OneTen CEO Debbie Dyson discussed Skills-First Hiring on Bloomberg Markets’ The Close
OneTen CEO, Debbie Dyson, recently joined Romaine Bostick and Scarlet Fu on Bloomberg Markets: The Close, to discuss the impact of the May jobs report and the evolving labor market. She highlighted the importance of companies adopting skills-first hiring practices as essential to opening up opportunities for talent without four-year degrees, who have been previously overlooked. The conversation sheds light on how OneTen is championing non-degree employment opportunities, leveraging AI in recruitment, and fostering diversity and inclusion within the workforce. Watch the full interview with Debbie's segment starting at the 1:01:36 mark.
Skills-First Hiring: A Paradigm Shift
Debbie emphasized the critical shift towards skills-first hiring practices, highlighting the need to prioritize skills over traditional degree requirements. With 66% of Americans lacking a four-year degree, yet 60% of jobs requiring one, this shift is not just revolutionary but necessary. OneTen aims to bridge this gap by identifying and nurturing the potential of individuals typically overlooked by conventional hiring methods.
Addressing the Unemployment Rate Disparity
The May jobs report revealed a dichotomy in the labor market. While opportunities are growing for skilled individuals, the unemployment rate for people of color, particularly Black and Brown talent, remains disproportionately high. OneTen’s mission is to create pathways to meaningful employment for these communities, focusing on skills-based hiring strategies that match talent to in-demand jobs in sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and logistics.
Leveraging AI in Hiring
AI is transforming recruitment, from AI job sourcing to candidate assessment. Debbie discussed how AI can accelerate the identification of relevant skills in resumes, ensuring a faster and more efficient hiring process. Furthermore, she stressed the importance of exploring ways to train talent in AI-related skills, positioning AI not as a threat but as a powerful tool for enhancing job opportunities.
The Role of Community Colleges and Talent Developers
Debbie mentioned how community colleges and talent developers play a pivotal role in OneTen’s strategy. These institutions offer micro pathways and certifications in various fields, from healthcare to technology, providing the necessary training to prepare individuals for the workforce. This collaboration ensures that candidates are equipped with both the technical and soft skills needed to thrive in their careers.
The Evolving Labor Market
Reflecting on her extensive executive experience at ADP, Debbie noted that while the core principles of hiring—people, process, and technology—remain consistent, the pace of change has accelerated. Employers now demand a more dynamic and adaptable workforce, and OneTen’s skills-first approach aligns perfectly with these evolving needs.
Conclusion
Debbie Dyson's interview with Bloomberg underscored the importance of skills-first recruitment practices in today’s labor market. By focusing on competency-based hiring and leveraging AI, OneTen is paving the way for a more inclusive and skilled workforce. Explore more about OneTen’s skills-first approach and discover how we are making a difference in talent acquisition based on skills rather than degrees.
To hear more insights, watch Debbie’s interview on Bloomberg (starting at 1:01:36).