In a recent Bloomberg interview, Dane Linn of SCBC partner Business Roundtable discussed how second chance employment can transform the labor market. With 80 million individuals in the U.S. having a criminal record and 10 million job openings available, Linn emphasizes the need for inclusive hiring practices across companies large and small to help fill the country's employment gap.
The Need for Inclusive Hiring Practices
Linn believes that companies should not only provide opportunities for three to five individuals with criminal records, but should also aim to affect the lives of thousands and tens of thousands of individuals. For companies interested in implementing their own second chance employment program, Linn outlines a straightforward 1-2-3 approach.
The 1-2-3 Approach to Advancing Second Chances
Start with the Numbers and Make the Case
Utilize data and research to understand your company's workforce needs and create a compelling case for a second chance program. This step can help to demonstrate the potential benefits of second chance employment to stakeholders and decision-makers.
Evaluate HR Policies and Practices
Ensure that second chance policies are effectively executed through practices such as skills-based hiring. By focusing on skills and qualifications rather than solely on criminal records, companies can create a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
Forge Partnerships
Recognize that many organizations are already doing great work in second chance employment and capitalize on it. Businesses cannot tackle this challenge alone, and partnerships with other organizations can help to create a more comprehensive and effective program.
The Benefits of Second Chance Employment
Implementing a second chance employment program can provide numerous benefits for both individuals with criminal records and companies. By creating more inclusive hiring practices, companies can fill the employment gap while also providing opportunities for those who may have previously been overlooked. With a 1-2-3 approach, companies can take a step towards transforming the labor market through second chance employment.
Sources:
- Bloomberg. (2023, July 28). Can Second Chance Hiring Solve the Labor Crunch? [Video]. Retrieved from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2023-07-28/can-second-chance-hiring-solve-the-labor-crunch
- Business Roundtable. (n.d.). Second Chance Employment. Retrieved August 18, 2023, from https://www.businessroundtable.org/policy-perspectives/employment-and-workforce/second-chance-employment