Demographic studies reinforce our daily experience: it’s getting harder and harder to find good employees — but not for everyone. Whether you’re a local contractor or a national airline, there’s an employer of choice in every market that finds good people knocking on their door because they enjoy a high Attractiveness Factor.
For example, Southwest Airlines likely receives more qualified candidates than some competitors because its business model and culture attract employees rather than repel them.
Survey after survey shows that one third to one half of employees in many industries are looking for a better employer, a far higher figure than the 5% to 15% unemployment rate in those industries. Your Attractiveness Factor is tied directly to job satisfaction among your current employees.
Companies recognized as great places to work often have much higher satisfaction rates, and their recruiting teams typically have an easier time filling positions.
To improve your Attractiveness Factor, consider the following steps:
Steps to improve your Attractiveness Factor
- Put the right people on every seat of the bus. No excuses — hire with discipline and avoid placing the wrong employee on a team without input, since that upsets co-workers and undermines productivity.
- Have your employees market on your behalf. Employee referrals are a strong source of candidates; involve current staff in hiring through referral programs or group interviews to boost engagement and reach.
- Show employees you care by asking what they need to be successful and take pride in their work. Handle terminations with grace, conduct exit interviews, and address grievances to reduce negative word-of-mouth and potential resentment.
- Brand your company as a great place to work. Clearly communicate why your workplace is special through stories, awards, benefits, and employee testimonials so prospective hires can see what sets you apart.
- Lighten up. Create an environment where people enjoy coming to work by encouraging moments of fun, recognition, or shared purpose to make the day-to-day experience more attractive.
Don Phin, Esq. is VP of Strategic Business Solutions at ThinkHR and has more than three decades of experience as an HR expert, published author, and speaker. For more information, see Miscellaneous Benefits Insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an organization's Attractiveness Factor?
It’s the combination of culture, reputation, job design, and employee satisfaction that makes people want to work for a particular employer.
How can current employees help with recruiting?
Employees can refer candidates, participate in interviews, and share authentic experiences that highlight what makes the workplace appealing.
Are exit interviews really worth doing?
Yes; exit interviews uncover issues that can be fixed, reduce future turnover, and lower the chance of negative public feedback from departing staff.