I have often noticed in our training sessions that each recruiter adopts their own methods, developed over time and based on their experiences. It may seem enriching at first glance, but it sometimes results in a lack of communication around best practices. Some teams thus find themselves working in a desynchronized manner, which can hinder their collective effectiveness.
The foundation of all team performance lies in a clear alignment of objectives, values, and methods. Without this cohesion, even the best recruiters may end up moving forward in a scattered fashion, and the collective potential of the team is not fully realized. This is where the importance of creating a team manifesto comes into play: a tool that not only formalizes shared principles but also strengthens cohesion, alignment, and overall effectiveness.
What is a team manifesto?
A manifesto is much more than just a simple statement of intentions. It is a strong affirmation of what the team represents, what it aspires to achieve, and the principles that guide it on a daily basis. For a recruitment team, creating a manifesto helps articulate essential elements such as:
• The core values of recruitment: What is important for the team in how it recruits?
• The common mission: What are we trying to accomplish, beyond filling positions?
• The shared approach: How does the team tackle recruitment challenges, and what quality standards does it set for itself?
A manifesto acts as a guide in which each team member can find themselves. It also helps define a clear direction, especially during times of change or uncertainty.
Why is it important for recruiters?
Having a strong collective identity is essential. Here’s why every recruitment team should consider creating its own manifesto:
- Strengthened team cohesion
Working on a manifesto brings team members together around shared values. It is not just a theoretical exercise but a real opportunity for dialogue. Who are we as a team? What are our strengths? What are our collective ambitions? This process fosters the emergence of a true sense of belonging. - Strategic alignment
A manifesto helps align the recruitment team with the wider objectives of the company. When recruiters know not only what they need to accomplish but also why, they become more effective. It also creates a bridge between recruiters and other departments, showing that their work fits into a broader vision. - Internal visibility
A manifesto can become a powerful internal communication tool. It shows other departments and hiring managers how the recruitment team sees itself and what it values. It helps determine the level of service like a SLA (Service-Level Agreement) - External communication
To recruit for the team: it can be used externally to strengthen the employer brand. It projects a positive and coherent image. As a recruitment tool, it can serve to describe the job and its environment much more than a generic job description. For candidates, it can serve as a guide and show the commitments of the talent acquisition team. - Daily inspiration and motivation
Working in recruitment can sometimes be a demanding job. Tight deadlines, the pressure to find the right candidate, and the multiple steps of the process can become stressful. A manifesto serves as a constant reminder of why the team does what it does. It is a source of inspiration that helps maintain the course, even in difficult moments.
How to create a manifesto?
The process of creating a manifesto is just as important as the final result. It is not just about writing a few inspiring phrases but engaging in collective reflection. Organizing a workshop where each team member can share their ideas, values, and aspirations is a key step. This type of exercise not only clarifies the common direction but also strengthens bonds within the team.
Knowing your team’s “mojo” in recruitment is essential to stay aligned, motivated, and performing well. The team manifesto is a powerful tool to achieve this. By clarifying their mission, values, and vision, recruiters can not only improve their own effectiveness but also contribute to enhancing the image and performance of the entire company. So, why not take the time to discover what makes your team tick?
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