Incorporating community resources into a recruitment strategy is essential—especially in rural or less densely populated areas where attracting top talent can be more challenging. Go beyond job descriptions and salaries. Highlight the local amenities that make the area desirable: from outdoor recreation like hiking, fishing, and skiing, to quality schools, accessible healthcare, and vibrant cultural events or community gatherings.
When candidates can clearly envision a well-rounded and fulfilling life—not just a job—they’re more likely to make a committed move and remain invested in both the company and the community.
The tactics and resources in this next section can help accelerate their decision to relocate or stay long-term.
TRANSPORTATION
Consider providing a list of commuter options, including public transportation, carpools, biking, or ride-sharing programs. It’s a low-cost way to demonstrate care for employee accessibility, which boosts morale.
RESOURCE: Commute Smart NH provides a list of public transportation options, park & ride locations, and helps commuters plan travel across New Hampshire.
PRO TIP: Collaborate with the local Chamber of Commerce to develop a comprehensive community resource package that highlights key services, programs, and amenities available to potential residents.
COMMUNITY SERVICES & AMENITIES
Decisions about childcare, healthcare, education, and cultural opportunities are on top of people’s mind when making career choices.
Consider including this information in a community resource package.
FIELD NOTES: Dartmouth Health – Life in the Upper Valley highlights local amenities to help potential employees envision life in the Upper Valley.
PRO TIP: In conjunction with pre-tax childcare and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) tools, consider offering matching payments towards childcare expenses.
LIFESTYLE
Regardless of being their first job or last career move, people like to feel connected in their communities. Provide and / or encourage opportunities for potential employees to experience the outdoor-oriented lifestyle and local community culture when actively recruiting.
FIELD NOTES: Stay Work Play New Hampshire hosts its Welcome Home Series to help new Granite Staters make connections through activity based social events.
HOUSING
Addressing housing challenges requires a proactive and collaborative approach, especially in regions where availability is limited or seasonal. Start by developing strong relationships with local housing agencies and real estate networks to stay informed about current options and emerging opportunities. These partnerships can be instrumental in helping candidates and new hires navigate the local housing landscape quickly and more confidently.
RESOURCES: Here’s a list of toolkits, organizations, and grants that can help with the development of innovative employee housing solutions.
TIPS:
- Link to Trusted Resources: Include direct links to local rental listings, real estate agents, housing agencies, or employee housing coordinators on the company’s website and in recruitment materials. This helps candidates and new hires quickly understand what’s available and where to start.
- Partner with Seasonal Complementary Businesses: Collaborate with businesses that operate in opposite seasons—such as ski resorts and rafting outfitters—to create year-round employment and housing opportunities. Sharing housing units across seasons reduces vacancy costs and helps workers maintain consistent living arrangements and income.
- Leverage Current Employees’ Experience: Survey current staff or create a referral system to identify shared housing opportunities, available rentals, or employee-owned properties. Peer recommendations can be a valuable and trusted source of local housing options.
- Offer Business-Specific Solutions: Provide housing stipends, relocation assistance, or partnerships with local landlords to reserve units for employees. In some cases, companies may even purchase or lease housing directly to ensure availability during peak seasons.
“We have been able to secure some very skilled workers due to having housing
available on the property. At times, this can be a deal breaker if housing is not available.”
Tobey Reichert, Mt. Washington Auto Road