Fair chance hiring is all about giving everyone a chance at employment, regardless of their past mistakes or circumstances. It’s about recognizing that people can change and grow and become valuable members of the workforce, no matter what they’ve been through. While of course, this won’t be a suitable approach for many different types of jobs, there are plenty of vacancies in the job market where a fair chance hiring approach can be really useful.
Research has shown that fair chance hiring can lead to reduced turnover rates as when employees are given a second chance and feel valued, they’re more likely to stay with their employers and work hard to prove themselves. It also helps the community and society in general, Without a proper chance at work and the right opportunities, negative consequences can reoccur like reoffending, falling into poverty, and all of the health, social, and economic factors that come along with it. If you’re in a position to provide a fair chance of hiring in your business.
Here are 4 practices for fair chance hiring;
1. Ban the Box
One of the most common ways fair chance hiring is implemented is through a process called ‘banning the box’, the box being the question about past criminal history. This allows job seekers to be evaluated based on their qualifications and skills, instead of being immediately disqualified because of their past. The aim of removing this checkbox from job applications is to delay inquiries about an applicant’s criminal history until later in the hiring process, typically after the initial interview or job offer.
2. Assess Individuals
Fair chance hiring encourages employers to assess each candidate individually. Instead of making assumptions based on past mistakes, employers are urged to consider a candidate’s qualifications, work history, and interview performance before making a decision.
3. Offer Training and Support
It’s been shown that employers who embrace fair chance hiring often provide training and support to help employees succeed as well. This can include things like mentorship programs, on-the-job training, or access to resources that can help employees overcome any challenges they face. Not only are you investing in an employee but by doing so you’re investing in your company as you’re giving them the chance to do the best work for you/
4. Get The Right Support
This could be through outsourcing your recruitment or finding an expert to help you with your fair chance recruiting process. You could ask professionals like Checkr surveyed business leaders about fair chance hiring and that way you know that you’re doing everything by the book, according to the law and everything is correct.
Fair chance hiring sends a powerful message to employees and the community that your company values compassion and believes in second chances. This can improve your company’s reputation and attract socially conscious customers too.
