Transforming Recruitment with Research and Strategy

A Refresher on the Epic Recruiting Strategy

In today’s fast-paced digital world, recruitment strategies must evolve to keep up with the times. At Epic Recruiting, we understand that finding the right talent for your department isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Our approach starts with comprehensive research, ensuring our strategies are tailored to meet your specific needs.

The Research: Laying the Foundation for Success

Before crafting a unique recruitment strategy for your department, our team at Epic Recruiting conducts thorough research. Drawing on our extensive experience working with both large and small departments, we recognize that what works for one might not work for another. Our research focuses on understanding your department’s unique characteristics, goals, and the type of candidates you’re looking to attract.

Two female officers standing with a citizen
Traditional vs digital marketing

Internet in 2017 passed TV to become the biggest U.S. ad medium. If you're not recruiting online, now is the time to start.

Graph showing how digital advertising is now passing traditional advertising

To illustrate the importance of adapting to modern recruitment methods, let’s compare traditional and digital advertising:

Traditional Advertising:

  • Casts a wide net, reaching a semi-targeted audience.
  • Focuses on brand recognition.
  • Requires a larger budget.
  • Difficult to measure results effectively.

Digital Advertising:

  • Employs strategic online campaigns tailored to specific demographics (age, interests, etc.).
  • Offers better Return on Investment (ROI).
  • Easily measurable with online marketing tools, allowing for quick adjustments.

 

In recent years, digital advertising has overtaken traditional media as the primary channel for U.S. ad spending. Since 2017, the internet has surpassed TV as the biggest ad medium, making it clear that online recruitment is not just beneficial but essential.

The Shift in Media Consumption

As traditional television viewership declines, social media usage has soared. This trend is crucial for recruitment strategies. Depending on your target demographic, TV spots may no longer yield the desired results. Conversely, a robust social media presence can be a game-changer.

Key Statistics:

  • Time spent watching traditional TV is decreasing, especially among younger age groups.
  • The percentage of U.S. adults using at least one social media platform is rising across all age groups.
Mobile phone with image of Mesa Polices Department's Facebook.
Mock up of Join Mesa PD Instagram with mouse clicking on visit profile

Leveraging Social Media for Recruitment

Popular platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube have become indispensable tools for reaching potential candidates. Consider these compelling stats:

  • Over 14% of recent hires found their current role through social media.
  • Job seekers trust current employees as the most reliable source of company information.
  • Job posts with recruiting videos receive 36% more applications.
  • More than half of job seekers prefer finding jobs online, with referrals from friends as the second most popular method.

 

Social and professional networks are now the most useful job search resources, surpassing job 

boards, ads, and even recruiting events. Additionally, a significant portion of candidates will research a company online before applying, with 37% moving on if they can’t find sufficient information.

Our process begins with the discovery phase, a crucial step in building a bespoke recruitment strategy. During this phase, we:

  • Understand your market.
  • Define your goals and objectives.
  • Identify what makes your department unique.

For many departments, the primary goal is to increase the number of applications. However, our in-depth discovery process helps us pinpoint what sets your department, staff, community, and culture apart. This understanding guides the production of targeted recruiting videos and content that resonate with your ideal candidates.

City of Davis Police officers talking to a child at an event

At Epic Recruiting, our research-driven approach ensures that your recruitment strategy is not only effective but also perfectly aligned with your department’s unique needs. By embracing digital advertising and leveraging the power of social media, we help you attract the next generation of top talent efficiently and cost-effectively. Ready to transform your recruitment process? Let Epic Recruiting guide you every step of the way.

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Epic Dispatch

Epic Dispatch is Epic Recruiting’s official collection of articles, insights, and success stories dedicated to the world of law enforcement recruiting. From innovative outreach strategies and creative campaign ideas to leadership perspectives and agency spotlights, the Epic Dispatch delivers real-world guidance and inspiration for those shaping the future of public safety recruitment.

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