Get Ahead: Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Start Fall Hiring
Summer is here, and while everyone is busy planning vacations, professional recruiters know that businesses aiming to hire in the fall should start their search now. This is especially true now as people are hesitant to switch jobs during the current economic conditions. By beginning your hiring efforts in the summer, you can strategically position yourself to attract top talent when the competition is less intense.
Why Employees Want to Stay Put
If you want to attract employees away from their current roles, it’s essential to understand why they’re currently staying. Workers today are looking for a few key things:
- Opportunities for promotions/advancement
- A positive work environment (culture and relationships)
- Upskilling opportunities
- Stability and familiarity
In other words, they’re searching for a place where they can envision long-term success. While summer may be considered a “slow” time in some industries, it’s also a period when people reflect on their options. Vacations often highlight the importance of work-life balance, and witnessing new graduates job-hunting can inspire thoughts about career growth and future goals.
There is no better time than July and August to assess your company’s offerings, how they align with candidates’ needs, and how you communicate your Employee Value Proposition to potential hires. Northwest Recruiting Partners can help you assess your competitive position in the market. If your talent recruiting strategy could use a revamp, summer is an ideal time to make those improvements.
Start Early, Avoid the Rush
Initiating your search now makes sense because you can be first in line to find quality candidates willing to explore new opportunities, setting you up for success in the fall.
Do:
- Plan for September Now: If you want new team members by fall, start the hiring process in the summer. It’s less rushed and lets you connect with potential candidates well in advance of the fall hiring push.
- Ensure Interviewer Availability: Summer schedules can be tricky due to vacations. It’s important to know when your essential team members are present and coordinate their schedules to keep the hiring process on track. Aim to have the first round of interviews within a week of reviewing applications.
- Rethink Retention: Hiring is only half the battle. Look for ways to improve your retention strategy, including mentorship, upskilling, career development, and employee appreciation.
Starting your fall hiring process in the summer allows for a more deliberate approach and leverages a period when potential candidates may be more receptive to new opportunities.
It gives your team the time to evaluate your current strengths and weaknesses and develop a strategy to appeal to candidates who might not be actively considering a move. By planning ahead, ensuring your team is ready for interviews, and following up quickly, you set the stage for a successful hiring season.