Although many candidate sourcing strategies are well known, creative and nontraditional strategies can be beneficial, especially if you find yourself competing with larger, more well-known organizations. Here are some lesser-known or underutilized approaches that can give your company an edge in attracting top talent:
1. Re-Engage Previous Candidates
You’ve already done the hard work of finding candidates, so keep in touch with them! Consider tracking why candidates didn’t get hired, and keeping potential candidate’s contact information on file. Provide a great candidate experience and keep the lines of communication open with candidates, even if they didn’t get the position. Typically, it’s good to re-engage a candidate about six months after the initial engagement.
2. Leverage Employee Networks
A powerful yet underutilized sourcing strategy is tapping into your employees' professional networks. By implementing a structured employee referral program, you can encourage your staff to recommend qualified candidates. This not only expands your reach but also tends to yield higher-quality candidates who are more likely to fit your company culture. Also, consider hosting candidate sourcing sessions with your team to see if anyone knows people who may be a good fit for the role.
3. Use In-Person Recruitment Methods
Your job candidates may be more likely to respond to your follow up messages after they’ve had a conversation with you in person. Consider attending conferences or events that people who fit the role are also likely to attend.
4. Engage in Community Partnerships
Create partnerships with local colleges or universities, professional associations, and community organizations. Consider offering internships, sponsoring events, or providing mentorship opportunities. These collaborations can help build your employer brand and create a pipeline of talent familiar with your company.
5. Utilize Niche Job Boards
While major job boards have their place, niche job boards catering to specific industries or skill sets can be goldmines for highly qualified candidates. These platforms often attract highly qualified candidates who are passionate about their field and may be more aligned with your company's focus.
6. Embrace Social Media Storytelling
Go beyond simply posting job openings on social media. Share employee stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses of your workplace, and highlights of your company's impact. This authentic content can attract candidates who resonate with your mission and values.
These strategies help organizations compete effectively for top talent, even without the resources of larger corporations. The key is to be creative, authentic, and focused on building meaningful connections with potential candidates.
Chew On This:
Which of these strategies would best help your organization build a stronger talent pipeline?