Intentional Hiring (also known as Second Chance or Fair Chance Hiring) refers to using hiring, on purpose, to create opportunity for people in the community who don’t have easy access to good jobs. This usually refers to folks reentering society after involvement in the justice system, but could also include those who are recovering from substance use or homelessness and also members of the refugee and migrant communities.

In addition to the initial decision to open up employment to members of these groups, it also includes the supports and policies you put in place to increase the likelihood of success for these employees. This could include many different things such as exploring ways to support your team's transportation needs or allowing an adjusted schedule to accommodate a weekly parole officer meeting.

There are many benefits to welcoming this group into your workforce and actively engaging in their success:

Fulfillment and Purpose: Implementing fair chance hiring can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose beyond just running a profitable business. It allows business owners to make a positive impact on individuals' lives by offering them a second chance and helping them rebuild their careers.

Personal Growth: Engaging in fair chance hiring can lead to personal growth by challenging biases and preconceptions. It encourages empathy and a broader perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with criminal records or other barriers to employment.

Access to a Larger Talent Pool: Fair chance hiring expands the pool of potential job candidates, allowing companies to tap into a diverse and often underutilized workforce.

Reduced Turnover: Employees who are given a second chance often exhibit higher levels of loyalty and commitment to their employers. This can result in reduced turnover rates, which can be costly for businesses in terms of recruitment and training.

Workforce Resilience: Employees who have overcome challenges and barriers in their lives may bring a strong sense of resilience and determination to their work. This can be particularly valuable in fast-paced or challenging industries.

Innovation and Problem-Solving: Individuals who have faced adversity and have successfully reintegrated into society may possess unique problem-solving skills and perspectives that can benefit the company.

Community Engagement: Fair chance hiring can demonstrate a commitment to the community where the company operates. It can help build goodwill and foster positive relationships with local organizations and government agencies.

Reducing Recidivism: Fair chance hiring can help reduce the rate of recidivism (re-offending) by providing individuals with criminal records a path to stable employment. When people have access to jobs and can support themselves and their families, they are less likely to engage in criminal activities again, which contributes to overall community safety.

Economic Stability: Employment is essential for economic stability. When individuals with criminal records are given a fair chance to work, they can support themselves financially, reducing the likelihood of reliance on government assistance programs. This, in turn, can ease the burden on social services and taxpayer funds.

WorkWell exists to support companies as they deepen engagement with their teams and communities. We would love to walk alongside you as you explore beginning or strengthening your Intentional Hiring efforts. Our team can help assess current practices and make practical recommendations to ensure a successful launch, assist as you identify the best hiring pools for your needs, onboard any helpful support organizations and engage directly with you and your team as you hire and grow your new team members.