Company Actions
Some of the actions companies can take throughout the recruitment, hiring and promotion processes include:
- Rewriting job descriptions to focus on the skills needed to succeed in the job.
- Reviewing existing assessment tools and adopting new standard interview processes to screen candidates to determine the level of skills required to perform the job.
- Developing and publishing transparent job advancement pathways for their current workforce that can be navigated by meeting specific training milestones and skill acquisitions.
- Creating and using training modules that teach employees new skills needed to meet job advancement milestones. Training can be delivered through on-the-job experience (e.g., mentorships and apprenticeships), online learning platforms and/or partnerships with external education and training providers.
- Recognizing and rewarding employees who complete credentials or certifications valued by the company.
CEO Perspectives
Doug McMillon, President & CEO, Walmart
Mary Barra, Chair & CEO, General Motors
Guiding Principles
The following principles guide the initiative, and companies recognize:
- Skills are as important as degrees or similar previously fixed requirements in hiring and promotion decisions.
- Hiring practices should create opportunities for individuals from a wide array of backgrounds.
- Employers should send clear demand signals regarding the skills needed in their workforce.
- Upskilling and continuous learning are vital to helping employees obtain the experiences, skills, or certifications needed for professional growth.
- Partnerships with relevant stakeholders are critical to building a skills-first approach that works for all.
