How values-aligned recruitment can benefit leaders

Why now?

Implementing the IT transformation programme, we want the whole service to be grounded in a values-led approach. The LBU values connect very well into this approach, together with the importance of colleague wellbeing and leading us through change. We have a clear vision of how we want the IT Services digital change programme to be delivered, and the values gives us a framework within which to operate. They help to manage people's expectations, manage performance, they really clarify what matters - right from new colleagues to team members with longer service.

What changes did you make?

For our senior IT recruitment roles, we worked with HR to weave the values and the connected LBU Leader behaviours into a new candidate brief and person specification. We also used the language in the job advert. HR provided us with a values-aligned question bank for the interviews, and candidates also attended a more informal staff panel as an opportunity to meet some of the team and ask questions (as well as a main interview panel and presentation).

What was the impact of the changes?

The format of the new-look candidate brief was fantastic, and feedback from the recruitment agencies we partnered with said it had helped them to effectively recruit. Because the values were embedded into the person specifications, every candidate referenced them in their interview. This helped the selection panel assess the candidates because the attributes and behaviours connected to the values were at forefront of our minds.

What has been the candidates’ experience?

The candidate information we provided was viewed as a significant attraction ‘pull’ factor. When we asked candidates why they wanted to join LBU, the values featured in their answers and stood out as something they could relate to. At the same time, they were useful for candidates’ decision making. They asked us about whether our values are really lived here, so they were making sure it’s a place they could see themselves working too.

What learning would you share for others considering values-aligned recruitment?

Make sure the timing is right. For IT Services, it has been a good time to embed the values into our recruitment as they are also being used to guide us through our change programme. The values have given us a common language, and as such, have prompted and supported conversations about ‘the right thing to do’ and how we need to work together to make change happen.