Businesses are generally unable to rise above the talent they employ. Which is why it’s so important to be able to identify exceptional workers, many of whom may not be actively looking for a job. Identifying talent is only a first step, however. Employers must also ensure that the interview and hiring process facilitates hiring instead of acting as an impediment.

10 Ways to Identify and Recruit Top Talent

1. Post your job opening on Indeed, which is one of the largest sites for people looking for jobs; additionally, when an employer pays to post a job, it can leverage Indeed’s “Match candidate” tool (formerly known as “Instant match”) to find candidates with the skill set and experience sought by the employer.
2. LinkedIn is another essential website on which to post a job opening since it represents the largest community of professionals. The site’s search and filtering tools identify potential candidates based on criteria such as industry, job title, skills and location. LinkedIn also affords individuals the ability to respond to a job posting without their current employer knowing.
3. Leverage your company’s website. Enhance its effectiveness by having content that describes your company’s culture and includes a hiring FAQ and employee testimonials. Amplify by using social media posts.
4. Consider past candidates that did not make the cut due to timing or other issues. They may even be more attractive now with enhanced skills and greater experience.
5. Reach out to former employees who left on good terms. There are many reasons they may be interested in returning now that the pandemic has passed or they’ve discovered that the “grass isn’t greener.”
6. Attend a profession-related Meetup meeting, which can help identify smart, passionate individuals.
7. For entry-level positions that require a specific skill set, like finance or computers, contact local colleges to register for their employer recruiting events.
8. Work with local chapters of professional associations to identify potential job candidates.
9. Don’t forget about employee referrals. Make sure to communicate new job openings to employees and offer an incentive to provide appropriate referrals.
10. Consider hiring contingent workers to “test run” their skills, work ethic and cultural fit.

It’s a difficult environment for employers to find great hires, but when they do, they need to make sure they don’t turn them off. Accordingly, be sure to treat candidates like clients—be respectful of their time, hospitable and make yourself available. Additionally, make sure the hiring process is hassle-free to avoid frustration and second thoughts.

Please reference disclosures at: https://blog.americanportfolios.com/disclosures/