Why do candidates accept one job offer over another? Is it the promise of growth, the alignment with company values, or perhaps something more?
To answer this, we’ve gone straight to the source, asking talent placed by our recruiters throughout the Pacific Northwest what made them say, “Yes, I accept!”
Their answers might surprise you (no, it’s not just about the money) and will definitely help sharpen your recruitment and hiring strategy.
What Makes a Job Offer Irresistible? Insights from Oregon’s Top Talent
Here are the top reasons candidates picked their employer:
- Career Growth and Personal Development
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Mission, Purpose, Values
- Rewards and Recognition
By knowing what draws candidates to a particular job or company you’ll be able to shape your recruiting efforts and company around those core reasons.
Below we explain why each reason matters and how to make them benefit your organization.
Career Growth and Personal Development
Why It Matters
Understanding what drives talent to say ‘yes’ begins with a look at their appetite for growth and learning. Candidates want roles that promise not just a job but a career ladder. This keeps them engaged and inspired.
They look for opportunities to advance, upskill, and sometimes even reskill to pivot into new roles as industries evolve and technology progresses.
Action Tip
Implement a “Growth Plan” during onboarding where new hires can visualize their career trajectory within your company.
Encourage ongoing education through access to courses, workshops, and seminars relevant to their roles.
Consider establishing partnerships with educational platforms or institutions to offer both upskilling and reskilling opportunities that align with future industry trends and company needs.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Why It Matters
While career progression is important, the environment in which individuals work can be equally significant.
Top-performing employees value teamwork and know that it’s needed to successfully meet deadlines and goals, produce high-quality output, and maintain a safe work environment.
They thrive in environments where collaboration is not just encouraged but ingrained.
Action Tip
Foster a collaborative atmosphere by utilizing tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for communication.
Organize regular team-building activities that aren’t just fun but also aim to creatively solve real work challenges.
Communicating this to candidates during your recruiting process lets them know that their ideas and creativity will be encouraged and valued if hired.
Mission, Purpose, Values
Why It Matters
While collaboration builds the team, alignment with the company’s mission, purpose, and values can cement a candidate’s decision to join.
A LinkedIn survey found that a staggering 87% of employees are turned off by a job if they either don’t know or misalign with a company’s mission and values.
If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that employees want to know that the work they’re doing makes a difference and has a purpose they can rally behind.
Action Tip
Clearly state your company’s mission, purpose, and values on your website and social channels. Use real employee stories to demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work.
During candidate interviews, ask what part of your company’s mission or values they relate to the most. This can help narrow down the right culture fit.
Rewards and Recognition
Why It Matters
Recognition and rewards not only boosts morale but also retention, shaping a workplace where individuals feel valued and seen. It’s becoming increasingly important among job seekers and current employees alike.
Recognition is not just about saying ‘good job’ but showing your team that their efforts contribute to the company’s success. A thoughtfully crafted recognition program can significantly boost morale and retention.
Action Tip
Create a rewards system that recognizes milestones, achievements, or innovative ideas.
For example, if safety is a goal, reward individuals for avoiding accidents, demonstrating safety measures properly, or coming up with a new safety protocol.
Regularly spotlighting employees in company updates can also make a big difference.
Meeting the Challenges of Today’s Hiring Landscape
Attracting quality talent is a common frustration we hear from companies all over Oregon. The ongoing shifts in candidate preferences and the competitive job market require a nuanced approach to your recruitment and hiring strategies.
The good news is, by reviewing and adapting your methods to address these candidate preferences, you’ll be able to stand out against competitors and attract (not to mention retain) the best candidates.
Ready for more expert recruitment and hiring content? Check out our Employer Insights.
