Skills-Based Hiring: New Chamber Program Provides a Smarter Strategy for Solving Talent Gaps
In today’s competitive labor market, hiring isn’t just about filling a role, it’s about finding the right person with the right skills. That distinction can make or break productivity, retention, and long-term success.
Unfortunately, many employers still struggle to attract qualified candidates for in-demand positions. Job descriptions are vague, interview processes are inconsistent, and traditional hiring practices often overlook capable applicants.
That’s why more businesses are turning to skills-based hiring, an approach that prioritizes what candidates can do, not just where they’ve worked or what degrees they hold.
Meet the Employer Accelerator
To help employers put skills-based hiring into practice, the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) launched the Employer Accelerator. This hands-on training program is tailored to small and midsize businesses, helping to develop a skills-based job description and interview plan for roles that are challenging to fill.
What’s Included
The Employer Accelerator blends live, virtual training with optional one-on-one coaching. Participants walk away with:
- A clear, skills-based job description
- A structured interview plan aligned to real business needs
- A toolkit for sourcing, evaluating, and onboarding stronger candidates
Fall 2025 Training Schedule
The next cohort launches in September 2025 and includes five one-hour virtual sessions:
- September 16 – Making the Case & Identifying Key Skills
- September 23 – Defining Skills & Crafting Job Descriptions
- October 7 – Designing a Skills-Aligned Interview Process
- October 14 – Sourcing, Selecting & Onboarding Candidates
- October 21 – Skills-Based Practices Beyond Hiring
Optional coaching sessions will be available the weeks of September 29 and October 29, giving employers personalized feedback on their hiring materials. Participants also gain access to on-demand learning resources to reinforce what they learn and share it with colleagues.
The Employer Accelerator doesn’t require a massive investment of time or resources. It’s flexible, effective, and designed to deliver real results for real employers. If you're ready to hire smarter, the Employer Accelerator is your next step.
Chamber members who complete the program will receive $50 in reimbursement.
For additional information and to sign up today, click below or contact the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce at (904) 261-3248. Applications are due by August 22nd.