Five Ways to Win Over your top candidate in the interview
The talent shortage is real. Procurement’s strategic importance at many companies continues to increase, which in turn has led to the creation of a considerable number of new jobs over the past few years. This is a good thing! However, while the profession is attracting more people than ever, there simply aren’t enough to go around, an issue compounded by the rate of retirement among the baby boomer generation. This has led to a significant gap in procurement talent, and employers are struggling to close it. According to DHL, one global study estimated that demand for supply chain professionals exceeds supply by a ratio of 6:1, with some predicting that ratio could be as drastic as 9:1.
Today’s stakeholders understand the value of procurement, and yet, little is being done to attract candidates and fill the talent pipeline. Getting that candidate in the door is but a first step. Once they’re there, it’s up to you to win them over. Let’s review how.
5 Ways to Win
Look both ways.
Remember, interviews are a two-way street. Ensure that your interview style gives this impression. You want the candidate to feel comfortable enough to ask what they want to ask, so put them at ease, not on the back foot.Be transparent.
As every procurement professional knows, procurement has its challenges. Be transparent about the issues your company may be facing, as well as any problems they may be facing within the role. Candidates want to know what they are up against so they can decide if they are up for the challenge. Be as clear and as truthful as possible.Be authentic.
Be authentic in your representation of the company and its culture. The candidate wants to get a feel for how they fit into the company as a whole but will focus more on those they will be dealing with daily. Make them feel at home.Sell yourself.
Why you? Out of all the companies they could work for, why should they choose you? What are your differentiators? Outside of the package you offer, here are a few things people are caring about when selecting an employer:
Sustainability.
Depending on your industry, procurement may have a steady hand in your companies sustainability initiatives. Let them know the influence procurement has on your sustainability strategy, or even if you have one.
Social responsibility.
The same goes for social responsibility. Blockchain provides the transparency and traceability required in supply chain to enforce things like ethical sourcing, as well as safety standards (think bad lettuce and Walmart). But even without blockchain, social responsibility can be implemented through contract clauses.
Technology.
People want to work for forward-thinking companies. If you’ve implemented some new technology, use this as a selling point. However, if you’re not there yet, let them know your current position and your game plan, and how they can influence stakeholders to drive improvements.
Alignment of values across the organization.
Procurement professionals want to know that they can succeed, and success requires all players to be rowing in the same direction. Ensure your values are clearly communicated across the organization, and communicate your internal alignment of values to your candidates.
Work Flexibility.
Open to people working from home, or believe in flexible work hours? Can they take time off to go to the doctor’s, or are they expected to do it on their own time? Give time off in trade for overtime spent? These seemingly small things mean a lot. Let them know where you stand.
5. The future is bright.
It’s true that, over the past few years, many candidates have sought to benefit from a strong job market by leapfrogging from employer to employer looking to advance their careers, and their paychecks, as quickly as possible. While some will pin much of the blame on generational differences, the fact is that many companies still do a poor job of holding onto their talent. You don’t want to make this mistake, so let them know from the outset why they’ll want to stay. Cover your company growth plans, as well as what their opportunities are for career advancement within the company.
Now, maybe more than ever, procurement has the power to effect significant change, and secure some drastic bottom-line benefits. The strength of your procurement bench can be a game-changing competitive advantage, so make sure that the bench is full and game-winning strong.