Two news stories speak to how companies are facing criticism for the ways they shape their workforces.
Reminder: Customers Care How You Treat Your Employees
Your talent policies affect your reputation, performance, and culture.
September 26, 2018
Summary.
As companies pursue the talent they need for the future, and especially as the average age of U.S. workers continues to rise, some firms may be tempted to use biased talent practices. According to a recent report, for example, IBM has allegedly been systematically firing workers over the age of 40, perhaps to cultivate a reputation as a younger, forward-looking brand. But biased employment practices don’t just affect the composition of a company’s workforce — they also affect how customers, investors, and other stakeholders view the company. And since we know that diversity is good for the bottom line, and helps companies build the cultures they want, hiring only specific types of employees can backfire in major ways.
New!
HBR Learning
Attracting and Cultivating Talent Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Attracting and Cultivating Talent. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Discover how to attract, hire, develop, and keep talented people who will grow and thrive throughout their employee journey.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
Attracting and Cultivating Talent Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Attracting and Cultivating Talent. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Discover how to attract, hire, develop, and keep talented people who will grow and thrive throughout their employee journey.