Paws for Thought

Recently, I invited a group of clients and candidates along to a brunch.? The aim was to gain a better insight of their recruiting experiences.

Having been a recruiter for 30 years!? I have seen a lot of changes in the way that clients expect their employees work and what employees are looking for.? Especially since covid, these changes have often benefited the workforce but what effect has it had on the running of the business?

?So firstly, what does attract an employer to a candidate?? The main key factors included:

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• Clear job specification – what does the role actually entail?? Some roles have morphed so the lines are blurred however, the additional duties are not always reflected in the salary on offer.
• The culture, this proved very important!? Is the company actually able to offer what is promised?? Is the current workforce truly happy?? Is the company brand and ethos authentic?
• Flexibility in working hours and working from home options.? Regardless of full or part time, is the employee trusted to perform their position?? Or is there still an air of micro-management.? Support for parents to do the school run and also time support for employees who wish to study to benefit their job.
• Personal development – Once on board, the promises made at offer stage do need to be actioned.? Further training and team enhancement days really do make a difference to boost morale!
• Clients that offer a salary that rewards for the job on offer.? Don’t offer less!
• An interview process that flows!? Not huge time gaps in between first and second meetings and constructive feedback where possible.

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! The finding were:

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• Realistic expectation on flexible hours.? Larger companies can often be more flexible on hours and hybrid working however, smaller businesses who are looking to build a collaborative team tended to prefer a team that could come in to the office.
• Candidates with proven skills and settled career are far more attractive to hire.
• Salary expectations.? These vary around the country so be prepared if relocating to a new area, be prepared to take a hit if moving from the South East.
• Ability to attend interviews, if actively looking for a new role be prepared to maybe need to time off for an interview.
• Be open to being part of the team!? Working from home has its place but collaborating with your colleagues can reaps rewards too for the company morale and personal development.

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Another difference that was found was expectations of an owner managed business and what a larger corporate company can offer.? Often owner managed businesses can be more fluid and offer more hands on training and responsibility whereas maybe not the benefits package of gym membership, yoga at lunchtimes and free fruit!? Also another thing is they may not be able to offer hybrid working.? Yet, decisions can be made quickly and as an employee, you can often get noticed and career develops quicker being so hands on!

There was also a difference in what people of different ages expected.? This split was mainly between people either side of 30-35.? It was found that the younger generation were more comfortable communicating electronically, whereas, the over 35s would tend to pick up the phone!?

To summarise

As a client, ensure your culture is authentic and a role where they can develop further.

With the lowest levels of candidates looking for a job is at a high, keep the interview process moving and make an offer that isn’t under the salary band advertised!

If you don’t have the broad offering of benefits, look at other perks that makes the team feel valued and included. Early finishing, extra holiday or well-being day off.

Candidates, be honest on what you are looking for.? Increasing your salary expectation or what working hours after interview stage is a negative.

Keep the interview process moving too!? Keep in contact and be prepared to take time out for interviews.

Thank you to all who attended and for airing your thoughts! The hiring process and expectations have changed on both sides! So good to listen to all points of view.

If you would like to come along to our next Paws for Thought in the Autumn, do get in touch!

[email protected]

Recruitment Hound