Recruiting top administrative assistant talent is one of the biggest challenges for home service businesses. Your receptionist or administrative assistant is the first point of contact for customers and partners -- and they keep the office running smoothly. But finding the right person is not always easy. You need someone organized, detail-oriented, compassionate, and able to handle a fast-paced work environment. Here are proven strategies for recruiting administrative assistants who will stick around.
Connect With College Administrative Assistant Programs
Local colleges and universities offering administrative assistant programs are great places to find talent. Contact professors in these programs or post job openings on the school's career center website. Consider working with the school to offer internships or job shadowing opportunities -- these attract talented students looking for hands-on experience.
College programs usually ask for some quid pro quo, so be prepared to offer scholarships, guest lecturing, or internship opportunities. These do not have to cost a lot. The cost of turnover, hiring recruiters, and paying signing bonuses far exceeds what a small scholarship would.
The one downside to targeting fresh graduates is that they lack experience. You may need a more thorough training program, especially for industry-specific knowledge.
Attend Networking Events and Job Fairs
Attending networking events and job fairs is an effective way to connect with top administrative talent. By participating in industry gatherings, you can meet potential candidates, showcase your team and facilities, and introduce them to the opportunities at your organization.
Some networking events offer sponsorship opportunities like luncheons or program sponsorships. These give your business a chance to stand out among other employers and attract the best candidates first.
Offer Competitive Pay and Benefits to Attract Top Talent
To recruit the best administrative assistant candidates, position yourself as an appealing employer. Offer competitive pay and benefits packages, and create a work environment that encourages growth and development.
Emphasize these perks in your job postings and throughout the recruitment process. Consider providing flexible schedules or other unique benefits that set you apart. Potential employees can see right through empty promises, so make sure your values and commitments are genuine.
Stay Open to Candidates From Other Industries
When recruiting for administrative assistant roles, do not overlook candidates with experience in other industries. Many valuable skills -- exceptional customer service, strong organizational abilities, and attention to detail -- are developed in many different work environments.
Keep an open mind during the resume review process. Candidates from different backgrounds may bring unique perspectives and expertise that enrich your team and improve your overall operation.
Outsource Your Receptionist Role With a Live Answering Service
Finding, hiring, and training the right administrative assistant can be difficult and time-consuming, especially when qualified talent is scarce. A live answering service offers immediate coverage without the hiring headaches.
emvia provides virtual receptionist professionals trained in customer communication for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other home service businesses. Our team answers every call, books appointments, and represents your brand -- 24/7, without the overhead of a full-time hire.
Whether you are filling a gap while you recruit or looking for a permanent phone coverage solution, outsourcing your answering needs means you never miss a customer call.
Start Capturing Every Call Today
Recruiting top administrative talent takes time and effort. While you build your team, make sure no call goes unanswered. Whether you are attending job fairs, partnering with colleges, or offering competitive pay, a live answering service keeps your phones covered.
emvia answers every call for home service businesses -- so you never lose a job while you are hiring. See how emvia can help →