Making the right impression as a recruiter to attract top talent

Recruiting the very best talent is always an expensive and lengthy process.  Companies should therefore take every step possible to make sure that the resources expended – both human and financial – are not wasted.

1. One of the most difficult aspects of recruiting top talent is not failing to pique an individual’s interest in the first place, but rather maintaining momentum after  an initial expression of interest.  Businesses therefore need to appreciate the way they conduct themselves during the recruitment process can have a direct impact on their ability to secure top people.
2. Remember that your company is essentially selling itself to candidates during the recruitment process as much as they are selling themselves to you.  Your business therefore  needs to approach the process in the same way as it deals with customer acquisition. The candidate needs to be wooed just as the customer does.
   
3. An emphasis on clear, concise and timely communication should therefore be at the forefront of any recruitment process.
4. Often candidates don’t make a decision based on the remuneration package on offer, but rather the overall impression of the company, much of which is garnered during the early stages of contact.
5. This is why engaging with candidates early is so important. Every company will normally embark on a charm offensive when trying to secure the right person for the job, but businesses should ensure they are welcoming and friendly even before a job offer has been made. Any potential ‘touch points’ should be planned and manged carefully.
6. Don’t keep candidates hanging around either. Another company may make them an offer while you’re prevaricating.  Equally, any delay while trying to prise them away from an existing role may leave candidates feeling undervalued or unwanted.
   
7. Finally once you have got your star performer on board, make sure they receive a full and thorough induction. First impressions are important, but so are second ones.