The job market is more challenging than ever for employers. The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that unemployment has reached historically low levels (3.4%) and more than 517,000 jobs were added in January 2023. With the number of job openings now hovering again above 11 million, candidates continue to remain in the driver’s seat, despite notable layoffs in the tech sector.
In today’s difficult recruiting environment, candidates are emboldened to seek out roles and companies that match their expectations. They want a supportive workplace that aligns with their own values, including an active focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. And they’re willing to pass on roles within companies that do not demonstrate commitment to DEI. Let’s take a look at the importance of DEI to job seekers today, examine what the most strategic employers are doing to bolster diversity recruiting programs, and provide practical takeaways you can use in your business to strengthen your own DEI initiatives.