Elevate Your Workplace

In a job market flooded with Help Wanted signs, employers face the tough challenge of securing and retaining top talent amidst the aftermath of our economy’s two-year rebound and significant employment shifts. With more options available, workers are rethinking what they value in a job, from where they work to what they’re paid. It’s crucial for employers to step up and highlight not only the job roles and work environment but also the strengths of the company to attract today’s job seekers. So, how can you make your workplace a magnet for talent? Here are some practical tips to guide you.

Create the culture. CEOs are now talking more about equity, inclusion, and fairness, according to the Harvard Business Review. Employees want to be part of a company that prioritizes these values, too. Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of skin color, gender, or sexual orientation, is essential.

Fuel your workplace with positivity. Are your employees truly engaged? Do you fully embrace remote, flexible, or hybrid working environments? Are your employees happy working for you? Consider ways to show your appreciation for them, such as catered lunches or after-hours events (dinners, ballgames, movie nights). And if you’re unsure how to achieve this, ask your current staff — they’ll have plenty of ideas.

Focus on skills, not just experience. Hiring someone who can quickly adapt and excel means focusing more on skills and less on the resume. Today’s perfect candidates might not have the “perfect” resume. Look beyond employment gaps, education, and years of experience – seek individuals who are eager to learn, adapt, and positively influence the workplace while having the necessary skills to excel in the role.

Revamp your compensation strategy. Looking to stand out in attracting and keeping employees? Think beyond traditional compensation. While some may prioritize a higher salary or hiring bonus, others value generous time off, health insurance, or retirement packages. Offering any or all of these perks can make your company more appealing.

Prioritize employee wellbeing. With a renewed focus post-pandemic, many companies have introduced or expanded benefits and perks aimed at supporting both physical and mental health. From gym memberships and mental health days to programs promoting work/life balance and parental leave, these efforts highlight a commitment to employee wellbeing and reducing burnout and stress.

Upgrade your tech. There’s no excuse for outdated technology, particularly with tools that encourage collaboration and remote work (i.e., Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Zoom, Dropbox). Over 85% of job seekers consider technology when evaluating a potential job. Stay current and provide training on the latest tools and systems.

Reward your flock, watch them soar. As the saying goes, “birds of a feather flock together” — happy employees attract more like-minded individuals, after all. Your current staff can be your company’s best advertisement. If they’re incentivized to refer others like themselves, it can make all the difference. Consider offering a referral bonus or other signs of appreciation when a current employee refers a new hire. It’s a simple way to encourage your team and strengthen your workforce.

As employers, let’s refine our approach to hiring and keeping talent, discovering effective ways to elevate our workplaces, enrich the employee experience, and become highly desirable companies to work for. It’s time to make our mark. Just sayin’.