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Top hiring tips for employers in 2017

Are you planning to recruit this year? According to the US Department of Labor, the cost of a bad hire is at least 30% of an employee’s first year earnings. And that could spell disaster, especially for smaller firms. Here at Gradlink, we aim to simplify the recruitment process, making it as straightforward as possible by giving employers immediate access to thousands of talented graduates. But what else can you do to secure the right candidate in 2017?

Consider international returnees

The first tip comes in the form of international graduates. Many organisations have begun to create entry-level roles, graduate programmes and fast tracks to tap into the wealth of UK-educated students returning to their home territories.

According to Business Review Middle East, some of the UAE’s biggest names, such as the Emirates Group, Unilever, Chalhoub Group and General Electric, all embrace graduates, especially those who have studied overseas.

Fresh from university and easily malleable, international graduates are great options for employers hoping to train their new recruits and invest in home-grown talent at the same time. With a range of transferable skills – such as communication, critical thinking and leadership qualities – as well as a firm grasp on the English language, an affinity for fast learning and an enthusiastic attitude, these innovative applicants can fit well into entry-level roles across the board.

Moreover, equipped with their UK education and having completed a degree alongside likeminded, talented individuals, international graduates also come with an extensive network of contacts.

Another notable strength of an international graduate is their global perspective. Simply living in a multicultural environment for any period of time is an enlightening experience – and that’s before you begin to consider education, aptitude and potential.

But what other tips should you keep in mind when recruiting? Business.com highlighted the following recently…

Don’t underestimate over-the-phone interviews

Typically lasting 20 to 30 minutes, phone interviews can open you up to far-away candidates and help you pick out the good from the bad. Equally, if the interview goes badly, a telephone call is easier to end.

Put it out to your team

Consider the wider team when interviewing, or better yet, bring some of them in. Their perspectives can give you insight into what the candidate may be like to work alongside, rather than simply manage.

Provide a decent salary

There is a saying among graduates: “you can’t eat experience”. It is simple, if you want the best talent, you need to be prepared to pay well. If not, someone else will.

Review your benefits package

It may not be mandatory to provide healthcare plans or extra holiday, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go the extra mile when trying to attract top graduate talent. From flexible working options to free staff lunches on a Friday, perks don’t have to be big but they’ll go a long way to engaging new recruits and motivating current employees.

Finding the right fit for a role can be a challenge. Here at Gradlink, our aim is to connect top employers with outstanding graduate talent. Register your business with GradLink today and receive CVs from fresh returning graduates who are keen to bring their newly-learnt skills back home.