Skip to content

Underrepresented Populations

Attracting underrepresented talent groups brings a wealth of benefits to organizations. A diverse workforce fosters innovation by introducing different perspectives and experiences, leading to more creative problem solving and a broader range of ideas. Companies with diverse teams are also more likely to understand and cater to a wider customer base, enhancing their market reach and customer satisfaction. Moreover, promoting diversity and inclusion can improve employee morale and retention, as it creates a more welcoming and equitable workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.

From a business perspective, companies that prioritize diversity often experience stronger financial performance, outperforming competitors in profitability. A diverse workforce also enhances a company’s ability to attract top talent, as many job seekers today actively seek employers with a commitment to equity and inclusion. According to Glassdoor, 76% of employees and job seekers report that a diverse workforce is an important factor when evaluating companies and job offers. By fostering an inclusive culture, companies build a reputation as an employer of choice, making it easier to attract and retain the best talent in the industry.

man and woman talking over a laptop

Best Practices

The following section provides some best practices for attracting, developing, and retaining employees from underrepresented populations.

  • Use Inclusive Job Descriptions
    Write job postings with gender-neutral language and emphasize your commitment to diversity to attract a brooder range of candidates

  • Showcase Diversity in Recruitment Marketing
    Highlight diverse employees, testimonials, and your company’s commitment to diversity in al! recruitment materials.

  • Build Relationships with Diverse Organizations
    Partner with professional associations, universities, and community groups that serve underrepresented populations to top into o wider talent pool.

  • Leverage Diverse Sourcing Channels
    Utilize job boards, social media platforms, and networks that specifically focus on underrepresented talent.

  • Involve Diverse Interview Panels
    Include employees from diverse backgrounds on interview panels to ensure a brooder perspective during the candidate evaluation process.

  • Invest in Mentorship and Coaching
    Pair underrepresented employees with mentors or coaches who can guide their development, provide support, and help them navigate career challenges.

  • Develop Tailored Training Programs
    Create customized training programs that address the specific needs and strengths of underrepresented talent, ensuring relevance and impact.

  • Offer Leadership Development Programs
    Provide pathways for underrepresented employees to develop leadership skills and prepare for higher-level roles within the organization.

  • Align Training with Career Goals
    Ensure that training programs are aligned with the career aspirations of underrepresented employees. Create clear career pathway models, helping them achieve their professional goals.

  • Create Peer Learning Groups
    Encourage the formation of peer learning groups where employees can share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and support each other’s growth.

  • Offer Competitive and Equitable Compensation
    Regularly review and adjust compensation packages to ensure they are competitive and equitable across all employee groups.

  • Develop and Support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
    Empower ERGs to provide support, networking opportunities, and advocacy for underrepresented employees.

  • Conduct Regular Stay Interviews
    Use stay interviews to understand the needs and challenges of underrepresented employees and address any issues before they lead to turnover.

  • Promote Inclusive Leadership
    Ensure that leadership teams reflect the diversity of your workforce and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment.

  • Provide Bias Training
    Continuously educate employees at all levels on unconscious bias and its impact on workplace dynamics, ensuring a fair and supportive environment.

Resource Organizations

The following resource organizations can assist you in attracting, hiring, and retaining talent from underrepresented populations:

Woman looking at a paper

Featured Resource Organization

GREATER STARK COUNTY URBAN LEAGUE

The Greater Stark County Urban League employs a five-pillar strategy to help move families to economic self-sufficiency through its dedicated efforts in workforce development, education, housing, health, and social justice.

Learn More

Sign up for the latest from JobsOhio.

Have a business poised for growth?

Tell us about your goals.

Let’s talk