A solid public relations strategy not only helps a company with messaging and branding, but also helps them with recruiting.
How?
First many “A List” type candidates will be attracted to well known, well branded companies in the first part of their search.
If you seek a position in the beverage industry would you rather work for Coca Cola or PepsiCo, or Joe’s Bottling Company? Surely most candidates will try to secure a position with the former two firms rather than the smaller, unknown business.
Even though Joe’s may have an opening that fits the candidate’s skills set, the job seeker may not know about it or realize that Joe’s Bottling Company even exists.
However if Joe’s is well branded-easily found on Google, articles easily found in print and online, videos on YouTube, and well represented on social sites-the company may be on the candidate’s radar and could even be near the top of his or her list of potential workplaces.
Secondly, branding pieces provide an excellent selling tool during the interview process. Well placed articles, features, photos and videos can be used to add value to the position and provide familiarity with the business and staff.
A candidate may see the business in a whole new light once they are fully educated about the firm.
Thirdly, public relations helps to tangibilize the business, its history, ownership and mission. Articles and videos provide an in-depth look and feeling about the firm, and perhaps clear any negative perceptions. They can provide the necessary impetus to inspire the job seeker to become part of the organization.
Businesses should consider all the benefits of a public relations campaign. The impact on the recruiting aspect is a key benefit of the plan that should not be overlooked.