A company’s employer reputation is a key factor considered by jobseekers when deciding which companies to apply to, according to new research from Indeed, the world’s largest job site.
The analysis of factors that affect the behaviour of Irish job seekers comes as employers are finding it increasingly challenging to hire talent, with Ireland’s unemployment rate dropping to its lowest level in ten years last month.
The vast majority (over 80%), felt that a recognisable company name was important or extremely important in deciding to apply to a company. Ninety three percent of respondents report that a company’s employer reputation and access to information is key to their decision making process. In general, Indeed found that the more information and insight that jobseekers could access online about companies, the more likely they are to apply for a role.
While perks and benefits such as free food and drinks, games rooms and activities are recognised by workers as an attractive factor, 67% of people said that salary and the specific responsibilities of the role are much more important.
Indeed found that word of mouth conversations with friends & networks is one of the most important sources of information when people are making decisions about applications - 58%. A further 45% rate online reviews by current and former employees as one of the most important sources of information.
Only 29% identify news articles or other media information about a company as one of the most important determinants in whether they will apply for a role.
Commenting on the research, VP EMEA at global job site Indeed, Chris McDonald said, "Reputation and trust have always gone hand in hand in business, and prospective employees are as discerning and thorough in their approach to a new company as customers would be. The study proves bad online reputation can be extremely damaging for a company. It’s not enough to avoid the development of a negative reputation - companies have to be really proactive in driving, both directly and indirectly, their employer brand."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
