In a competitive job market, your company’s culture can be a critical factor in attracting and retaining top talent. A workplace that is demonstrably vibrant, inclusive, and supportive not only sets an organization apart from its competitors but lends itself to employee satisfaction and productivity.

Here, Fast Company Executive Board members discuss how companies can use their culture as a key differentiator from their competition. With these strategies in mind, you can cultivate a work environment that attracts the top candidates in your industry.

1. DEDICATE FUNDS TO EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT.

Culture is about building community. What creates a workplace community is shared experiences that foster in-person connection. At our company, we dedicate over two percent of top-line revenue towards 250-plus yearly touchpoints of employee engagement. Leadership could wave the flag and re-route that spending elsewhere, but we don’t. These experiences are how employees grow as individuals, leaders, and professionals. – Timothy Wenhold, Power Home Remodeling

2. SEEK TO FILL ANY CULTURE GAPS.

There needs to be more connection between the culture envisioned by leadership and the reality lived by the workforce. Taking a 360-degree view into talent pools, supported by culture gap analysis, can help companies uncover what’s happening and improve recruitment marketing and employer brand efforts in a way that’s authentic to the organization. – Caitlin MacGregor, Plum

3. OFFER PERSONALIZED PROGRAMS AND FLEXIBLE POLICIES.

In the aftermath of COVID-19, employers who address the increasing demands of employees through personalized programs and more flexible policies—including flexible scheduling, a wider range of benefit options, professional development, and more modern communications capabilities—will reap the business rewards of a more engaged workforce and ability to attract top talent. – Jeff Moses, WorkForce Software

4. CREATE A TRUE PARTNERSHIP.

Wealth management companies can elevate culture when they view their firm as a true partnership. It’s crucial for the partners to come together several times a year to connect and brainstorm new ideas. This family dynamic is a value add for business, and incoming talent will view this power of partnership as an attractive asset to a company. – Stan Gregor, Summit Financial

5. CLEARLY DEMONSTRATE YOUR CORE VALUES.

Companies can elevate their culture by clearly modeling their core values. Organizations that consistently practice what they preach create an authentic and inspiring work environment. This attracts individuals who resonate with your mission, fostering a strong social and collective identity where potential employees feel a genuine desire to be part of your team and engage in meaningful work. – Kris Cravey, Fahrenheit Advisors

‍

Read full article here