How to Court a Pretty Woman

Just because I'm a Craigslist job whore does not mean that you should not treat me like Pretty Woman! Recessionary times call for drastic measures, especially for online advertisers like myself. However, despite living in an employer's market, an employer should still behave like a gentlemen on a first date in order to retain positive talent relationships.

I recently courted a best-in-class digital advertising agency only to find myself quickly dumping them at the dinner table! After LinkedIn stalking one of its directors, developing a long-term email business relationship, and finally meeting over drinks, I was very excited to finally speak with a recruiter. As we started to conclude our phone date, the recruiter asked me my target salary. Upon hearing it, he promptly informed me about the position's highly competitive talent pool - a talent pool willing to work for $30K. Opportunities are certainly worth quite a lot, but so is my credit rating! While I still am attracted to the agency's work, I could never date them long term. Top talent seeks a long term relationship and will partner with companies whose manners mimic its soul, like Zappos.com. The only prices discussed were potential media buys. Our date included an all expenses paid trip to Vegas, a trip to the "Soul Doctor," and a Polaroid for my personal scrapbook. Now, there is a company with great soles! Had things worked out between us, I could easily see myself growing old(er) with them as can other swooning potential employees.

To attract top talent, I recommend these behaviors: 1) Don't make me go Dutch! Please pay for interview travel. It indicates financial stability and employee value. 2) Don't speed date. This is a courtship. Get to know me beyond a pre-prepared questionnaire. 3) Breakup via phone not silence. Quickly tell me that we are through rather than dragging it out in ambiguity. 4) Value me for me. As an MBA, I know what I'm worth. Although advertising agencies are notorious for paying under industry average, please do not immediately low ball my desired salary. Treat me like a lady. Ladies require negotiation. Remember. Any company can find employees. However, a gentlemen company who uses these manners will almost always get the most beautiful ladies in the employment pool - and keep them too! Which do you want to be?