Pukka Pies is a family run business with 350 employees. Many of which have worked for the company for years and many relatives of existing employees vying to join the company too.

We caught up with HR Manager, Kerry Jarvis, to find out her top three tips for recruiting:

• Consider your transport links – You have to consider your local transport links when promoting job opportunities. Are there sufficient routes on public transport for your employees to reach you?

• Remember, reputation is key – It’s easy for word to spread if ex-employees had a negative experience with your company so it’s important to have a good reputation in your community

• Connect with schools/colleges – We have strong links with local schools and colleges and this is a great way to tell people about the brand and opportunities so young people will consider us when they leave education.

Think local

Thank you to Kerry and Pukka Pie for sharing their insights with us. This has confirmed what we have heard from other employers too who also mentioned the importance of thinking local.

Even large brands with multiple offices need to engage with current employees and local schools and colleges and consider the company’s position in the community to be able to attract and retain the best talent.

Your involvement in your local community enhances your proposition or product in the eyes of your customers giving you discreet business benefit.

Are you an employer of choice for young people?

• Do you know what young people look for in an employer?
• Do you know where or how to attract them?
• Are your current recruitment processes fit for purpose when assessing an inexperienced young person?
• Are you spending money on recruitment agencies and overpaying and competing for experienced people?

We’re launching an employer toolkit in April. Register your interest now to be one of the first to hear more about it.