DEI isn't just a checkbox; it's the compass guiding organizations toward a future where every individual, irrespective of background, feels valued, heard, and empowered. The benefits extend beyond a feel-good initiative – diverse teams are proven to be more innovative, adaptable, and ultimately more successful with 70% of diverse companies capturing new markets and diverse teams leading 19% higher revenue. A moving factor and diversity driver in the hiring process are employee referrals and talent assessments.

Referrals are beyond being a nod to camaraderie, referrals act as a bridge to diverse talent. When team members tap into their networks, they bring in a richness of experiences and perspectives that can't be replicated through traditional hiring channels.

Talent Assessments serve as the unbiased spectacles through which we evaluate candidates based on merit, skills, and potential. By deprioritizing extraneous factors, organizations can foster a more equitable hiring process.

We’ve listed out some strategies and best practices to leverage referrals and assessments to your hiring and DEI journey. ‍

Strategies for Cultivating Inclusive Referral Networks:

1. Encourage Diverse Networks: Actively promote the development of diverse professional networks among your employees. The broader the network, the wider the pool of potential referrals. Through referrals, hiring teams are not basing their decisions on a profile rather basing their initial decisions on the performance of the referrer. ‍

2. Training Against Bias: Acknowledge and address unconscious biases. Training your team ensures that the referral process remains fair and free from preconceived notions.

‍3. Diverse Perspectives in Interviews: Embrace inclusivity in the interview process by involving a diverse panel. This not only contributes to fair evaluation but also sends a strong message about your commitment to diversity.‍

Best Practices for Talent Assessments:

1. Skill-Centric Evaluation: Prioritize skills and competencies in assessments. This approach ensures that candidates are evaluated based on their ability to contribute, rather than factors beyond their control and helps overcome bias.

Our partners at TalentClick develop assessments and profile evaluations that help hiring teams prioritize DEI and measure inclusive leadership behaviours.

2. Transparent Criteria: Clearly communicate the criteria for talent assessments. Transparency breeds confidence in candidates and underscores the commitment to fair evaluation.

3. Consistent Evaluation Standards: Implement standardized assessment methodologies to maintain consistency and eliminate subjective biases. Objectivity is key to ensuring a level playing field.

As we navigate the intricate landscape of DEI through referrals and talent assessments we must remember: the goal is not just to hire, but to craft a team that reflects the beautiful diversity of our global community. By weaving these practices into our hiring fabric, we lay the foundation for a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and innovation knows no bounds. Let's build a tomorrow where diversity isn't just a goal; it's the very essence of our success.