Career Development - Connection Programs
In today's economy, many new jobs are springing from opportunities involving small businesses and entrepreneurship. For many seasoned business professionals looking for work, or looking to shift into the world of entrepreneurship, learning how to take the skills and talent developed in corporate settings and reframing and adapting it to provide value to small businesses can be both a challenge – and professional game-changer.
Michigan Shifting Gears is a career-transition program for members of the corporate workforce looking to pursue Michigan job opportunities in emerging businesses and sectors. Started in 2009 at Ann Arbor SPARK, the program is now being replicated around the state. Currently in development, Michigan Shifting Code will follow this model, allowing participants to learn about high-demand computer programming opportunities and connect with employers while participating in a training program that includes classroom training, hands-on experience and a one-on-one mentorship.
For job seekers looking to make the jump to entrepreneurialism, there are some key factors to take into consideration. Entrepreneurs cover a wide range of business models – inventing something unique, acquiring rights to a franchise, opening a new business and improving existing services or products to name a few. If you decide to explore starting your own business, you should be able to take advantage of an introductory course such as those offered through:
Other questions to consider:
- Financial resources – It can take a long time before you actually make money. Do you have the ability to provide for your living expenses and business expenses for a year?
- Financial skills – Understanding the accounting and cash flow aspects of your business are critical. Do you have this background or know someone who can help you?
- Family – Being an entrepreneur can mean 60-hour work weeks and a lot of stress. Does your family support you?
- Sales skills – You will need to be the main sales person at the beginning, so if you are not comfortable selling yourself and your product you may need to reconsider.
- Customer development – You will need to be able to connect with customers and get them to consider your product. If this is a new technology or product, a great deal of effort will need to be spent in this area.
