Important Talking Points from Gallup’s The State of the American Workplace

About Gallup

Attention recruiters - the 2017-18 edition of Gallup’s The State of the American Workplace is here! This 200+ page report is packed full of valuable information that will take your recruitment strategies to the next level. Are you worried you won’t have the time to navigate through the whole report? No worries - we’ve done the work for you. We’ve summarized the article into three key points all recruiters should know before heading into another hiring campaign.

Not familiar with Gallup’s The State of the American WorkplaceIt’s a comprehensive report which presents in-depth research about the modern workforce. Using data collected from 195,600 U.S. employees through the Gallup daily tracking and the Gallup Panel in 2015 and 2016, and from 31 million respondents from Gallup’s Q12 Client Database, the report presents an unparalleled look into the status of the business workplace. By outlining the struggles, we see industry by industry, this report is how we can improve current business models to reflect social, economic, and technological changes.

The workplace is changing

Emerging technology is changing the way we work, which means it’s also changing the way we recruit, hire, and onboard. Online communication is becoming the new norm in the workplace, decreasing the amount of face-to-face interactions and allowing employees the ability to work remote on a day-to-day basis. These advancements are creating a highly desirable, flexible work environment for employees.

This flexibility is a focal point for avid job seekers and should be used to attract the most sought-after candidates. Gallup recorded that 54% of office workers say they would leave their job for one that offers more flexible work hoursUsing your organizations technological advancements to highlight how your candidates will be benefitted will add value to your company and make you a front runner against the competition.

The evolving employee attitude

Modern day employees approach new roles and companies with highly defined expectations. With greater opportunity for flexibility, employees expect that their job will fit their lifestyle. When their needs are not met, they’re not afraid to find another opportunity. In the last 5-7 years, the job market has vastly expanded. In 2012, only 19% of Americans said it was a good time to find a quality job, compared to 2016 when that number increased to 42%. With an increasing number of job opportunities available, employees aren’t afraid to get greedy in what they want out of a position.

It’s important to have a complete understanding of what available candidates are looking for so you can use this knowledge to clearly communicate what your company can do for them. This will help you connect on a more personal level with potential hires, leaving them feeling invested in your business.

Your company is always recruiting

In the digital age there’s nowhere to hide. With the internet and social media, job seekers have unlimited resources to find open positions and information about companies. For this reason, it is imperative that businesses maintain a strong brand online. There is a real opportunity to create an online presence that helps your audience understand what you offer and how you are unique to other brands in your market. It is just as important to preserve your brand online during periods where your organization is not hiring.   Keeping the lines of communication open between your business and your candidates will be beneficial when it comes time to post your next opening. 

Your organization’s reputation relies heavily on your online image, but nowadays all forms of communication are interconnected which makes it all the more crucial. With so many outlets, you want to be sure the message your ideal candidates are receiving is consistent and positive. Though you can’t completely control the conversation about your company, you can take part in it.

The discussion starts with the existing employees at your organization. It is critical that the current employees are happy in their roles in the company, so they can serve as Brand Ambassadors. As they have a first-hand look at day-to-day operations, their opinions are valued by the public which make them your most powerful recruitment tools.

Gallup’s State of the American Workplace can improve your recruitment strategy. The job market is as competitive now as it’s ever been, so keeping on top of our ever-changing workforce is pivotal. Below you will find a comprehensive infographic summarizing the articles main points.

Gallup Infographic by Harger Howe Advertising

Still struggling with recruitment strategy? Harger Howe has a solution for you. Contact us today!

Contact Mike Walsh