7 tips to improve your recruitment strategy

In today's competitive job market, securing top talent is more critical than ever. Many industries are struggling to fill positions, which can have significant negative implications for businesses. While some factors are beyond an employer's control, there are several strategies that can improve recruitment outcomes.

Successful recruitment requires a well-thought-out and managed strategy. It's much more than just posting an advertisement and hoping for the best. The "post and prey" method may have worked in the past, but it was more about luck than effective management.

A recruitment strategy is a formalised plan to identify, attract, and select the best talent for a vacancy. While most leaders enter the recruitment process with good intentions, some may rush to fill a position and fall into bad habits that compromise the quality of the hire. Each recruitment effort deserves a unique and tailored strategy.

5 Common recruitment strategy mistakes

1. Doing a straight 'replace' after resignation

When an employee resigns, it's common to immediately look for a replacement. Instead, review your workforce planning strategy. Can the role be absorbed by other employees? Can tasks be automated or handled by AI? Is a part-time or contractor role more suitable?

2. Being too hung up on qualifications and essential criteria

A long list of requirements can deter qualified candidates who don't meet every criterion. Focus on agility, the ability to learn new processes, and the right behaviours over rigid qualifications.

3. Not clearly sharing your employee value proposition (EVP)

Many employers fail to clearly communicate what sets them apart. Highlight your flexibility, innovative projects, and unique culture. Be transparent about who you are and who you are not.

4. Hiring solely for ‘cultural fit’

Overemphasis on cultural fit can lead to a homogeneous and biased workforce. Aim for diversity and innovation by considering a broader range of candidates. Employers must also comply with anti-discrimination laws. This includes avoiding biases based on race, gender, age, disability, and other protected characteristics. Implement fair hiring practices and provide equal opportunities for all candidates.

5. Not treating candidates like the most important customer

Some employers still operate with the mindset that they hold all the power. Quality candidates know they have choices. Treat candidates with respect, provide timely responses, and offer excellent customer service.

How to improve your recruitment strategy

To avoid these common mistakes, it is recommended that employers develop a clear, consistent, and effective recruitment strategy that aligns with their business goals, values, and needs. Consider using data-driven recruitment tools to streamline the hiring process, improve the candidate experience, and source the best talent.

Here are 7 tips to enhance your recruitment strategy:

1. Define and communicate your employer brand:

Your employer brand reflects your values, culture, vision, and benefits. Use social media, your website, job ads, and testimonials to showcase your brand authentically.

2. Create accurate and engaging job posts:

Job posts should be clear, concise, and accurate. Include main responsibilities, requirements, and expectations, as well as the benefits of working for your company. Use keywords that match the skills and qualifications of ideal candidates.

3. Invest in technology:

Use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to manage the recruitment process more effectively. This can streamline tasks like tracking candidates, scheduling interviews, and communicating with applicants.

4. Use skills testing for fair hiring:

Skills testing can assess candidates' abilities and aptitudes, reducing bias and improving the candidate experience. This helps ensure you hire the best fit for the role.

5. Build talent pipelines:

Develop pools of qualified candidates who have expressed interest in your company. This can reduce time-to-hire, lower hiring costs, and improve the quality of hires. Nurture relationships with passive candidates, attend networking events, and encourage employee referrals.

6. Improve the candidate experience:

A positive candidate experience enhances your employer brand and reputation. Provide clear communication, timely updates, constructive feedback, and a respectful, smooth process.

7. Consider the candidate's perspective:

Start every strategy with the question, "How would a candidate view this?" Understand who your ideal candidate is and tailor your approach to attract and secure them.

Look through the candidate lens

Every recruitment strategy should consider the needs and wants of a candidate. While it's crucial to align strategies with your business goals and culture, understanding and addressing the needs and perspectives of candidates can significantly enhance your recruitment outcomes. Just as a product is designed with a target customer in mind, successful recruitment strategies are tailored to attract and secure the ideal candidates. Remember, the right candidate can transform your business, so it is worth the effort to transform your stategy through the candidate lens.

Further information

For assistance with your workplace matters, Members of Ai Group can contact us or call our Workplace Advice Line on 1300 55 66 77 for further information.