Let’s get real about something that pisses us off: we have an entire talent pool of capable, dedicated workers that employers are completely ignoring. And it’s not just hurting these potential employees – it’s hurting businesses too.
We recently sat down with Jennifer VanSkiver from Special Olympics Michigan on our Happy Hour Hustle podcast and holy hell, did she drop some truth bombs about inclusivity in hiring. This conversation hit home because it perfectly illustrates what we’ve been preaching at 8THIRTYFOUR: sometimes the best talent comes in packages we’re not programmed to recognize.
The Reality Check We All Need
The episode spotlights an uncomfortable truth: society wasn’t built for people with disabilities, visible or hidden. We put the burden on them to adapt, to explain, to justify their place in our workplaces. How messed up is that?
Jennifer shared the story of her daughter CJ, who works as a nurse tech at Corewell Health. Here’s the kicker – CJ has what’s called a “hidden disability,” but she’s absolutely crushing it in a role that traditionally sees high turnover. She’s been there for five years, proving that when we look past our preconceptions, everyone wins.
The Business Case for Inclusion
Want to hear something wild? Many positions that companies struggle to keep filled could be perfect opportunities for individuals with different abilities. But instead of tapping into this dedicated workforce, we’re stuck in old patterns of thinking about who can do what.
Why You Need to Listen to the Full Episode
We could go on about this all day (and trust us, we have), but you really need to hear this conversation for yourself. Jennifer breaks down:
- The reality of hidden disabilities in the workplace
- How societal expectations create unnecessary barriers
- Real solutions for businesses looking to expand their talent pool
- The transformative impact of giving people a chance
Plus, there’s an amazing story about Snoop Dogg that has nothing to do with what you’d expect. You’ll have to listen to find out more about that one.
The Bottom Line
It’s 2024, and it’s time we stopped ignoring talent just because it doesn’t fit our preconceived notions of what an “ideal employee” looks like. This isn’t just about doing the right thing – though that should be enough. It’s about smart business decisions that benefit everyone.
Ready to have your assumptions challenged? Head over to your favorite podcast platform and listen to the full episode of Happy Hour Hustle. Trust me, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss.
And if you’re an employer? Maybe it’s time to rethink who you’re overlooking in your hiring process. Your next great employee might just be someone you never considered before.
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