To Attract AND Recruit the Talent You Want

About The Episode: Throughout the season, one focus of “I Wanna Work There!” has been talent attraction–making colleges and universities places that people truly want to work. This episode adds a layer by looking closer at recruiting faculty and staff, that is going out and getting the faculty and staff who are right for the institution. This episode’s guest features Lesley Regalado, a veteran talent acquisition professional who has also spent time in academia.

On this episode of “I Wanna Work There!” You’ll learn:

1. How your institution can get past the practice of “post and pray” to attract and recruit the talent you truly want.
2. Common recruitment mistakes that institutions make.
3. How to recruit talent effectively on a budget.

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Episode Summary

How Can Higher Education Institutions Recruit Strategically?

‍Dr. Lesley Regalado emphasizes that effective recruiting in higher education is about more than just posting a job and hoping for the best—it's about targeted outreach and proactive networking. She shares her philosophy of “fishing in the pond where the fish are,” advising institutions to build strong networks within their industries. Referrals, industry relationships, and community partnerships are essential for bringing in qualified and diverse talent. Simply posting a job without intentional outreach is insufficient in today’s competitive market.

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What Are the Common Mistakes in Higher Education Recruiting?

‍According to Dr. Regalado, one of the biggest mistakes colleges make is leaving recruitment to individual departments rather than collaborating with HR professionals. Academic departments, often focused on research and teaching, may lack the sales skills needed to attract top-tier talent. Institutions should prioritize building a strong, centralized recruitment function that understands both academia and the business of recruitment. Additionally, universities should embrace diversity and create interview panels with varied perspectives to attract a broader pool of candidates.

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How Should Colleges Approach the Talent Crisis?

‍With the ongoing talent crisis in higher education, Dr. Regalado underscores the importance of being resourceful. Budget-constrained institutions should consider hiring freelance recruiters or consultants who specialize in talent acquisition for higher education. These recruiters can dedicate the time and resources that internal staff may not have, ensuring that institutions cast a wide net and identify qualified candidates without breaking the bank. Moreover, it's crucial for colleges to sell their unique attributes, from institutional culture to diversity initiatives, to stand out in the competitive job market.

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What’s the Role of Networking in Higher Education Recruiting?

‍Both Eddie and Dr. Regalado agree that networking is a vital part of the recruitment process in higher education. Faculty members, recruiters, and administrators must attend conferences, build relationships, and leverage personal connections to bring the best talent on board. Dr. Regalado’s own experience in higher education recruiting—being sought after by UTA after networking at an event—proves that meaningful connections can lead to significant opportunities.

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The Future of Talent Acquisition in Higher Ed

‍As colleges continue to face budget cuts and shifting demographics, Dr. Regalado highlights the need for institutions to evolve their recruitment strategies. Rather than relying on traditional methods, colleges must innovate and prioritize relationship-building to secure top talent. By aligning recruitment efforts with institutional goals and fostering a culture of inclusivity, colleges can ensure long-term success and remain competitive in an ever-changing higher education landscape.

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Ready to learn more about the future of recruiting in higher education? Listen to the full episode of I Want to Work There featuring Dr. Lesley Regalado for deeper insights and actionable strategies to enhance your institution’s talent acquisition process. Explore more episodes and content on recruitment trends, and discover how you can make your institution a top choice for talent.

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About the Show: I Wanna Work There! takes a look at how colleges and universities can develop competitive, compelling employer brands. Join us for an honest and solutions-based look at the issues that surround institutions positioning themselves as employers of choice.

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network: I Wanna Work There is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Some of our favorites include Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager and Talking Tactics. 

Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

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Element451 is hosting the AI Engage Summit on Oct 29 and 30. Register now for this free, virtual event.The future of higher ed is being redefined by the transformative power of AI. The AI Engage Summit brings together higher ed leaders,  innovators, and many of your favorite Enrollify creators to explore AI’s impact on student engagement, enrollment marketing, and institutional success.

Experience firsthand how AI is improving content personalization at scale, impacting strategic decision-making, and intuitively automating the mundane tasks that consume our time. The schedule is packed with real examples and case studies, so you leave knowing how to harness AI to drive meaningful change at your institution.

Whether you’re looking to enhance student outcomes, optimize enrollment marketing, or simply stay ahead of the curve, the AI Engage Summit is your gateway to the next level of higher education innovation. Registration is free, save your spot today.