Many WIL students have a dream employer in mind, and typically that's a large organization because of increased brand awareness. So how can you, as a start-up or small business, attract talented students to your organization? Leverage the unique aspects of your experiences using the following strategies to hire your ideal WIL student.
1. Choose an institution partner that levels the playing field
Large organizations have the advantage of brand recognition, so choose an institution partner that makes an effort to give all employers equal opportunity. The University of Waterloo's co-operative education hiring process offers a range of opportunities for all employers to promote their organization to students. On the job posting platform, employers can provide a breadth of information to differentiate themselves by describing the work environment, learning and development opportunities, and how students will be supported during their work term. Waterloo students also provide a rating for their work term to give future applicants insights into the workplace.
Some questions you may want to ask your institution partner are:
- How are WIL opportunities promoted to students?
- Where and how can I provide students with information about my organization to help guide their application decisions?
- Is there a support person who specializes in working with start-ups and small businesses to help navigate the hiring process and funding opportunities?
We will expand on how to choose an institution partner in Step 2
2. Sell your opportunities to your ideal WIL student
Use the WIL position planning guide (.doc) to create a profile for your ideal WIL student and develop a strategy that will appeal directly to them.
- Where and how does your ideal candidate usually spend their free time? Are there campus clubs or media that you can connect with?
- What aspects of the WIL experience are important to your ideal student? Are these aspects included in the job description and other promotions?
- If you are currently working with a WIL student, are there incentives, such as providing a quality experience, that will encourage them to refer their peers?
If you'd like to learn more, read "How do I establish and/or build a presence on campus?".
3. Promote the unique aspects of your experience
Many students engage in WIL for career exploration. They want to test out different environments, roles and skills; a structured and/or specialized expereience at a large organization might not appeal to them. Your advantage is to be clear on the unique aspects of working at a start-up or small business. Some of these features may include:
- Acknowledge their contributions will have an impact on the team and success of the organization.
- Greater autonomy and flexibility.
- Opportunities for skill development since no two days are the same.
- Work environment perks like flex time, a relaxed dress code, or free office snacks.