How the Cost of a Bad Hire Can Impact Your Business

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Hiring the right people is one of the most critical decisions a business can make. However, when that decision goes wrong, the consequences can be more severe than you might expect. A bad hire doesn’t just drain financial resources—it can disrupt team productivity, damage company culture, and even tarnish your brand’s reputation.

According to a SHRM study, the average cost of a bad hire can reach up to $240,000. This staggering figure includes not just the investment in recruitment and training, but also the less obvious costs, such as lost productivity, diminished team morale, and the potential strain on client relationships. However, the financial burden is only one aspect of the issue.

In this blog, we’ll explore the wide-ranging consequences of a bad hire on your business. We’ll look beyond the financial implications to examine how a poor hiring decision can lead to operational inefficiencies and increased turnover rates. You’ll also learn how to identify the early warning signs of a bad hire and discover practical strategies to prevent these costly mistakes. Additionally, we’ll discuss how partnering with a recruiter can help ensure you make the right hire every time.

Infographic highlighting key statistics about the costs and impacts of a bad hire, including decreased productivity and increased turnover rates.

Understanding the True Cost of a Bad Hire

Hiring mistakes can be costly, affecting not just your bottom line but also the day-to-day operations and overall health of your business. Here’s a closer look at the wide-ranging impacts of bringing the wrong person on board.

1. Recruitment and Onboarding Expenses

To begin with, the financial burden starts with the hiring process itself. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the average cost-per-hire is about $4,129. This includes expenses related to job postings on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn, as well as the time HR and management spend on interviews and background checks. However, when the hire doesn’t work out, these costs double as you face severance pay, which can range from a few thousand dollars to several months’ salary, and the expenses of starting the recruitment process all over again. Ultimately, these direct costs can quickly drain resources that could be better allocated to other critical areas of your business.

2. Productivity Losses and Team Disruption

Beyond the initial costs, a bad hire also significantly impacts productivity. In fact, research from CareerBuilder found that 36% of employers reported a decrease in productivity due to a bad hire. When an employee underperforms, other team members often have to pick up the slack, which can lead to increased workloads and higher stress levels. This, in turn, can cause a 39% decrease in employee morale, as found in the same study. Over time, these issues can lead to burnout and higher absenteeism, ultimately slowing down projects and negatively affecting the quality of work, which can have a lasting impact on your business’s performance.

3. Cultural and Moral Implications

Moreover, the impact of a bad hire extends beyond financial costs and productivity losses—it can also deeply affect your company culture. According to the Forbes Human Resources Council, a bad hire can lead to a 30% reduction in team morale, contributing to a toxic work environment. This reduction in morale can result in higher turnover rates, with 29% of companies reporting that a bad hire led to increased turnover among good employees. Furthermore, a bad hire can damage the company’s reputation, both internally and externally, making it harder to attract top talent and retain clients, as negative experiences are often shared on platforms like Glassdoor, Indeed, Google, and others.

4. Long-Term Financial Impact

Finally, it’s important to consider the long-term financial repercussions of a bad hire. According to CareerBuilder, the average cost of hiring the wrong employee is $17,000, while similar research from Northwestern University found that it could be $15,000 on average. For senior roles, these expenses can escalate significantly. The U.S. Small Business Administration estimates that hiring a new worker typically costs between 1.25 to 1.4 times their base salary when factoring in benefits and taxes. Moreover, the onboarding period, which can last from three months to a year, represents a substantial investment before a new hire becomes fully productive. If the employee leaves before this investment is recouped, the financial loss is amplified. Gallup research further emphasizes that replacing a worker can cost between half to twice their salary, underscoring the ongoing financial strain a bad hire can place on your company.

Stressed businessman sitting at his desk, highlighting the impact of a bad hire on business productivity and morale.

Calculate the Cost of a Bad Hire for Your Business:

As you can see, the costs associated with a bad hire can accumulate quickly, affecting both the financial health and overall stability of your business. But how can you quantify these impacts? To help you assess the true cost of a bad hire, we’ve developed a simple yet powerful formula. This formula allows you to plug in your specific numbers and get a clearer picture of what a bad hire could mean for your business.

Formula Breakdown:

  • Hiring Costs = Recruitment Expenses + Job Ads + Background Checks
  • Onboarding Costs = Training Expenses + Orientation + Resources Provided
  • Compensation = (Salary + Benefits) x Duration of Employment
  • Lost Productivity = (Expected Productivity - Actual Productivity) + Time Spent by Others
  • Team Impact = (Cost of Decreased Morale + Potential Turnover Costs)
  • Exit Costs = Severance Pay + Legal Fees + New Recruitment Costs

Hiring Costs + Onboarding Costs + Compensation

+ Lost Productivity + Team Impact + Exit Costs

= Total Cost of a Bad Hire

This formula helps highlight the significant financial impact a bad hire can have. By using this calculation, you can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of making informed hiring decisions to protect your business from unnecessary costs. Want to see how this applies to your business? Try our cost of a bad hire calculator below to calculate your potential costs instantly.

Cost of a Bad Hire

Total cost of recruitment (including job ads, recruiter fees, interview expenses, background checks, etc.)
Total cost of onboarding and training (including materials, training sessions, and any resources or time provided)
Enter the total salary and benefits paid to the employee during their time with the company
Consider the costs of paying other employees overtime to compensate for the bad hire's shortcomings, potential client losses, delays in project timelines, etc.
Costs associated with terminating the employee (severance pay, legal fees, and new recruitment costs)
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How to Identify a Bad Hire

Given these potential financial impacts, it's crucial to recognize a bad hire early to minimize long-term damage. Every new hire represents a fresh opportunity to strengthen your team, but occasionally, even the most promising candidates don’t work out as expected. Recognizing when a new employee isn’t fitting in is crucial to maintaining your company’s momentum. It’s important to remember that everyone has an adjustment period, so one or two hiccups early on don’t necessarily spell trouble. However, when issues persist despite support and time, they may signal a deeper problem. It’s essential to consider the broader context—look at the full picture, including how the employee is affecting team dynamics, meeting performance expectations, and aligning with your company culture. By staying attentive to these elements, you can spot potential problems before they start to drag down your business. Here are some red flags that might indicate you’ve made a bad hire.

A list of red flags indicating a bad hire, including poor performance, skills gap, missed deadlines, and negative attitude.

Red Flags of a Bad Hire:

  • Consistently poor performance, even after sufficient training and onboarding.
  • A skills gap between what was promised during the interview and what’s delivered on the job.
  • Frequently missed deadlines or failure to meet key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • A negative attitude that disrupts team harmony or clashes with company values.
  • Persistent lateness or absenteeism without a reasonable explanation.
  • Repeated errors or the same mistakes made over and over, despite feedback.
  • A tendency to blame others for mistakes or failures rather than taking responsibility.
  • Customer complaints or negative feedback linked to the employee’s work.

Addressing these red flags early can help prevent more significant problems down the line. It’s not just about identifying issues but understanding whether they’re temporary or indicative of a poor fit. Sometimes, problems can be resolved with additional training or adjustments to the role. However, if the issues persist despite your best efforts, it might be time to reevaluate the hire. By considering the context and taking thoughtful action, you can protect your team’s productivity and morale. Up next, we’ll dive into strategies to avoid these costly hiring mistakes in the first place, helping you build a stronger, more resilient team.

Leverage Recruiting Experts to Avoid Costly Mistakes

Sometimes, even with the best processes in place, finding the right candidate can be challenging. This is where partnering with a recruiter can make a significant difference. Recruiters bring a wealth of expertise and resources that can help you avoid the pitfalls of a bad hire. They have access to a broader talent pool and can quickly identify candidates who not only meet the technical requirements but also fit your company culture. Recruiters can streamline the hiring process by pre-screening candidates, conducting thorough interviews, and even performing reference checks on your behalf. This expertise reduces the likelihood of a bad hire and the associated costs, freeing you up to focus on other critical aspects of your business.

Top 5 Reasons Employers Should Partner with Recruiters

Why Partner with Blue Signal Search?

At Blue Signal Search, we go beyond traditional recruitment by offering tailored solutions that align with your company’s unique needs. With over 2,700 successful placements and a 94% retention rate, we specialize in connecting top-tier talent with businesses across various industries. Our deep market understanding allows us to not only find the right candidates but also provide insights into industry trends and competitive compensation packages, ensuring you attract and retain top performers. We’re committed to supporting you throughout the entire hiring process, making sure that every placement contributes to your long-term success. Partnering with Blue Signal Search means investing in a strong, cohesive team that drives your business forward while helping you avoid the costly repercussions of a bad hire.

Protect Your Business from the Costs of a Bad Hire

As we’ve explored, the cost of a bad hire goes far beyond financial loss—it can disrupt team dynamics, damage company culture, and slow down your business’s growth. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s essential to take proactive steps throughout the hiring process. This includes crafting clear job descriptions, implementing structured interviews, assessing cultural fit, and using practical evaluations. These strategies are key to ensuring you bring the right talent into your organization.

Even with the best practices in place, hiring can still be a complex and time-consuming task. That’s where our recruiting services come in. With our expertise and access to a broad talent pool, we can help you navigate these challenges and secure the right candidates who will thrive in your company. Ready to protect your business from the hidden costs of a bad hire? Fill out the form below, and let’s work together to strengthen your team. 

Partner with us for your next hire.

Set up a free consultation with a recruiting manager. Tell us about your hiring need.

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Top 5 Recruitment Trends for 2023

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As we settle into the new year, the job market continues to evolve, and hiring managers are adapting to new recruitment trends to attract the best talent. At Blue Signal, we recognize the importance of staying up to date with the latest industry knowledge to help our clients source top talent in even the most challenging markets. If you're struggling to navigate the post-pandemic job landscape, you're not alone. In this blog, we'll explore the top five recruitment trends for 2023, providing insights on how you can stand out and succeed in your company's industry. If you’re an employer struggling in your search to hire the best candidates, keep reading to learn about the latest recruitment strategies for the year ahead.

Remote and hybrid work is here to stay.

women at her desk busy working from home.

Remote and hybrid work continues to reign supreme amongst recruitment trends for 2023. The pandemic has reshaped both employer and employee expectations regarding flexibility, according to Human Resource Executive. Their research indicates over 90% of employers report that productivity has stayed the same or increased as a result of remote work, making it a viable option for many organizations. Furthermore, employees are looking for flexibility when it comes to what they work on, who they work with, and the amount they work, Harvard Business Review researchers found. This is why companies are investing in improving their employee experience, as reported by a Gartner survey of frontline worker managers. Through proper support, allowing employees to work remotely can increase their sense of value and engagement – resulting in improved employee retention for your business.

Additionally, making a job change is more convenient than in the past now that job seekers have the ability to make the shift from home, making the opportunities and benefits much higher. As CNBC reports, "the cost of switching jobs is lower when remote work is on the table." Overall, remote and hybrid work is amongst the top recruitment trends for 2023, as it provides flexibility and convenience for both employers and employees.

Burnout is on the rise; expand health and well-being offerings.

Young man practicing virtual meditation in front of his lap top.

Unfortunately, post-pandemic effects remain in the workforce and employee burnout is on the rise, making it a top concern for recruitment trends in 2023. According to Harvard Business Review, nearly 60% of employees report they are stressed at their jobs, which is higher than even the peaks of 2020. With employees experiencing burnout, companies are starting to realize the importance of expanding their health and well-being offerings to attract and retain top talent. According to Gartner, 82% of employees now say it's essential for their organizations to see them as a whole person, rather than just an employee. In response, companies are implementing proactive rest, more paid time off (PTO), no-meeting Fridays, wellness time, discussion opportunities, on-site counseling, and coaching as recommended by Gartner. These wellness initiatives demonstrate a company's commitment to their employees' well-being, help to alleviate burnout, and will ultimately lead to increased productivity and profitability in the long run.

DEI efforts move forward.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts continue to be a crucial factor in company recruitment trends in 2023. However, Gartner research reveals that 42% of employees believe that their organization's DEI efforts are divisive, and 2 out of 5 agree that a growing number of employees feel alienated by or resentful of their company's DEI efforts. To address this challenge, HR must equip managers with the tools and strategies to engage resistant employees and address pushback early on before it develops into more disruptive forms of DEI resistance. As Harvard Business Review notes, these strategies can help create a more inclusive work environment that fosters diversity, promotes equity, and builds a culture of belonging where employees feel valued and respected for their unique contributions. By prioritizing DEI efforts and addressing resistance, companies can attract a more diverse pool of talent and create a workplace where all employees can thrive.

A chart showing 3 ways to implement DEI efforts into your company culture.

Blue Signal is committed to integrating DEI principles into hiring practices at all levels, and we are continuously exploring ways to enhance this process. Our diversity and inclusion recruiting team possesses the expertise to attract a wider range of diverse candidates and can support you in improving your employer branding to align with D&I values.

Diversified talent pipelines and soft skills dominate recruitment trends in 2023!

Diversified talent pipelines and soft skills are set to dominate recruitment trends for companies in 2023. According to Harvard Business Review, organizations must shift their focus from candidates' credentials and prior experience to assessing their skills to perform the role. Gartner's research on hiring trends of 2023 shows that candidates are charting nonlinear career paths and applying for jobs outside their current areas of expertise. This shift in talent acquisition means hiring managers are now less concerned with industry experience and technical skills. An article from the Harvard Business Review states that employing a skills-based approach can ensure more accurate alignment between job seekers and employment opportunities, significantly increase the size of talent pools, and enhance internal career mobility and employee dedication. Furthermore, they report that the skills-based approach holds the potential to mitigate the inequalities in the economy and society, which are damaging to the well-being of institutions. This is why it is essential to expand your company’s range of talent sources and prioritize the development of soft skills in order to diversify talent pipelines and stay on top of 2023 recruitment trends.

Why you should work with a recruiter in 2023.

As recruitment trends continue to evolve in 2023, it's becoming increasingly important for companies to work with recruiters to find and attract top talent. At Blue Signal, our recruiters are experts in navigating the job market and can provide valuable insights into emerging recruitment trends, allowing companies to stay ahead of the curve and attract the best candidates. Our recruiting team can help companies build strong employer brands, which is critical in attracting and retaining top talent. By working with Blue Signal, companies can leverage their expertise and resources to find the right candidates for their organization, ensuring a more efficient and effective executive hiring process. Ultimately, working with a recruiter can help companies save time and money while ensuring they have the talent needed to achieve their business goals in 2023 and beyond.

Don't let the daunting task of implementing these recruitment trends overwhelm you - let a professional take the pressure off your hands. Take the first step towards improving your hiring process by contacting a recruiter today!

Implement these top recruitment trends into your hiring practice.

With the job market constantly changing, it is essential for hiring managers to stay informed about the latest hiring strategies to attract and retain top talent. At Blue Signal, we understand the importance of staying up to date with industry knowledge and providing clients with innovative solutions to overcome even the most challenging hiring obstacles. We hope that our exploration of the top five recruitment trends for 2023 has provided valuable insights for employers looking to differentiate themselves and succeed in their respective industries. As your partner in the process, we encourage employers to stay on top of the latest hiring strategies to ensure they have the best chance of finding and securing the right candidates for their organizations. Click the icons below to join our social media community and stay up to date on all the latest hiring trends!

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Evaluating Your Executive Hiring Process: From Inquiry Through Offer

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In a recent interview Tim Ryan (U.S. Chairman, PwC) stated “The war for talent is over. Talent won.”; in addition, The US economy added a whopping 517,000 jobs in January. So where does that leave your executive hiring process and strategies? With countless options available to job seekers—from associates to executives—companies must provide a positive candidate experience to attract and retain quality employees.

“The war for talent is over. Talent won.” - Tim Ryan

When a candidate applies for a job, they are not just looking to join your organization; they are also forming an opinion of your company. In fact, according to CareerBuilder, 78% of candidates consider their hiring process experience as a reflection of how their potential employer values its people. Unfortunately, most companies often leave out key steps that demonstrate respect for candidates or fail to communicate in a timely manner throughout the executive hiring process. As experts in the executive hiring process, Blue Signal understands why it is important to create a positive and effective experience that speaks well of your company.

The Candidate Experience is Everything

Your executive hiring process is a direct reflection of your organizational values and culture. If you have an efficient and organized hiring process, you demonstrate respect for potential employees’ time and are more likely to attract high-quality talent. On the other hand, if the process drags on for months with no response or feedback from your company, it sends a message that you don’t value employees or customers enough to invest in them. Make sure your executive hiring process aligns with these expectations. For instance, if you promise quick response times and fail to deliver on those promises, it can damage your reputation as an employer.

Communication is Key

One of the most common mistakes made in the executive hiring process is lack of communication with prospective employees. In the two (or more) months following their application, 52% of applicants received no communication regarding the position. Candidates should be kept up to date on the status of their application throughout the entire hiring process—from initial contact through the final decision.

Communication is Key

Be Responsive, Transparent, and Honest

Transparent communication begins as soon as the job description is written. Candidates are more likely to apply for a position when they understand expectations. This means that your company culture, expectations for performance, and—ideally—compensation need to be clearly communicated in your job descriptions. After applying, candidates should never feel like they are ignored during the executive hiring process. They should always know if there are delays or changes in the process and be notified promptly if so. When it comes to giving feedback about job postings or applications, honesty is always the best policy. Providing constructive, yet transparent, feedback helps build trust between your company and those seeking employment with you. This can go a long way towards improving your company’s reputation and executive hiring process.

The Power of Word-of-Mouth Referrals

According to one survey, 72% of candidates said that they would be more likely to choose an employer based on word-of-mouth feedback from a friend or family member who had already worked there. This means that if you treat candidates poorly throughout the hiring process, those experiences will be shared with others and could significantly damage your reputation as an employer. Alternatively, candidates who have a positive experience are more likely to refer others to your organization, and they may even be more likely to accept a job offer if one is extended. Like any other company, word-of-mouth referrals are crucial to Blue Signal’s success. It may even be a good idea to take a page from our playbook and create a place online for client testimonials or employee testimonials to boost your company’s branding, and provide more information for job seekers when researching your company.

Making Your Executive Hiring Process More Efficient

It’s not just about providing a better experience — having an efficient executive hiring process can also reduce costs and improve time-to-hire metrics for your organization. The application process should be easy for candidates to follow and understand—not just for them, but also for recruiters managing multiple applications at once. The more streamlined and user-friendly your application process is, the more likely candidates will be to complete it, causing less frustration for hiring managers.

If possible, consider implementing electronic forms that can be filled out digitally and submitted quickly with minimal effort on both sides. Investing in automation tools like applicant tracking systems (ATS) can help streamline processes while simultaneously improving the overall user experience for applicants – resulting in greater efficiency and cost savings for your company over time. An ATS can help you keep track of candidates, manage job postings, and automate some of the administrative tasks of the executive hiring process.

Making Your Executive Hiring Process More Efficient

Curious what to avoid throughout the executive hiring process? Check out our previous blog on common mistakes companies make during the interview portion of the hiring process here.

Improving Your Employer Branding

Employers should always think about how their brand is being represented during the executive hiring process — from job postings through employee onboarding — and strive to create an authentic connection between prospective employees and their organization. It’s also important to keep in mind that today's job seekers are well-informed about companies before they even apply. Before applying for jobs, 75% of applicants will review the company's reputation. They will research how quickly you respond to applications, how often people in your organization are promoted, what kind of benefits you offer, etc. Therefore, it is crucial to generate engaging content that shines a spotlight on the benefits of your company, so job seekers experience a positive interaction even before applying.

Improving Your Employer Branding

Additionally, you can use feedback surveys after interviews or onboarding new hires, so that candidates can leave constructive feedback about their experiences throughout the hiring process. This can provide valuable insights into where improvement is needed in terms of communication or other aspects of the hiring process. These surveys will provide critical information to influence the improvement of your executive hiring process.

Looking for a partner in the hiring process? Contact Kelsey Campion!

Your executive hiring process says a lot about your company culture and values—so make sure it reflects those things in a positive light! Investing time into creating an efficient and respectful hiring process will ensure that your company stands out from others when it comes to recruiting top talent.

Automation tools and employer branding can help streamline processes while simultaneously improving the overall user experience for applicants, as well as help build relationships with potential hires before they even apply. By taking these steps you'll be ensuring that everyone involved in the executive hiring process has an enjoyable experience.

Closing the Confidence Gap

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While the world of work has been making strides to make it a more equitable place for women and minorities, it's still not where it should be – but maybe not for the reason you think. Despite the rise of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, corporate responsibility, fair hiring practices, and an emphasis on representation – the system is still geared to better serve men. Hewlett Packard found that women only apply for jobs when they have 100% of the qualifications listed in the job description, whereas men are comfortable applying when meeting just 60%. This is a large detriment to women in the workforce because it limits their visibility to companies that are hiring. Here is how you can help close this confidence gap and level the playing field when it comes to job applicants.  

 

Defining the Confidence Gap  

As stated above, studies have proven that there is a confidence gap that occurs when women apply to jobs versus when men apply to jobs. The “confidence gap” is the difference in confidence between men and women applying to open positions. Men are more likely to apply to jobs they are less confident about meeting all the criteria for, whereas women typically only apply to a job when they are confident they meet all the criteria.  

 

What the Confidence Gap Doesn’t Address  

However, this finding doesn’t address all the variables behind applying to jobs. As many have speculated since the original Hewlett Packard findings were released, this confidence gap could be attributed to several other factors.  

Women Are More Selective  

A study by LinkedIn found that women are 14% less likely to apply to jobs they review than men, even though they are browsing roles at the same rate. This finding suggests that the gap may not be about confidence, but rather more about their perceived success rates. Women want to respect the guidelines of the posting and tend to only apply to jobs they believe they could actually be offered. In this instance, this selective nature is attributed to a respect for everyone’s time and energy, and not a lack of confidence.  

Recruiting is a Human-Based System  

Although recruiting has been automated by applicant tracking systems and other advanced technology, it’s still largely a human-based system and is therefore affected by human faults. That same LinkedIn report found that when women appear in a recruiter's search results, they are 13% less likely to be viewed than a man’s profile in the same search results. Gender bias is an unconscious bias that can play into a person’s perceived notion of a candidate, and unfortunately can also stack the odds against women.  

Organizational Bias  

Just as individuals can harbor unconscious bias, so can organizations. Oftentimes, systems within an organization can inadvertently reward men more than women. The first example that often comes to mind is the “old boys club” that tends to promote men at greater rates than women. When hiring, bonuses, promotions, and other company recognition is based on favor from leadership, it can create gender biased results.  

 

How to Close the Confidence Gap – and Address Its Ancillary Issues  

No matter the source, whether it’s lack of confidence or biases in the hiring system, it’s clear to see that there is still room for improvement when it comes to closing this gender-based gap. Here are some steps you can take at your organization to ensure an equitable candidate journey for everyone.  

Confidence Gap Blog Graphic

Address the Confidence Gap in Your Job Postings 

Many companies have started to adopt jargon within their own postings that directly addresses the confidence gap proven by Hewlett Packard. At Blue Signal, we recently implemented the same practice and began including the following phrasing in all our own internal job postings:  

“Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women, minorities, and individuals that identify as a part of the LGBTQ+ community are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet each and every qualification listed on a job description. At Blue Signal, we believe in more than a checklist when it comes to finding the perfect person for a role. In order to further build more inclusive and diverse workplaces, and should this role sound exciting to you, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the candidate we are looking for.”    

Create something similar that fits the tone and messaging of your own company. This way, when women or other minority groups go to apply, they will see this as encouragement and a direct reflection of your organization’s commitment to equity. You’re sure to see results as your applicant pool becomes more diverse!  

Ensure Equitable Practices within Hiring, Promotions, and Other Internal Recognition  

Most importantly, make sure you are auditing your current internal systems to ensure equitable practices throughout the candidate journey. Equity must be prioritized after hiring in order to make a true, lasting impact. Make sure there are concrete, well-communicated goals in place for promotions, bonuses, raises, and other recognition so it’s not based on favor. Then, follow up by monitoring the progress of all employees through their careers to make sure both men and women are being promoted at the same rate.  

Address Gender Biases in Your Recruiting Practices  

Finally, have the conversation and take the proper steps to remove gender bias in your recruiting and hiring processes. Educate your hiring managers on gender bias so that they can address it within themselves. Leverage ATS systems that remove names and pronouns in resumes so that hiring managers are making selections on candidates to screen that aren’t based on presumed gender. Work with recruiting firms that address gender bias in their processes.  

 

Conclusion  

Unfortunately, the hiring systems in place today inequitably favor men over women. It’s our job to make sure we actively counteract this by addressing gender biases in our business practices. By taking accountability and adjusting our processes, together we can close the confidence gap.  

To learn more or get started on your own hiring equity journey today, reach out to Blue Signal’s DEI certified recruiting team. As your partners in the hiring process, we’re here to get your organization on the right track.  

Become a Dominant Hybrid Workforce by Leveraging Your Recruiter

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In this digital age, many companies are turning to virtual recruiting to help supplement an increasingly remote and hybrid workforce. Several top companies have started the switch, recognizably Ford, Citigroup, Microsoft, and Spotify. With the pandemic driving an immediate need, we’ve accelerated global digitization on a large scale. However, it’s leading many in management to question how going remote will affect productivity, profitability, and their workforce.

When it comes to employees’ wants, the message is clear. According to Dice’s 2021 Technologist Sentiment Survey, 59% of respondents preferred full-time remote work or some combination of in-office and remote work. Dice theorizes that the events of 2020 have given several professionals a new outlook on remote work, and in turn they have come to expect more flexibility from employers. Furthermore, Dice estimates that 149M new technology jobs will join the market by 2025 to support this digital shift. So how can companies make the switch to a hybrid workforce - especially among a market with such exponential growing need? That’s where virtual recruiting can help.

Dominant Hybrid Workforce - Employees Expect Flexibility

Choosing a Hybrid or Remote Workforce - What Recruiters Can Tell You

As a Hiring Authority

Several studies have proven that employing a hybrid workforce has had a positive impact on productivity, as well as significant money savings. From a hiring perspective, the greatest benefit of all comes from hybrid workforce models opening up the candidate pool to independent talent. By widening your search parameters and allowing people to telecommute, you can tap into a candidate pool that would have been inaccessible otherwise - whether that’s due to geography or time commitment constraints.

We know what you’re thinking - managing a remote workforce during 2020 was nothing short of an immense challenge - why would we go back to that? Contrary to popular belief, most of the struggles workers experienced during pandemic-era remote work aren’t a hindrance to actual remote work. For instance, with children going back to in-person learning settings, professionals no longer need to balance work with childcare during their normal 9 to 5. Not to mention, in this increasingly competitive marketplace, allowing hybrid work could be the key to better retention. In the talent acquisition industry we know that it’s not the setting that makes or breaks a good employee - it’s the employee themselves, and their drive to succeed. Those who do remote work right can do it well.

As an Employee

Hybrid work models offer a plethora of benefits for workers, when the job permits. Several noteworthy pros include   and better work/life balance. But if you were to ask a recruiter, they’d tell you that the most important benefit remote work gives you is location independence. Where would you live if you could take your work with you? The possibilities are only limited by the reach of your Wi-Fi! Simply put, negotiating hybrid or remote work options into your employment contract can give you more freedom in how and where you spend your time, and a recruiter can help support you on that journey.

 

Building Your New Talent Brand as a Hybrid Employer

Once you’ve decided to take the plunge and allow hybrid work, your next step should be toward solidifying your employer brand as a hybrid workforce. In order to attract the digitally savvy candidates you are looking for, you’ll have to meet them where they’re at. Focus your online presence on attracting candidates, especially those Gen Y (Millennials) and Gen Z professionals. Hybrid work models appeal greatly to the next economy-leading generations, which works out well considering they are the ones who were raised in the digital age. Leverage your recruiters to help you navigate this market. As talent specialists, we have the insider knowledge needed to hack into that hybrid-seeking candidate pool.

Dominant Hybrid Workforce - Things to Consider

Things to Consider When Supporting a Hybrid Workforce

New Hiring Processes

Just as with many areas of work changing to accommodate this digital shift, hiring is following suit. Make sure you are prepared to tackle this new process before beginning your talent searches. Do you have the right tools to recruit remotely? What are your new interview timeframes, when you counter in a mix of in-person and virtual interviews? Are you prepared to negotiate remote work structures when you make an employment offer?

Candidates are ready to ask for what they want when it comes to hybrid working. Your business needs to have offer letter structures in place that reflect what you need from which roles when it comes to hybrid work, such as: how often someone is required to be in office, what their working hours should be when working from home, and what the expectation is when it comes to completing various projects associated with the role. Your needs can vary in flexibility given the scope of the role you hire. Leverage your recruiter to ensure none of these details slip through the cracks, and make expectations clear from the onset.

New Onboarding Processes

Establish what your onboarding process will look like for new hybrid hires. Will initial training be in person? What will you provide for their remote office workspace, and what will they need to provide on their own? What kind of support can you give employees when they’re working remotely, such as IT, mentorship, HR contacts, etc.? It may be hard to visualize what you need ahead of time, but ask your recruiter for what practices would best fit your work model.

New Remote Company Culture

When allowing employees to work from home, it’s easy to forget that you are quite literally entering a new part of their lives. Even with virtual backgrounds and pre-scheduled meetings, you’ll be immersed in their home lives by “meeting” them in their own living rooms. This doesn’t need to change the professional dynamic of your reporting relationship, but it’s important to remember when building out this new remote company culture.

Even when working in-person, it’s a simple fact that most full-time professionals may be spending more time with their coworkers than they do with their own spouses and kids. Now, that same time is spent virtually! Therefore, it’s important to be real with your workforce in this setting and maintain that same bond that you would in person, over the computer or phone. Create an atmosphere of mutual respect that acknowledges the reality of working from home, and trust that they’re on task even when you can’t knock on their office door to check in. For more best practices on keeping a remote workforce actively engaged, ask your recruiter.

Fine-Tuning Remote Business Processes

Make sure to leverage opportunity when it’s presented to you. For instance, your newly hybrid workforce may be available to customers in different time zones, expanding the hours in which you’re accessible. Processes that were once manual may be able to be digitized, like submitting reports or internal communications.

Your recruiter can confirm, a hybrid workforce can come with some unforeseen advantages. However, knowing ahead of time what can and cannot be digitized will help you determine how often you need your employees in the office or remote. According to the Dice 2021 Technologist Sentiment Report, more than half of respondents indicated a preference for full-time remote work or a combination of in-office/remote work, while just 17% indicated they would prefer to work in an office 100% of the time. In Dice’s Q4 2020 Salary Survey, participants said they desired 2-3 days in-office per week - thus confirming that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to creating remote workforce plans. Consult with your recruiter on what best aligns the market’s wants with what you’re willing to offer potential employees.

 

How a Recruiter Can Help Build Your Hybrid Workforce

In the age of digital recruiting, there are several recruiters out there who specialize in procuring and supporting remote workers. Do your research and pick a hybrid workforce recruiter that you can partner with on your quest to dominate your new working model. A good recruiter will be able to coach you through the virtual hiring and onboarding process, a great recruiter will be able to take the hybrid interviewing off your hands. They will know how to best access the hybrid talent pool, and will provide search services catered to your unique search. Once you’ve found who you want to hire, your recruiter can impart best practices for an awesome, flexible office culture.

The world of employment is changing, and employers will need to adapt to remain competitive. Make sure to choose a plan that’s best for you by hiring a hybrid workforce recruiter that can deliver your hiring goals. As specialists in this space, Blue Signal can give you this and more on your way to becoming a dominant hybrid workforce.

How To: Negotiate a Flexible Schedule During a Job Interview

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Updated research shows that 55% of global businesses offer some capacity for remote work. Since the pandemic, workers have been redefining work/life balance and targeting opportunities with a flexible schedule. It has now become extremely important for companies to loosen the reins on what a typical employee’s work schedule and location look like. 

Remote work, hybrid schedules, increased and/or more relaxed PTO options, and unconventional working hours are just a few types of common flexible schedules job seekers are looking for in today’s job market. It’s critical for employers to cater to these common requests and present job opportunities as negotiable when it comes to a flexible schedule. Doing so will also grab the attention of those passive candidates who currently have an ideal flexible schedule, and aren’t looking elsewhere for fear of not having that same flexibility in a new role. For those looking to make a career move but will require an atypical schedule or work environment, we’ve laid out a few ground rules on how to tackle the discussion with your hiring manager. Read on for tips on how to sway the conversation in the right direction and negotiate a flexible schedule during the interview process.

Negotiate a Flexible Schedule - Make A Plan

Make a Plan:

The first step in the process is to map out a detailed plan to present to the company and/or hiring manager you’re interviewing with. Start by reflecting on your personal must-haves and differentiating between your nice-to-haves when it comes to the flexible schedule you want. Next, clearly map out how this flexible schedule would work logistically. Be prepared with an answer for all common situations or questions that may arise. When building your case, make sure to gather personal data and specific experiences to share. These will give real-life examples of how and why you’d be successful in this type of flexible schedule. Also, be sure to ask yourself if what you’re proposing makes or breaks whether you accept the role. If a flexible schedule is a “nice-to-have,” be sure you aren’t presenting it as an ultimatum. When drawing up your plan, be sure to compare your request to the insight you gather through past interview discussions. Then prepare for questions/concerns based on those findings. 

Negotiate a Flexible Schedule - Prepare to Compromise

Prepare to Compromise:

After you process what terms in your work schedule and expectations are must-haves and what are nice-to-haves, start preparing to compromise. In most negotiations, the end result will tend to include some sort of halfway point between both parties. Prepare for what you’re willing to give up so you don’t end up agreeing to terms you aren’t happy with. Though you’ll be hoping your ideal flexible schedule can be achieved, go into the conversation with a few revisions to the proposal in your back pocket. We suggest preparing at least two alternative options to present. These will be useful in case the initial ask is too far off from the company's standard routine/comfort zone. If the employer is skeptical, a great compromise strategy is to suggest an initial trial period. This helps set both parties at ease. It gives you the opportunity to prove your ability by showing how successful you can be working a flexible schedule. With this deal, the employer won’t feel any pressure to commit to a permanent change.

Assess the Situation

Assess the Situation

Your next step in preparation should be to assess the situation and evaluate who you're negotiating with. Does the company you’re applying for embrace forward-thinking principles that align with a flexible schedule? Or do they encourage the traditional 9 to 5 work schedule? When the floor opens up for you to ask questions, take advantage of diving deeper into this topic. Present strategic questions to be answered that will give you further insight into their working culture and outlook. Questions surrounding what the typical working day looks like, whether you will be given portable equipment/computer, if you’ll be required to access emails outside of the office, as well as what it’s like interacting with team members and cross-functional departments. These questions usually lead to insightful responses from the interviewer that you can dissect. 

Another topic that will help you gain further insight is asking about COVID-19 protocol. See how the company handled moving to a remote or flexible schedule. Ask how this may have changed their outlook on work, and the success it may have had for some departments. In most cases, the hiring manager’s facial expressions, tone, and body language will tell the whole story.

Negotiate a Flexible Schedule - Present the Discussion

Present the Discussion: 

Be absolutely sure to only present or mention the discussion around a flexible schedule after you receive an offer letter. This will ensure there is no animosity or negative inclinations when the employer is making their final hiring decision. When presenting your case, clearly map out what the options would look like. Ensure you're communicating your ask in a confident and positive way. Touch on how this flexible schedule will benefit them as an employer and as a company. This will help shift the focus from your personal needs. 

As mentioned before, this is the time to use tangible data. Prove how you’ll be successful in an unconventional working environment. With any negotiation, remember to stay practical, not emotional. Leave your ego at the door. Don’t let pushback or skepticism throw your confidence. Keep a level head throughout the discussion and continue working toward a result you’ll both be happy with. In closing, reassure your continued commitment to the company. Share your appreciation for the job offer, and excitement to be successful in the role. Afterward, consider sending a thank you note!  

Confirm the Consensus in Writing

Confirm the Consensus in Writing:

Though we’re sure companies will have the best intentions in mind, it is always important to get the discussion result in writing. You never know what kind of communication can get caught behind the scenes. It’s always best to cover your bases. A great way to do this is to kindly ask them to update the offer letter. Have them include the flexible schedule agreement you came to in your discussion. This protects both you and the company as it will include terms and conditions like initial trial periods and timelines. This will set expectations for progress reports down the line to discuss how it is going. This means no one will be caught off guard when the follow-up discussion is presented. Your manager will also stay diligent in monitoring how your flexible schedule is working throughout that trial time. 

The typical working environment of 9 to 5 in the office is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Though it is still possible for a company to reject the idea of working remotely or offering flexible hours. Be prepared for this outcome and, if it happens, don’t get discouraged. This is why mapping out your must-haves early on in the process is important. This will help everyone come to a decision that they’ll be confident in long term. If you’re unable to reach an agreement and a flexible schedule is on your must-have list, it’s most likely not a great fit overall. In the end, the most important thing is to trust your gut. Understand your needs when it comes to choosing your next employer. As always, reach out to Blue Signal for any further guidance on how to facilitate conversations with hiring managers and negotiate terms that are beneficial to both yourself and a potential employer.

The Importance of Diversity & Inclusion in Recruiting

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In industries such as ours - recruiting, talent acquisition, human capital - we are in a unique position to influence hiring trends. We have the power to represent candidates that otherwise may have gone unseen. From the top down, there is an issue of representation and inclusion within all industry verticals. As of May 2020, racially diverse executives held only 16% of total C-suite positions according to a study by Stanford University. Of the Fortune 100 companies, 26 have no ethnic diversity at the C+1 level - and 6 have no ethnic or gender diversity at this level. The issue is apparent in the numbers alone - but make no mistake, there are people behind these statistics. 

As executive recruiters, we have a duty to make sure we are moving in the right direction for the future - by representing people to hire based on skill. At Blue Signal, we refer all candidates on the basis of qualifications rather than age, sex, creed, color, national origin, race, ethnicity, gender, or ability. We take pride in championing diversity efforts and actively work to educate our internal recruiters, hiring managers, and candidates to ensure the hiring experience is free from discrimination and unconscious bias. Leveraging our experience in this practice, and in a continual effort to educate ourselves on the best ways to combat these issues, here is some of what we have learned.

The Importance of D&I - Past Obvious Reasons

Diversity matters - this we know. However, even in plain numbers D&I directly correlates with success in business. Research by McKinsey identified that - compared to their respective national industry medians - companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely (and those in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15% more likely) to have higher financial returns. Bigger than that - those companies in the bottom quartile for gender, ethnicity, and race aren’t just not leading, they are proven to be lagging in financial returns. 

McKinsey Report - ClassicDiversity - EX1

“The business case for diversity in the workplace is now overwhelming,” claims the World Economic Forum. Their article on the subject listed a collection of evidence that D&I has a direct positive impact on innovation and business performance. Research by The Hamilton Project proves that there is a direct correlation between high-skilled immigration and an increase in the level of innovation. “Increasing the share of college-educated immigrants in the population by one percentage point increases patents per capita by 6 percent. This impact is roughly twice as large for those with advanced degrees… A one percentage point–increase in the college-educated or advanced degree-holding immigrant shares of the U.S. population are estimated to produce a 12.3 percent or 27.0 percent increase in patenting per capita, respectively.”

The Hamilton Project - Innovation - EX2

Catalyst, a global nonprofit whose mission is to build workplaces that work for women, found correlations between D&I and employee satisfaction benchmarks such as retention, productivity, decision-making, innovation, and team performance. There was also a link between diversity/inclusion and boosting company reputation, reducing instances of fraud, ESG performance, and financial performance. Here are some fast facts on their research: 

  • Companies with higher levels of gender diversity and with HR policies and practices that focus on gender diversity are linked to lower levels of employee turnover.
  • Thirty-five percent of an employee’s emotional investment in their work and 20% of their desire to stay at their organization is linked to feelings of inclusion.
  • According to one recent study, over a period of three years companies with higher diversity in management earned 38% more of their revenues, on average, from innovative products and services than those companies with lower diversity.
  • Organizations with inclusive business cultures and practices are 57.8% more likely to improve their reputations.
  • Companies with consistent, inclusive workplace cultures—especially as experienced by historically underrepresented groups—also outperformed the S&P 500 in average annual stock returns during the Great Recession (measured from 2006-2014).
World Economic Forum Quote

Diversity and inclusion is important for innovation. It’s important for financial and employee performance. It even unwittingly impacts a company’s information security, recruiting efforts, and overall reputation. Not only does representation matter - if not properly implemented, it can cost a company actual dollars. The evidence is indeed overwhelming. There is no longer a question of if it will impact a company’s performance. It’s now a question of why, as in “why is this still happening?” 

 

The Problem

It’s not for lack of trying. Companies have begun to recognize the issue and have implemented some misguided efforts toward D&I - such as intentionally hiring “diverse” individuals to try and tip back the scales. (Which is a problematic solution, to say the least.) Unfortunately, even with the best of intentions, companies must intentionally work toward diversity and inclusion if they ever want to see correct change. 

Take for example “colorblindness.” This is the rhetoric that by not seeing someone’s race, they are not engaging with racial discrimination. In reality, not making note of someone’s race is inadvertently allowing people to ignore manifestations of discrimination in things like social, economic, and institutional practices. Being “colorblind” minimizes issues that people of color face. In a field experiment by the National Bureau of Economic Research, they found that identical resumes with white sounding names received 50% more callbacks for interviews than those with African American sounding names. Based on their estimates, a white name yields as many more callbacks as an additional 8 years of experience. They also found that federal contractors (who are thought to be more constrained by affirmative action laws) and employers who list “Equal Opportunity Employer” in their job ads discriminate just as much as other employers. It’s not enough to talk the talk. 

Atlassin D&I thoughts vs action graph 1
Atlassin D&I thoughts vs action graph 2

This also holds true for hiring, or not, based on the perception of “culture fit.” When hiring, it’s easy to be drawn to the person you most relate to within the interview process. Greenhouse, an HR organization that works to make every company great at hiring, wrote a blog unpacking unconscious bias while assessing candidates during the interview process. They state the definition of unconscious bias as “the accumulation of mental shortcuts both hardwired and developed, that lead us to form judgements, often unfair in nature.” You can learn more about unconscious bias, and how it impacts business in this LinkedIn Learning course. When looking to bring someone onto a team, people are prone to hire someone they would want to “have a beer with,” as the cherry on top of a good candidate. When given an equally qualified candidate, people tend to place unconscious bias against them - believing they are not as viable of a hire because they don’t fit this perception of “culture fit” in comparison to someone who does. Greenhouse suggests that instead of hiring based on “culture fit” that companies should strive for “culture add” - where the candidate would add to the existing culture, rather than mirror it. 

If this is starting to sound like way too much work, you’re not alone. Diversity fatigue is real. Aubrey Blanche spoke about this idea while working as the Global Head of Diversity and Belonging at Atlassian. “The topic is everywhere and people are tired of talking about it. And much like compassion fatigue, caring hurts. You get frustrated by all this discussion not turning into meaningful action. It’s a fight that takes resources and energy, and it’s hard to stay committed when you’re barely seeing results,” says Blanche. Surely, everyone cares about diversity and inclusion - but few are willing to put in the hard work it takes to make a long term, impactful change. The issues are complex and can be emotional for many. But Blanche puts it best - “It’s not enough to just care about D&I. Without dedicating time and intention, you’re only reinforcing the pattern of mediocrity in the industry.” 

Aubrey Blanche Quote

In order to really tackle this issue, Blanche believes most companies are having the wrong conversation. Her company, Atlassin, published a report in 2018 about the State of Diversity and Inclusion in US Tech. This report discussed how, “most D&I programs focus on increasing the representation numbers of a narrowly-defined category of "diverse" candidates, instead of focusing on belonging and inclusion throughout the company.” In some cases, it might be that the reason a company is lacking in diversity is because they’re not putting enough effort into making their existing employees feel included. 

Atlassin D&I thoughts vs action graph 3

It’s not enough to look at these percentages and try to improve the statistics as if you’re only working with numbers and data. There are real people behind these stats, and sometimes that truth gets lost in translation when looking at the issue as a mountain to climb. Blanche expands, saying the “corporate level aggregate reports don’t actually measure diversity — they measure representation. It doesn’t matter if 30% of your company is made up of women if they’re all in marketing or HR and the men are in engineering.” If underrepresented groups are only found in certain job functions or are all only in particular teams, it doesn’t count. Diversity without distribution isn’t diversity at all. 

 

The Solution 

When looking at the problem as a whole, it can be very overwhelming. But when you look at its individual parts, you see that it’s the small actions that create the big picture. As hiring professionals, we are the gateway into an organization. It’s our job to establish that inclusivity from the start. To do this, we must become more comfortable with being uncomfortable. Greenhouse urges companies to approach diversity and inclusion with an open mind - these issues are complex, but by mentally reframing them as productive and an opportunity to learn, businesses will be able to make a change. 

A great first step is to build and establish a D&I mission and brand. Rakuna developed a comprehensive checklist to help showcase an employer’s diversity brand - suggesting things like publishing a diversity statement from the CEO on the company’s career page. If you aren’t sure where to start with writing this, check out the US Chamber of Commerce’s blog on the topic. They say that a clear diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy should contain what DEI means to you as an organization, why DEI matters to you, and how you will approach DEI - now and in the future. 

Tiffany Houser Quote

But remember, we learned earlier that making the commitment on paper isn’t the same as taking action. By intentionally working against biases, we can start setting things in motion. And the first step in that process is to admit you have biases. The Digital Workplace says that “acknowledging the natural biases that you have openly with others can be a great way to disarm the situation rather than trying to skirt around the elephant in the room.” Outwardly admitting them makes these biases into something external you can work against. One excellent example of this is to establish blind screening policies. A study by Stanford University found that scientists were less likely to agree to mentor, offer jobs to, or recommend equal salaries for candidates based on the gender of their names at the top of identical resumes. By removing names, photos, and gendered pronouns in a resume - you can reduce the number of signals that could trigger gender bias. This isn’t perfect since you can still unconsciously create some bias based on past companies, geographic location, or even the college the person attended. A more foolproof method, that is widely popularized by developments in its technology, is to leverage artificial intelligence to automatically run initial screenings for you. 

Taking the human element out of the hiring process can have this benefit - but as we are reminded by the fear of machines rising against man - it removes some of the more nuanced, human benefits as well. Companies can instead standardize how they review candidates by focusing on skills versus experiences. By writing out the specific qualities you’re actually looking for in a hire when writing job descriptions, rather than something vague like “bachelor’s degree in applicable field,” you can work to better target your actual needs. This could also result in a wider range of applicants in the funnel, helping you judge on potential rather than restrictive minimum requirements. Atlassin used this exact strategy and boosted their female technical hires by 80% in a year’s time. 

Did you know that even the location you’re posting your jobs in can limit your diversity and inclusivity in the candidate pool? Tech companies in particular are known for being geographically concentrated in certain areas (Silicon Valley, for example). A whopping 75% of venture capital funding is concentrated in just three states! An interesting shift we are seeing with the developments of remote connectivity technology and the rise of the work-from-home norm is that geography is becoming less and less of a restriction on someone’s capability to work certain jobs. With this in mind, it’s hard to argue against hiring outside the usual locations. Harvard Business Review suggests that in order to increase diversity, companies should follow the talent. You can identify opportunities by looking at where people are graduating with the skills you need, or where there is a lower cost of living that could be more attractive to potential hires. Make your jobs more accessible to diverse groups by meeting the talent where it’s at. 

Harvard Business Review graph

Another hot button topic is pay equity. We can’t have the conversation about diversity and inclusion without mentioning it - especially since it’s seen across all industries. Companies need to push for pay equity not just for women, but for all intersectional groups. For instance, 2018 census data found that women of all races earn an average of 82 cents on the dollar compared to white men. But, this number is significantly lower for Hispanic or Latino women who make 54 cents on that same dollar. A person’s intersectionality can have a severely negative impact on their compensation when going unchecked. To turn this around, employers can start by being transparent with their compensation structure. First Round Review recommends gathering the market data yourself, and making it accessible to everyone in your company. This practice instills trust in your ranks, showing that you are looking out for their best interests by compensating them at fair, competitive rates. This starts the conversation where it’s most important - with employees. Then, once your current team is being paid equitably, you’ll be prepared to bring on new talent into that same pay structure. By including current employees at the forefront of your strategy, the end goal of D&I should fall in line as your organization grows. 

Conclusion 

Hiring is difficult in and of itself - even before considering the larger implications it can have within things like D&I. With a system so inadvertently stuck in a cycle that favors certain job seekers over others, there is still a lot to be learned before it can be equally beneficial for all. Working with professionals that specialize in representing candidates based on merit can help you on your journey to revamping your hiring practices to be more diverse and inclusive. Recruiting firms like Blue Signal work to connect companies with talent outside their network or who are otherwise inaccessible from the typical approach of posting a job and waiting for applicants. Better yet, we are constantly looking for ways to better incorporate D&I into hiring practices across the board. 

At Blue Signal, we collaborate with businesses on overall strategy - helping with more than just identifying and securing top talent. We are experts on marketing opportunities. We can consult on equitable market rates for compensation; locations to find geographically diverse candidates; and retention tactics, to support all kinds of internal groups with their differing needs. We know how to attract more diverse candidates, and can help you improve your employer branding to reflect those D&I values. As Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) workplace advocates, we appreciate the diversity of our clients, candidates, and communities in which we live and do business. We take pride in recruiting the best talent based on qualifications and skill - without bias. 

Whether you are just starting on the journey of implementing diversity and inclusion into your hiring strategy, or you have your goals set and just need some help to achieve them, Blue Signal is here to be your partner in the process. Contact us today to talk about your options, or leverage the resources below to move your organization in the right direction. 

 

Resources 

New Hire Checklist, Ensuring Retention and Engagement

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Ever thought that there ought to be some sort of guide on hiring? No one truly prepares you for the responsibilities you will undertake after finding a good candidate. You’ve made the right hire, but now what? Blue Signal might have your solution! Read on for a comprehensive new hire checklist that can help take the guesswork out of the first 90 days. If you’re more of the visual learning type, follow the link below to download the infographic and get back to what’s most important - securing top talent! 

Download the Infographic Here

Before They Start

Get ahead and prepare. 

  • Prepare a list of expectations for the role.
  • Re-evaluate your current on-boarding process by getting feedback from staff. 
  • Gather essential items and equipment - set up computers and download relevant software.

 

On the First Day 

Assimilate them into company culture. 

  • Have everyone meet the new staff member. 
  • Get them acquainted with their team and management. 
  • Arrange a team lunch. 
  • Ensure they have all relevant paperwork complete. 
  • Ensure their workstation is functioning properly.

 

The First Week on the Job 

Get them acquainted with the role and business. 

  • Begin the job training. 
  • Wrap up every day with an end of day review, encouraging them to ask questions. 
  • Give them an assignment they can do on their own. Use this to gauge how their work ethic will be moving forward.
New Hire Checklist Blog Graphic

Throughout the First Month 

Ramp them up to meet their goals. 

  • Check in to review their progress towards goals and team cohesion.
  • Gradually increase their responsibilities. 
  • Do a deep dive into big picture business goals, and explain how each department and role plays into it. 
  • Give them all relevant materials and reference documents.

 

The First 90 Days 

Gauging performance and success. 

  • Schedule out monthly check-ins to give a forum to ask questions and measure progress. 
  • Check up on larger projects. 
  • Hand off several projects at once and see how they manage time and prioritize tasks. 
  • Get feedback on the on-boarding process.

 

After 90 Days 

Evaluate their fit by measuring progress via numbers and the team feedback. 

 

More about Blue Signal: 

Blue Signal was founded in Chicago in 2012, and since then, has grown into a multimillion-dollar executive placement firm with offices in the Phoenix and Chicago areas. Blue Signal has established itself as the premier executive search firm within wireless/telecom, IoT, cloud and managed services, medical & healthcare, manufacturing, emerging technology, and related industry niches.

At Blue Signal, we know that talent is a business’ best asset - and we are skilled in finding the exact professionals you need to reach your goals. Our targeted, specialized searches deliver highly qualified professionals to meet every hiring need. With over 120 combined years of recruiting experience, we can help your company find the right people for every unique company culture and industry niche. Our team works with both job seeking candidates and talent seeking hiring managers to find the perfect fit. Contact us today to explore your options, and jumpstart your team toward success.

How to Use Social Media to Land a Job

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In some form or another, almost everyone you know uses social media as a way to connect with others. In fact, there are 3.725 billion (and rising) active social media users. According to recent studies, people have an average of 8.5 social media accounts. Although many take advantage of the connections made through social platforms, most don’t think about leveraging those same connections to land their dream job. 

Are you a job seeker? Take advantage of these 5 key tips to help maximize your online presence and stand out from other applicants.

 

1. Keep Your Profile Up to Date

After reviewing your resume, the first thing employers look at is how you present yourself online professionally. They want to ensure that their new hire is going to represent their brand in a positive light. Make sure your username includes your first and last name, and change any connected emails to one that you wouldn’t be embarrassed to send out. SportsMan82 may be fine to communicate with friends and family, but you want to make sure you are making the right impression from the start. Make sure your profile image and posts are professional. Delete any posts that feature alcohol, profanity, overtly political statements, and any other controversial topics. When searching for a job via social media, it’s imperative that your profile reflects who you are as an employee.

 

2. Share Your Online portfolio or CV Online

Online portfolios are a great way to showcase your skills and past work experience. Use your portfolio to share facts about yourself and display your achievements. Take your portfolio one step further and create a blog; write about relevant topics related to your industry and expertise. There are plenty of free websites and tools that can be utilized to create a portfolio or cover letter to feature on your profile. Personal branding is essential to set yourself apart from other candidates, so make sure all of your social media pages are consistent across all platforms. If the jobs you are looking for don’t need a CV or online portfolio, instead, use your profile to illustrate your personality and display work you are proud of. Don’t be afraid to let people know you are searching; include a short description of your qualifications in your bio so employers know that you are taking your job search seriously.

 

3. Follow Major Players in Your Field 

When searching for a new role via social media, it’s essential to follow the companies you are interested in on social media. Currently, 91% of employers are using social media to hire talent and believe social media will become a more significant source of hire in the next 5 years. Aside from the traditional job search options like LinkedIn and Facebook, unconventional methods are just as effective at finding a job. Look on Instagram and Twitter for #hiring, and even check out the Reddit job page. Be sure to follow not only the companies you are applying for, but also any that you may garner connections from. Join public and private groups on social media to gain access to key industry players in your field. 

 

4. Engage in Online Conversations 

Tap into your connections to stay in touch with those who are working your desired role in similar industries. Make sure you are commenting, liking, and sharing relevant posts to show employers that you are up to date on industry trends. Oftentimes, hiring managers want to see that you are involved in current industry events and are keeping up with trends. Send personalized messages to your connections in an effort to find common ground and interests, one of those connections may just be someone who can help you get your foot in the door of your dream workplace. Help yourself appear in more search results by taking advantage of Search Engine Optimization tools; use hashtags, keywords, and tag your location

 

5. Don’t Over Interact 

The last thing hiring managers want to worry about is being spammed by an applicant through social media. Although you should connect with people in the field you are searching in, make sure you are not overstepping your welcome by over liking and commenting on posts. Make your interest obvious, but do so in moderation to avoid seeming desperate for the role. Just think about how you would like to be interacted with if you were in their shoes. It’s important to respect their privacy when it comes to interacting online.

Social Media Stat

Since the development of modern technology, social media has proven to be a gamechanger in the job search process. The job prospects and learning opportunities on social media are endless; 94% of professional recruiters network on social media and use it to post jobs to an extensive community. Take your job search to the next level by taking advantage of the opportunities and connections social media has to offer. 

“Why Haven’t I Heard Back from My Interviewer?”

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“Why haven’t I heard back from my interviewer?” This is one of the most common questions asked by candidates. According to a CareerBuilder study, as many as 75% of applicants say they never hear back from companies they have applied for. Companies looking for help are companies that need help, and their lack of communication typically signifies their need for an on-board applicant ASAP. As recruiters, Blue Signal has extensive experience working through every step in the hiring process from submittal through offer acceptance. We have taken thousands of candidates through many hiring processes, and have found that no two companies handle it exactly the same. However, there seems to be common themes that come after an interview. If you haven’t heard from your interviewer after what you believe to be a successful interview, this may be why.

Job Seekers that Apply

 

1. Decision-Maker Scheduling Issues

Just like any business operation, there are certain players in the process that have to be involved to gain approval. And, just like every other employee in a business, hiring managers have busy schedules and competing priorities. The fact of the matter is: you might not have heard back after an interview because of scheduling conflicts, someone being out of office, or just plain logistics. Making a decision to hire is an important choice for any business and can take time, especially when having to navigate some unfortunate hierarchy hurdles. 

 

2. They are Interviewing Others  

When looking for a job, you probably set out to apply to several roles at once. While landing the job requires certain skills and experience, it also is a slight game of numbers and favorable terms - where you always want more chances to win. In the same way, companies look to interview several qualified candidates before making a final decision on a hire to ensure they are getting the best of the best. If you have been waiting to hear back from the company after your interview, they could be putting off contacting you to make sure they weigh out their options. No news might be good news in this case! If they are interviewing others and haven’t passed on you yet, you might be in consideration among their top picks. 

 

3. Too Many Opinions at the Table 

Depending on the organization, the sheer number of voices in the decision-making process might factor into why you haven’t been contacted yet. Even if you have met several people throughout your interview rounds, there still may be other people in the process that need to review your credentials. Those that you have met probably have to meet and make deliberations. There are many organizations that make this mistake by having too many people involved in the process, and it ends up setting back their schedule. There is nothing you can do about this, but it’s something to keep in mind when considering a new company. This means they really value employee input and having teams collaborate to make decisions, right? 

 

4. Their Plans Have Changed 

After companies have reviewed several candidates for a role, we have often seen the parameters of the job change and evolve to the market. Sometimes, they see such great candidates they want to make the role higher-level or have the hire take on more areas of responsibility. Other times, they see a need to bring on more than one person for this position in their organization, and are trying to budget out two new hires. This is a good thing! That might mean that the role you initially applied for is now an even better opportunity. The downside - this can mean a delay in their hiring process. They’ll want to wait to reach out to you with information til after they have ironed out the details, so their delay could be a courtesy. 

 

5. Slow Interview Process 

Especially with bigger organizations, the interview steps can seem never-ending. Meeting with other people, getting approval from extra departments, and having more screenings can slow down the interview process for all applicants. Being thorough isn’t a bad sign, however delayed communication could be a bad side effect. To avoid this and get a better sense of their timeline, it’s best to always ask interviewers what the next step in the process looks like before leaving an interview. 

 

6. Hiring Freeze 

These are a recruiter’s least favorite words. Hiring freezes can come from a number of factors: budget changes, market delays, the economy, team restructuring, mergers, acquisitions, shifts in management, and much more. In this case, there is nothing you could have done to avoid it. Consider that they might be holding out information to see how long the freeze will last in the hopes it ends before noticed. They also might need to protect proprietary company information in some cases. Regardless, when you have representation within this process, like a recruiter, you usually gain better insight into instances like these. 

 

7. They Went with Someone Else 

Everyone hates rejection, but it’s just part of the interview process. All industries are competing for top talent, and you might not have been their #1 pick. That’s okay! For all you know, you may have been overqualified, or an internal promotion may have made more sense at the time for the business. Whatever the case, try to keep a good relationship with companies you have interviewed with by sending thank you notes to follow up. Who knows, in the future they might have a role better suited to your expertise, and your gratitude and class could leave an impression that makes you their first call when that other role opens up. 

 

No matter the industry, job, or reporting structure, no two interviewing processes are the same. Companies should treat interviewers with perception in mind, reflecting the best their company has to offer by keeping their lines of communication open and clear. But that’s on them! The best you can do is set yourself up for success by working with someone on the inside, like a recruiter! Recruiters are your best tool for representation and communication for a potential new gig, and can help answer questions about slow response times after interviews. Our job is to be in constant contact with hiring managers to see what they are looking for and why. It’s literally our business to know how your interview went! We have direct lines to client’s internal changes as well as the market shifts, and can provide you behind-the-scenes insight into their hiring strategy. We can help you with anything from interview preparation to salary negotiations, making sure that your start into a new company is a successful one. Talk to one of our Blue Signal recruiters today to see what opportunities they have available in your space! We’d love to represent you, and help you skip the guesswork after an interview.