In honor of Global Talent Acquisition Day, we’re excited to bring you an exclusive interview with our Manager of People Operations, Katie Halstead. Join us as we dive into her insights on the hiring process and how our team is shaping the future of our workforce.
Katie, can you describe your role and what it entails?
My position as a People Operations Manager encompasses all aspects of the people process within SageNet. This includes supporting the associate lifecycle from hiring to retiring. My responsibilities involve ensuring we have the best talent within SageNet and facilitating an effective talent acquisition process. I also focus on employee engagement, development, and retention strategies to create a positive and productive work environment. Additionally, I work closely with department heads to understand their staffing needs and provide guidance on best practices for managing their teams.
What are the biggest challenges you face in talent acquisition?
One of the biggest challenges in talent acquisition for the telecommunications industry right now is the talent shortage. Many employers are struggling to find candidates with the right skills and experience. This issue is exacerbated by fierce competition for top talent in our industry. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancements means that the skills required are constantly evolving, making it even more challenging to find candidates who are up to date with the latest trends and technologies.
What trends are you seeing in talent acquisition right now?
Right now, I’m noticing a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion in talent acquisition. Companies are actively seeking to build more diverse teams, recognizing the value that different perspectives bring. Additionally, there’s a growing trend towards using data analytics to drive hiring decisions, ensuring a more strategic approach to finding the right fit.
How has technology transformed the talent acquisition landscape over the past few years, and what emerging technologies do you see shaping the future of talent acquisition?
Technology has revolutionized talent acquisition in many ways. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have streamlined the hiring process, making it easier to manage large volumes of applications. While some companies are using AI to assist in their screening processes, we personally view each applicant and resume that applies. Also, the rise of remote work has significantly broadened our talent pool, especially for those tough-to-find skill sets. While our goal remains to hire close to our office locations, remote work has allowed us to extend our search to remote locations when necessary. This shift has also led to a greater focus on digital communication skills and self-motivation in candidates. Looking ahead, I see technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) playing a role in immersive interview experiences and onboarding processes.
What strategies do you use to ensure a diverse and inclusive hiring process?
Firstly, we use inclusive job descriptions that avoid biased language and appeal to a broad range of candidates. Our recruitment team undergoes regular training on unconscious bias to ensure fair evaluation of all candidates. Additionally, we use structured interviews and standardized evaluation criteria to minimize subjectivity in the hiring process. We also track diversity metrics to identify areas for improvement and hold ourselves accountable to our diversity goals.
We have a strong, inclusive culture that values diversity and fosters a sense of belonging. Our commitment to celebrating associate achievements is evident through our SageSTARs recognition program, where we recognize three associates each month who go above and beyond. We also host onsite fun events, including luncheons, volunteer events, and more. Additionally, we invest in our employees’ professional growth with continuous learning opportunities. Our collaborative and supportive work environment encourages innovation and creativity, making it a great place for individuals to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
The most rewarding part of working in talent acquisition is pairing incredibly talented individuals with the perfect job and culture. It’s fulfilling to see how the right match can positively impact both the employee’s career and the company’s success. Witnessing the growth and development of employees you’ve helped bring on board and knowing that you’ve played a part in their journey is incredibly satisfying.
Talent acquisition can be a challenging but incredibly rewarding field. Remember that you can’t offer everyone a job, so focus on the positive outcomes and strive to make the application process a great experience for every candidate. Building a strong network and continuously learning about industry trends will also help you succeed in this dynamic role. Developing strong organizational and time management skills will help you handle the fast-paced nature of the job effectively. Embrace feedback and be open to learning from each experience, as this will help you grow and improve.
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