Putting a Personal Touch on Talent Attraction

Picture this: you’re thinking about relocating. Maybe it’s career-related, you want to get closer to family or you live in a big city that’s gotten too expensive. Maybe you just want to start over somewhere new. All great in theory, but moving can be overwhelming — how will you build community and make friends? What part of town would you enjoy living in? If a specific job isn’t the impetus, how will you find work without an established network?

Those are just some of the questions you’d be asking. Most communities nowadays have some online source of relocation information — ranging from a simple directory of resources to full-fledged websites dedicated to talent attraction. But how do you take it to the next level and convey: “We truly want to welcome you here!” Personal touches, of course. Connections with real humans. Support where folks need it. Telling real stories. Especially when it comes to relocators who are shopping for the perfect place, it’s these extras that set you apart.

What might these look like? We’re glad you asked!

Cultivating Community & Connection. Some cities have seen success with networking groups for newbies, like Chattanooga’s Chattanewbies or Cincinnati’s Hello Cincy socials. Community influencer programs are another option — helping potential residents connect with locals to ask questions about the community or make a first friend in the area. A few of these include the Chambana Welcome Crew in Champaign, Illinois, the Roanoke Region Talent Ambassadors in Roanoke, Virginia, and Louisville’s Liv in Lou City Champs.

Extra Perks. We’ve all likely heard of the paying folks to move strategy by now. As long as your strategy is intentional, offering incentives can help say: “We want you here!” And it doesn’t have to be cash. Indianapolis recently unveiled a bundle of perks designed to be sure people truly experience the community early on. Communities have also offered home buying support, cash toward student loans and other tangible benefits.

Job Search Support. Let’s face it: unless you’re a remote worker, you probably need a plan to support yourself in a new city. And more places are now facilitating support and connection when it comes to job hunting vs. directing folks to a generic job board. Some of our faves: Northwest Arkansas helps with warm intros, South Dakota’s Dakota Roots job advisors match people with opportunities and the Kansas City Career Network publicly promotes would-be residents and their resumes.

Tell Your Stories. Interview your locals. Talk to boomerangs and transplants about their decision to choose your community. Get the scoop on positive experiences. Share those beautiful local photos. As we like to say: in many ways, talent attraction is really marketing. When thinking about a relocation, you’d want to see the real stories of the awesome time people are having, so get those out there! We at Livability can help you tell these stories and draw the right eyes.

Host a Visit. Sometimes there’s nothing like visiting in-person. Traverse City, Michigan, hosts an annual long weekend visit for a select group of folks interested in moving to town, offering networking and free time. Participants generally fund some visit expenses, keeping this program intentional and affordable for all parties. This program sees visitors landing jobs, finding housing, etc. as a result of these connections, making it easier for them to take the plunge to relocate.

Livability Media  Livability Media is a media and content marketing company focused on bringing talent to your city. We work with chambers and economic development groups to share stories of your area through custom print and digital content programs.