Sourcing Black Talent: Three Strategies to Honor Black History Month
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Ever hear about Marie Van Brittan Brown? She invented the first home security system and laid the foundation for modern surveillance technology. But if her name doesn’t ring a bell, you’re not alone. Stories like hers often slip through the cracks, not because of a lack of talent, but because opportunities don’t always work the way they should.
This Black History Month, let’s do more than share those stories. Let’s create new ones by changing how we source Black talent. Sourcing is the first and the most crucial step in increasing representation among Black individuals.
Here are three sourcing strategies that can open doors and change futures.
Strategy #1: Build Meaningful Partnerships with Colleges and Universities
Colleges and Universities are hubs for Black talent, innovation, and potential. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), in particular, have been shaping Black excellence for over a century. But showing up once a year for a career fair won’t cut it. Real partnerships need more than a one-time appearance.
While HBCUs play a pivotal role, don’t overlook the Black talent thriving at predominantly White institutions (PWIs). In the rush to partner with HBCUs, many companies forget that PWIs also have strong Black student communities ready to excel.
Also, don’t just stick to career fairs. Go deeper. Partner with HBCU and PWI career centers, DEI offices, and alumni networks. Many PWIs have large Black student populations and dedicated DEI alumni departments you can tap into. Check out specific colleges within universities as well—many have their own specific DEI initiatives in place.
When you invest time and effort into these connections, you create pathways for Black students to see your company as a place where they can thrive. Show them that you’re also their employer of choice.
Strategy #2: Get Your ERGs Involved in Sourcing and Referrals
Your Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are your employee’s internal support networks. And they’re bridges to entire communities of talent. Black ERG members often have deep connections in professional circles, making them ideal partners for sourcing.
Set up a referral program that rewards ERG members for introducing potential candidates. A simple thank-you won’t be enough—make it count with meaningful recognition or incentives. Take it further by inviting ERG members to co-host recruiting events or brainstorm outreach strategies. Their Lived Experiences Intelligence® can provide valuable insights that data alone won’t reveal.
Tapping into ERGs for sourcing shows your company does more than talk about diversity; it builds it, with intention and collaboration.
Strategy #3: Engage with Black Professional Organizations and Black Influencers
Black professional organizations are hubs of talent, knowledge, and ambition. Groups like the National Black MBA Association, Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA), and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) connect you with skilled professionals ready to make an impact.
But don’t stop there. Partner with Black influencers, thought leaders, and content creators who have built trust within their communities. Their platforms reach wide audiences of engaged professionals and job seekers. Collaborate on webinars, social media campaigns, or Q&A sessions where they share your opportunities in authentic ways.
Conclusion
Black History Month gives us the chance to recognize Black innovators who’ve shaped our world. But it also challenges us to look ahead and create new possibilities. By partnering with HBCUs and non-HBCUs, involving ERGs in sourcing, and engaging with Black professional organizations and content creators, you’re doing what many often ignore, expanding horizons for more talent potential.
If you’re looking for more effective ways to refresh your sourcing strategies, we have exactly that for you. Our Sourcing List Swipe File has 89 practical and impactful ideas to help you connect with talent and build a more inclusive pipeline. You can access it here.
JOIN US IN THE COMMENTS: So, how will you source Black talent this year? We’d love to hear your ideas.