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Before Your Job Search

tip

In Michigan, your network is your net worth. Before applying online, check if you have any "second-degree" connections at the company via LinkedIn—referrals are the primary way professionals land roles in the Great Lakes State.

Starting a job search in a new state requires more than just updating your resume. You need to understand the local legal landscape and the resources available specifically to Michiganders.

Understand Your Rights (2025 Updates)​

Michigan’s labor laws underwent a massive transformation in early 2025. Knowing these gives you leverage during negotiations.

The Repeal of "Right-to-Work"​

  • As of 2024/2025, Michigan is no longer a Right-to-Work state.
  • What this means: If you take a job in a unionized workplace (common in manufacturing, nursing, and education), you may be required to pay union dues or fees as a condition of employment.

Reinstated Earned Sick Time​

  • Effective February 21, 2025, nearly all Michigan employees are entitled to paid sick leave.
  • Small Businesses (10 or fewer employees): Must provide at least 40 hours of sick time.
  • Large Businesses (11+ employees): Must provide up to 72 hours of paid sick time.
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Under the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, employers cannot ask about your marital status, children, or religion during an interview. If they do, it is a significant red flag.

New Minimum Wage Standards​

  • As of February 2025, the standard minimum wage has risen to $12.48 per hour, with scheduled increases every January until it hits $15.00 in 2027.

Clean Up Your Digital Presence​

Michigan recruiters for major hubs like Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Detroit are increasingly reliant on digital screening.

LinkedIn Optimization​

  • Set your location to your new Michigan city before you start applying. Recruiters often filter by "Local Candidates" first.
  • Use a professional headshot; Michigan's professional culture is "Polished Casual"—think business casual rather than a full suit unless you are in Finance or Law.

The "Google" Test​

  • Search for your name in an incognito window. Ensure your privacy settings on Facebook and Instagram are tight.

Quickly search yourself on the internet​

The "Google Test"

See what Michigan recruiters find when they search for you. Enter your full name and click a platform to search.

Pro-tip: Try searching in an "Incognito" or "Private" window for the most accurate results.

Local Resources & Talent Connect​

Don't search in a vacuum. The state provides several high-quality, free tools to help you find work.

Pure Michigan Talent Connect (PMTC)​

  • This is the state's official job board: MiTalent.org.
  • Create a profile here to get matched with employers who are specifically looking to hire people moving to the state.

Michigan Works! Association​

  • There are over 100 "Michigan Works!" service centers across the state.
  • They offer free resume reviews, mock interviews, and even funding for "upskilling" if you need a specific certification for a Michigan industry.
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If you are an immigrant or a "New American," look for the Michigan Office of Global Michigan. They provide specific licensing guides to help you transfer your professional credentials from other countries to Michigan standards.

Take the quiz​

Are you ready to job-hunt in Michigan?

Question 1 of 4

Do you have a profile on Pure Michigan Talent Connect (MiTalent)?

References

1 Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)
2 Official Michigan Career Portal

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