Consider launching a creative employee referral program to get your staff involved in finding potential candidates of all ethnic backgrounds.

Companies can increase the chances of attracting diversity candidates by following some key strategies. These include:

Advertise quality jobs - In your job description, focus on how a candidate can contribute to the bigger picture - don't just list the job requirements. The better the job description, the more candidates (of all backgrounds) will want to apply. Be sure to submit your ads in local business and minority publications for maximum exposure.

Get current employees to help with your search - Consider launching a creative employee referral program to get your staff involved in finding potential candidates of all ethnic backgrounds. Communicating a formal diversity program to your employees demonstrates that diversity recruiting is a priority at your company. Providing rewards gives employees an added incentive to start thinking of ways they can contribute to your diversity recruiting efforts.

Get involved - Participate in local minority organizations by helping to sponsor an event or contributing in another way. Perhaps you can provide employees who can speak at an upcoming meeting or provide scholarships for minority students at a local college.

Communicate your current diversity - Use current corporate communications such as your Web site, company newsletters or through press releases to profile the good work of your diversity employees or recent promotions. Show how other diversity employees are succeeding in your organization and that the opportunities are vast for qualified employees of all colors.

Source: International Search Consultants (ISC)