Ask a french Hiring Expert: How Do I Attract More Qualified Applicants in France ?

Finding qualified candidates is a challenge every recruiter faces, especially in competitive markets like France. To stand out, companies must go beyond traditional hiring methods and adopt strategies that attract top talent. Whether you’re an international firm expanding into France or seeking to refine your recruitment process, these 10 expert tips will help you streamline your efforts, enhance your employer brand, and connect with the right professionals.

Recruiting the right talent is a challenge for many companies, especially in competitive markets like France. Attracting qualified applicants requires strategic planning and a deep understanding of recruitment best practices. This article offers 10 actionable tips to help international companies optimize their hiring process and find top talent.

Employer branding is the foundation of attracting high-quality candidates.

" Highlighting your company’s values, culture, and career opportunities on your website and social platforms helps set you apart. "

Astrid Keppler
Recruiter
Eurojob-Consulting

• Share employee testimonials and behind-the-scenes videos to showcase your workplace.
  
• Feature awards or certifications, such as a Great Place to Work certification, to build credibility.
  

According to a LinkedIn study, 75% of job seekers research a company’s reputation before applying. A strong employer brand attracts not only more applicants but also the right ones.

A well-written job ad is your first chance to make an impression. Use clear, concise language that resonates with your target audience.

• Emphasize the unique benefits your company offers, like flexible hours, remote work, or professional development opportunities.
  
• Use inclusive language to appeal to a diverse talent pool.
  

For example, instead of saying “rockstar developer,” opt for “skilled software engineer passionate about problem-solving.”

Choosing the right platform is crucial. Popular job boards in France include France Travail, Indeed, and LinkedIn.

• Niche platforms like Welcome to the Jungle are excellent for targeting specific industries.
  
• Use programmatic advertising tools to ensure your job postings reach qualified candidates.
  

Ensure your job requirements are well-defined and reflect the skills you actually need. Avoid overloading job descriptions with unnecessary qualifications that might deter great candidates.

Tip: Focus on skills and experience directly tied to the role rather than listing a generic degree requirement. For instance, ask for “2 years of hands-on marketing experience” instead of “Bachelor’s degree in Marketing.”

Candidates who feel respected and engaged during the hiring process are more likely to accept your offer.

• Simplify application forms and ensure communication is timely and professional.
  
• Offer interview feedback, even to those who aren’t selected.
  

"Research by Talent Board shows that **nearly 60% of job seekers have abandoned applications** due to overly complex processes. "

Astrid Keppler
Recruiter
Eurojob-Consulting

Employee referrals often bring in high-quality candidates faster. Offer incentives like bonuses or extra time off for successful referrals.

A Jobvite study found that referrals take an average of 29 days to hire, compared to 39 days for job board applicants.

Social platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram are effective for engaging with potential candidates. Share updates, employee stories, and industry insights to build a community of interested professionals.

Pro Tip: Use targeted advertising to reach professionals in specific locations or industries.

Fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace broadens your talent pool and improves innovation.

• Highlight diversity initiatives in your job ads and on your website.
  
• Partner with organizations like DiversiDays to reach underrepresented groups.
  

Studies show that companies with diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their peers.

Move beyond traditional qualifications by emphasizing skills-based hiring.

• Use tools like skills assessments to evaluate technical abilities.
  
• Platforms like CodinGame help screen IT candidates effectively.
  

This approach ensures you find the right person for the job, regardless of their educational background.

Leverage data-driven recruitment tools to track and optimize your hiring process.

• Tools like Workable or Greenhouse help monitor candidate pipelines and identify bottlenecks.
  
• Analyze hiring metrics, such as time-to-hire and applicant sources, to refine your strategy.
  

By implementing these 10 expert tips, your company will attract more qualified applicants while building a strong, sustainable recruitment process. Whether you’re hiring in France or globally, focusing on branding, candidate experience, and data-driven approaches will set you up for success.

For more great tips :

• Motivate Your Sales Team in France: 10 Essential Tips for Variable Compensation
• The Perfect Career Page in France: Turning Job Seekers into Applicants
• Salary Transparency in Job Ads in France: Why You Should Start Now ?

Jérôme Lecot