by Caitlin Blair

Dear Michigan Businesses,

As a graduating senior in a rigorous honors program, I have high expectations for any company that chooses to hire me. In addition to the usual requirements (pay, location, benefits, and position responsibilities), I have one major requirement: I want to work for a company that is entrepreneurial in both action and spirit.

This does not in any way mean that I seek employment with a startup, spinoff, or otherwise newly existent company (although I certainly would not mind working for such a company). To me, entrepreneurship can happen at any type of company and is indicated by adaptability, creativity, and risk-taking. Entrepreneurship in non-traditional entrepreneurial enterprises manifests itself in the opportunities that employees have to promote change, modify protocols, and have their ideas heard. So what exactly do I want to see in a company?

First, I want to work for a company that is adaptable. Adaptable companies know how to respond to dramatic changes and are willing to do what is necessary to keep the overall business alive and well, even if it requires massive restructuring or refocusing. Sudden structural changes do not throw an adaptable company off track: these companies are already constantly evolving to improve themselves (even when it means taking valid suggestions for improvement from lower-level employees) and are able to adjust to circumstances as they arise. At an adaptable company, I could trust that the leadership knows what they are doing and are willing to make changes as necessary.

Second, maybe it has something to do with the fact that I love doing media design outside of my economics and international relations courses, but I would love to work for  a creative company that gives me opportunities to express my creativity. I may be doing a basic data analysis, but if I see a way to do it that is better, I want you, as an employer, to listen to my new ideas. Additionally, in economic times like these, I would very much like to know that my company is always coming up with new and innovative ideas and methods, rather than simply stagnating like too many firms today do.

Finally, a risk-taking company appeals to me. Like an individual entrepreneur, a risk-taking company has to be willing to try completely new ideas that may or may not work. This is important to me because I would like to think that a company that is willing to step outside of its comfort zone would also be innovative in environment and willing to listen to employee suggestions. I want to be somewhere where, if I have a good idea and can back it up, my boss is not only willing to listen, but is also willing to support me in passing on that idea. To me, having an evident role in the future of my company is very important to me. I have a lot of drive and ambition, and I would like that to be clearly reflected in the results of my work.

Companies that can successfully demonstrate entrepreneurship definitely catch my eye first. I know that I am not the only person my age that feels this way. Do you want to reach young talent? Show us how you are adaptable, creative, and risk-taking, and we will line up to apply. Frankly, my friends and I would love to stay in Michigan after graduation; we just need to find a business that meets our qualifications.

Please help us out!

Sincerely,

Caitlin Blair
Michigan State University ‘09