Q: How do I recruit a successful, well-educated, highly desirable individual who is satisfied in their current job?

A: Build a strong relationship with prospective candidates from the beginning. It is easier to recruit, interview, negotiate and close an offer when a strong relationship exists between you, your company and the candidate.

■  Before the Interview: Send introductory information including a welcome letter, position description, annual report and corporate brochures to the candidate.
■  During the Interview: Do your best to “sell” the company to the candidate and give them time to “sell” themselves to you.
■  After the Interview: Continue courting the candidate. Invite the spouse to visit the community, offer tickets to a community event, or take the candidate and spouse out to dinner to talk about next steps.