In uncertain times, finding the right talent takes on even greater importance.
The COVID-19 health crisis expedited shifts in the recruitment landscape, leaving many firms underserved by their existing hiring practices. Job openings are on the rise, competition for top talent is growing, and the race is on to identify the most productive hiring tactics for this new environment.
Here are five strategies that can enhance your company’s post-pandemic recruitment processes.
Revisit previous talent pools.
How many folks in your company were let go or furloughed during the pandemic? And what about the others who may have interviewed or otherwise expressed an interest in your organization prior to the health crisis? These “hidden candidates” might still be available and seeking employment, so reach out and let them know you’re hiring.
What about your alumni?
It used to be that when someone left a company, they were usually gone for good. But now ‘boomerang employees’—individuals who part ways and eventually return—have become commonplace. They can represent a valuable source of qualified talent and referrals. It’s created a new dimension for recruiters that involves engaging people even after they’ve left the organization and striving to create great alumni experiences. With a renewed focus on long-term relationship building, firms are enhancing their alumni networks and leveraging their career sites as a means of maintaining contact and possibly attracting top talent back.
Step up your benefits game.
In 2020, people became more aware of the benefits their company offers, as well as those that are lacking. With the overall employee experience taking on heightened importance, businesses need to be prepared to offer more to attract top candidates. That might mean child care resources, EAP, short and long term disability, stipends for expenses associated with working from home, expanded sick leave (beyond state and federal mandates), flex time, and benefits related to overall physical and mental well-being.
Become a DE&I champion.
The importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion has captured the spotlight, even amid a global pandemic. Organizations are investing more time and energy than ever to examine their institutions as they work to eliminate systemic bias. Your organization needs to show they are a zealous advocate of inclusiveness. What does your management look like? What are you doing as an organization through your hiring, promotion, and succession practices to ensure that your organization reflects the diversity of the United States?
Reinforce your employer brand.
The way organizations have responded over the past year will continue to define their brands for many years to come. That means it requires greater efforts to establish a brand that gets noticed and encourages connection with potential candidates. The more engaging your proposition, the more likely you are to attract the talent you’re seeking. In addition to creating a great experience that’s based on mutual trust, transparency, and open communication, it means showcasing those all-important company values.
Now is the time to identify the talent acquisition trends necessary to survive and thrive in the post-pandemic world. The HR Team is here to facilitate your efforts. Please reach out to our friendly team of skilled professionals to get started.
About The HR Team: Founded in 1996, The HR Team is a Maryland-based human resources outsourcing firm committed to developing strategic, customized solutions that respond to the unique needs and cultures of organizations of all types and sizes. Available as a one-source alternative to an in-house HR department or on an à la carte project basis, the company’s flexible service models address the full spectrum of HR needs that many organizations struggle to address. The HR Team helps clients achieve their highest level of success by providing value-driven human resources services that leave them time to focus on what they do best: directing business growth and profitability. Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, the firm serves all of Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia. To learn more about The HR Team, call 410.381.9700 or visit https://www.thehrteam.com/.
