How to attract talent to medium-sized cities?

Do you want to bring talent to your region, but it sounds easier said than done? Start by targeting the talent, which will optimise your time and the cost of implementing your strategy. Then focus on key arguments that are representative of your territory. We explain it all to you.

Are medium-sized cities for everyone?

Not surprisingly, the answer is no. Some profiles will be even more reluctant to consider mobility or a change of life. Take the time to identify your targets, and then approach them.

♦ Locate
  • High income earners (48% of those earning 4500 euros or more) and those in the highest income brackets (43%), especially managers and company directors (52% and 47%), and also intermediate professions (47%).
  • Young people (67% of 18-24 year olds, 46% of 25-34 year olds) are by nature more mobile at this time of their lives and more likely to move than other age groups. source

If you have a well-detailed job offer aimed at these profiles, opt for an adapted approach. There are several solutions today, direct internal canvassing or the use of external service providers such as recruitment agencies or headhunters.

♦ Approach

To approach a talent, you need to know a little about your target, their interests and the best times/places to contact them. If this is not yet clear to you, download our guide to defining your personas.

Did you know that Switch Up has more than 250 ambassadors throughout France?

Medium-sized cities are a great argument for all

♦ Building on quality of life

Even if the criteria for quality of life are subjective, the following are often mentioned when discussing the advantages of moving to medium-sized cities. Firstly, the distance between the place of living and the place of work, allowing a reasonable commuting time. Secondly, the lower cost of property (buying or renting), which makes living at home more comfortable. A more serene and calm rhythm, with a reduced population density. Finally, time, which one could not afford in Paris or in the (very) big cities. 

♦ Build on the activity on site

To counter the prejudices we might have about a medium-sized city, highlight the cultural, social and commercial life. Having local shops, outdoor or indoor activities, cultural or sports activities... really makes a difference, especially if your target has lived in the metropolis.

♦ Focus on employment

Does your city have a strong economic base? Whether it's driven by large companies, medium-sized companies or the start-up ecosystem? There are jobs to be filled, the proof: you are recruiting.

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Do you want to support your employees in their mobility?

Take advantage of the context

36% of managers say they would move to a small town if their company allowed them to telework several days a week". source

Are you recruiting? Do you offer flexibility in the organisation of working hours? After two confinements, urbanites are looking for accommodation in medium-sized towns, more human-sized, dynamic, but close to the big cities.

Put your company's assets forward and use your location to attract them. Who wouldn't dream of peace and quiet and a more comfortable life these days... So take advantage of it!