Empowering the Workforce through Skills-Based Hiring and Community Building with Michelle Sims

Join us for an enlightening episode of The Future of Teamwork, where we delve into the transformative world of skills-based hiring with Michelle D. Sims, a visionary leader at YUPRO Placement. This trailblazing organization is reshaping early career talent recruitment and development, focusing on advancing traditionally overlooked talent and building career pathways for non-degreed talent.

In this episode, Michelle shares how YUPRO Placement fosters a supportive community, cultivating connections and social capital through ongoing mentorship and innovative programs. Their commitment to talent goes beyond initial hiring, offering lifelong support that includes resume assistance, interview preparation, and free certifications. This comprehensive approach is changing the landscape of career development.

We'll explore the metrics that truly matter in measuring the success of these initiatives and the far-reaching impact they can have economically and socially. Through a skills-first approach, YUPRO Placement has uncovered opportunities for better workforce diversity, reduced turnover, and improved engagement. Discover how this shift in perspective is revolutionizing recruitment and creating a more inclusive and dynamic workplace.

Key Takeaways

• [00:12 - 02:26] Meet Michelle Sims, CEO of YUPRO Placement
• [02:27 - 03:46] Starting a job just 12 days before the pandemic
• [03:53 - 05:13] What latchkey means
• [05:16 - 07:20] The importance of collaborating with workforce development
• [07:24 - 10:45] Gaps Michelle is seeing and focusing on as she prepares people to join teams in the workplace
• [10:47 - 16:43] Tear the Paper Ceiling
• [16:46 - 20:12] The benefits of being a PBC, Public Benefit Corporation
• [20:14 - 24:37] How to think about skill-based hiring
• [24:37 - 26:17] A new iteration of call center staffing
• [26:19 - 29:42] Innovative ways orgs are bringing people together
• [29:43 - 32:58] Best practices for supporting those taking on an entry-level role
• [33:02 - 34:27] Psychological safety is crucial
• [34:26 - 37:54] How long YUPRO Placement has been doing this work
• [37:55 - 40:32] The power of support and community
• [40:32 - 42:28] The value of community and alumni
• [42:31 - 46:47] Looking forward: How can the workforce landscape change?
• [46:43 - 51:13] A grassroots movement
• [50:52 - 51:46] How to learn more about YUPRO Placement