Job adverts are usually turgid affairs. If the employer is using an agency, then the ad will typically contort any which way it can to describe the employer in glowing terms without actually giving you any clue as to who the employer actually is. The ad will usually contain some keywords that the agency will look for in the application so that their software can filter out the apparent dead weights.
When you think about it recruitment should be the most human of affairs. Those applying for the job are out there looking for the position of a lifetime, the kind of position that will get them up each morning with a smile on their face and a spring in their step. The employer meanwhile will be looking for someone that adds some zing to their team, someone who can be a lasting part of their family and do great things with them.
Yet so many recruitment efforts get off on the wrong foot because they make the process mechanical. Considering that research suggests that 25% of new hires are gone within a year it suggests something is amiss. Add in that the cost of hiring each employee and then getting them up to speed is around $10,000 and getting the recruitment process right should be top priority.
So it’s lovely to see when a company seems to be getting things right. I present to you the Impress a Penguin advert. It’s a job ad website from Penguin Books here in Britain, and they’re looking for a community manager to join their team.
The site takes the reader on a journey, describing how the Penguin works very hard publishing some incredible books, and would love to surround himself with fellow book lovers. It then invites readers to submit their application to them, via whatever means they feel fit (including a traditional email).
All in all it’s a great way to show that this is a company with a personality, that’s looking for people with a shared outlook on both books and on working life, and that is a refreshing thing indeed.
What a GREAT way to advertise for employees! The Penguin ad is indeed engaging, and creative, just like the kind of people it seems they want to attract. Hmmm. I wonder if your research shows why that 25% of new hires are gone in the first year? Way back when I was in corporate America, it was said, "we hire on aptitude and fire on attitude." So if that is the case then a Penguin like ad might just prevent that because it is more likely to attract the attitude and aptitude wanted simultaneously. Thanks.
Pretty cool huh? What's also nice is that it kinda forces any applicant to put some thought into their application as it's set the bar by saying we've created this because we want someone great.
As you say, cultural fit is so important in the employer/employee relationship that it's crucial that both sides ensure a good fit. I'm not convinced that the traditional interview style approach helps with that, but maybe this kind of advert can help.
What a swell idea. So much better than your usual job advert. Bet they learn much more about candidates this way too as its asking them to put their skills to the test.
Exactly, you\’d think that\’s a major reason for doing it. With a standard CV, not only is it a bit boring, but you rely on the candidates word that they are what they say they are. With this they have to put their skills into action.
That was so impressive!