In today’s competitive landscape, Talent Acquisition Manager Addie Barnhart plays a key role in attracting top talent while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the hiring process. As a part of our summer spotlight series, we sat down with Addie to learn more about her role and recruitment strategies in talent acquisition.
Tell us about your role as Talent Acquisition Manager.
My job is two-fold. I work with our hiring managers to address and outline their specific needs and create job postings on our website and social media. By connecting with highly qualified candidates either online or through conferences and job fairs, I guide them through the interview process and answer any questions they have for me. Transparency is key as candidates want to know Dawood’s opportunities for growth and development and how they can thrive in our culture.
How does DEIB play a role in the recruitment process?
DEIB isn’t just a buzzword, but a fundamental aspect to our business. Candidates pay close attention to our brand, so using inclusive language in our job descriptions, websites, and interactions is crucial. Additionally, as DEIB plays a key role in our culture, I can zero in on talent who align with our core values to promote diversity while ensuring dynamic and innovative teams.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest in talent acquisition?
Networking with leaders and organizations is a great way to stay current with the latest in trends and technologies. For example, as data-driven recruitment is on the rise, integrating this technology into our DEIB practices can attract a diverse pool of candidates while eliminating habits such as unconscious bias in the process.
What trends do you foresee in the engineering and technology landscape?
With the passing of the Infrastructure Bill in 2021, the A/E/C industry has seen a surge in demand for top talent. In addition to our annual diversity scholarship program that fosters the next generation of engineers and technologists, we attract the best and brightest by connecting with graduating candidates and those seeking internships. Acting as a leading example within our industry, our teams contribute and impact communities, both locally and beyond.
What are your professional goals?
I plan to join the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) organization and earn my Associate for Talent Development (ATD) and Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certifications. This will help me improve in areas such as talent sourcing and management, which aligns with Dawood’s culture of progress.
How do you spend your time “off-the-clock?”
I’d say gardening and staying active! Nature also has a huge place in my heart, so I love to explore trails with my dog in addition to hiking and camping.