Chris Russell (3)

Chris Russell

Recruitment Marketing

5 Keys to a Killer Recruitment Marketing Strategy

In today's competitive job market, it's more important than ever for businesses to have a strong recruitment marketing strategy. A well-crafted recruitment marketing strategy can help you attract top talent, build your employer brand, and fill open positions faster. If employer branding is the ingredient, recruitment marketing is the recipe that makes it work. Here are my five keys to a killer recruitment marketing strategy: Know your target audience. The first step to developing a successful recruitment marketing strategy is to understand your target audience. Who are you looking to attract? What are their needs and wants? Once you know who you're targeting, you can tailor your messaging and outreach accordingly. Create a candidate persona for each important opening and define the ideal candidate. Create a strong employer brand. Your employer brand is what potential employees think of when they hear your company's name. It's important to create a positive employer brand that highlights your company's culture, values, and benefits. You can do this by sharing positive employee stories, highlighting your company's social impact, and promoting your company's culture on social media. Come up with a EVP (employer value proposition) for why people should come to work there. Use the right channels. In today's digital age, there are a variety of channels you can use to reach potential employees. Some of the most popular channels include job boards, social media, and your company website. When choosing which channels to use, it's important to consider your target audience and where they're most likely to be looking for jobs. You can't just rely on Indeed or LinkedIn so consider programmatic job advertising to distribute your jobs online to many sources. Make it easy to apply. The easier it is for potential employees to apply for jobs, the more likely they are to do so. Make sure your application process is simple and straightforward. You should also make sure your job postings are clear and easy to understand. By removing barriers in the apply process you are guaranteed to improve your apply rates. Track your results. It's important to track the results of your recruitment marketing efforts so you can see what's working and what's not. This will help you fine-tune your strategy and get better results over time. Every employer hiring today needs to have a plan in place to recruit effectively. From SMB's to the Enterprise, recruitment marketing is a pivotal tool in filling the pipeline with candidates. By following these five keys, you can develop a killer recruitment marketing strategy that will help you attract top talent and fill open positions faster. Here are some additional tips for creating a successful recruitment marketing strategy: Be creative. Don't be afraid to get creative with your recruitment marketing efforts. The more unique and engaging your content is, the more likely it is to stand out from the competition. Be consistent. It's important to be consistent with your recruitment marketing efforts. This means posting new job openings regularly, promoting your company on social media, and keeping your website up-to-date. Be patient. It takes time to build a strong employer brand and attract top talent. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results overnight. Just keep at it and you'll eventually see the fruits of your labor. Recruitment Marketing Agencies Many employers outsource their recruitment marketing to an agency to take care of the creative process and implement their recruitment marketing strategy. These firms offer in house expertise that your talent acquisition team may be lacking. Some of the most popular agencies include; Radancy is a leading recruitment marketing agency that helps companies attract and hire top talent. Radancy offers a full suite of services, including employer branding, candidate experience, and talent acquisition. Symphony Talent is another top recruitment marketing agency that helps companies build their employer brand and attract top talent. Symphony Talent offers a variety of services, including content marketing, social media marketing, and digital advertising. HireClix is a boutique recruitment marketing agency that specializes in helping small and medium-sized businesses attract and hire top talent. HireClix offers a variety of services, including job board advertising, social media marketing, and email marketing. Shaker is a family-owned recruitment marketing agency that has been helping companies attract and hire top talent for over 20 years. Shaker offers a variety of services, including employer branding, candidate experience, and talent acquisition. Brevity is a full-service recruitment marketing agency that helps companies attract and hire top talent. Brevity offers a variety of services, including employer branding, content marketing, and social media marketing. Recruitics is a data-driven recruitment marketing agency that helps companies attract and hire top talent. Recruitics offers a variety of services, including employer branding, candidate experience, and talent acquisition. Bayard is a global recruitment marketing agency that helps companies attract and hire top talent. Bayard offers a variety of services, including employer branding, content marketing, and social media marketing. Stories Inc. is a storytelling-driven recruitment marketing agency that helps companies attract and hire top talent. Stories Inc. offers a variety of services, including employer branding, content marketing, and social media marketing. PowerHouse Talent is a full-service recruitment marketing agency that helps companies attract and hire top talent. PowerHouse Talent offers a variety of services, including employer branding, content marketing, and social media marketing. These are just a few of the many great recruitment marketing agencies out there. When choosing an agency, it's important to consider your specific needs and goals. A good recruitment market strategy will help you stand out in a sea of hiring companies. Either bring those marketing skills in house or let a good agency like the ones above help you.

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Chris Russell

Background Checks

Background Checks for Employment Decreasing?

Is your HR team still using employment background checks for low level workers? Some companies are starting to rethink the way they employ background checks that have a couple of big recruiting benefits. In an effort to make it easier to apply, MOD Pizza, a quick-service restaurant chain with hundreds of U.S. locations recently made the decision to eliminate background checks for entry-level roles. “We were spending thousands of dollars on background checks, and less than 0.04% had an impact rate coming back,” she told the crowd at the recent HR Retail conference. “We’re spending all this money, creating stress, not just for our team…but for those individuals applying. We want to make it as easy as possible to come and join us.” Eliminating background checks for employment offers the company a change to save a bundle on their HR budget. I predict we will see more types of announcements from other retail and food service employers. It makes a lot of sense from a financial and candidate experience standpoint. Background Checks for Employment can be beneficial to both employers and job seekers. These checks allow employers to verify the identity and qualifications of potential candidates, while also protecting workers from negligent hiring practices. Background Check Drawbacks There are however certain drawbacks associated with this process that must be taken into consideration. On the plus side, these checks help ensure that a company is hiring reliable employees who can be trusted with confidential information and sensitive tasks. They also allow employers to identify any discrepancies between what a candidate claims on their resume or application and their actual background history. For example, some applicants may not have disclosed criminal records or past employment gaps during the initial screening process; background checks can help surface such issues before making an offer of employment. Additionally, they may alert companies to any potential safety risks that a candidate may pose. On the other hand, there are several drawbacks associated with background checks for employment. For one, they can be time-consuming and costly; employers must pay fees in order to conduct the necessary searches and wait for the results to come back before making a decision. Additionally, they may not provide an accurate picture of an applicant’s character or abilities since they generally focus on past behaviors or experiences rather than current ones. Furthermore, some of the information contained in these reports is not always reliable; it can often contain inaccuracies or outdated data which could lead to unfair hiring decisions. Finally, many states have passed laws restricting what employers can ask from applicants during the screening process in order to protect their privacy. Overall, background checks for employment can be beneficial to both employers and candidates, but they should also be approached with caution. It is important to understand the potential risks as well as the benefits of conducting these checks in order to make an informed decision. Choosing Your Background Check Provider Here are 5 background check employment companies to consider in 2023, based on factors such as customer satisfaction, accuracy, and price: GoodHire Checkr PeopleFinders First Advantage AccurateNow These companies offer a variety of background check services, including criminal history checks, employment verification, and education verification. They also offer a variety of pricing options to fit the needs of different businesses. When choosing your background check company, consider the following factors: Customer satisfaction: Make sure to read reviews from other businesses that have used the company's services. Accuracy: The background check company should be able to provide accurate and up-to-date information. Price: The cost of the background check should be affordable for your business. It is also important to make sure that the background check company is compliant with all applicable laws and regulations. We'll have to see if other companies like MOD start to lessen their use of checking on entry level candidates. But I'm willing to bet more employers will follow suit.

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Chris Russell

Recruiting Tactics

The Power of Employee Referral Programs

Recruitment costs are on the rise, and many companies are still struggling to attract and retain skilled employees. That's where employee referral programs (ERPs) come in. ERPs are programs that encourage employees to refer their friends or acquaintances for job openings within their organization. In this article, we will explore the benefits of ERPs, the challenges in implementing them, and the technological solutions available to streamline the process. We will also discuss strategies for achieving maximum participation and the role of intrinsic motivations versus cash bonuses. What is an employee referral program? An employee referral program is an initiative implemented by a company to encourage its existing employees to refer qualified candidates for available job openings. This type of recruiting strategy often yields higher quality and more diverse talent than traditional recruitment methods, while also driving employee engagement and boosting morale among existing staff. In many companies, referrals can be 50% or more of new hires. The process typically starts with the employer outlining the program’s details such as how much money will be offered for successful referrals, who can participate in it, and what types of roles are eligible. Employees then share information about the open position with their networks which can consist of family members, friends, colleagues from previous employment or even former classmates. When someone applies using the referral link that was provided by the employee, they typically have priority when it comes to being considered the role. When a referral is successful, both the employee who provided the reference and the candidate who was accepted usually receive a monetary reward from the company. By incentivizing referrals, companies are able to attract better quality talent in a cost-effective manner. Additionally, it helps employers create an atmosphere of collaboration and goodwill within their teams as people actively work together to make sure they are all contributing towards positive outcomes within their organization. Employee Referral Example Workflow An employee referral example involves employees recommending qualified candidates for open positions in their company. This recruitment method can help employers find the right fit for a job quickly and cost-effectively, since referrals tend to come from people who already have an understanding of the organization's culture and values. The referred candidate will typically go through the same hiring process as all other candidates, but they may have a slight advantage since they have already been vetted in some way. The rewards for successful referrals range from cash bonuses to vacation days and other perks. Employee referral programs are becoming increasingly popular as a cost-effective way to recruit new talent and create quality connections between employers and job seekers. With the right incentives in place, employee referral programs can have a great impact on the recruiting success of any organization. Benefits of Employee Referral Programs ERPs offer several benefits, including higher chances of hiring the right talent, reduced hiring costs and time, and increased employee satisfaction and retention. When employees refer someone they know, they are likely to have a better idea of their skills and work ethic. This can result in higher quality candidates being referred to the organization, reducing the risk of a bad hire. ERPs can also save time and money compared to traditional recruitment methods, such as job postings or recruiters. Furthermore, employees who refer someone are more likely to be happy and engaged because they feel they are contributing to the success of their organization. Challenges in Implementing ERPs Despite the benefits, challenges in implementing ERPs exist. Employees who are not incentivized may be reluctant to refer others, and managing the referral process can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Additionally, measuring the effectiveness of ERPs can be difficult. How can companies ensure that the referrals are high-quality and that the program is cost-effective? These are all important factors to consider when creating an ERP. Technological Solutions for ERPs Fortunately, technological solutions can help streamline the ERP process. Role-matching algorithms can help identify the right candidates for specific job roles, while social sharing features make it easy for employees to share job openings widely. Referral tracking software such as Erin can automate the referral process, reducing administrative burdens, and gamification features can incentivize participation. These technological solutions can also provide valuable data on the effectiveness of ERPs, allowing companies to fine-tune their programs for maximum success. Strategies to Increase the Success of ERPs To achieve maximum participation and success, companies should implement strategies such as setting a grace period for referrals to avoid missed opportunities, regular communication and feedback to keep employees engaged and motivated, and ensuring consistency and transparency in the referral process by providing visibility into referred candidates. These strategies can help create a sense of ownership among employees, making them feel part of the recruitment process. They should also create a thorough communication strategy so that current employees know how and where to refer their network. A successful ERP campaign is constantly ongoing and should pervade your office. Intrinsic Motivations vs. Cash Bonuses for Referrals While cash bonuses are a common incentive for referrals, they may not always be the best solution. Non-monetary incentives such as recognition and career growth opportunities can be more effective in motivating employees, as they signal a long-term commitment to their professional development. However, cash bonuses can supplement these intrinsic motivations, providing a short-term reward for employees. ERPs have become a tried and true way to fill job openings. By offering several benefits such as reduced hiring costs and time, increased employee satisfaction and retention, and higher chances of hiring the right talent, they are an essential recruitment tool. Implementing them, however, can be challenging, but technological solutions can streamline the process. Strategies such as setting a grace period for referrals, regular communication and feedback, and providing visibility into referred candidates can increase their success. Additionally, balancing non-monetary incentives with cash bonuses can motivate employees to participate. In all, a comprehensive ERP strategy can help organizations attract and retain top talent, ensuring long-term success.

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Chris Russell

Skills Gap

5 Ways to Close the Skills Gap

As the job market changes, so do the skills that employers need in order to stay competitive. With technology and global trends constantly evolving, it can be difficult for recruiters and Human Resources professionals to know where they should focus their resources when looking for new talent. Fortunately, there are some strategies that HR professionals can use to bridge the gap between potential employees’ current abilities and desired qualifications. In this blog post we explore 5 ways to close the skills gap quickly and maintain a productive workforce without breaking your budget. Read on for easy-to-implement tips about how you can make sure your organization is prepared for whatever comes its way! Utilize online training platforms to increase knowledge and skills in specific areas In today's fast-paced workplace, it's not always practical to take the time and resources to attend traditional in-person training sessions. Fortunately, online training platforms have been developed to provide individuals the opportunity to learn on their own schedules, at their own pace, and from the comfort of wherever they may be. Utilizing online training platforms can provide access to a wide variety of courses designed to enhance knowledge and skills in specific areas. From software development to marketing strategies, there are online courses to fit almost any professional interest. These platforms are also a great way to stay on top of industry trends and advancements. By investing in your own education through online training, you can enhance your value to your organization, your clients, and your career prospects. Employers should allow for external learning as a benefit so their workers can boost their skills over time. Create a mentorship program for employees to learn from experienced professionals in their field One of the most effective ways to help employees excel in their careers is through mentorship. This type of program matches experienced professionals with those who are just starting out in the same field, creating a unique opportunity for the latter to learn from someone who has already been through the challenges they are likely to encounter. Mentorship provides a roadmap for success, and employees can benefit in ways such as gaining new skills, networking, and developing their own leadership abilities. When a mentorship program is in place, employees can look forward to an enriching experience that helps them achieve their goals, both personally and professionally. Encourage cross training between coworkers to help bridge the gap between differing skill sets Collaboration is key to success in any workplace. However, it is especially important when coworkers have varying skill sets. Bridging the gap between these skill sets can be challenging, but by encouraging collaboration, employers can boost learning and skills from within. With job sharing, coworkers can learn from each other's strengths and weaknesses, build trust, and ultimately, create a more cohesive team. Encouraging collaboration also helps to foster a positive working environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Cross-training employees is the practice of training employees to perform multiple tasks or duties within their job role. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as through on-the-job training, formal training programs, or job shadowing. There are many benefits to cross-training employees, including: Increased productivity: Cross-trained employees are more productive because they can handle a wider range of tasks. This can lead to faster turnaround times, improved quality, and reduced errors. Reduced costs: Cross-training can help to reduce costs in a number of ways. For example, it can reduce the need to hire temporary workers or outsource work. It can also help to reduce the time and money spent on training new employees. Improved employee morale: Cross-training can help to improve employee morale by giving employees a sense of ownership over their work and by providing them with opportunities to learn new skills. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover. Enhanced teamwork: Cross-training can help to enhance teamwork by giving employees the opportunity to work with different people and to learn how to collaborate effectively. This can lead to better communication and problem-solving skills, as well as a more cohesive team. Increased flexibility: Cross-trained employees are more flexible because they can be moved to different positions or departments as needed. This can help to ensure that the company is always able to meet its staffing needs. Improved customer service: Cross-trained employees are better able to provide excellent customer service because they have a better understanding of the company's products or services. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Overall, cross-training employees is a valuable tool that can help businesses to improve their productivity, costs, morale, teamwork, flexibility, and customer service. Offer incentives or rewards for employees who take initiative to learn new skills or train others A company's success can be largely attributed to the skills and knowledge of its employees. Therefore, it's crucial to encourage and support them in their desire to learn new skills and train others. Offering incentives and rewards to those who take initiative in this area is a great way to motivate them to continue. Not only does this increase the skillset of your workforce, but it also promotes a culture of collaboration and leadership within the company. This shows employees that their efforts are recognized and valued, leading to higher job satisfaction and a stronger sense of loyalty to the company. Overall, incentivizing employees who take the initiative to learn new skills and train others is a win-win situation for everyone involved. Develop internship programs with local universities and organizations that specialize in teaching job-specific skills As companies search for better ways to attract and retain top talent, developing internship programs with local universities and organizations that specialize in teaching job-specific skills has become increasingly popular. These types of programs provide a win-win situation for both the company and the intern. By combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience, interns gain valuable skills and insights they can use to jumpstart their careers. Meanwhile, companies benefit from gaining access to a pool of motivated and skilled individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to the company's success. These programs also allow companies to build relationships with local universities and organizations which can lead to expanded recruitment efforts and a stronger presence in the community. Ultimately, by investing in internship programs, companies can gain a future pipeline of talented and loyal employees while also contributing to the growth and development of the job market as a whole. Closing the skills gap in your company can be challenging, but with a concentrated effort you can close the distance. By utilizing online training platforms, encouraging cross training among employees, providing incentives for learning new skills, investing in continuing education opportunities, and developing internship programs with local universities and organizations-- employers can make strides towards closing the skills gap. It's time employers started thinking about different strategies that they can put into place to bridge this gap and offer more employment opportunities. Take some time to think about how you can implement these solutions to help close the skills gap at your organization. No matter what industry you work in or what size your business is, there are actions that all of us can take to contribute to creating more accessible jobs for people looking for career growth and professional development.

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Chris Russell

Recruiting

How to Improve Candidate Quality

Recruiting the right talent can be a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be. It takes a bit of effort and creativity, but improving candidate quality during your recruitment process is possible. Because when you make an investment in good recruiters to fill high-value roles for your organization, you want to guarantee that each hire holds up to the highest standards for their respective positions. That's why we've put together this guide specifically tailored for recruiters and other talent acquisition professionals on how to improve candidate quality through powerful recruitment tactics like targeted advertising campaigns and better job descriptions. Read on as we explore various strategies that will help you attract stronger candidates ready and willing to join your team! Evaluate the job description and employment requirements to ensure they are realistic and relevant As companies seek to attract the best candidates for job openings, it's important that they carefully evaluate their job descriptions and employment requirements. In order to ensure that the criteria set forth is realistic and relevant, a thorough analysis of the role and its responsibilities must be conducted. This means taking into consideration factors such as the current job market, industry standards, and the company's overall goals and objectives. By accurately assessing these factors, employers can craft job descriptions that accurately reflect the demands of the position, while also highlighting the specific skills and qualifications needed to be successful in the role. It's also a matter of being honest about the role. By setting expectations up front you will help to weed out those that aren't the right fit. Spell out a day in the life on each job ad so the candidate knows what to expect from day 1. By doing so, they can both attract and retain top talent, ultimately leading to higher levels of productivity and success for the organization as a whole. Utilize online job postings and reach out to passive candidates through professional networks With the ever-increasing competition in the job market, it is essential to utilize online job postings and professional networks to find the best candidates for available positions. Active job seekers may apply to advertised openings, but passive candidates who are not actively seeking employment may also be a valuable asset to consider. By reaching out to these passive candidates through professional networks, their skills and talents can be gained, which would otherwise have gone unnoticed. Utilizing online job postings and professional networks can enable recruiters to find top talent, and in the long run, help organizations thrive. Develop a consistent recruitment plan that outlines what you are looking for in a candidate Finding the right candidate for your company can be a challenging task, but having a consistent recruitment plan can make the process much smoother. Your plan should clearly outline the specific qualities and skills you are looking for in a candidate. By doing this, you can attract a pool of applicants who fit the criteria you have set. Once you have established what you are looking for in a candidate, you can begin to develop a well-structured recruitment process that ensures your company can attract and retain the best talent. A consistent recruitment plan helps you to save on time, resources and ensure that you are attracting the right talent. Jodi Brandstetter, a talent consultant based in Cincinnati told me "to find quality candidates, it starts with the intake meeting and using the candidate persona." By going deep with your hiring managers during the intake process and defining the ideal candidate, you'll be ahead of the game. Conduct pre-screening interviews that focus on finding out more about each individual's background, experience and qualities Conducting pre-screening interviews is an essential aspect of the hiring process. These interviews provide employers with the opportunity to learn more about each applicant's background, experience, and qualities. By doing so, employers can determine whether or not an applicant is a good fit for the job and the company. It's important to ask open-ended questions that prompt detailed responses, allowing you to gain insight into an applicant's skills, work experience, and personality. Ultimately, pre-screening interviews play a significant role in the hiring process, helping employers to hire the right person for the job. Many of the big job sites will let you pre-screen applicants before they apply. Leverage this ability when you can. Use effective methods of assessment to identify the most suitable candidates for the job, such as aptitude tests or work samples Hiring the right candidate can make all the difference in the success of a company. Therefore, it's important to use effective methods of assessment to identify the most suitable candidates for the job. Traditional methods like resumes and interviews can overlook key skills and abilities. That's where aptitude tests and work samples can come in handy. Aptitude tests give a holistic picture of a candidate's skills and potential while work samples allow employers to see how a candidate performs in real workplace situations. By utilizing these methods, employers can ensure that they are making a well-informed decision when it comes to hiring the best candidate for the job. Involve current employees in the recruitment process by encouraging them to refer qualified friends or former colleagues for positions Recruiting new employees can be a tricky and time-consuming process. What if there was a way to make it easier and more efficient, while also strengthening relationships between current staff? By involving current employees in the recruitment process and encouraging them to refer qualified friends or former colleagues for open positions, companies can potentially save time and resources while also benefiting from internal recommendations. This approach not only allows for a more diverse candidate pool, but it also fosters a sense of community and teamwork within the workplace. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved, from the hiring managers to the employees who refer their connections. So why not give it a try and see how it can positively impact your recruitment efforts? All of these measures combined can help ensure that a business is making the most out of their recruitment process. All the time and effort spent on recruitment will be well worth it when the right candidate is hired, as it is likely to mean increased productivity, motivation and loyalty amongst employees. Adopting these best practices to the recruitment process may seem like a lot at first, but once established, it can become an incredibly efficient and effective system that continually brings in high caliber candidates who are perfect for available positions. Start small by going through your current job descriptions and setting up a consistent recruitment plan; you won’t regret the results!

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Chris Russell

Human Resources

Free HR Software Platforms

Whether you're a small business just starting out or a large enterprise looking to improve your HR operations, the right HR software can make a big difference. But with so many different HR software solutions on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. Human resources (HR) software is essential for any business that wants to stay organized and compliant. However, not all businesses have the budget to invest in a paid HR software solution. That's where free HR software comes in. There are a number of great free HR software platforms on the market, and each one offers a variety of features. Some of the most popular free HR software platforms include: Zoho People: Zoho People is a comprehensive HR software platform that offers a wide range of features, including time and attendance tracking, payroll processing, employee benefits management, and performance management. BoardOn: This onboarding software has a limited free offering which includes 1 active onboarding, 10MB of content store and 5 free text message communications. OrangeHRM: OrangeHRM is another comprehensive HR software platform that offers a variety of features, including employee onboarding, training and development, and succession planning. Bitrix24: Bitrix24 is a cloud-based HR software platform that offers a variety of features, including time and attendance tracking, payroll processing, and employee benefits management. Only some of their HR features are free. Freshteam: Freshteam is an HR software platform that is specifically designed for small businesses. It offers a variety of features, including job posting, applicant tracking, and employee onboarding. The free version is good for up to 50 employees. HRIS: HRIS is a cloud-based HR software platform that offers a variety of features, including time and attendance tracking, payroll processing, and employee benefits management. DEEL: This EOR system recently launched a free HRIS which comes with several features including 1:1's, pulse surveys, and more. When choosing a free HR software platform, it is important to consider the needs of your business. Some factors to consider include the size of your business, the features you need, and your budget. If you are a small business with limited needs, a free HR software platform may be a good option for you. However, if you have a larger business or need more features, you may want to consider a paid HR software solution. No matter what your needs are, there is a free HR software platform that is right for you. By taking the time to compare your options, you can find the perfect platform to help you manage your HR department and keep your business running smoothly. Here are some additional things to consider when choosing a free HR software platform: Ease of use: The HR software platform should be easy to use and navigate. You don't want to spend hours trying to figure out how to use it. Features: The HR software platform should have the features you need to manage your HR department effectively. Support: The HR software platform should offer good customer support in case you have any questions or problems. Security: The HR software platform should be secure to protect your employee data. Here are some tips to help users select and implement HR software: Define your needs. What are your HR goals? What are your pain points? What features are important to you? Once you know what you need, you can start to narrow down your options. Do your research. Read reviews, compare features, and get quotes from different vendors. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Try before you buy. Most vendors offer a free trial or demo. This is a great way to see if the software is a good fit for your needs. Get buy-in from key stakeholders. HR software is not just for HR. It affects everyone in the company. Make sure you get buy-in from key stakeholders before making a decision. Plan for implementation. Implementing new software is a big project. Make sure you have a plan in place. This includes training employees, testing the software, and migrating data. Get support. Most vendors offer support. Make sure you know how to get help if you need it. By following these tips, you can select and implement HR software that meets your needs and helps your business succeed.

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Chris Russell

Human Resources

Jobs in Human Resources

The field of human resources is growing rapidly as companies look for ways to attract and retain talented employees. Human Resources professionals help organizations develop strategies to recruit the best people for their organization and provide them with an environment in which they can thrive. They also manage compensation, benefits, employee relations, and training programs that help employees learn new skills and stay engaged with their work. As the demand for HR professionals continues to grow, so does the number of employers offering these opportunities - making it a highly desirable career path. With the right qualifications and experience, a job in Human Resources can open many doors for advancement within an organization or offer you the chance to start your own consulting business. There are also many personal rewards to be gained from helping others develop and grow within their careers. The possibilities are endless, making Human Resources a sought after profession! In short, jobs in human resources are an attractive option for those who want to make a meaningful impact in the corporate world while developing their own professional skills. With the right qualifications and experience, it can open up many opportunities for advancement and success. It is a highly rewarding field with plenty of potential for growth and development both professionally and personally. For those interested in pursuing this career path, the prospects look very promising. Types of Jobs in Human Resources The main types of jobs in human resources include Human Resource Managers, Recruiters, Benefits Administrators, Training Specialists, Talent Acquisition Specialists, Payroll Managers and the CHRO role. Each position requires its own set of specialized skills and experience. Human Resource Manager - The Human Resource Manager serves as the leader for all HR-related functions within an organization. They are responsible for developing policies and procedures for staff recruitment and retention; managing employee compensation programs; and leading employee engagement initiatives. Recruiter - Recruiters are responsible for sourcing, interviewing and onboarding new employees. They typically work with hiring managers to define job requirements, source potential candidates through various media outlets and coordinate interviews with the selected candidates. Benefits Administrator - Benefits Administrators manage all aspects of an organization’s health benefits program. This includes researching competitive benefit packages; setting up programs for pre-tax deductions; administering the payroll system; and managing the open enrollment period. Training Specialists - Training Specialists design and deliver development programs for staff at all levels of an organization. The primary tasks they undertake include developing training curriculum materials; creating online learning tools; coordinating workshops or seminars; evaluating employee performance; and providing feedback to staff. Talent Acquisition Specialists – Talent Acquisition Specialists are responsible for creating recruitment strategies that attract top talent to an organization. This includes designing job postings; sourcing potential candidates; conducting preliminary interviews; and negotiating job offers. Payroll Manager - Payroll Managers oversee the payroll function within an organization. They are responsible for verifying time sheets, calculating wages, distributing paychecks and managing deductions such as taxes or benefits payments. CHRO - the Chief Human Resources Officer is a C-suite level position that typically reports to the CEO and is in charge of both recruiting and HR functions. Each of these positions plays a key role in the success of an organization, and having dedicated HR professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced in their respective roles is crucial to fostering a positive work environment. How to Find Jobs In Human Resources There are a number of great resources online to find human resources jobs or be found via a resume database. You are all familiar with LinkedIn, Indeed and such but there are some specialty sites to check out as well. They include; SHRM Jobs - Part of the association called the Society of Human Resource Management it features a full job board/career center for members. EvilHRJobs.com - A niche job board serving the HR talent market launched in 2022. HR.com - This site is a longstanding community of human resources pros but is also a community full of industry research and insights in addition to job listings. HR Jobs Trending I went into Google Trends and asked it to show me the past year of searches for the term "HR jobs". Its been trending upward lately after being fairly consistent over that time. Since some HR folks got laid off in the past few months this might explain the rise. But if you go back 5 years it also is trending up. People enter the human resources profession for a variety of reasons. Many are drawn to the field because it offers an opportunity to help shape and guide an organization’s people-related initiatives. People in human resources are involved with a range of activities, including recruiting and hiring employees; managing payroll and benefits; developing training programs and policies; ensuring compliance with employment laws; and managing employee relations issues. HR professionals also offer support to managers by providing guidance on personnel issues, such as how to handle difficult employee situations. For those passionate about human resources and workforce development, a career in the field can be incredibly rewarding. The challenges faced by this profession are both rewarding and stimulating, making it a great career choice for those who enjoy problem-solving and interacting with people. With the right combination of motivation, education and experience, HR professionals can find exciting career opportunities in a variety of industries.

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Chris Russell

Human Resources

Hiring an Employee Checklist

Hiring a new employee can be a time-consuming and challenging process, but many times employers fail to do it correctly. Job seekers are already stressed about the hoops they have to jump through so give your hiring process a fresh look. The hiring checklist below is a good way to look at the process and plan at your organization. Determine the job requirements: Before you start looking for candidates, you need to have a clear understanding of what the job entails. Make a list of the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience required for the position. Create a job description: Based on the job requirements, create a job description that outlines the responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for the role. Make sure the job description is clear and concise. Advertise the job: Once you have a job description, advertise the job through the appropriate channels, such as job boards, social media, or your company’s website. Make sure you include all the necessary details, such as the job title, responsibilities, and required qualifications. Review resumes: Once you start receiving resumes, review them carefully to see if the candidates have the required skills and experience. Make a shortlist of the most promising candidates. Conduct phone or video interviews: Before inviting candidates for an in-person interview, conduct phone or video interviews to further narrow down your list of candidates. Ask questions about their qualifications, experience, and work history. Schedule in-person interviews: Once you have narrowed down your list of candidates, invite them for an in-person interview. Prepare a list of questions in advance to help you assess their skills, experience, and fit with your company’s culture. Check references: Before making a job offer, check the candidate’s references to verify their work history and qualifications. Make a job offer: If you have identified a candidate who meets your requirements and has the necessary skills and experience, make a job offer. Make sure the offer includes details such as salary, benefits, and start date. Conduct a background check: Before the candidate starts working, conduct a background check to ensure they have a clean record and no criminal history. Onboard the new employee: Once the candidate has accepted the job offer, start the onboarding process to help them get acclimated to the company and their new role. That’s the checklist most employers follow but lets dive a little deeper into a few of the more crucial components of it. Onboarding is the process of integrating a new employee into your company and ensuring that they have the necessary knowledge and tools to be successful in their new role. It’s important to make sure that new employees feel welcome and valued, and that they have the support they need to be productive from day one. Sometime I think employers overlook this aspect which could lead to a bad firs impression with your new hire. Here are some tips for successful onboarding: Start early: Onboarding should start before the new employee’s first day. Send them a welcome email, provide them with an employee handbook, and let them know what to expect on their first day. Assign a mentor: Assign a mentor or buddy to the new employee to help them navigate the company culture and answer any questions they may have. Provide training: Provide the new employee with the necessary training to perform their job effectively. This may include software training, safety training, or other job-specific training. Set clear expectations: Set clear expectations for the new employee’s performance, including goals, timelines, and metrics for success. Check in regularly: Check in with the new employee regularly during their first few weeks to make sure they are adjusting well and have everything they need. Determining the job requirements is another critical step in the hiring process. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what the job entails and what skills and qualifications are necessary for success in the role. The hiring manager and recruiter need to be on the same page here. Get them together and do this: Define the job: Start by defining the job and identifying the core responsibilities and duties. This will help you determine what skills and qualifications are necessary. Consider the company culture: Consider the company culture and the type of person who will fit well within the company. For example, if your company values collaboration and teamwork, you may want to prioritize candidates who have demonstrated those skills. Look at similar job postings: Look at similar job postings to see what skills and qualifications are typically required for similar roles. Consult with colleagues: Consult with colleagues who are familiar with the job to get their input on the necessary skills and qualifications. Create a detailed job ad that sells: Use the information you’ve gathered to create a detailed job advertisement that outlines the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience required for the role. This will help you attract the right candidates and ensure that you are evaluating candidates fairly and objectively. The hiring process needs to be looked at holistically from start to finish. Sometimes I think TA leaders pay too much lip service when it comes to this workflow. Listen to your recruiters and HR people on the front lines and involve them from the beginning to refine and enhance your hiring checklist.

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Chris Russell

Employee Experience

The Importance of Employee Experience

Giving your employees a great experience isn’t just about making them happy – it’s also good for business. And more and more workers are craving a good experience from their employer. Here’s a look at why employee experience is so important, and how you can create a positive environment for your team. Define employee experience and its components The employee experience is the sum of all interactions and engagements an employee has with their workplace. It encompasses both their physical and psychological perceptions of their environment, from the atmosphere to the tools and technology available for use. Flexible work policies, learning opportunities and employee recognition are just a few components to consider when thinking about employee experience – it’s driven by how inspired, engaged, empowered and supported employees feel in their roles. Creating a positive environment is a critical factor in creating a culture where employees understand they can be successful while engaging others along the way. Understand why employee experience is important Every business is an ecosystem, comprised of employees, customers, and other stakeholders. Even the most efficient processes enjoy long term success when delivered through a culture of shared values and support. Employees who feel engaged and valued offer industry-leading customer experiences as they exemplify what the organization stands for. Companies that fail to prioritize a positive employee experience may see high turnover rates, low job satisfaction ratings, and decreased productivity. It’s essential for businesses to recognize that employee experience is instrumental in driving loyalty amongst their customers by demonstrating commitment to the organization’s core values throughout each transaction. By understanding why employee experience is important for businesses, organizations can take steps towards cultivating an atmosphere where employees are valued and respected leading to increased organizational achievement. How to improve employee experience in the workplace Supporting an engaging and positive workplace atmosphere is essential to improve employee experience. With a focus on work-life balance, employers should strive to create an environment that feels inclusive and allows for open dialogue among team members. Establishing culture initiatives such as career development plans or fostering transparent communication can help build better relationships among staff, which benefits the company in the long term. Having flexible working hours can also be a great advantage for employees who want to manage their daily responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed. Employers can encourage employees to take part in activities outside of work, such as competitions or volunteer opportunities, to give them an extra sense of purpose while developing valuable skills. Ultimately, investing in your employee experience is fundamental for a productive and happy workplace – one that values everyone’s skills and contributions. Happy employees lead to a successful business It may come as a surprise to many business owners, but the most successful businesses are not necessarily those with the highest profits. Instead, businesses that prioritize the happiness of their employees have been found to be more successful in terms of customer loyalty, productivity and engagement. Studies have shown that employees who feel more valued, respected, and ultimately happier in their work environment are more productive and motivated to reach goals. This translates directly into a better experience for customers, giving them an excellent reason to return or remain loyal to the company. People recognize where they are appreciated — including in the workplace — so it’s important for businesses to take steps wherever possible to ensure their workers genuinely enjoy what they do on a daily basis. The benefits of investing in employee experience Investing in employee experience pays off. A healthy work environment is essential to a successful business, and creating one can have significant benefits. It can help reduce employee turnover by increasing job satisfaction, strengthen employee morale, and even improve customer service and overall customer loyalty. Additionally, employee experience initiatives can lead to a smarter workforce that’s better able to innovate, think critically, solve problems quickly and efficiently, all of which can be huge assets for an organization. Ultimately, investing in employee experience is an important component to gaining long-term success today and in the future. Crafting a great employee experience strategy Creating a great employee experience strategy can be challenging, but the rewards are worth it. Your strategy should include activities and spaces that promote collaboration, cross-functional teaming, and feedback loops that create an environment of continuous learning and development. Making sure your employees feel heard and their contributions recognized is key to fostering innovative thinking, encouraging creativity, and ultimately leading to greater business success. Investing in flexible working environments can also make all the difference – it gives employees more choice in how they work while making them more productive and engaged with their roles. With clear communication channels in place and opportunities to collaborate across departments, you can ensure you maximize potential and make everyone feel part of a forward-moving team. To sum up, it is clear that creating a great employee experience should be a top priority for any business. Not only can it help to improve and enhance the daily lives of employees and create a more positive workplace culture overall, but investing in your employee experience can also lead to an increase in profits, improved customer service and more productive and creative employees.

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Chris Russell

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