High Street Retail Bank

Five years ago a high street retail bank wanted to set up a 'fast-track' graduate programme that was distinct from its current offering. Not wanting to confuse their main message in the marketplace they decided to use a head-hunting approach to attract high calibre graduates. In addition they knew that they needed to be different to attract the right type of candidate and felt that a traditional route would not identify or interest the right type of candidate.

Our Approach
We targeted the types of candidates that would traditionally have applied to investment banking or management consultancy, emphasising the fast track nature of scheme and the benefits of joining this employer. We invested time up front in understanding the key differences between the fast track scheme and the traditional one so that we could properly explain this. Although academic results were important we were also looking for individuals with high levels of involvement and responsibility in University societies or sports.

Results
Not only has the candidate calibre been strong but the retention rate with the organisation has been exceptionally high. This is due to the organisation clearly delivering on recruitment promises and because the match between candidate and organisation has been good.