A Blueprint for Employer-Led Talent Attraction

What does it take to launch the first employer-led talent attraction organization in the country and keep it thriving for nearly two decades?  

On this episode of Talent Wars, host Patience Fairbrother sits down with Rachel Gray, executive director of Hello West Michigan, to explore how a group of forward-thinking CIOs turned a local hiring challenge into a national blueprint for attracting and retaining talent. 

Founded in 2007, in the midst of talent shortages and economic uncertainty, Hello West Michigan didn’t wait for the market to improve. Instead, it built innovative programs and partnerships that continue to drive talent to their region. Today, its initiatives boast impressive results, including a 54% placement rate from its weekly Resume Pack and an 87% retention rate through its Rapid Roots newcomer program. 

Listen in to learn: 

• Why local competitors chose to collaborate for the greater good 

• The standout programs driving measurable results for employers and job seekers 

• How Hello West Michigan keeps employer members engaged year after year 

• Why other places want to replicate this model for their own talent attraction efforts  

If you’re looking to involve local employers in your talent attraction and retention efforts, Hello West Michigan’s story offers inspiration, practical insights and a roadmap to help you create lasting impact. 

Listen and subscribe to Talent Wars on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. To submit guest or episode topic ideas, email patience.fairbrother@old.aboutdci.com.