Kim Girardi CEO & Owner Girardi Staffing Kimberly Manfredo SVP/Director of Human Resources, Kearny Bank In the Spotlight: HR COMMITTEE Q: What strategies do you use to attract top talent in a competitive job market? MANFREDO: To attract top talent in a competitive job market, we have streamlined our recruiting process to enable us to hire qualified new employees quickly and efficiently while providing an optimal and seamless experience for candidates. We also offer competitive salaries and benefits based on current market practices. Additionally, we offer workplace flexibility where possible, focusing on outcomes and productivity. Our Employee Referral Program incentivizes current employees when their recommended candidates are hired. Finally, we encourage our employees to engage in our Mentorship Program to promote career development and professional growth within the organization. GIRARDI: Attracting top talent in a competitive market requires us to adopt strategic, innovative, and candidate-centric approaches. Below are a couple of key strategies that we use to attract the best of the best: ɨ We specialize exclusively in working with commercial banks in the tri-state area. Our deep understanding of the local market ensures we stay informed about industry trends and developments. Additionally, we maintain an extensive talent pool, giving us a strong advantage in sourcing top candidates. ɨ Girardi Staffing has an active presence on LinkedIn. We write and/or share articles pertinent to banking, recruiting, and HR. We are also active in NJBA and IBANY, which helps us increase recognition. Along with networking in the communities that we serve. ɨ We build strong candidate relationships by personalizing the recruitment experience, understanding each candidate’s goals, and providing tailored recommendations. ɨ We make it our business to maintain regular communication throughout the process, which fosters trust and shows our commitment. ɨ We work with banks known for their positive work culture and career advancement opportunities. ɨ We also make sure to share details about the company’s values, work environment, and benefits to help candidates see the potential for a long-term fit. By using these strategies, Girardi Staffing has established itself as a trusted partner for both candidates and employers, ultimately attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive job market. Q: What role does employer branding play in attracting candidates, and how should companies enhance their brand? MANFREDO: To enhance employer branding and attract quality candidates, companies should highlight their culture, values, and positive work environment. This approach can improve employee engagement, loyalty, and satisfaction, ultimately leading to higher retention rates. GIRARDI: Employer branding plays an important role in attracting candidates, encouraging them to explore employment opportunities with the firm and the financial institutions we represent. We have positioned ourselves as a trusted and desirable partner by creating a strong employer brand. We communicate our values, expertise, and commitment to matching candidates with the best opportunities, and by doing this, we have created a reputation that appeals to top talent. For us, at Girardi Staffing, employer branding highlights its deep industry knowledge, personalized approach, and success in placing candidates in roles that align with their goals. Additionally, a strong employer brand reassures candidates that they are working with an organization that values their growth, respects their aspirations, and provides meaningful career opportunities. To effectively attract top talent and position your company as an employer of choice, it’s a good idea to focus on aligning your employer branding efforts with the values and priorities of your target candidates. This begins with clearly defining and communicating your mission, vision, and values through stories, social media, and examples of how these principles guide daily operations. ɨ Highlighting employee experiences, such as testimonials and initiatives supporting work-life balance, inclusivity, and career development, further strengthens the brand. ɨ An active presence on platforms like LinkedIn and thoughtful engagement in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and corporate social responsibility programs demonstrate a commitment to a positive workplace and a societal impact. ɨ Simplifying the candidate experience with transparent communication and timely feedback is also essential. ɨ Regularly measuring and adjusting branding strategies based on feedback ensures that your company can continuously refine your efforts to resonate with top level candidates. Q: How do you identify high-potential employees within an organization? MANFREDO: Our Mentorship Program is a valuable tool to help identify high-potential employees looking to advance within the 20 In the spotlight: HR Committee
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