Hiring Strategies for Today’s Leaders: Proven Ways to Attract and Hire the Best People
Challenge and change comes as no surprise to most of us who own or operate companies. Acknowledging that the human part of business is the most overlooked and misunderstood part only confirms this.
The past few years have brought about one huge and unexpected change — a lack of interested job candidates! There’s a huge gap between the need for good employees and the number of people applying. There are hiring challenges aplenty, because candidate expectations are shifting. For many companies, it’s become a painful and frustrating process to hire for their business teams.
Perhaps your company is one that is experiencing this, and right now you are scrambling trying to hire qualified people. Whether this is a current pain point for your business or not, read on, as this information is so important for all stages of business. If not, congratulations, for sure you are doing something right!
Like in my community, look around yours! The impact of too few employees in businesses has now become commonplace. Favorite restaurants are closing, assisted living facilities and healthcare offices are short-staffed. Teaching positions can’t be filled, and cashiers are being replaced with self-checkout. There is a shortage of people In service industries and skilled trades — and the list goes on.
Like me, you probably see the HELP WANTED signs in the windows. It’s frustrating for all of us as consumers, stressful for those who are working in these positions, and it’s chaotic for businesses that are on a continual search for qualified employees.
Forbes reports, “By the year 2025, over 75 percent of workers will demand hybrid or remote work due to shifting demographics in the workplace.” This degree of change is shocking to the more traditional workforce.
Like ‘A’ Players on a sports team, your business team needs qualified, committed candidates to employ. You need people who bring self-leadership, skills and passion, commitment and results to your business.
SO… JUST HOW DO YOU ATTRACT and HIRE THE BEST PEOPLE FOR YOUR BUSINESS TEAM?
Frankly, an online search in employment sites isn’t necessarily the best way to find your top ‘A’ Players. The reality is, most times, the super-qualified people already have jobs — and a proven track record.
Try this. Who do you already know? Use social media direct messaging and in-person networking to get the word out for open roles on your team. When participating in business clubs and organizations, and within your social circle, don’t be shy about letting people know about positions you need to fill.
Notice hidden gems. Think about people — those who work for your competitors, or contractors, and others who service your business. Who comes to mind? Who stands out for the quality person they are, along with their skill set and work ethic? Set your plan in motion to invite them to consider your offer. Share how your team is a great match for their skill set excellence. Discuss how you can offer them a job that offers a competitive compensation package, an inviting culture, and opportunities for career development.
Share your enthusiasm. Tune in to the people you already know who have strong reputations and references. Attract them, by being well-prepared to highlight the key benefits of coming to work for you and your company.
- What unique opportunities can you offer to attract ‘A’ Players to join your team?
- Stand on, and make the most of your strong business reputation and leadership.
- Remember, good team players are seeking much more than compensation packages. Even so, it’s a plus to offer a creative and clearly defined package.
- Besides a paycheck, offer people other values (e.g. meaningful work, authority to make independent decisions, be able to share innovative ideas and solutions, trust leaders in a psychologically safe environment)! They are more likely to say “Yes!”
PREPARATION THAT HELPS ‘A’ PLAYERS WANT TO JOIN YOUR TEAM AND CULTURE
- Explain the importance of their role. Give them a detailed job description. Welcome questions and discussion. Be curious about them and authentic about yourself.
- Explain how, in this role, they could have a positive impact on the team/company.
- Speak to them about the opportunities for growth (with specific timelines).
- Help them picture what success (utilizing their skills and influence) looks like for them in your company, due to their role.
- Be ready to answer their questions about how interacting with AI might impact their role and skill set. Address other current trends and expected future trends.
- Speak to them specifically about your company values. Avoid catch phrases or quotes on the wall. Instead, discuss how your values are tangible actions in your culture. Share how your company values could benefit them/their role.
KNOW WHAT ‘A’ PLAYERS REALLY WANT
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‘A’ Players have choices — and you have little chance to hire them unless you provide them what they really want.
- They want a job that provides opportunity for growth, personally and professionally.
- They want to contribute meaningful work, and leave their mark and make a difference.
- They want challenges and achievements that produce positive results for themselves and the team — and to enjoy being part of a winning, progressive company.
- They want authentic connections with others on the team; this multiplies the impact of their work and enhances meaning in their lives.
- They want to work in a safe and flexible environment, with compassionate leadership.
- When applicable, they want flexibility; they may want to work a four-day work week or to work remotely a percentage of the time.
Similar to an athletic coach, you, as an owner, CEO, or operations manager, create a winning culture. You set the pace and goals; you model integrity and leadership. And you promote an environment where the people you hire are set up for success to excel in their performance. When you accomplish hiring a team of solid ‘A’ Players — it’s a high score and a big win in the business game.
When you attract and hire the best people, this equals freedom and stress relief for you, your business leaders and teams. Meaningful work for new hires helps to assure productivity and longevity in their work for you, and continuous success for your business.
Change is the name of the game for today’s businesses, so you must keep moving and grooving to differentiate yourself. Sustained business success relies, not only on you, but a high performance team.
Attracting ‘A’ Players — the best, most qualified people — depends on your leadership ability to recognize and utilize their skill set. Value what they offer. They have a higher level of commitment than most, and it’s important for them to be a vital part of the team effort. For them, it’s not just about the work, but about making a positive difference.
Value and utilize every person on your team. For those who are already working for you, remember to acknowledge them, in person, regularly.
Your people, your ‘A’ Players, are your greatest asset as your business evolves.
Get going on hiring the best people! The success of your company hinges on it.
Barbara Schindler
As an executive coach, Barbara defines individual talents and strategic team performance to challenge the patterned norms and stretch the creative innovation of people. She coaches and guides, so that leaders advance to the next level, professionally and personally. Besides decades of diverse business experience, Barbara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Behavior and Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Ryokan College, as well as a Master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. https://www.empoweringleadershipteams.com/discovery
