In today’s dynamic and interconnected world, diversity and inclusion are essential for business success. One often overlooked but incredibly valuable source of talent is resettled refugees. Here’s why hiring refugees is a strategic advantage for companies, especially those in the Kansas City metro area.
Unlock a Goldmine of Skills and Dedication
Refugees bring a treasure trove of skills, experiences, and perspectives that can transform a company. Many are professionals with qualifications in fields ranging from engineering to healthcare. Their drive to rebuild their lives translates into a rock-solid work ethic and unwavering dedication, making them some of the most reliable employees you can find.
Studies show refugee employees often have higher retention rates compared to the overall workforce. For example, in the manufacturing sector, the turnover rate for refugee workers is about 4%, compared to an industry average of 11%. Their loyalty and dedication can lead to lower recruitment costs and a more stable workforce.
Fuel Innovation with Cultural Diversity
A diverse workforce sparks creativity and innovation. Refugees bring unique viewpoints and experiences that help companies understand and cater to a wider customer base. This diversity can lead to groundbreaking solutions and top-notch problem-solving abilities, giving your company a competitive edge.
In addition to their cultural contributions, refugees have a significant economic impact. According to New American Economy, refugees contributed over $21 billion in taxes in 2015 and held over $56 billion in spending power. Their entrepreneurial spirit is also notable, with 13% of refugees being entrepreneurs compared to 9% of the U.S.-born population. Refugee-owned businesses employed 180,000 people and generated $4.6 billion in income in 2015.
Boost Your Brand with Social Responsibility
Hiring refugees showcases your company’s commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices. It can enhance your reputation, attract loyal customers, and build goodwill among investors and the community. Companies known for their inclusive hiring practices often enjoy a boost in brand image and customer loyalty.
Cash In on Government Incentives
Both federal and state governments offer incentives for hiring refugees. These perks can slash hiring costs and provide extra support for integrating refugees into your team. Key programs include:
– Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): Get a federal tax credit of up to $2,400 per refugee hire.
– On-the-Job Training (OJT) Programs: Funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), these programs reimburse employers for training new hires.
Fill Labor Gaps with Eager Talent
Facing a shortage of skilled labor? Refugees can fill these gaps with their ready-to-work attitude and diverse skills. By tapping into this underutilized talent pool, companies can maintain efficiency and stay ahead in their industries. The Migration Policy Institute notes that refugees often fill critical labor shortages in various industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality.
Build a Resilient and Adaptable Team
Resettled refugees have often overcome significant challenges and demonstrated remarkable resilience. This resilience can be a huge asset in the workplace, contributing to a more adaptable and resourceful team. Employees who have navigated complex situations bring unparalleled problem-solving abilities and determination.
Long-term, refugees make significant economic contributions. The National Bureau of Economic Research found that, over 20 years, the average refugee adult pays $21,000 more in taxes than they receive in benefits.
Local and State Support in Missouri and Kansas
Missouri:
– Missouri offers a range of workforce development programs and grants to assist employers in hiring and training refugees. The Missouri Division of Workforce Development provides customized training and support services to help integrate refugees into the workforce. Learn more here: https://www.feckc.org/employers
Kansas:
– The Kansas Department of Commerce offers incentives and resources for businesses to hire and train employees, including refugees. Programs like the Kansas Industrial Training (KIT) and Kansas Industrial Retraining (KIR) provide financial assistance for training new and existing employees. Learn more here: https://www.kansasworks.com/employer and here: https://workforcepartnership.com/employer-resources/
Kansas City Metro:
– Della Lamb’s workforce development team supports employers with job readiness training for refugees, cultural competency training for employers, and ongoing support for successful employment outcomes. We serve as a liaison between our clients and employers to create mutually beneficial partnerships, focusing on long-term job retention.
– The Missouri Office of Refugee Administration (MO-ORA) holds a collection of resources for employers. Learn more here: https://moora.org/resource-guide/employers
By leveraging these federal and state programs, employers in the Kansas City metro area can reduce hiring and training costs while building a diverse, inclusive, and resilient workforce. Embrace these opportunities to create a positive impact on both your business and the broader community. Employing refugees not only sets them up for self-sufficiency and success in their new home but also enriches and strengthens your organization.