Keep your head in the game to attract new talent

There’s little doubt that nearly every type of employer will continue to rely on the creativity and expertise of their staff to edge out—or even just keep up with—their competition. This means not only acquiring the right hardware and software, but also hiring and retaining the brightest people.

Don’t underestimate the intensity of competition for talented employees or you may end up yesterday’s news in tomorrow’s marketplace. If you want to stay in the game, consider some of these strategies to attract staff that shine.

Sell them on you

Sometimes interviewers make the mistake of thinking only job candidates must sell themselves. But it works both ways—the employer needs to sell itself to candidates, too. In today’s competitive job market, you need to make sure your company is a head above the rest.

Identify something distinctive and exciting about your organization and play that up in the interview. Perhaps include your reputation for cutting-edge technology, marquee clients, a hip culture, or an incredible benefits package.

Another excellent hiring practice is for senior executives to personally follow up with top prospects. Nothing makes an impression on a candidate like receiving a personal call from the top brass after the interview. Everyone loves a pat on the back and a moment in the spotlight.

Offer inspiration

Once you’ve found and hired some company rock stars, make sure they stay inspired. You’re looking for the best of the best, so consider skipping the everyday work that can get stale, such as maintaining your existing systems and taking help-desk calls. Instead, include them on important projects, like developing new applications, evaluating potential hardware upgrades, or helping to set long-term growth strategies for the company.

Keeping your staff engaged can increase the likelihood that they’ll refer friends and fellow experts in their fields to you. It also improves the chances that, if valued employees do leave, they may return once it’s obvious that you provide more room to grow than the competitors who hired them away.

Provide opportunities beyond the now

Another method of attracting (and retaining) top talent is offering them opportunities beyond the position for which they are applying. During interviews, talk to prospects about, not only the job they’re considering, but also their other interests, and where the position might lead. Paint a picture for them of their future with your organization. If you’re known for promoting from within, highlight that as well.

For example, many organizations involve staff in planning sessions for the development of new products or services, or expansions into new markets. Including your staff in strategic planning generates excitement. You may be surprised by the ideas and insight they bring to the process, and the unknown directions they may be able take your business. It’s a win-win.

The more you invest in your people through training, mentoring and additional challenges, the more likely they’ll stay with you.

Hire wisely

To say that the U.S. job market in 2019 is competitive is an understatement. Hiring and retaining the best of the best is crucial to every company’s success. So, put yourself out there, sell potential staff on your business, and the unique opportunities you offer. Invest in the process of hiring, and you’ll reap the rewards. Contact us or come into one of our locations for more information about how to measure and manage the financial impact of hiring and retention. We can help you make the most of the process and hire wisely.