The Business Case for a Welcoming Workplace at #MACoCon

Surveys show that younger populations want more consideration from employers regarding not only “what they do” but often “who they are,” seeking identity-based recognition.

A number of recent surveys have shown that younger populations have different expectations for workplace culture than prior trends have revealed. These are populations that in more instances seek equity and protections from employers when it comes to individual, identity-based needs and services. As public service employers find it increasingly difficult to compete with private and commercial industry salaries for viable candidates, governments have a unique opportunity to lead on other incentives specific to what younger generations are looking for in an employer.

Title: The Business Case for a Welcoming Workplace

Description: Counties, as employers and service providers, stand to gain by fostering strong connections with their employees and community members. A respectful and supportive work environment is not just a matter of ethics—it’s smart business. When employees feel valued, and residents experience respect and fairness, counties can achieve better recruitment, retention, and overall workplace productivity. By establishing a culture of professionalism and civility, county governments can strengthen their ties to the community, resulting in a more cohesive, prosperous future for all.

Speakers:

Kristopher Fair – Delegate, District 3A, LGBTQ+ Caucus Chair, MD House of Delegates
Kristy Bixler – Director of Human Resources, Carroll County
Renesha Miles – Chief Equity Officer, Charles County

Moderator: The Honorable Christiana Rigby, Council Member, Howard County

Date/Time: Wednesday, December 11, 2024; 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

MACo’s Winter Conference, “Anticipate, Adapt, Achieve: Thriving Through Turbulent Times,” will be held at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, MD, on December 11-13, 2024.

Learn more about MACo’s Winter Conference: