Question

How would you evaluate General Electric's decision to hire an individual with a marketing background to lead the company's recruiting efforts?

Answer 1

Recruitment is often considered as a one way street between an organization and potential candidates. However, it is not that simple.

Just as candidates want job and employment, the organization too want employees. However, we need to understand the challenge from both the angles. An organization wants competent employees (who may not want to join that organization) and on the other hand an employee wants a reputable organization (who may not want to hire that employee). This makes the recruitment market a tricky business.

A marketing professional will likely look at this market from a new perspective. Understanding consumer needs is something that marketers do well. In this regard, the HR of GE should focus in similar angle. Recruiting good and competent employees is key to success for any business and GE is no different. They need to be sure that their company is attractive destination for the skilled job seekers who can contribute to the company. Thus it is important to market the company to the potential candidates. This is why I think it is not a bad idea for an individual with marketing background to lead a company’s recruiting effort.

On the drawback side the challenge that I see is that the marketing professional will have less knowledge about the HR process and due to this needs the support of the subordinates. Otherwise, he/she should be able to create a strong foundation and vision for the HR department.