Belonging at Work
Many employers are researching and implementing new strategies to retain diverse talent. Several factors go into an employee’s decision to separate from a company. One of the most foundational concepts that is often overlooked is the need for belonging. Not only do employees need to feel welcomed beyond the initial interview and onboarding. They also […]
Entrusted with Our Children and Our Economy, Child Care Providers Need Support
Even before the pandemic, child care shortages were keeping people out of the workforce. The challenges facing this essential industry have only grown. So has its role in our economic recovery.
Twin Keys to Success: Invest in Existing Talent and Be Welcoming for More
Note: This is the ninth in a series of posts analyzing the nine key strategies cited in our 20/20 Vision Report.
Economic Recovery Continues among West Michigan Industries
The unemployment rate across the state reached historic levels at the onset of the pandemic, skyrocketing to achieve a rate of 23.6 percent in April — the highest jobless rate seen for the state since at least 1976 (as far back as comparable records extend) — and stood at 14.9 percent as recently as June. […]
Employer Practices to Address Racism
Over the last few months, tragic events have brought to light that the systemic injustice and racism that both African American and other marginalized communities continue to face across the United States is very real. This is evident in the unjust killings of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and countless others.
Credential Attainment: How We Keep Pace with a Knowledge Economy
Note: This is the eighth in a series of posts analyzing the nine key strategies cited in our 20/20 Vision Report.
Confronting Systemic Racism Must Include K-12 Education
Institutional racism, also known as systemic racism, is getting some long-overdue attention as our nation confronts biases and inequities embedded into society. This examination must include the institution where many Americans first encounter racial inequity: K-12 education.
May Labor Market Trends in West Michigan
Statewide Unemployment in May Michigan’s unemployment rate reached historic levels at the onset of the pandemic, skyrocketing by 19.6 percentage points to achieve a rate of 23.6 percent in April — the highest jobless rate seen for the state since at least 1976 (as far back as comparable records extend) — and stood at 20.7 […]
Toward A Racially Just Workplace: Diversity efforts are failing black employees. Here’s a better approach.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are quite the buzz words. Civil rights laws have been passed. Employers have hired Chief Diversity Officers, rolled out implicit bias trainings, and dedicated resources to advocacy groups to advance racial equity. Now more than ever, companies have issued public statements to affirm their commitment to diversity in response to police […]
Workforce Development: If We Don’t Lead, We Fall Behind
Note: This is the seventh in a series of posts analyzing the nine key strategies cited in our 20/20 Vision Report.