The Crucial Link Between Effective Onboarding and Talent Retention: Insights from A Top Agency Recruiter
Houston, we have a hiring problem....and I have a few solutions!
Buckle in for a cargo load of information coming your way.
As an agency recruiter who has been in the weeds of the recruitment process for well over a decade, 2023 is rounding up to become a year for the books (and not in the best way) when it comes to the highs and lows of successfully navigating the job application, interviewing and onboarding process.
In the dynamic landscape of today's professional world, attracting and retaining top talent has become a paramount challenge for organizations.
One key factor that significantly influences the success of this endeavor is the onboarding process for new hires which is a CRITICAL part of bringing top talent to an organization while setting clear expectations during the interview process and I am here to showcase how (should you be a leader of a brand or business making hiring decisions...)partnering with an agency recruiter (like me) can enhance the recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding experience for both the client and the new hire.
Here is my hot take on how to set your new hires up for success...
The First 60 Days Matter
Studies show that the first 60 days of a new employee's tenure are crucial for determining their long-term commitment to an organization.
If employees don't feel aligned and supported during this period, the risk of losing them increases significantly.
An effective onboarding process can make the difference between a new hire flourishing or floundering.
Taking action: Do you believe your team has a structured onboarding process or do you need to revisit how to better set up new hires for success? What can you look at differently within your own organization to improve?
Aligning Expectations in the Interview Process
To ensure a seamless transition and alignment of expectations, it's essential to discuss the onboarding process during the interview stage.
Open communication about what the first 90 days look like can set the stage for a positive onboarding experience.
This transparency allows candidates to evaluate whether the company's onboarding approach aligns with their expectations and career goals, contributing to a more informed and committed workforce.
Taking action: How does your team communicate the onboarding process during the interview process?
The pillars of a well-structured onboarding program rely on the integration of the company culture, a training and development outline, and peer mentoring to help give additional guidance and support, along with putting your new hire's nerves at ease.
A well-structured onboarding program integrates new hires into the company culture. This includes introducing them to the organization's values, mission, and overall work environment.
Feeling a sense of belonging early on enhances employee engagement and reduces the likelihood of turnover.
Providing comprehensive training and development opportunities during the onboarding process ensures that new hires are equipped with the skills and knowledge required for their roles.
This not only accelerates their productivity but also fosters a sense of competence and confidence.
Assigning mentors and creating a support system for new hires can significantly impact their experience.
Having someone to turn to for guidance and assistance helps alleviate the challenges that often accompany the initial stages of joining a new organization.
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Why You Should be Working with a Top Agency Recruiter-(Like me!)...
First, let's be real for a minute. Not all agencies are created equal.
I said what I said.
I have seen some pretty horrifying things happen to brands working with bad agencies and have worked hard to change the mindset on what that good partnership looks like, but it has come with A LOT of resilience, and determination on my end to keep my reputation solid.
I have made it my purposeful mission to set the gold standard on what it is like to work with an agency recruiter when you decide to invest in this partnership for your business.
Partnering with an agency recruiter can not only be a game-changer in securing top talent (many times passive talent you may not have access to) but I can also help optimize your onboarding process. #winwin
Here's how....
I take the time to understand my client's needs.
Before I take on any new project, I speak directly with my clients to understand their specific needs and expectations. This ensures that the recruitment process aligns with the organization's culture, values, and goals.
Quality vs. Quantity: Sending the best and most aligned talent.
Taking the time to assess candidates not only for their skills and qualifications but also for their compatibility with the company culture ensures a better match between the candidate and the organization, reducing the risk of early attrition.
May seem like common sense but this is not always the case with recruiters who are looking for speed vs. quality. If you feel like a recruiter is wasting your time with bad resumes, spoiler alert. They are.
Facilitating Direct and Honest Communication.
I enjoy acting as an intermediary, facilitating clear communication between the client and the candidate. This ensures that expectations are set and met on both sides, laying the groundwork for a successful onboarding experience.
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How to Navigate the Hiring Maze If You Are A Candidate Looking to Get Hired
The Shifting Landscape of Hiring
In 2023, industries are grappling with skill shortages, particularly in the face of rapid technological advancements. As new technologies emerge, the demand for individuals with specialized skills has surged, creating a scarcity of qualified candidates.
This scarcity amplifies the competition for top-tier talent.
Employers are placing increased importance on soft skills such as adaptability, resilience, and effective communication. The ability to navigate uncertainty and work collaboratively in diverse and dynamic teams has become a key differentiator for candidates.
Here are my tried-and-true tips to help you shine bright, stand out, and get hired SOON.
Showcase a Growth Mindset.
Employers value candidates who exhibit a growth mindset.
Highlight instances where you've proactively sought new skills embraced challenges, and demonstrated a commitment to continuous learning.
This can set you apart as a candidate who not only meets current requirements but is also prepared for future developments.
Emphasizing Your Work Experience.
Showcase instances where you've excelled in professional settings effectively communicated across digital platforms, and contributed to team projects.
HIRING MANAGERS WANT SPECIFIC EXAMPLES of what you can bring to their team. If you cannot talk about why someone should hire you, you are not going to stand out from your competition.
Highlighting Soft Skills.
In addition to technical expertise, draw attention to your soft skills. Provide concrete examples of how you've demonstrated adaptability, resilience, and effective communication in your previous roles. Illustrating your ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics can make you a more attractive candidate.
Utilizing Professional Networks.
Leverage professional networks to stand out in the hiring process. Actively engage on platforms like LinkedIn, participate in relevant industry discussions, and connect with professionals in your field.
Building a strong online presence can make recruiters take notice of your expertise and potential cultural fit within their organizations.
Tailoring Your Application.
Resist the urge to send generic applications and for the love of all things, stop spiral-applying to jobs to get a personal "quota" in for the day.
Only apply to the jobs that make sense for your skills and also where you fit into the requirements.
Tailor your resume and cover letter to each position, emphasizing how your unique skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the role. This personalized approach demonstrates your genuine interest and attention to detail.
In the face of adversity, the proactive and adaptable candidate will find opportunities to shine and secure their place in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.
The hiring landscape has gotten undeniably more challenging, but with strategic and proactive measures, candidates for hire and clients looking to hire can rise above the competition and retain top talent for future success!
Need more support on how to successfully partner with an agency recruiter?
Reach out and book a discovery call by emailing me at: meghan@bowermangroup.com
Find out more about all of my offerings from recruitment to executive coaching as a one-stop-shop for everything careers and personal development:
