#United States #Grand Rapids #Vertical Media Solutions #Workforce Transition #Michigan Employers

Michigan Companies Boost Outplacement Services

In recent months, Michigan employers have ramped up their outplacement services amid significant shifts across various industries. This trend is particularly pronounced in the automotive, healthcare, and technology sectors, where restructuring has become commonplace. Vertical Media Solutions (VMS) has observed a marked increase in the demand for outplacement services, highlighting the changing landscape of the job market in Michigan.

According to VMS, the company's statistics reflect a broader trend in the state—with a 5.3% unemployment rate reported in July 2025, remaining above the national average by approximately 1.1 percentage points. This situation has intensified with notable workforce cuts at major companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and GM’s Factory ZERO plant, which have collectively impacted over 800 positions.

Joel Marotti, the Senior Managing Partner at VMS, emphasizes the importance of how companies manage employee separations: "How you part ways is how the market remembers you. Smart employers are investing in people-first transitions with measurable results." This approach is crucial in not just managing the current workforce transitions but also in retaining brand reputation within the marketplace.

The Value of Outplacement Services

Vertical Media Solutions has prioritized remote-outplacement solutions that cater to the evolving needs of job seekers. Their services are designed to aid participants in navigating the job market more seamlessly. VMS reported impressive results for those using their services: 72% of participants secured interviews within 45 days, and those who received offers noted an average salary increase of 12% compared to previous positions.

Key components of VMS’s offerings include:

• - Personalized Résumé and Cover Letter Development: Participants receive assistance in creating tailored application materials that highlight their accomplishments.
• - LinkedIn Optimization: Enhancing the visibility of candidates via effective LinkedIn profiles to attract recruiters.
• - Interview Coaching: Providing strategies to effectively communicate skills and experience during interviews, coupled with job-search support that extends beyond the initial placement.

By adopting a remote-first model, VMS conserves time and resources for job seekers by removing barriers like travel and childcare issues.

Why Employers Are Adapting Now

The pressure on employers to offer outplacement services is driven by several factors. With expectations of rehiring in a recovering market, companies recognize the need to manage their employer brand proactively. Additionally, employers face lower legal risks by facilitating supportive separations, a vital consideration in a competitive labor market.

With the U.S. Department of Labor recently allocating $1.3 million to Michigan employment services on August 15, the need for robust workforce support solutions has never been more urgent. Public and private sectors are united in addressing these workforce challenges, emphasizing the collective responsibility to ensure a smooth transition for affected individuals.

Conclusion

Professional outplacement services extend far beyond mere templates and standard processes. Marotti remarked, "It’s empathetic, one-to-one guidance that helps alleviate stress and expedites the time it takes to secure job offers." As Michigan navigates its workforce transitions, the commitment from employers to enhance outplacement services signifies a shift towards more responsible corporate practices, fostering a supportive environment for employees.

About Vertical Media Solutions
Founded in 2007, Vertical Media Solutions offers personalized career transition support across the United States. Their commitment to a remote-first model ensures a broad reach, allowing them to provide essential services to over 6,000 professionals. To learn more about their outplacement services, visit www.vmsolu.com.