Scoring Top Talent

College graduates are more eager than ever to enter the workforce, and many of them possess the marketable skills employers need to take their companies to the next level. Talented, highly skilled job seekers know their value, which gives them the upper hand when it comes to hiring. To score top talent, your company must stand out among competitors. Follow these tips to recruit and retain a strong group of talented professionals for your organization.

Create a Strong Company Culture

One of the best ways to attract and score top talent is by developing and maintaining a strong, positive company culture. Gone are the days when workers simply want to land a good job with a nice benefits package. Today's top-tier employees generally prefer organizations with a strong sense of purpose where workers are valued and treated with respect. A strong company culture also has a meaningful impact on clients and members of the community, which makes workers feel like they're contributing to something greater than themselves. Create an environment that promotes excellence in work quality and performance, and make sure each member of the organization supports the company's overall mission. Maintain fair, open and honest business practices, and make sure all top-level employees lead by example. This type of environment helps recruiters score top talent that is likely to remain loyal to the company.

Cater to the Interviewee

First impressions are extremely important when it comes to scoring top talent, so always treat interviewees as if they're already part of the organization. Make sure the receptionist greets the candidate by name and treats him like a welcomed, wanted guest. Have the receptionist offer a refreshing beverage or ask to take the candidate's coat. Never keep the candidate waiting too long, as this can turn him off and make him head for the door. Plan for the interview in advance by clearing your schedule completely, as this gives you the opportunity to learn as much as possible about the candidate's work and educational background, and it gives the candidate time to ask numerous questions about your company without feeling rushed. Congratulate the interviewee on any recent accomplishments, and verbally admire his talents. Make sure the interviewee knows you recognize the value he can bring to your company.

Sell Your Company

To recruit and retain a top-tier candidate with many job offers on the table, you must sell your organization. Convince the interviewee that your organization is the best choice, and be prepared to explain why. Have other top-tier employees sit in on the interview, and allow them to discuss the ways in which the organization positively impacts their professional and personal lives. Increase your chance of scoring top talent by describing the ample opportunities available for professional growth and development in great detail. Make the candidate excited about the possibility of working for your organization to ensure he strongly considers your company as his first choice.

Baby boomer are heading towards retirement, and the search for talented professionals with top-tier job skills is on the rise. Be proactive in your endeavors to score top talent for your organization, and don't be afraid to shift the power towards job candidates by admiring their talents, selling your company, and offering a better salary and work environment than competitors.

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