: ReThink West Michigan
November 19, 2018
Local partners are hosting a career event to attract former West Michiganders back to the region. Shelley Irwin talks about this ReThink West Michigan event with guests from Hello West Michigan, Cindy Brown and Rachel Bartels.
New campaign to attract talent
September 28, 2018
Hello West Michigan is noted as, “a world-class platform for talent attraction and retention.” Scroll down to the segment “New campaign attracts talent to Motor City…” and click Listen. Hello West Michigan is mentioned at 8:36.
