Angela Fowler joined me on the latest episode of Nick Speaks, and she posed a challenge to the status quo that we desperately need to talk about. We live in a world where 'merit-based' hiring is often touted as the gold standard. But is it truly inclusive, or just another way to reinforce existing biases?
Angela, an advocate for people with disabilities, argues that being 'disabled' doesn't equate to being 'less able.' It's about doing things differently. Yet, society continues to pigeonhole talent based on misconceptions. Let's face it, the traditional hiring process is not designed to accommodate those who don't fit the conventional mold.
When you hear 'merit-based,' do you think of a system that rewards genuine ability, or do you see a façade that overlooks diverse talents capable of enriching workplaces? It's time we rethink what merit truly means, and who gets to define it.
The conversation with Angela was eye-opening, urging us to move beyond labels and focus on capabilities. If we don't, we're not just missing out on potential hires; we're missing out on innovation and progress.
