Talent Acquisition: 3 Ways to Woo Job Candidates

Job seekers may be desperate for jobs, but when it comes to finding top-notch professional talent for your small business, you’re well aware that you are the most desperate in this search. That’s why it can be argued that talent acquisition in these scenarios is a lot like match making, dating and finding “the one,” says ESA Consulting president, Jennifer Laxton in the North Bay Business Journal.

Like dating, you’ll find yourself combing through plenty of eligible candidates; however, you don’t have to settle. Taking the right steps to finding and securing professional talent for the success of your small business will ensure you’ll find “the one” sooner rather than later.

1. Take your time. If you’re just hiring people to fill empty holes in your small business, you’ll find yourself going through a never-ending cycle of firing, laying off and re-hiring. Take the time to look over resume after resume, conduct interview after interview and don’t settle for a warm body. Wait for the job candidates who not only have the necessary qualifications but the skills and aptitude to grow with your company. Invest in these job candidates and new hires; they could be around for quite a while if all goes well.

2. Get creative. Online recruiting is obviously the best way to get the word out about job openings these days, but it’s not the only way. Look to your current employees for help in hiring decisions. Let them know about open positions and encourage them to consider friends or former colleagues who may be a great fit. It doesn’t matter if they don’t know anyone actively looking. Job candidates have been plucked from steady jobs in exchange for a better opportunity plenty of times. The key is to find the best fit — wherever they are.

 3. Ask for help. Despite your online recruiting efforts, you may find your small business still isn’t attracting the job candidates you’re hoping for. This is when it’s time to turn to help, specifically talent acquisition experts. While it does take financial resources, think of it as investing in your new hire. You want professional talent that will stick with your business and work hard to make it grow. Why not spend dollars up front to ensure that you attract a candidate who does just that?

Finding that perfect fit is a lot like finding “the one” for a lifetime romantic relationship. It takes patience, creativity and on occasion, a little help from talent acquisition experts. Attract professional talent that is committed to you, and your small business could live happily ever after.

Would you be willing to invest in talent acquisition services? Why or why not? Tell us in our comments now!