Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1346891
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 19 M A R C H 8 , 2 0 2 1 D I V E R S I T Y / E Q U I T Y / I N C L U S I O N F O C U S Mandy Levine, a human resources and recruiting specialist of Mandy Levine Consulting. "A lot of activities employers do aren't formally defined as networking and recruiting. But we're a small state with a small population. We encour- age employers to maintain connec- tions. Hold informational interviews, internships or mentorship opportu- nities," Levine says. Levine recommends businesses contact high schools, local commu- nity colleges and universities, and adult education centers to find a mix of employees. "ese education centers would love to hear about jobs that are hir- ing and welcoming," Levine says. "Some businesses say 'diverse people don't apply.' But you can work with recruiters to mix the applicant pool," says Rhoda McVeigh, director of consulting services, KMA Human Resources LLC. Even if you can't recruit a diverse mix of employees, Rose Barboza, founder and co-director of online business directory Black Owned Maine, suggests diversifying the ven- dors and philanthropic organizations that companies support. "ere are certain places in Maine where you can't have a diverse workforce. But you could buy from a black farm or black owned vendor," Barboza says. Rebecca Emmons, executive director of Mobius Inc., based in Damariscotta, which works with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, believes businesses are willing to diversify, but it requires some thoughtful and deliberate effort. "We are very lucky to live in a geographic region very open to work- ing with people with disabilities and differences. e willingness is there. Some companies just need to know how to go about it," Emmons says. Before the pandemic, Mobius had a lot of clients placed in food ser- vice work, but that has been hurt by COVID-19 restrictions. Mobius also has long-term partnerships with local lumber yards, as well as Hannaford, where clients clear and stock shelves, and Bigelow Laboratory in East Boothbay, where clients clean and do maintenance. "Social justice of inclusion is important for all types of work- ers. How do we help and have a broader workforce everywhere? ere's always work to be done," Emmons says. Even if there's work to be done, the work is important, Barboza says. "It's about being explicit that you're an antiracist company. What side of history are you on? If you don't have a black person or person of color on staff, have the tools and openness ready when someone does apply," Barboza says. J e s s i c a H a l l , a w r i t e r b a s e d i n N o b l e b o r o, c a n b e r e a c h e d a t e d i t o r i a l @ m a i n e b i z . b i z Portland, ME dunhamgroup.com 207.773.7100 Local Knowledge. Regional Focus. Global Reach. The Dunham Group helped Tacos Y Tequila carve out a new space for their restaurant in Cape Elizabeth. And worked with Bobbles & Lace to find a home for their boutique in the Old Port. We know that dreams don't end because the world as we knew it has changed. Even in uncertain times, we're still in the habit of making ideas become reality for Maine businesses. Let's chat about how we can help shape your future. P H O T O / C O U R T E S Y O F K M A H U M A N R E S O U R C E S L L C Some businesses say 'diverse people don't apply.' But you can work with recruiters to mix the applicant pool. — Rhoda McVeigh KMA Human Resources LLC Rhoda McVeigh