Benefits and Challenges of Hiring Refugee Employees: U.S. Employers’ Perspective

Abstract

This thesis examines the viewpoint of U.S. employers who employ refugees revealing the advantages and obstacles encountered by enterprises seeking to hire, train, and retain employees from this group. Exploratory research was conducted, focusing on several specific questions. Interviews were conducted with business leaders and managers, and Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) was used to analyze data gathered from discussions. Findings reveal that refugees possess qualities and characteristics that appeal to employers. However, the lack of English proficiency often masks these attributes. Employers who successfully integrate refugees adopt practices to assist the process. The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), as well as related agencies and organizations, can leverage these findings to encourage other employers to consider refugee labor and to develop procedures that assist businesses in overcoming these and other relevant obstacles.