In a world that often looks for qualifications on paper, Greyston looks for potential in people through Open Hiring. It all started 41 years ago when our founder Bernie Glassman began embracing inclusive hiring practices at Greyston Bakery. By eliminating traditional hiring methods like resumes, interviews, and background checks, we opened doors for individuals that society had often overlooked or outright rejected.
Today, we’re not just a lone beacon in a sea of capitalism but part of a growing movement for social good. With Open Hiring® replication partners like The Body Shop, the message is clear – Open Hiring is not just a feel-good strategy; it’s smart business.
On the Engage for Good podcast, our President & CEO, Joseph Kenner, joins Nykeba King from The Body Shop to shed light on how Open Hiring has transformed lives and businesses. Hosted by the brilliant Alli Murphy, this episode is an enlightening deep dive into the world of inclusive employment.
The Body Shop’s journey with us began in 2019. Since then, they’ve hired over 5,000 individuals through Open Hiring at their global distribution centers and retail outlets. These aren’t just people hired; these are lives changed. These are stories of hope, resilience, and proof that when given an opportunity, anyone can shine.
Contrary to what many might believe, Open Hiring isn’t charity. The Body Shop and Greyston have witnessed significant business benefits from these practices, from higher productivity and retention rates to increased diversity. This model doesn’t just break social barriers; it also shatters business myths.
As the episode unfolds, listeners will learn:
- The remarkable story of how Greyston pioneered Open Hiring
- The Body Shop’s incredible Open Hiring journey from 2019 to the present
- The business benefits both organizations have seen as a result of open & inclusive hiring
- The challenges and intricacies of these practices and how Joseph and Nykeba have overcome them
- Practical steps and insights on how to initiate open and inclusive hiring at your organization
For too long, countless individuals, be it those experiencing homelessness, former incarceration, those in recovery, or those with employment gaps, have been cast aside. At Greyston and The Body Shop, we believe in giving everyone a chance. We believe that everyone, regardless of their past, deserves a future.
So, tune in to the Engage for Good podcast to discover how two organizations are changing the very fabric of hiring and, in the process, changing lives. Let’s challenge biases, address common criticisms, and, most importantly, let’s engage for good.