How You Can Help First-Gen Professionals in the Workplace
Brookfield, IL - November 23, 2022
First-generation college students (FGPs) are a growing segment of the professional workforce. With their parents having held traditional blue-collar or working-class positions that did not require a college degree, FGPs represent an essential group in today's diverse and inclusive workplace. Whether you work directly with this population or want to be mindful of its needs, there are steps you can take to create an inclusive environment for all workers, including FGPs.
Learning More About the FGP Career Journey
As first-generation professionals (FGP), we must recognize the unique challenges they face in the workplace. Establishing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts is one-way companies can accommodate and support this diverse group of employees.
One example of an organization that takes DEI efforts seriously is the U.S. Department of Commerce, which recently held a First-Generation Professionals Summit to facilitate conversations across the organization about these issues. Through this initiative, FGPs were able to understand better what their experience as FGP has been like at work and discuss ways they could adapt or improve upon these experiences in the future.
Inclusivity
Onboarding can be one of the most intimidating periods for new employees, especially those joining an organization as first-generation professionals (FGP). Therefore, leaders must support and encourage FGPs during this time to help them succeed in their careers.
One-way leaders can do this is by assigning mentors to each FGP. Mentors can share their journeys with these FGPs, helping them connect with others on campus, break the ice, and relieve any anxiety they may face. They can also offer practical advice on navigating the workplace and ensure that all FGPs have opportunities to build meaningful relationships within your organization.
Encouraging Career Development
As a leader, one of your primary responsibilities is to help employees grow and develop. This may be providing training opportunities or helping them pursue professional development programs, such as attending conferences or obtaining certifications. One important thing to remember when working with employees from different backgrounds is that they may need to be aware of the availability of these development opportunities or have the financial means to attend to them.
Locally owned and operated, Express Employment Professionals in Brookfield, IL is a full-service staffing company that continually exceeds the expectations of companies and job seekers in our community. We excel in placing office administrative positions and industrial manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics positions in the West Suburban Chicagoland area.
Express Employment Professionals of Brookfield, IL
9100 Ogden Ave. Suite A
Brookfield, IL 60513
(708) 485-4855
https://www.expresspros.com/BrookfieldIL/