People use social media and messaging apps to do everything from plan parties to order products and services. Now, more than ever, job seekers use these platforms to network and search for new career opportunities. Given this trend, hiring managers who are looking for the best and brightest tech talent need to start thinking beyond job boards, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Modernizing Your Approach To Social Media
Like most employers, you are probably using traditional social media platforms in traditional ways – reaching out directly to approach talent. The modern, more effective strategy requires more work than querying keywords and sending cold intros. According to the 2016 Global Recruiting Survey, use of messaging apps like WhatsApp, iMessage and Viber for talent searches are up 40% since 2014.
Messaging apps allow hiring managers and recruiters to make their outreach more personal and creative, rather than shooting over one message and hoping a talented candidate replies. The idea is to find and connect with users on the platforms they enjoy the most, thus increasing the chances of conducting a fruitful conversation.
According to the survey, forward-thinking companies also use apps like Snapchat and Periscope, which straddle the line between social and messaging. Content on these apps doesn’t have to be about recruiting. By streaming live events, walking around the office to showcase the company’s people and space, employers can build their brand and generate excitement about the culture of working there.
Social Media Should Enhance, Not Replace
Working social media and messaging apps into a talent sourcing strategy isn’t about replacing other methods, it’s about enhancing them. Social platforms can make the process a little easier, but they are just one piece of the puzzle. After all, you close the deal in person. Social apps are for starting the conversation and keeping candidate connections warm – especially among passive candidates. It holds their interest and curiosity about the organization until the perfect opportunity arises.
Employers that want to attract the best and brightest talent must begin to take social media and messaging platforms seriously, because even if you are not using these apps, competitors are. Late adopters will be far behind the proverbial eight ball, because each day their competition is busy generating content and opening conversations that will lay the groundwork for a successful hire.
Talent sourcing strategies are always evolving, and it can be difficult for taxed HR teams to stay ahead of the curve. This is where a professional recruiting partner can make all the difference. If you want to attract the best and the brightest, you need the right recruiters on your team. The IT experts at CSS are industry leaders with a proven track record of success. Don’t lose the war for talent. Contact CSS today to learn more about how we can help your organization become a candidate magnet.