The world of work
The pandemic has reshaped how we work, impacting the prioritises of many employees. The question now remains; what changes are here to stay? As a recruitment agency, one of the FAQs we get from candidates is; "what is the working arrangement?", "how many days will I be expected in the office?", "will it remain a hybrid situation?". No surprise, this sentiment is echoed by our career coaching clients!
One thing is sure amidst the Great Resignation, where job seekers are currently dictating the market - those organisations who have failed to embrace this new way of working as we edge out of the depths of the pandemic are losing potential talent.
But hybrid and flexible working arrangements are not the only thing employers should be aware of when attracting quality candidates in 2022. So here are some other driving factors that help a candidate determine where to settle.
Long-standing education
According to a Forbes article by Dr. Angela Jackson, Brand Contributor at Grads of Life, she explains that one-day professional development courses are a thing of the past. Jackson states:
"Employers that are leading in the future of work are now offering employees at all levels the opportunity to earn degrees. Case in point: Amazon, Macy's, and Starbucks."
Not only does the prospect of further education entice potential talent, but it has proven to increase employee retention rates. And don't disregard the power of succession planning! This method will prove beneficial as this investment in your people will advance their professional and leadership skills that will be put back into your organisation. It all swings in roundabouts, you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours!
Health & wellbeing
I recently read 'Mastering Community' by Christine Porath, and she provided numerous examples of companies who have taken the initiative in improving the health and wellbeing of their staff. For instance, Porath gives examples of companies who have invested in personal trainers for their employees, free or subsidised healthy food options, with some larger corporations even introducing a Health and Wellbeing Officer.
Employees are now acutely aware of how much of their personal life they sacrifice to their jobs. When organisations, big, small, or medium, understand and demonstrate an active appreciation for that sacrifice, they will reap the benefits of the newfound respect and dedication from their workforce.
Whatever it is that your business offers, make that thing shine. To retain staff, don't shy away from telling the truth, especially during the candidate selection period. If a potential employee has strong feelings about working from home three days a week, and you know your company is unwilling to make this arrangement a permanent fixture moving forward, tell the candidate and choose someone else!
If the pandemic has shown us anything, it's that for every company not doing something, another company is - and those employees looking for a particular lifestyle will leave for greener pastures.
If your organisation needs help bringing on incredible new talent, we can help you! You can read all about our recruitment service here, and if you'd like to have a free chat, with no obligation to work with us, you can also book a clarity call!
Signing off
Claud x