A Quick Lesson on Business Engagement & Community Expectations

by | Feb 2, 2021 | News

Guest Blog: Nat Marshall

A community has a general expectation that businesses will act in the best interest of that community.   But, if that “best interest” is not necessarily in the best interest of the business, why would they act otherwise? There are three main reasons that companies engage in and contribute to their communities:

  • Desire to be a community partner
  • Contractors are held to a higher standard by the public and the government, and, thereby, are incentivized to work in the community
  • Recruitment

Let me explain:

  • Community Partner. I would describe this as just doing the right thing.  It just makes sense that a company would want to work to improve the community in which it and its employees live.  
  • The U.S, government requires that its large contractors’ employee population reflect their locations’ demographics.  Based on some very basic statistical formulas and availability data, goals are set.  If they do not achieve those goals, then they are expected to complete good faith efforts that may help improve representation.  Thereby, they are incentivized to work in their communities.  Just as importantly, however, corporations are continuously scrutinized by the public regarding their commitment to the community.
  • Recruitment – and as a byproduct, reputation and name recognition. You want employees and potential employees to feel good about working for the company.  For high-potential prospects, you want them to know the company, hopefully fostering a desire to work there.  Community engagement is a recruitment tool, incentivizing local youth to aspire to work for the company and convincing prospects to choose that location over other companies or metropolitan areas. 

What are the employer expectations from the community? A skilled and available workforce.   I have been engaged in hiring for over 30 years.  And for over 30 years I have heard HR recruiters bemoan the fact that candidates are not as prepared for work as they once were.  I can’t speak to hiring practices before my participation; but, after sitting on countless panels and group discussions, this is what I have derived from those discussions in regards to what companies are looking for in prospective employees:

  • That they show up on time for the interview and for work on a regular basis
  • That they show up for work NOT under chemical influence
  • That they have a basic understanding of the work that needs to be done.

Most companies, by necessity, have an extensive training program.  So, most don’t expect the new employee to show up on the first day fully capable of performing all the duties of the job.  FYI, a good attitude is a greatly sought after attribute.  Unfortunately, it is not something that can be easily measured in an interview.  Any opportunity that an employer has to observe an intern or work-study student helps in the decision making process.  Co-ops, internships, and apprenticeships provide an excellent opportunity for an employer to recognize the talent of a prospective employee.

In my discussions with students, I often ask, “What is in your toolbox?”  Most understand that when I ask this question, I am actually asking what skills and experiences have they obtained that might aid them in the performance of the job that is available.  Most short-change themselves.  From every job there is something for your toolbox – fast food cashier, communications skills from interaction with the customer; stockperson, familiarity with moving equipment; custodian, attention to detail.

It has been said that luck is where preparation meets opportunity.  Companies, by necessity, are out in the community with opportunities.  Now, the $50,000 (the approximate average amount of yearly family income) question is, who is prepared to meet the challenge?

Nat Marshall

Corporate EEO & Community Relations Manager at BWXT