Transforming candidate experience with employer branding

As talent markets evolve, employer branding will play an increasingly strategic role in talent acquisition. Creating a compelling employer brand is no longer an add-on but integral to developing a sustainable and competitive workforce. Organisations that focus on authenticity, transparency, and engagement will attract top early-career talent and build a workforce that stays, grows, and thrives.

At IHR Early Careers Conference 2025, the panel featured insights from experienced professionals: Camilla Mcbride, Head of Early Careers at Sky, Lauren McCafferty, Director of Early Careers at Deloitte, and Nicky Garcea, Co-Ceo of Cappfinity, who shared their expertise and reflect on the critical role of employer branding in attracting and retaining talent. 

The panellists discussed the technological advancements that can enhance candidate experiences while maintaining the human touch, showcasing how personalised interactions can improve engagement and reduce turnover. They further explored practical strategies for developing a candidate experience program that aligns with organisational goals while offering practical ways to measure success and return on investment in talent acquisition.

Some key takeaways were:

• Branding should be embedded from pre-application to onboarding for a seamless experience.
• Honest communication about job expectations and company culture fosters long-term commitment.
• Real employee experiences make employer branding more relatable and compelling.
• Tracking recruitment metrics helps refine strategies and measure ROI effectively.
• Keeping candidates engaged post-offer ensures excitement and reduces dropouts.

You can now watch the session below to hear more