hirewesternu wins Outstanding Achievement Award
In March 2015, Western University launched the hirewesternu campaign with goals of simplifying the recruiting experience for employers and increasing the number of employment and work integrated learning opportunities for students. The campaign started with an intentional story about Western talent. Employers were telling us that our students were high achieving, community engaged, research oriented, entrepreneurial, global ready leaders of tomorrow and these attributes were naturally woven into the story.
A streamlined pathway for employers with clear access points, including a dedicated website and centralized telephone and email mechanisms followed. Proactive outreach was prioritized and a call campaign targeting small and medium-sized organizations, Western alumni, award-winning companies, and employers on student wish-lists was implemented.
The campaign was supported by a virtual team of partners from across campus using a consultative customer-service oriented approach. Emphasis was placed on assessing the talent needs of each organization, offering customized solutions and increasing the awareness of internship, co-op, and practicum programs, as well as on-campus recruiting activities.
Since the launch of the hirewesternu campaign, the number of employers participating in on-campus recruiting activities (e.g., job postings, interviews, information sessions, fairs) increased profoundly. The number of students in work integrated learning experiences also grew, in direct support of Western’s strategic plan.
In May, 2017, the hirewesternu campaign was recognized by the Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers (CACEE) for Outstanding Achievement. This award was given out at the CACEE national conference in Vancouver, BC and celebrates Western for major definable contributions to the fields of career planning and recruitment. Since then, Western has consulted and offered advice to universities and colleges around the world interested in their best practices.
Are you an employer looking to develop your talent pipeline? If so, we should have a conversation. Contact us today so we can help connect you with the extraordinary talent you need to help your organization thrive.
e-mail: hirewesternu@uwo.caphone: 519-661-3619
We look forward to working with you!
