My co-worker came up with the theme "The positive outcome is you" for this campaign. I worked closely with the group to create a fresh, positive design that also showed diversity. Above is the cover of the folder that is handed out at Rapid Response events where Michigan Works! front-line staff help people who are about to be laid off learn how they can apply for unemployment benefits and encourage them to explore new career options. Each Michigan Works! Agency can insert printed materials that are relevant to their region.

The group created an informational piece (for inside the folder) that helps dislocated workers walk through the steps of self evaluation, seeking training, applying for jobs and basically motivating individuals to take personal responsibility for their new career path. This is the front page of that single sheet flyer. I used the arrow from the folder to illustrate a pathway that takes people through the 9 steps. The back of the flyer holds more in-depth information to guide people along.

Business card size magnets were created that fit in to a slot on the inside pocket of the folders. Studies show that most workers who are laid off are disgruntled and despondent. They usually are so depressed that they do not start looking for a new job until their unemployment is about to run out. The group thought that a good way to combat this behavior would be to create a magnet that the dislocated worker would use on their refrigerator and hopfully it would remind or motivate them to call Michigan Works! for help with their job search. A sort of a "gentle" reminder.