CEO Debbie Dyson Discusses August Jobs Report and Skills-first Hiring on Bloomberg’s The Close

Following the release of the August 2024 Jobs Report, OneTen CEO Debbie Dyson sat down with Scarlet Fu and Romaine Bostick on Bloomberg’s The Close to discuss key trends in the workforce and the importance of skills-first hiring. The conversation explored how organizations can align talent with industry needs, the impact of automation on hiring, the growing role of apprenticeships, and how companies must support a multigenerational workforce. Watch the discussion here.  

Skills-First Hiring: Meeting Talent Where They Are 

Dyson highlighted the shift towards skills-first hiring as a crucial element in today’s job market. With many roles previously requiring a degree, skilled talent was often overlooked. However, by prioritizing skills over traditional educational requirements, companies can tap into a vast pool of talented individuals ready to contribute. OneTen is at the forefront of this movement, helping to bridge the gap by providing pathways for talent to secure high-demand jobs through skills development and training. 

Apprenticeships as a Pathway to Career Advancement 

One of the most effective ways to close the skills gap is through apprenticeships. Dyson discussed how companies like Delta Air Lines have successfully implemented apprenticeship programs to promote hourly workers into salaried roles. Apprenticeships offer opportunities for both career changers and new talent entering the workforce, enabling employers to cultivate and retain talent while also filling critical roles. As Dyson noted, these programs require strong support from middle management to be successful, as they play a pivotal role in facilitating the cultural shift needed for apprenticeships to thrive. 

Overcoming Barriers in Hiring Processes 

Despite progress in skills-first hiring, Dyson acknowledged that many skilled candidates without degrees still face barriers, particularly in automated recruitment processes that screen out candidates without formal education credentials. She stressed the importance of maintaining human touches in recruitment. 

OneTen is working to eliminate these roadblocks by working with employers to adjust their hiring practices and adopt more inclusive strategies. By focusing on competencies rather than credentials, companies can unlock the potential of talented individuals who might otherwise be overlooked. 

Preparing for the Future of Work 

Looking ahead, Dyson emphasized the importance of aligning talent with the jobs of the future. With industries like healthcare and logistics set to experience significant growth, OneTen is focused on helping talent develop the expertise needed to thrive in these rapidly evolving sectors. Through partnerships with employers and talent developers, OneTen is ensuring that the workforce of tomorrow is more diverse and equipped with the skills that matter most. 

Conclusion 

Dyson’s insights on Bloomberg Markets: The Close reinforced the importance of skills-first hiring and the role of apprenticeships in creating pathways to success for skilled talent. As OneTen continues to champion these efforts, we’re building a more inclusive workforce where talent is recognized and rewarded based on skills, not degrees. 

Discover how skills-first hiring can help your team tap into a broader talent pool and drive success for your organization.