How can you best connect/recruit students using social media?

I have heard students are largely focused on their social media networks even as they look for new jobs.

We have a Financial Development Program for accounting graduates, and are looking for best practices that others are using to effectively connect with these students. We do not want to be invasive, but want them to hear about our opportunities so they can interview with us if interested.

I would be interested in anyone's suggestions and proven ideas!

Answers

Samuel Dergel Director - Executive Search • October 29, 2012

Hello Robert,

The first step is to have a recruitment program targeting students - which you already have.

The next step is to market the program using social media.

I would recommend getting input from recent student hires as to what could work - they are the best people to understand how to interest the students you are targeting.

I have seen many successful programs. One very effective program is to use blogging and testimonials as a means of creating valuable content which can be broadcast using social media tools.

However your program ends up, involve your recent graduates that you've hired in preparing the program and have them take a leadership role. The power of social media can be harnessed to increase the talent pool.

Good luck!

Samuel

Regis Quirin Director of Finance • October 29, 2012

Following on what Sam recommends - contact your local college campus recruiting office and ask them to help you coordinate a focus group with Accounting major seniors and juniors. Then ask the focus group participants the question you posted above. In this way you may find the latest and greatest information.

Malak Kazan VP, Special Projects • November 7, 2012

As Sam suggested, have the recent hires in your FDP be your "ambassadors" for the program and the company. They should be integral part of your communications back to the target audience via the social media platform you choose. Also there are similar programs at companies like GE and Citibank and if you connect with some folks there, (e.g. HR or "graduates" from the programs) they will typically share their experience with fueling the pipeline for such programs. Generally speaking the higher the caliber you target the more high-touch recruitment you should plan. The social media will need to be one element and the magnitude of it will depend on your overall talent strategy. Hope this helps.

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How can you best connect/recruit students using social media?

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