So you’ve just started a new business. You have the concept and the vision — now, you need to hire smart, talented individuals to help get you there. This is easily one of the biggest challenges startups face due to issues such as too many applicants, not enough applicants, poor marketing, or a weak talent pool. Your company is also competing with larger, more established corporations for talent, which offers them more credibility compared to you.
A mere 10% of startups make it past their first year, according to statistics. You want to hire the very best candidates in your field and that your budget allows. These are the employees that will drive your company and elevate it to the next level. So, how do you make sure they not only apply but also accept your offer of employment.
In today’s blog, we’re covering everything you need to know about how to successfully recruit for startups and why you should use an executive retained search firm. By the end of this piece, you’ll be well-equipped with the tools necessary for a productive recruiting process so that your startup will be composed of talented, dedicated employees looking to propel your business to the top. Let’s get started!
1. Use a Search Firm
When it comes to hiring the very best, your startup may face some fierce competition with more established, well-known companies. How do you get the word out there?
One reason why startups should use an executive retained search firm is so that you can eliminate the process of having to promote your job posting and scour for top talent. These executive search firms have access to a talent pool of candidates that have already been vetted with background checks and resumes to supplement their candidacy.
Another reason why your startup can benefit from an executive search firm is that your company needs executive leaders who have a wealth of background experience to lead your company up the ladder of success. After all, your organization is only as strong as its executive leadership.
Finally, an executive search firm will take the time to understand your company inside and out. They will get a feel for the history of the startup and be partners with you every step of the way. An executive search firm is a great resource to have with any questions you may have as a startup that is new to the recruiting and hiring space. Most importantly, they have your best interest in mind and will advise you accordingly.
2. Offer Great Benefits
Next, in order to make yourself an attractive company for candidates to apply for, you should offer competitive benefits. Employees are attracted to companies that they know are going to take care of them. You should always list your company’s benefits in the job description. Such benefits include:
- 401K plan and matching
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
- Flexibility
- Stipends such as gym memberships, education, cell phone bills, etc.
- Bonuses
This will entice candidates to apply and even accept your offer should they succeed through the interview process.
3. Market With Recruitment Ads and Social Media
Using an executive retained search firm will help you advertise your job openings. They will guide you through the process of ad recruitment and post your job opening on job websites such as:
- Indeed
- Monster
- Zip Recruiter
On social media, you can also blast job openings on your company page. Establish a social media presence and gain some followers. You can even promote your recruitment job openings with social media advertising or search engine advertising.
4. Create a User-Friendly Recruiting Website
An executive retained search firm can help you create a recruiting-friendly website that makes it easy for candidates to go through the application process by following a series of steps. Ask your search firm for advice on what to include in your application. They can then post this website on job boards so that users are directed to apply directly on your website. This way, applications land directly in your company inbox.
5. Attend and Organize Events
Finally, one old-school way to get the word out there about your organization is to attend job fairs and set up a table displaying your company. Hand out business cards with your contact information and receive contact information from potential candidates. This is a great way to talk to candidates one-on-one and get a feel for who they are before they apply.
