Four Critical Conversations about Youth Programs and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Following the economic impacts of COVID-19, businesses are working to build back shortages in their talent pool. Revisiting the business case for hiring with a lens on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) increases their chances to attract and retain a wider pool of quality candidates. Many businesses are looking to partner with training and work experience programs that prepare “traditionally underrepresented” youth to enter the job market as part of their recruitment efforts. This blogpost identifies four conversations that businesses, education and workforce organizations, and policymakers can have to build back better – both in terms of increased DEI for businesses and more opportunities for youth. These transparent conversations must be done concurrently and should always be followed by substantive actions to narrow gaps in educational attainment, job preparedness, and placement for youth who have traditionally been left behind.