The importance of employer branding in recruitment

24.07.23 04:41 PM By Geetha Kirupakaran

In today's competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent is a significant challenge for organizations. One powerful tool that can help companies stand out and attract the best candidates is employer branding. Employer branding refers to the reputation and image a company cultivates as an employer. 


In this article, we will explore why employer branding is important, employer branding in recruitment examples and how it can positively impact an organization's ability to attract, engage, and retain top talent.

The importance of employer branding in recruitment

Before we jump on to the efficacies of recruitment branding, let us show some of well researched figures:


  • In 2017, 55% of job seekers stated they've abandoned applying for a job after reading too many negative online reviews.


  • We're seeing this trend from both sides, with 86% of HR professionals reporting that recruitment is becoming more like marketing and 86% of job seekers researching a company before applying.


  • Research shows that 75% of job seekers will investigate a company’s reputation before applying for a job, and 50% of job seekers refuse to work for a company with a bad reputation, even with a pay increase. The transparency that technology has made possible means that today’s job seekers and employees have more insights than ever into the workplaces they’re interested in, which means why employer branding is important than ever.


  • While employer branding is not new, it's increasingly entering C-suite conversations.

What is employer branding in HR?

In the context of what is employer branding in HR, employer branding aims to establish a positive perception of the company as an employer of choice. It goes beyond the traditional recruitment methods of posting job listings and conducting interviews. It focuses on building a strong employer brand that resonates with potential candidates and existing employees.


Let’s take a look at one of our employer branding in recruitment examples


One of our employer branding in recruitment examples is the approach taken by Airbnb. Airbnb is a global hospitality company that has built a strong employer brand known for its emphasis on inclusion, diversity, and a unique company culture. Through their recruitment branding efforts, Airbnb has been successful in attracting top talent from diverse backgrounds who align with their values and are passionate about their mission. Their commitment to creating an inclusive and empowering work environment has helped them build a reputation as an employer of choice in the hospitality industry.


This example illustrates the scope of employer branding, centered around values, culture, and unique offerings, can effectively attract and engage talented individuals.

Why should your recruitment drive be inclusive of recruitment branding?

Attracting top talent 

In a sea of job opportunities, having a strong employer brand can make all the difference in attracting top talent. Candidates, especially those with sought-after skills and experience, are more likely to be drawn to companies that have a positive reputation as employers. An effective employer brand communicates the organization's values, culture, and commitment to employee development and satisfaction.


By showcasing a compelling employer brand, companies can differentiate themselves from competitors, making it more likely for highly qualified candidates to choose them as their preferred employer.


Retaining employees

Employee retention is a crucial aspect of a successful organization. A strong employer brand helps create a positive work environment and fosters a sense of loyalty and commitment among employees. When employees are proud to be associated with their employer and feel valued and supported, they are more likely to stay long-term. 


There is a lot more scope of employer branding in shaping an organization's reputation as an employer of choice, which can significantly impact employee retention rates. Companies that invest in their employer brand and actively promote a positive employee experience can know the true importance of employer branding in attracting and retaining the talent.

Enhancing employee engagement

Employee engagement is vital for productivity, performance, and overall organizational success. An employer brand that aligns with employees' values and resonates with their aspirations can boost engagement levels. When employees believe in their organization's mission and feel connected to its values, they are more motivated to contribute their best efforts. A strong employer brand helps create a sense of belonging and purpose, which in turn increases employee engagement


By focusing on why employer branding is important, organizations can cultivate a positive work environment that fosters employee satisfaction, commitment, and productivity.


Building a talent pipeline

Employer branding is not only crucial for immediate recruitment needs but also for building a robust talent pipeline for future positions. A strong understanding of what is employer branding in HR attracts not only active job seekers but also passive candidates who may be interested in exploring opportunities with the company in the future. 


When organizations have a positive reputation as an employer, talented professionals are more likely to proactively seek out and maintain a connection with the company, even if there are no immediate openings. This ongoing relationship building allows organizations to tap into a pool of qualified candidates when positions become available, reducing time-to-hire and ensuring a steady stream of top talent.

Competitive advantage 

In today's competitive job market, having a strong employer brand provides a distinct advantage. It sets an organization apart from its competitors and positions it as an employer of choice. A positive employer brand can help understand the importance of employer branding in attracting and retaining the talent. 


Additionally, a strong employer brand enhances the organization's overall reputation, positively influencing customers, partners, and other stakeholders. This positive perception can lead to increased business opportunities and growth. By investing in the scope of employer branding, companies can gain a competitive advantage in the talent market and drive overall organizational success.


Conclusion

Employer branding is a strategic investment that yields long-term benefits for organizations. It enhances their ability to attract, engage, and the importance of employer branding in attracting and retaining the talent, while also shaping a positive corporate image. By cultivating a strong employer brand, companies can create a competitive advantage in the job market, foster employee loyalty, and position themselves as employers of choice. 


Visit CLIQHR to get a lot more information about all of our next generation recruitment methods and strategies.


Geetha Kirupakaran