As someone that is hiring new people, it can be frustrating when you come across the perfect candidate but you can’t seem to tempt them in with the right salary. Many people assume that salary is the main benefit when it comes to getting a job, but it is important to realise that as a employer you are in a position to offer so much more.
The job market is tough these days so employees are in the tough position of being against a number of candidates for each position. This means that if you offer them a job, even at a salary that isn’t quite as much as they would have hoped for, they could be very silly to turn it down.
So – as a potential employer, what could you offer the perfect candidate to temp them into your company?
Sign On Bonus. Are you in a position to offer then a sign-on bonus when they agree to join your company? A one off lump sum, even if quite a small amount can be really helpful for someone starting a new job so it is worth discussing whether this could be tempting to them.
Long term Reviews. It is worth reminding them that what you are offering them is a starting salary. Discuss with the candidate what your salary review scheme is like and whether you can perhaps offer them a deferred salary review.
Health Benefits. Do you have a health scheme that employees that are able to sign up to? If they can have reduced price dental care or the option to go private for health problems this can be a massive bonus.
Employee Discounts. Think about the benefits your current workforce get and make sure that you tell any potential candidates about them! Local discounts, loyalty schemes and money off with national companies are all great benefits which can help to make a salary-package more generous.
Flexible Working Hours. Many people these days are put off by 9-5 working. If you are unable to offer them a salary that is as high as they would like, why not offer them some sort of flexible working hours? You can even discuss their needs with them and come up with something suitable to match their needs as well as yours.
Annual Leave. Although salary is important, people also want to make sure that they have a good work-life balance. If you are able to offer them a day or two extra holiday then this can be enough to make up for the dip in the salary that you are offering them.
Bonus. Do you offer bonuses for good working patterns or meeting any targets that are set for them? By explaining that the harder they work the more they can earn this can be a great way to tempt them to work for you.
So if you’re advertising a job, try to think outside the box and look at the bigger picture of what you can offer them rather than what will appear in their pay packet each month.
When people look for a job they tend to pay attention to the salary that is listed however for a long term career at one company there needs to be more than just money to tempt them to stay. By letting them know what you can give them above and beyond just money, you can show them why working for your company can be a very good thing!