As more newcomers gain legal authorization to work in Illinois, learn about the available resources from state and local workforce providers to hire them.
In the ever-evolving workforce development landscape, finding diverse and skilled talent is crucial for the success of any business. Immigrants and refugees are a growing labor force segment, yet there are often unique challenges and opportunities employers may need to consider. As more newcomers gain legal authorization to work in Illinois, learn about the available resources from state and local workforce providers to hire them.
Contact the Illinois workNet American Job Centers to boost the recruitment and retention of diverse, qualified workers while meeting the labor needs within the communities in which you operate. Centers help job seekers (including refugees and other eligible noncitizens authorized to work in the U.S.) and employers across Illinois access training, employment, and education opportunities.
Collaborate with the American Job Centers to identify specific skill gaps within your industry and develop training programs that can prepare workers for high-demand roles alongside existing workers. Funding may be available to offset the costs of employer-based training programs to upskill current or new employees.
Create a two-way dialogue with the centers, sharing information about the job opportunities in your industry and learning about the potential candidates who could meet your needs. Learn about sector strategies and the talent pipeline management (TPM) approach pioneered by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to close America’s skills gap.
Explore local solutions to help find the right candidates. Consider job fairs, apprenticeships, and internships in partnership with American Job Centers. Illinois also offers no-cost access to IllinoisJobLink and Virtual Job Fairs. Some employers have bi-lingual recruiting collateral and billboards.
Discover and share Success Stories about initiatives that successfully integrate migrant workers into the workforce, highlighting the benefits and positive outcomes. Some employers have alleviated some of the challenges experienced by newcomers by offering sign-on bonuses, transportation cards, assigned workplace mentors, English Language classes, legal assistance for asylum seekers, and reimbursement for work authorization renewals.
Partner with Illinois Adult Education to offer free classes to employees and connect to English language learners with diverse skills, backgrounds, and language abilities who may be seeking employment.
Partner with American Job Centers to facilitate networking events or employer forums where business leaders can connect with Illinois Welcoming Centers and other immigrant-focused community organizations to promote awareness of the Illinois job market and hiring opportunities.