When situations beyond your control impact on the global economy, few business sectors are left untouched by the fall-out. As a result, there can be huge implications not only for your workforce but also your recruitment process.
Today many sectors, not least those in hospitality, are already severely affected however, others are seeing a spike in demand for professions, particularly those related to infectious diseases, according to jobs site Glassdoor, which has recorded a more than doubling of job postings within government, healthcare, biotech and pharmaceuticals.
At Talent Gateway we view recruiting as a strategic process of endeavouring to ensure that top talent see you as the employer of choice, in your industry sector/locality, when they are in the market for a career move. Whilst it may be tempting to put a hold or freeze on recruitment during uncertain times, the importance of having a strong workforce can’t be underestimated when it comes to preventing a business slowdown. Business owners should not shy away from undertaking recruitment and can follow a few procedures to effectively recruit during these times.
Eliminate Poor Hiring Practices
It is possible, given the additional pressure, that poor hiring decisions will be made if hiring managers start to believe that hiring new recruits during these times is a risk. Instead, follow your existing processes and take the time to ensure the candidate is the right fit.
At Talent Gateway we know that the key to recruiting the right individual to the right role, in the right organisation is taking a multi-faceted approach – you can read more about our seven-stage methodology here.
Implement Innovative Recruitment Methods
You may wish to consider implementing innovative recruitment methods, including using technologies, such as video conference calls e.g. Skype or Zoom or using online assessment tools such as Hogan psychometric testing.
We have found video interviewing especially useful during the initial stages of screening candidates, saving valuable time and resources and streamlining the hiring process for our clients.
We offer a range of psychometric tools, including Hogan and the ‘GC index’ which provides a unique tool to consider team fit. These can assess both individual and team dynamics which further improve the recruitment success.
Ensure Transparency and Honesty
Candidates value transparency and honesty, which is one of the reasons we believe that feedback to candidates is essential, even in the case of an unsuccessful interview. It’s important that you try and convey exactly what the state of your business is – some candidates will naturally be risk adverse whilst others will take a more relaxed approach to risk.
Employers who find themselves hiring in times of uncertainty should never avoid the subject with candidates, no matter how tempting it might be. Regardless of whether or not there is a significant piece of change or uncertainty, we recommend being honest with candidates, explaining to them what is happening, how you’re dealing with it as a business, and what it might mean for them as a new employee.
Here at Talent Gateway we are experienced at recruiting for businesses across many different industries and in many different situations – for a conversation about your business’ needs and we can help, Get in touch.