FIVE PROVEN STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT THE MOST CREATIVE AND PRODUCTIVE STAFF TO YOUR COMPANY

IN TODAY'S COMPETITIVE BUSINESS LANDSCAPE, ATTRACTING AND RETAINING TOP TALENT IS CRUCIAL FOR A COMPANY'S SUCCESS. CREATIVE AND PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYEES CAN DRIVE INNOVATION, IMPROVE EFFICIENCY, AND ULTIMATELY CONTRIBUTE TO A COMPANY'S BOTTOM LINE. BUT HOW CAN YOU ENSURE YOUR ORGANISATION STANDS OUT AS A TOP CHOICE FOR THESE HIGH-PERFORMING INDIVIDUALS?

IN THIS BLOG POST, WE'LL EXPLORE FIVE EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU ATTRACT THE MOST CREATIVE AND PRODUCTIVE STAFF TO YOUR COMPANY.

1. Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits Packages

To attract top talent, it's essential to offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. This includes not only salary but also bonuses, stock options, and other financial incentives. Additionally, consider offering comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement plans, and other rewards that can help set your company apart.

NB: It doesn’t always mean you need to pay the highest salaries if you are known as a wonderful place to work with a generous package.

For example, tech giant Google is known for its generous compensation packages, which include perks like free meals, on-site gyms, and even nap pods. As a result, the company consistently ranks as one of the top places to work and attracts some of the brightest minds in the industry.

2. Foster a Positive Company Culture that values Inclusion, creativity, and innovation

A positive company culture that values creativity and innovation can be a major draw for top talent. Encourage collaboration, open communication, and creative problem-solving by providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. This can really make a difference and not only be a great reason to join you but will also be a reason for great talent to stay.

At Pixar Animation Studios, for example, employees are encouraged to take risks and learn from their failures. This culture of experimentation and innovation has led to numerous groundbreaking films and a reputation for attracting top creative talent.

3. Provide Opportunities for Professional Development and Growth

High-performing employees are often eager to learn and grow in their careers. By offering opportunities for professional development, such as training programs, mentorship, and career advancement, you can make your company an attractive destination for ambitious professionals. You may not provide the training or have the capacity to do this but be creative; give staff X amount of time a week that you pay for, which they can use to develop skills.

One success story is that of software company Adobe, which offers extensive learning resources and career development programs for its employees. This commitment to growth and development has helped Adobe attract and retain top talent in the competitive tech industry.

4. Emphasize Work-Life Balance and Flexible Schedules

In today's fast-paced world, work-life balance is more important than ever. Offering flexible schedules, remote work options, and generous vacation policies can help attract employees who value a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives.

Across New Zealand, we here at The Job Market are seeing ‘flexible on location’ or ‘work from home’ as real options across many organisations. Those that do not seriously consider this and have competition for the same talent may find that recruitment of these staff will be a lot tougher very soon.

For instance, outdoor retailer REI is known for its commitment to work-life balance, offering flexible schedules, generous time off, and even paid sabbaticals for long-term employees. This focus on employee well-being has helped the company build a loyal and dedicated workforce.

5. Utilise Creative Recruitment Methods, such as social media and referrals

Finally, don't be afraid to think “outside the box” regarding recruitment. Utilise social media, employee referrals, and other creative methods to reach a wider pool of potential candidates and highlight your company's unique culture and values.

Take, for example, the innovative recruitment campaigns of Airbnb, which have included targeted social media ads, interactive online experiences, and even a talent search for a "professional world explorer." These creative efforts have helped the company attract a diverse and talented team of employees.

Conclusion: Attract the Best Talent and Watch Your Company Thrive

By implementing these five strategies, you can make your company a top choice for creative and productive professionals. In turn, this will help you build a strong, talented workforce that drives innovation and success for your organisation. So don't wait – start putting these strategies into action today and watch your company thrive!

Are you a Kiwi-owned business already adopting 2-3 of these types of strategies? We would love to hear from you and help promote to Aotearoa / New Zealand what you do for staff.

Hope you find this information useful.

Tony Cutting
for The Job Market