Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Redefining Diversity in Talent Search

In recent times, it has become standard for search firms to highlight their prowess in being part of the solution to diversify the workforce. Most organizations talk about the importance of diversity but do nothing to address it within their own ranks.

A veteran of financial services, the military, and petrochemical industries, the search industry is the least diverse industry I have been a part of. When wide swaths of the population are not represented in networks of hiring professionals, it is no wonder there are broader issues with ensuring there are diverse talent pools.

If we are assessing for the best talent, we must necessarily engage candidate pools from a diverse array of perspectives and backgrounds to have a truly holistic view of the market. Guaranteeing a certain number of diverse candidates is a band-aid for professionals who are not hardwired with the mindset that diversity is a component of every search process that is done well.

My commitment to all of my clients is that I personally cannot see a complete process without factoring many different angles of diversity. The standard firm’s promises “to try” pales in comparison to my personal commitment to ensure the best people are put in situations where they and their companies can thrive–not places where boxes can be checked.

As I continue on my journey of impact in this space, I ask that you help my industry as well by holding your service providers accountable and ensuring they do their part in walking the talk. Demand better by engaging with diverse talent within the search industry when they exhibit the expertise and knowledge to successfully partner; if this truly matters to you hold your service providers accountable.

– Wrendon Hunt, Co-Founder and Managing Director of H&C Search