Diversity for Hire

Experts say diversity results in increased sales, customers and profitability.

Celeste Gudas, CEO of multi-million dollar recruiting agency 24 Seven, knows first-hand the importance of hiring a diverse team: she received of the National Minority Business Council’s Dena Coye Outstanding Woman Entrepreneurship Award earlier this year.

“We have a very high retention rate at 24 Seven: we’re over 78 percent women and many of the folks who started with us 11 years ago are still with the company,” says Gudas. 

How can other companies follow suit? “An interest in becoming a more diverse company has to come from the top,” says Gudas. “Then, work a 

process into defining the company culture and the hiring [strategy].”

How? Brand the job by tying the position to the company vision and its mission in the job description, and leverage your employee referral program, experts suggest.

Want more?

Large companies aren’t the only ones that are focusing on diversity. Researchers say there are benefits for small businesses, like the ability to reach a broader range of markets, a competitive edge and creating a welcoming work environment primed for expansion.

Having trouble finding diverse employees? Experts recommend seeking out organizations that specialize in working with “underrepresented” individuals.

Bonus PINK Link: Meet PINK’s Top Woman of the Week, Celeste Gudas.

Minute Mentor: Penny McIntyre, group president at Newell Rubbermaid, shares advice on how companies can promote diversity.

“Our cultural diversity has most certainly shaped
our national character.”  Julie Bishop Armstrong