Attracting Top Talent…Do’s and Don’ts

One of the best sessions at the recent NAPFA National conference was one presented by Janet Briaud, Sarah Buenger & Joe Gonzales.  Much of it is common sense but warrants reminder because it’s easy to get bogged down in other things and forget about your most important asset…your team.

One important point they drove home with which I wholeheartedly agree is the firm with the best talent wins the race!  At the end of the day, this is really what makes the difference to your clients, your revenue and your quality of life.

If you’re in the market for some new talent now, don’t be tempted to underpay because you’ve been told this is an “Employer’s market”.  It is but if you underpay now, they will leave you when the markets turn and someone makes them a better offer (it won’t take much to get there).

Some other items from their presentation:

* Your firm vision should drive your hiring decisions;

* Always develop a description for the position (what are the reponsibilities, what need is this position filling?) before you begin your search;

* Develop an interview guide.  Try and be consistent with the questions you ask each candidate so you can compare apples to apples;

* Check references!

And one courtesy reminder.  Respond to each and every candidate (even if it’s a “template email”) who sends a resume.  Remember, finding a job can be a tough, stressful and demeaning situation. 

They’re out there…now go get them.

Let me know if I can assist.  Ginny