What Attracts Top Science Talent?
Posted November 28th, 2014
The competition for top science talent is fierce. Lagging numbers of STEM graduates, combined with the breakneck pace of innovation right now, mean that companies across industries are having to try harder than ever to bring the best performers into their fold. So far, the most effective method has proven to be a focused and strategic recruiting process. Use these tips to make a position at your company more attractive to the top science talent:
Create a Reputation for Innovation
All science professionals have a desire to pioneer something new. If your company is known for working on the cutting edge, you immediately gain credibility within the broader scientific community. Make sure to stress your innovative aspects, even if you have to stretch or re-frame them for effect, in all your recruiting communications.
Explain Your Corporate Culture
Corporate culture has a huge influence on a candidate’s decision to accept a job, especially in science-based businesses where there is more typically flexibility and variety than in the broader corporate world. Throughout your recruiting efforts, give top candidates a clear picture of what your business stands for, what your vision of the future is, and how each team member contributes something to that.
Offer a Better Work-Life Balance
The demands placed on science professionals are notoriously grueling. The top talent, especially from younger generations, is looking for a better work-life balance than was available in the past. Rethink your HR practices, and consider adding flex time options, work-from-home opportunities, or extended maternity/paternity leave.
Facilitate Professional Development
Top science talent, especially, is not content being static. Offering frequent and significant opportunities for professional development satisfies their thirst for knowledge, while adding to your overall talent pool. Demonstrate to recruits that your company is willing to put in the time and money necessary to grow their skill set, and reward employees who take the initiative to evolve.
Provide Resources for Personal Use
Many science professionals have personal research interests but don’t have the equipment or materials to pursue them. Offering the use of company lab space and technology to pursue their own projects can be an appealing perk for the most driven scientists. The history of science is filled with stories of major breakthroughs that happened after hours and off the clock.
The takeaway is that if you want to attract the top science talent, you have to be proactive. Salary and benefits are an important start, but you need to offer more than that, and you need to let appealing recruits know about it. Begin making connections with the best available science talent by partnering with the team at Bayside Solutions.
