Although Google+ has been officially shut down for consumers since April 2019, the concepts of using social platforms for recruiting and employer branding can still be applied to other social media channels. Here’s how you can effectively use social media platforms (like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) for recruiting and employer branding, inspired by practices that were once used on Google+.
1. Build a Strong Employer Brand
Create Engaging Content: Share content that showcases your company culture, values, and work environment. This can include behind-the-scenes photos, employee testimonials, and videos that highlight team activities and company events.
Highlight Employee Stories: Share stories about your employees’ career journeys, achievements, and experiences within the company. This personal touch can resonate with potential candidates and help them envision themselves as part of your team.
Use Visuals: High-quality images and videos can convey your employer brand more effectively than text alone. Use infographics to highlight your company’s values, mission, and benefits in a visually appealing way.
2. Leverage Community Engagement
Create a Community: Engage with potential candidates by creating groups or communities related to your industry or company. Share insights, trends, and resources that can benefit group members, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
Participate in Relevant Discussions: Join industry-related conversations to showcase your expertise and connect with potential candidates. Answer questions, share valuable content, and engage with users to build credibility.
Host Webinars or Q&A Sessions: Organize events where employees can discuss their roles, experiences, and the company culture. This interactive format can attract potential candidates and give them a direct line to learn about your organization.
3. Use Targeted Advertising
Sponsored Posts: Use targeted advertising to reach specific demographics that align with your ideal candidate profiles. You can promote job openings, company culture content, or events to attract the right audience.
Retargeting Campaigns: Implement retargeting campaigns to re-engage users who have previously interacted with your content or website, keeping your brand top-of-mind for potential candidates.
4. Promote Job Openings Effectively
Share Job Postings: Regularly post job openings on your social media profiles, ensuring to include relevant hashtags and keywords. Make the posts engaging by highlighting why your company is a great place to work.
Utilize Stories and Live Features: Use Instagram or Facebook Stories to share quick snippets about open positions. Consider hosting live sessions to discuss available roles and what candidates can expect from the application process.
Employee Referrals: Encourage your current employees to share job postings on their personal social media accounts, leveraging their networks to reach potential candidates.
5. Foster Authentic Connections
Engage with Candidates: Respond to comments and inquiries promptly. Engage in conversations and show appreciation for user interactions, fostering a community that feels valued.
Highlight Diversity and Inclusion: Share content that showcases your commitment to diversity and inclusion within your workplace. Highlight initiatives, events, and success stories that reflect your company’s values.
6. Monitor and Analyze Performance
Track Engagement Metrics: Use analytics tools to monitor the performance of your posts and campaigns. Pay attention to engagement rates, reach, and the number of applicants generated from your social media efforts.
Gather Feedback: Encourage feedback from candidates about their experience interacting with your brand on social media. Use this information to refine your strategy and improve future campaigns.
7. Collaborate with Influencers
Engage Industry Influencers: Collaborate with influencers or thought leaders in your industry who can help promote your brand and job openings to their followers. This can enhance your reach and credibility among potential candidates.
Employee Advocacy Programs: Encourage employees to share their experiences and job openings on their social media. This authentic advocacy can help humanize your brand and attract potential candidates who relate to your employees.
Conclusion
While Google+ is no longer available, the strategies for using social media for recruiting and employer branding remain relevant across various platforms. By building a strong employer brand, engaging with the community, promoting job openings effectively, and fostering authentic connections, organizations can enhance their recruitment efforts and attract top talent. Implementing these strategies thoughtfully will not only improve your employer branding but also create a positive perception of your organization in the eyes of potential candidates.