Jeffrey D. Padden
517-485-4477
Diversity in hiring is less of a priority to mid-Michigan employers than five years ago, according to a new poll.
Public Policy Associates, Inc. (PPA) President Jeffrey D. Padden presented the findings of the poll on August 25 at the 2011 Employer Conference on Workplace Diversity, which was hosted by PPA and the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Padden said the decline in emphasis on diversity by employers is cause for concern because a workforce with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences provides insight and innovation that enable employers to better meet the needs of customers. "We don't know whether that (the decline) means they think it has been solved, the diversity problem is over, or that they don't understand there is a diversity opportunity available."
PPA and the Lansing Chamber hosted the event to help employers strengthen their organizations and to build a stronger community that capitalizes on its divesrity. PPA has extensive experience working with diversity issues, including consultation services to businesses.
The conference drew more than 200 business leaders. For more information on the conference, click here.