After COVID: Hiring Has Changed
Dear Jenny,
My department grew really rapidly during COVID and I was doing a ton of hiring. Before COVID, the hiring process was very different. I never struggled to get people to sign the offer letter. Now, it feels like there is so much competition from other companies for the best talent. What is causing this shift? And, what can I do to get the best talent to pick my company?
Thanks,
Seeking Talent
Hey Seeking Talent!
Finding the right person for your company is a daunting task. However, when it comes to recruiting and hiring (especially in this economy), all companies need to take a hard look at their current processes – and be ready to make some changes.
Increased demand for top talent
As companies focus on revamping their strategies amid the coronavirus pandemic, the demand for top talent has never been higher. The pandemic has reduced the supply of candidates, and top talent is harder to come by.
Talent acquisition isn’t just about posting a job and waiting for candidates to apply; it’s about creating a culture that attracts the best people.
Employees wants have changed
Employees want more than just a salary. Higher wages are only one of six desired factors in job satisfaction. The other five? Training, benefits & health coverage, opportunities for growth or advancement, work-life balance, and an interesting job. Companies now need to prioritize what candidates are looking for and focus on that.
The key to attracting good employees is demonstrating that a company cares about their needs, wants, and personal circumstances. In addition, it’s important to show the team how an organization values them. This includes listening closely to what employees have to say so employers can better understand the most important issues and the ones that are not being addressed.
What companies can do
To attract the best candidates, companies are now looking for ways to change their culture. For instance: more flexible work hours and remote working opportunities can be a huge selling point for attracting ambitious professionals who want flexibility in both their life and career. It also helps that this is an easy way for employers to manage pandemic-related absenteeism.
Companies have had to change their strategies to attract quality applicants: offering relocation assistance or sign-on bonuses for employees that move from an infected region; clearer career paths with more opportunities for advancement; flexible work schedules; and remote working opportunities.
Employ a recruitment marketing strategy
Employers are no longer competing for the best candidates, but rather they need to build a campaign that will attract enough good potential employees.
It is important to make your company visible and attractive on social media networks such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook. A well-designed website is also crucial: it should be easy to navigate, user-friendly, and up-to-date with the latest information about your company.
Clear, concise job descriptions are essential for attracting candidates who will fit both skills and culture. Consider partnering with other companies to expand your reach by advertising together on social media or using joint headhunters to recruit higher-caliber employees.
At the end of the day, you need to position yourself as THE employer of choice for your industry. By focusing on candidates’ needs instead of what your company requires and needs and ensuring they are met with a positive candidate experience, you will attract the best talent.
Sincerely,
Jenny