As an SMB how do you attract great talent – what are applicants looking for?

In the today's competitive digital age, successful tech businesses need to perfect how they attract top talent if they want to remain relevant.

This is especially true for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) who don’t have the natural pulling power of larger organisations.

To help, we’ve draw on a combined 40 years’ worth of recruitment wisdom to compile a list of what the best applicants are seeking and how SMBs can consistently meet those expectations.

1)????? Company Culture and Values:

More than just a job, applicants are looking for a workplace where they feel a sense of belonging and alignment with the company's values.

SMBs can showcase their unique culture through employer branding efforts on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram and even TikTok.

Highlighting employee testimonials, company events and community involvement can help applicants get a glimpse of why it’s aspirational to work at your company.

2)????? Career Growth Opportunities:

Talented individuals are often looking for more than just a paycheck; they seek growth opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

SMBs can attract top talent by demonstrating clear paths for progression throughout their online presence, whether through highlighting mentorship programs, training initiatives or opportunities to take on new challenges and responsibilities.

Failing to show your candidates a clear career path will result in them seeking progression opportunities elsewhere.

3)????? Work-Life Balance:

In today's fast-paced world, work-life balance is increasingly important to people. SMBs can emphasise their commitment to employee well-being by accommodating flexible work arrangements, remote work options and benefits such as paid time off and wellness programs.

Demonstrating a supportive and inclusive work environment can be a significant draw for potential candidates.

Conversely, companies who don’t facilitate flexible work arrangements will find themselves being passed over by the best prospective, every time.

4)????? Competitive Compensation and Benefits:

While salary is not the only factor applicants consider, there’s no denying it remains an absolutely essential aspect of the job offer.

SMBs should compare against their competitors to ensure that their compensation packages are aligned within their industry and region.

Additionally, offering attractive benefits such as healthcare coverage, retirement plans and perks like gym memberships or childcare assistance can enhance the overall appeal of the job opportunity.

In the grand scheme of things, providing a great benefits package is a small price to pay if it attracts and keeps great people in the business.

5)????? Innovative Technology and Tools:

Slow or inefficient communication from a prospective employer is the number one turn off for great applicants. Luckily, software like Candidly streamlines the recruitment process and provides a seamless experience for both applicants and hiring managers.

By using tech to correspond with candidates in a timely fashion on a platform that they’re familiar with, tech companies can ensure they’re not providing a sub-standard candidate experience.

6)????? Diverse and Inclusive Environment:

Diversity and inclusion have become top priorities for many applicants, who seek workplaces where they can bring their whole selves to work and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

SMBs can foster diversity and inclusion by implementing inclusive hiring practices, promoting diversity in leadership roles, and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

7) Purpose-Driven Mission:

?Applicants are increasingly drawn to companies with a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.

SMBs can attract top talent by showcasing their mission and values, emphasizing how their work contributes to the greater good.

Whether it's environmental sustainability, social responsibility, or community engagement, aligning the company's mission with applicants' values can be a powerful motivator.

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Attracting great talent as an SMB requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the diverse needs and expectations of applicants.

?By focusing on company culture, career growth opportunities, work-life balance, competitive compensation and benefits, innovative technology, diversity and inclusion, and a purpose-driven mission, SMBs can create compelling job opportunities that attract top talent and drive business success.

With the right strategies and a commitment to excellence, SMBs can build a team of talented individuals who are passionate about contributing to their company's growth and success.