Attracting, selecting and retaining new employees has never been easy, and in the wake of ‘the Great Resignation‘ recruitment processes might have become even more complicated. After more than 50 million American workers left their jobs in 2022, HR managers have started to look for better ways of finding candidates with the best skills and selecting new hires. However, there is more to the recruitment process than simply selecting the candidates with the best skills. Experience and personality are equally important, and HR managers may have to comb through hundreds of resumes and conduct numerous job interviews before filling a position.
The recruitment process is equally complex for the candidates who hope to start new careers. Like their potential employers, these candidates have to analyze not only what the job entails, but also the workplace environment, how the company’s values align with their own, as well as their potential salary and benefits. To help both HR managers and candidates benefit from a smooth recruitment process or reevaluate their options, multiple details on what to prioritize during recruitment are needed. Here are five factors to consider when looking for a new job:
Salary Is the Most Important Factor
According to a recent Washington Post-Ipsos study, salary is the most important factor for American candidates in search of new jobs. 1,148 American workers aged 18 to 64 took part in this poll that ultimately showed the significant transformations that the workplace has undergone in recent years. The study revealed that 45% of respondents consider pay to be the most important aspect when it comes to a job, giving it a substantial lead over the second most important factor: a good boss. This second factor was selected by a dismal 14% of respondents. The new data emphasizes the changing landscape of the modern workplace.
Having a Good Boss Is Still Necessary
Having a supportive boss is not only important when starting a new job, but it is also a vital part of retaining it. According to a recent Gallup poll of more than 15,000 American workers, just 32% of employees felt professionally engaged at the end of 2022, while the number of people who said they have been actively disengaged surged during the healthcare crisis. The same study demonstrated that only 30% of the employees surveyed said they had “received recognition or praise for doing good work” over the past week. Considering these findings, it becomes clear that better management might be needed in numerous companies throughout the country.
A Good Work-Life Balance Is Vital
Other recent data suggests that a good work-life balance, key benefits, and a solid workplace culture are still extremely important for American workers, even as budgets continue to be reassessed. According to a study conducted by The Muse on a sample group of approximately 7,000 US adults during the second month of 2023, a good work-life balance is the most important factor in evaluating a new job opportunity. This is now a higher priority than salary and benefits for candidates in every generation except for baby boomers. Moreover, maintaining a good work-life balance is especially important for Gen Z, with 60% of respondents say they are now prioritizing this factor.
Working Remotely Is an Option
When it comes to choosing between working from home and spending time in the office, financial considerations are still an important factor for employees. The Washington Post-Ipsos study revealed that 65% of the workers who are capable of remote work have expressed their willingness to accept a higher-paying job that required regular office attendance. Just 35% of employees stated they would opt for a lower-paying position if it allowed them to continue working from home. Interestingly, a different trend emerged among the respondents who were already working from home. In this group, 55% of workers have expressed a willingness to accept a smaller salary in order to continue working remotely.
Future Opportunities Are Also Important
There is no question that most candidates are hoping to find new roles that can help them grow, evolve and expand their careers. In fact, according to the study conducted by The Muse, learning and growth opportunities rank third among the most important factors when evaluating a new job opportunity. Employee engagement seems to rely heavily on providing these future opportunities that extend far beyond mere job promotions. By providing chances for growth, employers can make sure they create an environment where workers can flourish and become the best versions of themselves.
Taking These Five Factors into Consideration
The recruitment process will continue to evolve for both candidates and HR managers around the world. New factors, such as flexibility and providing workers with the possibility of working remotely, are disrupting various industries, while traditional factors, such as salary and good leadership, are still important. In order for a company to make sure that a smooth and effective recruitment process is possible, HR managers should take a closer look at the five factors presented above.
