The competition for top notch design talent is fierce and only the most informed and strategic companies will cut through the noise to capture the best hires. How do they do it? They position themselves in the most attractive way possible to get noticed by leading talent. Here are the must-know tips from Onward Search Managers about making your company outwardly attractive and desirable to in-demand designers.

What You Look Like

There’s a big difference between a great designer who has heard of your brand and one who is dying to know more about working for your company. The fastest way to capture their interest is to shine up your social presence per advice from Clarice Casamina, Business Development Manager at Onward Search, Washington, D.C.

“Hiring creatives is a creative process in and of itself,” she says. “Creative talent is very well tapped into the social media world - they use these outlets as a way to look at the "culture" of a potential employer. Companies should use their Facebook pages to show off the ir personality, and demonstrate how cool it is to be a member of the team.”

Tip: “Creatives want to excel, contribute and flourish in an environment that encourages them to do so, so companies who want to attract top creative talent should present an environment to the public that encourages creativity, self-actualization and success.”

What You Offer

Being the biggest, flashiest or coolest brand on the block isn’t enough to attract the best talent. As Sarah Wilkins, Senior Business Development Manager, at Onward Search Boston says, “You cannot get by on just your name.”

“Money talks and all companies must be aware of what’s happening in the market place,” said Sarah. “Junior candidates get very competitive salaries fresh out of school because companies are desperate to get them in the door, especially in the web development and mobile development space. The standard package of benefits, two weeks of vacation and partial coverage for health insurance, won’t cut it either when your competition offers flexible hours, paid parking, and free lunches on top of a better salary. Some are even expanding or relocating to get closer to the talent and communities they want to hire from.”

Tip: “Companies need to be keenly aware of what their competitors are doing. Failing to offer attractive incentives that match or beat the market will likely cause the hires you want to pass you by.”

Where You’re Going

The future of your company is more important to your potential hires than you might think. One of the best ways to attract top talent is to demonstrate that you’re a progressive company. Mike Ondocin, Director of Staffing, Onward Search NYC, recommends highlighting this at every opportunity.

“Top creatives are looking for companies that will allow them to explore current design trends and push the envelope,” he said. “If the company is continually evolving in terms of digital, social and mobile design, that's where the talent wants to be.”

Tip: “A creative's fear of becoming stale and unoriginal is ever present. Companies who allow their people to concept fresh ideas and take chances will be most attractive to top talent.”

Don’t let the competition beat you to hiring the best design and development talent in your area. Contact an Onward Search recruiter today and for one-on-one advice on positioning yourself in the most attractive way to potentials candidates.