Across sectors and across the globe, the talented employees are in high-demand and short-supply. Traditional hiring methods often fall short in keeping pace with the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. As the market evolves, so should your hiring practices, if you want to keep pace and find (or cultivate) the right people for your open positions.

Apprenticeships/Internships:

These are time-tested methods, bridging the skills gap while nurturing a loyal, skilled workforce. Consider partnering with local schools to find a candidate pool of talented, albeit inexperienced, future employees that you can train and build up. Although effective, this approach requires a long-term investment mindset – but you will strike gold every so often. Don’t forget, this also builds a reciprocal sense of loyalty to your company and culture, making your employer brand stronger as well.

Diversity Recruitment Initiatives:

Diversity and inclusion are more than buzzwords; they are integral components of a thriving workplace. You can actively address a talent shortage by embracing diversity recruitment initiatives. These initiatives encompass strategies to attract individuals from underrepresented groups, including women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, and more. Implementing diverse hiring panels, partnering with diverse organizations, and crafting inclusive job descriptions can make your company more appealing to a broader range of candidates. By fostering diversity, you not only enhance your workforce but also bring fresh perspectives and innovation to your organization.

Remote and Flexible Work Options:

Embracing remote work and flex scheduling opens your recruitment to a wider (global) talent pool. Skilled professionals wanting flexibility or who do not want to relocate become viable candidates and increase the talent pool you can select from. By offering remote and flexible work options, you can attract professionals not otherwise considered when limited to a traditional candidate pool. Diverse backgrounds and experiences from a broader set of candidates strengthens your team by adding a wealth of perspectives.

Skills-Based Assessments:

Instead of relying solely on resumes and interviews, consider implementing skills-based assessments. These assessments allow candidates to demonstrate their abilities in a real-world context, providing a more accurate evaluation of their potential. Skills-based assessments not only help you identify qualified candidates but also level the playing field for those with non-traditional backgrounds. The talent shortage is a complex challenge, but by implementing creative recruitment and hiring strategies, your organization can navigate and leverage each opening to build a stronger team. Not only will you find better candidates, but you can find hidden gems while building loyalty, diversity, and boosting in-house talent.