In this current uncertain climate, recruitment has become increasingly difficult for both the candidate and employer. But at Allison+Partners, we decided this would not stop our recruiting efforts.
While we knew the COVID-19 pandemic would be challenging, we also knew it did not eliminate the ability or the need to conduct informational interviews. Therefore, we decided to continue scheduling informational interviews with candidates and move forward with active outreach.
Some steps I have taken during this time to keep connected include posting on LinkedIn and reaching out to my network, partnering with various organizations, connecting with graduates and alumni at local universities, and speaking with employee referrals.
I have always suggested informational interviews with candidates, because you never know what might come out of it. I have hired many candidates over the years after keeping in touch with them even when I had no specific job opportunity to offer. It can be beneficial at any stage of the job search, as you can gain new and exciting insights into an industry you never explored and simultaneously grow your professional network.
Informational interviews are also beneficial for the employer. At Allison+Partners, we knew we wanted to be proactive and develop our candidate pool to maximize the potential of a new position at our agency.
Some helpful hints for candidates planning informational interviews:
- Identify potential prospects to reach out to and prepare ahead of time. Research the company, industry and interviewer prior to your meeting.
- Be sure to test your video or digital platform before your call.
- Feel confident and prepare a summary of who you are and questions prior to the call. Mentally organize the call so you have an introduction and closing, but also be ready to pivot at any time during the conversation.
- Follow up after the interview. Touch base with the person you met with by writing a follow-up note. You could also connect on LinkedIn, follow on Twitter and subscribe to the interviewer’s blog.
The need to recruit talent and hire the best fit for our company remains critical, especially in a time of great change. It is an ideal time to explore different avenues to source diverse talent with varied backgrounds and from different industries. Now is the time to build deeper connections, prioritize diversity and inclusion, and navigate the market for top-tier talent.
If you’re interested in scheduling an informational interview with Allison+Partners, get in touch at jules@allisonpr.com – good luck!
Jules Smith is the Vice President, Talent at Allison+Partners based in the New York City office.
About Allison+Partners
Website: www.allisonpr.com
Allison+Partners, an MDC Partners company, is a global marketing and communications agency driven by a collaborative approach to innovation and creativity. The firm was named by PRovoke Media (formerly The Holmes Report) Agency of the Decade, 2020 North American Agencies of the Year and 2020 Best Agencies to Work For. The agency also scored a perfect 10 in PRWeek’s 2020 Agency Business Report, was named a Best Places to Work for the third consecutive year and one of PRWeek UK’s “Fastest Growing Agencies” 2020. Allison+Partners has 30 offices worldwide and is organized around five practices: Consumer Brands, Corporate, Healthcare, Public Affairs and Technology. All Told, which combines research, content, creative, digital and measurement expertise into one offering, works across these practices to deliver integrated storytelling for clients. The agency also has a network and deep affiliations with firms worldwide through MDC Partners (NASDAQ: MDCA), a progressive marketing and communications network, championing the most innovative entrepreneurial talent. For more information, visit www.allisonpr.com.
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