HireReach is a collaborative initiative between Talent 2025’s Diversity and Inclusion Working Group and West Michigan Works! with the purpose of training employers on an evidenced-based selection process (EBSP). These strategies help employers to not only hire the best possible workforce, but to increase diversity among their staff.
Concluding Employer Awareness Workshops
The first phase of HireReach is coming to a close as three of four Employer Awareness Workshops were held across West Michigan. These included explanations of EBSP as it was developed and used by Mercy Health. Employers and HR leaders from many West Michigan companies also had a chance to learn from Mercy Health hiring managers and talent acquisition specialists in a panel discussion. Finally, structured table discussions help attendees determine whether they are ready to implement an EBSP and plan for next steps.
A final Employer Awareness Workshop will be held on Oct. 31 in Grand Rapids for employers who are interested in HireReach. The event is free to attend, but registration through Eventbrite is required.
New Phases for HireReach
HireReach’s second phase includes securing the first cohort of employers. Commitments will be secured through December 2018, with training sessions beginning in January 2019. The first cohort will be focused on mid- to large-size employers in West Michigan. These employers will learn from subject-matter experts, engage in interactive learning and development activities, and have access to peer-to-peer learning through a Community of Practice.
There is no fee to participate in HireReach. However, employers will be asked to commit to attending training sessions, participating in the Community of Practice, and track metrics regarding the outcomes of implementing EBSP among other commitments. A full list of participating the employers’ role can be found on page 3 of this FAQ page.
Ultimately, the goal for participating employers is to implement an EBSP at their own company. Participation will train each employer on this system, but EBSPs will need to be tailored to each organization’s needs and cost of implementation will fall on the employer.
Learn more about HireReach and Diversity & Inclusion
Employers who are curious about HireReach should attend the final Employer Awareness Workshop. More information about the initiative can also be found on HireReach.org.
Employers can also attend Unconscious Bias Training Workshops through Talent 2025 in October and November. The Cultural Intelligence Center will provide interactive three-hour workshops to help individuals enhance their cultural awareness and understand the effect of unconscious bias on workplace performance. Registration is available here.
