Everywhere I go these days I see “help wanted” and “we’re hiring” signs. Businesses report there are not enough applicants to fill the open jobs. Leaders think the problem is solely about the wages they pay but is it? Let’s explore how you can get more applicants without increasing wages.
First, step back and review your business and the people you already have. Walk in the front door and look around as if it was your first time there. To attract more applicants, you have to make a good first impression.
Look at yourself, as well as your supervisors with leadership skills in mind. Let your staff evaluate the performance of their leaders! They can help business leaders get better at their jobs. If you are able to involve, inspire and motivate the staff you have, you retain loyal employees and improve their performance at the same time. Set a high standard in your own skills and the leadership skills of your supervisors or managers before you create expectations of your people. Be open and transparent with the challenges you face – your people have ideas that can help if you’re willing to ask, listen, and respond.
Now consider your workplace culture. Create an environment that attracts good people. Make sure your business is neat and clean, so it makes a good impression on the people you have and the applicants that walk in the door. Provide ongoing training so your people are skilled at communication, teamwork, and conflict appreciation. Your workplace will display less tension and friction. Use your existing people to recruit good employees – they know what you need! A small non-financial reward might give them an incentive – something like a day off or even an extended lunch break.
To get more applicants, be sure to sell the benefits of your workplace, as well as explain WIIFM (what’s in it for me) to the applicant. Prepare for questions your applicants will ask, so you’re ready to impress them. Consider the above ideas as a start. Here are more ideas:
- Review your interview process – make it more candidate friendly
- Ask for the applicants’ expectations of the position – see what you can do to meet them
- Consider how you might flex their schedules to meet their work/life needs
- Provide professional or career development training – let applicants know you’re interested in their long-term career objectives
- Offer a snack during break time – food is always popular
- Show appreciation to the applicants (as well as everyone on your team)
Involve your entire staff to get more applicants. Start a Culture Committee to make small improvements in your workplace. People love to share what they helped create and are proud of. You haven’t peaked yet!