generate an insightful exploration of corporate communication and mental health
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding Corporate Communication Dynamics
In the realm of supported employment, which is often referred to as Individual Placement & Support (IPS), my primary responsibility involves establishing connections with employers, particularly those in managerial positions who have hiring authority. While this may sound straightforward, there are specific requirements regarding the number of employer interactions expected. This can lead to unrealistic scenarios where, if genuine engagement is lacking, we are instructed to make arbitrary visits to businesses.
Meanwhile, an interesting development occurred when our director attended a Chamber of Commerce meeting. She encountered a store owner eager to hire any candidate we presented, regardless of their experience. In stark contrast, Employment Support Professionals and Employment Specialists generally maintain a mere 5% retention rate with employers. Clearly, there’s a systemic issue at play.
Board of Directors and Nonprofit Insights
My journey also includes founding a nonprofit organization, where I frequently engage in corporate-level discussions with Board members. In the nonprofit sector, the board plays a crucial role in steering decisions, significantly influencing the CEO's strategic direction.
The organization I work for is owned by an equity firm based in New York. Their influence on our IPS processes seems minimal, as they appear to prioritize whatever insurance and funding sources dictate, suggesting a rather transactional approach to employment support. Despite their ownership, they do not compensate our employees, which leads to a rather disheartening dynamic.
In my nonprofit endeavors, I typically engage with CEOs, as they are the key decision-makers. While many CEOs are often preoccupied, I prefer to cultivate relationships with individuals who are likely to remain in the industry and display professionalism.
I appreciate my director, who embodies the kind of partnership I would value if our organizations had any overlap. However, I find it difficult to engage meaningfully with the Employment Specialists I’ve encountered thus far.
Vocational Rehabilitation's Approach
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) employs a dedicated individual whose sole responsibility is to foster relationships with employers. This is crucial, as their role is not merely a secondary one; they are state employees who are positioned to create significant connections.
Interestingly, during one of my interactions, an employer inquired if I was a state employee. I had to clarify that I was not. Understanding the funding structure of IPS is essential for employers, as it often involves a commission-like arrangement where the company requests payment from the state once a placement is secured.
Conclusion: The Need for Corporate Connections
I believe that fostering relationships with companies should ideally follow a corporate-to-corporate model. No employer, owner, or manager wishes to engage with someone lacking decision-making power. Specialists should ideally reach out only after a corporate professional has established the initial connection. Approaches from specialists without prior corporate engagement can often feel disjointed.
This video titled "Mental Health at Work with James Routledge" discusses the significance of mental health in the workplace, emphasizing the need for supportive environments for employees.
In the video "How the Nature of Work Has Changed | Full Conversation with Simon Sinek," Simon Sinek explores evolving workplace dynamics and the implications for corporate culture and mental health.