In today’s competitive recruiting environment, employers who approach recruiting as a one-way decision will be set up for failure. Top talent has high expectations for future employers; and continually evolving to appeal to the best and brightest candidates should be a priority for industry leaders. In our recent issue of Compass, Jeff Blair, senior vice president of executive search and business development, discusses ways to sell your position and company throughout the recruiting process in a way that leads to a successful hire. Below are seven ways to ensure a positive and engaging candidate experience, from Jeff’s feature article, "Taking a Candidate-Centric Approach to Recruiting."
Build an employer brand that distinguishes your organization as a workplace of choice within the larger employment marketplace.
- Be as flexible and creative as possible with in-office requirements to meet the candidates’ desires while adhering to the requirements of the role.
- Aim to treat candidates similarly to how you would a potential client – with a human approach that emphasizes personal interactions, responsiveness and ongoing communication.
- Focus on growth opportunities and be intentional around the experience, certifications and skillsets necessary for a role. Determine a few must-have skills and qualities, then be flexible with the rest.
- Seek to understand what is important to each candidate during initial conversations. Then, build an interview panel that can authentically address those areas – be it your company’s stance on flexibility, culture, work-life balance or growth.
- Help individuals feel confident moving forward with your organization by maintaining momentum and sharing your vision for the role’s longer term career path.
- “Strike while the iron’s hot” and make your first offer your strongest once you’ve found the right candidate.
By taking a candidate-centric approach that focuses on an individual’s values, establishes a purpose for each interview, and offers frequent communication, you’ll be positioned to secure the best in the market. View the full article for more on recruiting in a way that ensures candidates are ready to say “yes” when it comes to the point of an offer.
For more talent insights, delivered to your inbox each quarter, subscribe to our Compass newsletter.