Tips for attracting new talent

Effectmaker Marlous van de Wiel is a senior communications advisor at effectgroep*, helping organizations build a standout employer brand, craft that all-important first impression, and launch recruitment campaigns that deliver results. She’s the one who holds up the mirror, and helps you make an unforgettable first impact. In this article, she shares a series of practical tips for attracting new talent.

A good and strong first impression

Of course, you can emphasize the beautiful aspects of your organization, the culture, the colleagues and the work, but lying is an absolute no-no! Tell us who you are, what you stand for, and what you have to offer employees. And while a good salary, company phone and the ability to work from home are high on candidates' wishlist, a number of other factors are just as important, if not more important. Below are a few parts of the story that are in your first impression should not be missing:

1. Corporate culture and values:

Everyone wants to work in a place where they feel at home. Do the organization values match mine? Many people are looking for a company culture that is inclusive, supportive, and inspiring. Pro tip? Deliver internally on what you promise externally.That’s how you build loyalty, genuine engagement, and a culture where employees proudly become your brand ambassadors.

2. Career opportunities

What are the career development opportunities within your organization? What are the options in terms of training, coaching and what budgets are reserved for this? In short; show how you invest in the development of colleagues.

3. Work-life balance

A good work-life balance is key. Such as flexibility in working hours, the possibilities of working from home, leave arrangements and what else do you do to support a healthy work-life balance?

4. Work environment and team dynamics

What does the workplace look like and how do colleagues work together. Not unimportant when you consider that you spend an average of 8 hours a day in the office. Let employees have a say, show the building and the workplace, indicate how people work together or how cooperation is stimulated.

5. Business Reputation

How you are known in the market, how you deal with current social issues, such as sustainability, inclusiveness and social engagement, have long ceased to be buzzwords, but serious considerations for applicants. Make sure you have a clear policy and tell us about it. Or let customers talk about it in a review.

6. The Work Itself — and the Challenge

Last but definitely not least: the job. What will someone actually be doing on a typical workday? Let colleagues in similar roles share their stories, what their day looks like, the kind of work they do, the challenges they face, and what makes it all so rewarding.

Holiday Bonus Round

‍So, you've got the basics covered? Great. Then it's time to take things to the next level and turn applying for a job into something worth celebrating. Here are a few bonus tips to help you create that all-important, irresistible first impression:

1. Careers page
   Your careers page is the place candidates go to learn more about your organization, not just about the role itself, but about your culture, values, and what opportunities you offer.In the past, all roads may have led to Rome. Today, for jobseekers, all roads lead to your careers page. So the least it should do is look the part — polished, engaging, and built with the candidate journey in mind. Oh, and of course: mobile first.
2. ‍Be consistent
   Make sure that the tone of voice, image, atmosphere and corporate identity is conveyed consistently, anytime, anywhere. From FB ad to IAB banner and from flyer to ABRI. Throw everything you do now into a pile. Does it fit together, is it unambiguous and in the style and sender?
3. ‍Let Your People Shine
   No need for “we recommend ourselves” messaging, that’s a missed opportunity. Your own people are your strongest ambassadors. Put them front and centre.Create videos, take real portraits, share their stories. This kind of content not only works, it gives your employer brand authenticity, depth, and a glimpse behind the scenes that sets you apart.‍
4. Be Where Your Candidates Are
   ‍Visibility is everything. You can’t be top of mind if you’re nowhere to be seen. Build a smart campaign strategy that aligns with your audience. From social media and live activations to open days and articles in the right media, show up where it matters.

Use these tips to craft a first impression that sticks. But fair warning, you might just have them lining up at the door.

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