New network aims to highlight quality Baltimore employers

Baltimore Business Journal

In this week’s edition of Water Cooler Talk, Eli Allen, director of Civic Works’ Baltimore Center for Green Careers, discusses a new initiative aimed at recognizing Baltimore businesses that are dedicated to providing quality jobs and careers.

As socially conscious consumerism grows in Baltimore, companies that are committed to job quality are seeing a competitive advantage. These business leaders understand their social mission as more than just a brand—they’re putting good jobs to work for a stronger bottom line.

Baltimore businesses plagued by turnover know that workplace issues cost time and money — Glassdoor estimates on average $4,000 and 24 days per entry-level employee. But nationwide studies show that businesses that make investments in the support and skills development of their workforce see higher profits, improved productivity and higher retention.

To these socially minded business leaders, a good job isn’t just a way for their employees to make money, it’s an opportunity to build skills and purpose, a stronger local economy and healthier communities.

Locally, this has meant creating pathways to help all Baltimore residents access quality jobs and meaningful careers.

To connect these like-minded consumers, job-seekers and employers, Civic Works, the Baltimore Workforce Funders Collaborative, and a coalition of local workforce stakeholders launched “Good Business Works,” an online network established to recognize and help consumers support Baltimore businesses committed to creating quality careers and equitable, inclusive workplaces.

committed to creating quality careers and equitable, inclusive workplaces.

Businesses that are accepted into the network adopt data-driven job quality practices — creating a culture of respect, equity and inclusion, providing livable incomes and benefits, increasing scheduling stability and investing in career development. Members aim to show that there is real value for our city in making these investments.

This starts with creating good jobs and doubling down on Baltimore, and that means hiring people from our communities and investing in their success.

Individually, companies can make a huge impact on the lives of employees and their families, but collectively business leaders are transforming our local economy to expand family-sustaining careers and help our communities thrive.