To find qualified workers, you need access to a large pool of candidates. Talented, hardworking and committed employees can come from all walks of life. Did you know that about 41.1 million people have disabilities in the U.S.? The Phoenix Group encourages you to use the following tips to help your business appeal to differently abled candidates, which can help you find a wealth of incredible talent.
1. Reduce Negative Biases Within Your Company
Your company’s culture should support all existing employees and enforce its values. When candidates apply for a position within the company, they should understand your values. To create a company culture that celebrates diversity, engage your employees in conversations about their backgrounds and experiences. Find out how different backgrounds contribute to a person’s success.
Make sure that you do not have a negative bias within the company. Some businesses have negative biases in their company culture without recognizing it for what it is. Look through your job descriptions and ensure that you do not have any language that excludes a person with a disability. Ask your employees to point out any aspects of the employment process that may seem biased.
Create a document for new applicants that explains why differently abled people can work for your company. Let people know that you have committed yourself to create an inclusive culture. Consider using a PDF editor to change the document if you plan to use a PDF. Just upload the files online and make your edits before downloading and sharing.
2. Provide Reasonable Accommodations for Employees
Start with your company’s website. Make sure that there are accessibility options on the website so potential employees can find out more about your company. People using screen readers cannot navigate websites that utilize images instead of text. Likewise, the website needs to be compatible with screen readers.
Your building should be accessible to people who require mobility aids. The doorways and aisles should be wide enough for wheelchair users to feel comfortable and there should be reasonable alternatives to stairs within the building.
3. Work on Your Identity as the Employer
How do you want your employees to see you? When candidates first meet you, you must make an excellent first impression. Be the employer who offers various benefits to all employees, including those with disabilities. Create an environment that values health and wellness over work.
To be a good boss, cultivate a healthy relationship with your employees. Be understanding, polite and professional when speaking with potential candidates. A successful manager is someone who listens to what people say. Be kind to those who work for you and never take their talents for granted.
Be someone who sticks to his or her word. For example, if you promise someone time off, do not change your mind at the last minute. If you inform someone that he or she could be in line for a promotion, follow up with it. Be the employer that your workers can rely on. Trust builds relationships between colleagues and supervisors. When you build trust with your employees, they are more likely to build trust with each other. Faith helps people engage with one another and to value teamwork.
4. Get an EIN
If you haven’t hired any employees yet, an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a must. An EIN is used to identify your business in the eyes of the IRS and other government agencies. It’s like a Social Security number for your business. You need it to open bank accounts and pay taxes, such as withholding social security and Medicare taxes from employees’ wages or getting tax credits. You also need it to give Form W-2s to your employees at the end of each year so they can report their taxable income and file their personal tax returns. Failing to maintain up-to-date records with the IRS by not having an EIN can lead to costly fines or penalties and be time consuming if you ever find yourself undergoing an audit.
Finding committed talent is critical to the success of your business. Having an inclusive work environment will help draw in people with disabilities. Likewise, it can create a healthier work environment for everyone at the office. If you’re hiring employees for the first time, make sure to get an EIN.
Guest Author: Don Lewis, abilitylabs.com