Found In: Employment
Finding talented, knowledgeable, and qualified employees is an age old struggle for many employers. Too often, employers are at a loss for leads on possible employees who will be able to confidently and capably meet their needs. Ads in the paper, requests on internet job banks and word of mouth don’t always cut it, especially for employers looking for help in a specialized area. A different and more creative approach might just be the ticket to getting leads on excellent employees who will make significant contributions to the company and who may be considered for long term positions as they grow with the company. It all starts on the campus of the nearest university.
Search the Campus
The best solution may be as near as the nearest university. Contrary to what may be portrayed in popular movies, all college students are not thrill seeking party animals. Considering the price tag on a college education these days, college students are usually seriously committed to their academic endeavors. These committed students can bring this same level of commitment to the work force, as well as knowledge of the latest industry trends and practices, high energy and fresh approaches. They will likely be in search of part time work, so their addition to the payroll will be much less than the hire of a full time, more seasoned employee.
Hire With Confidence
Another advantage of hiring someone who is still in college is the possibility of inviting the employee to join the staff full time once they have graduated. The employee will have had the opportunity to prove themselves on numerous occasions during their part time employ. The experience with the company will prove to the employer that this person is a good fit, and it will prove to the employee that this company is a place they can see themselves long term. Thus the guess work is eliminated from the hiring process and both employer and employee can proceed with confidence.
Get Started on the Right Track
Understandably, there may be some reservations in the consideration of a college student as a possible employee. The serious students can be quickly separated from those looking for a fast, easy buck with a simple call to an academic advisor at the university. Locate the name and number of an advisor in a department that most closely matches the specifications for the open position. The advisor will be able to recommend qualified candidates who may be interested.
College graduates are an obvious starting point for an employer who is looking to add to their staff. Less obvious and just as valuable are the potential employees who fall into the soon-to-graduate category. Consideration of these possible candidates for hire can be a very wise decision.
By Julie Londrigan
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