Social mobility masterclass for employers #1: Outreach

Blog

July 31, 2020 | SMC Admin

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How to reach the best talent, with Santander

On 23 July, we held the first in our new social mobility masterclass series for employers – Outreach, exploring how you can reach, attract and foster a diverse pool of talent. Below you can find a recording of the webinar, including an in-depth case-study from Santander delving into their outreach practices. This session was developed in partnership with the Social Mobility Pledge, Up Reach, The Careers and Enterprise Company, BPP and of course Santander.

Having a strong outreach programme is an ideal way of connecting with individuals who may not traditionally apply for roles within your organisation, yet may be able to make a significant contribution in future. It brings awareness of the opportunities in your organisation and sector, enabling you to tap into a wide talent pool.

A successful outreach programme:

• Breaks the standard recruitment mould and drives diversity within your business
• Supports your local community, especially in areas considered to be social mobility ‘cold spots’
• Provides potential employees with the ‘why’ they should come work for you and contribute to the success of your business
• Raises the aspirations of individuals so they can achieve their full potential

For those of you who are keen to enhance your current programme, we have also developed, in conjunction with insights from this session, a pack to help you further. It includes a checklist for employers, as well as details of Santander’s Emerging Talent Initiative which spans ‘school to work’ placements for young students, traineeships, internships & placements, graduate schemes and apprenticeships.

You can, for instance, develop or maximise charity/ community partnerships, exploring how to connect with students. And during these uncertain times, against the backdrop of Covid-19, you might wish to set up ‘remote schemes’ enabling employees to provide mentoring or coaching in a safe environment.

Click here to view the Social Mobility Commission Masterclass Outreach pack.

The next session in this series, Hiring, will take place on 25 August.